Your studio is your sanctuary. It’s where you go to let the ideas flow, to create, to build. Not everyone can be lucky enough to have access to a studio or spare space in their homes so lets go over some of the best things you can do to upgrade your home studio game and get you creating!
Pick Your Space
Your space is key. While your home studio doesn’t have to be a large space. Remember that the lens you use can give off the appearance that your space is much bigger. You ideally want to have something that allows you to set up your camera on a tripod, have enough space for your lights (three is key, more on that in a moment) and of course your mic because who doesn’t want to sound smooth and sexy. Oh and don’t forget, you need good visuals. Aesthetic gives your look that extra little buzz it needs. Look around your space for objects that fit the style you are looking for.
Pro Tip: Use a space you regularly have access to so you can consistently create content.
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See also: Gent’s Approved: The Ultimate Gaming Setup with Huawei
Camera
Of course, you can’t shoot any content in your home studio without a camera. While you can certainly use your cell phone (cameras are ridiculously good), a traditional camera still gives you a lot more control over your shot. Having a monitor to see yourself is also a game changer. If you’re shooting alone, having a monitor helps you frame yourself and make sure your lighting game is on point.
Pro Tip: Have a lock on your tripod otherwise your camera keeps shifting – you are welcome.
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Lighting
Speaking of lighting. You have your space set up and you’re ready to shoot. But your footage looks okay at best and if you are wondering why that is, consider your lighting. Good lighting can make or break all the little trinkets you so carefully set up in your shot. A general rule is to have three different lights each serving a specific purpose.
- The key light is the main source of light that should be focused on the subject of the shot. It also helps to illuminate some of the visuals in your background.
- The second light (hair light) should be used to illuminate you from the side/rear in order to visually separate you from the back. You can point it directly at yourself or off a wall. It can also add texture to your scene and that is a cheap and effective trick to improving your shot.
- Your third light (fill light) can be used to further sharpen yourself providing depth to your shot.
Pro Tip: Place tape markers on the floor where your lighting is step up so you can take it down and know where to set it back up.
Audio
If you want people to listen to you without drowning out your voice, you have to sound good. If you’re on a budget, you can use the mic in your camera but it’s highly recommended you invest in a proper mic. It will make a world of difference in your audio and also makes your post production work easier. There are devices that you can source your audio through during recording to further enhance it if you want the extra crisp in your voice.
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Pro Tip: If you’re sitting far away from your camera, consider mounting the mic on an arm so you can have it closer to your face.
Feature image by Will Francis
