Imperfect is Perfect

Showing Your Humanity

Just a friendly reminder in case you've forgotten: The video that you record will not be perfect. You'll likely hit the wrong buttons and fumble a bit through the process. It will feel terribly awkward looking into the camera lens. It will be very difficult to hear your own voice in video. And you'll scrutinize your appearance. These are all completely normal parts of this discovery process. We are in uncomfortable territory for many of us. Guess what? This is where learning happens. Here's a nice reminder from author and educator Karen Costa on the importance of showing your humanity in your videos. 

6 Tips for Recording Video

While we're okay with video imperfections, here are a few quick and easy suggestions for recording videos that your students will actually watch. 

Text Version of 6 Tips for Recording Video

Today, instructors and students can record video easily from a webcam or mobile device, providing an array of ways to humanize online learning.

  1. Use Frontal Light. Where is your light source? Record so your face is illuminated.
  2. Be Aware of What's Behind You. A background can be a great way to convey a sense of who you are, but may also share more than you'd like.
  3. Get a Good Microphone. Buy a USB microphone and test your sound before recording.
  4. Be Real. Don't try to be perfect. Mistakes simply make you more human.
  5. It Gets Better! Over time, it won't feel so weird to talk to your webcam.
  6. Keep It Brief. Aim for 5 minutes max. Identify your goals before you record.

References

Creative Commons License
6 Tips for Recording Video by Michelle Pacansky-Brock Links to an external site. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License Links to an external site.. Based on a work at http://brocansky.com/6-tips-recording-video-infographic Links to an external site..

Costa, K. (2020). 99 Tips for Creating Simple and Sustainable Educational Videos: a guide for online teachers and flipped classes. Stylus Publishing.

Neuhaus, J. (2020, August 4). Bodies online Links to an external site., Inside Higher Education.