Best Practices for Recording

Gives best practices and tips for recording audio and video within Bongo.

 Audio

• Ambient Noise: ‌Try to keep background noise to a minimum. If there is some background noise, headphones with a built-in mic can help.
• Location: Record a few takes to test the mic. If you find that there is too much echo, try moving to a smaller space or moving closer to the mic. 

 Video

• Device: ‌You can use a variety of devices to record. If you have a webcam on your laptop (most do), that can work well, as you will be able to see yourself while you are recording. If you use a mobile device, please note that most front-facing cameras have lower video quality video.

• Angle: Make sure your webcam (whether on your computer or smart device) is as close to eye level as possible. Avoid looking down at your webcam, which can make for an awkward angle. If you can find a way to raise your device (whether on an elevated surface or on top of boxes or books), that will dramatically improve the quality of your shot. 

• Frame: ‌As much as possible, try to frame the webcam with from the shoulders up (don't be too close to the camera).

• Lighting: Make sure you are facing a window, lamp, or other light source. Harsh overhead lighting can cause your eyes to be in shadow. Having a light behind you will make you appear as a silhouette to the webcam. Having soft lighting in front of you will light you well and result in a higher quality shot - regardless of the camera you are using. 

• Background: ‌Find a plain background or something with visuals that reinforce the demeanor you are portraying, i.e, if you have a well-lit office with a bookshelf or branded materials behind you, that can enhance the final product. 

• Eye Contact: Try to look directly at the webcam as much as possible. One trick is to have an outline/notes pulled up on your laptop so that you can glance at them without having to look too far away from the camera.