⚡ Quick Start (The Essentials)

Short on time? Here's everything you need to make a decent video:

1. Film vertically (phone upright) - this works for all platforms
2. Face a window - natural light on your face, not behind you
3. Find a quiet spot - close doors, turn off AC/fans
4. Hold phone steady or prop it against something
5. Speak clearly and look at the camera like it's a friend
6. Keep it under 60 seconds

That's it! Everything else is bonus.

📱 Equipment You Need

Required:

• Your smartphone (iPhone or Android from the last 5 years)

Helpful (but optional):

• A tripod or phone stand ($20-40)
• A clip-on microphone for better audio ($25-50)
• A ring light if your office is dark ($30-50)

💡 Lighting Tips

The #1 Rule: Face the light source!

• Best: Face a window during the day (not direct sunlight)
• Good: Use a ring light or desk lamp in front of you
• Avoid: Windows or bright lights BEHIND you (creates silhouette)
• Avoid: Overhead fluorescent lights only (creates shadows under eyes)

🎤 Audio Tips

Good audio is MORE important than good video!

• Find a quiet room - close doors, windows, turn off AC
• Avoid echo - rooms with carpet/curtains are better than empty conference rooms
• Test first! Record 10 seconds and play it back
• Get close - phone should be 6-12 inches from your face
• Put phone on airplane mode to prevent call/text interruptions

📐 Framing Your Shot

• Vertical orientation (9:16) - phone held upright, NOT sideways
• Eye level - camera at your eye height, not looking up at you
• Head room - small space above your head (don't cut off the top)
• Center yourself or slightly off-center (rule of thirds)
• Clean background - no clutter, confidential docs, or distractions

🗣️ Speaking on Camera

• Look at the camera lens, not the screen - like you're talking to a friend
• Smile naturally - warmth comes through on video
• Speak conversationally - don't read word-for-word from a script
• Use the bullet points as a guide, then say it in your own words
• It's okay to stumble! You can always do another take
• Start with energy - the first 3 seconds hook the viewer

🔄 Recording Multiple Takes

Professional videos always require multiple takes!

1. Take 1: Practice run - check audio/lighting
2. Take 2: Your best attempt (usually the best one)
3. Take 3: Safety take - try a different approach

Tip: Don't stop recording between takes. Just pause, say "Take 2", and start again. Much faster!

📱 Platform Requirements

🔒 Privacy Requirements

• NEVER show foster children's faces - even with permission
• No confidential documents visible in frame
• Get permission from anyone whose face is clearly visible
• Check your background for client names, case files, computer screens
• Use first names only for staff/foster parents in testimonials

✅ Pre-Filming Checklist

• Video concept reviewed and understood
• Script/talking points prepared (don't memorize - just know the key points)
• Phone charged and on airplane mode
• Quiet location secured
• Good lighting (face the window!)
• Clean background checked
• Audio tested (record 10 seconds, play back)
• Camera at eye level
• Participants ready (if needed)

✅ After Filming

• Watch your best take - is audio clear? Lighting good?
• Make sure no confidential info is visible
• Check video length (under 60 seconds is ideal)
• Name your file correctly: OfficeName_Platform.mp4
• Upload to SharePoint (see Upload Guide)

❓ Need Help?

• Technical issues: Contact IT support
• Content questions: Email marketingbfs@benchmarkfs.org
• Upload problems: See the Upload Guide troubleshooting section