Detailed Description
Light, light and more light. In most cases, the biggest difference between video perceived as being 'professional' and that perceived as being 'amateur' is the quality of lighting in the video. A well lit video - even one shot with a home camcorder by a novice - immediately delivers a professional image. While a poorly lit video, no matter how expensive a camcorder was used to shoot it, or how experienced the videographer was that did the shooting, says 'amateur'. Make sure you are taping in a well lit room against a plain colored background. Avoid windows and doors that create a bright focal point causing the camera to make poor adjustments. We know you will likely be using a webcam so just remember to bump up the lighting.
For those that want to really be particular about their lighting set-up -- you want to use a standard 3 light setting. The first light is a key light. Usually this is the strongest light and this light sets the lighting of the scene. The second light is called a fill light, this light helps fill the shadows that the main light casts. The last light is called a backlight (because it comes from the back), and is used to create a contour and separation. The backlight can be moved to your liking. You don't want it directly in the camera angle because the direct light will cause your aperature to close and you will come across as more of a silouette. It is the same principle as filiming in front of a window or open door. The results will not be favorable. If you have some inexpensive shop halogen lights they work well for this type set-up. But remember they are hot. Take care not to have any accidents.
