Author:
Scott Einsmann
Video is an excellent way to educate and attract new customers to your archery store. It might seem daunting, but you can easily shoot your own commercials, bowhunting films, social-media videos and how-to segments to promote your business. In this article, we answer many questions you’ll have as you start producing videos.
Thanks to their constant improvements, you don’t need to spend a lot on a camera to get quality video. Some basic camera features you need are a fast autofocus and a format that shoots in 1080p at 60 fps. Photo Credit: Scott Einsmann.
Nikon vs. Canon vs. Sony?
That’s like asking, “What’s the best bow brand?” It’s not that one camera or bow is necessarily better. Each offers qualities that suit different needs and tastes. What you choose in a camera also depends on your budget.
1080p or 4K?
As with bows, cameras are better than ever. Thanks to their constant improvements, you don’t need to spend a lot on a camera to get quality video. Some basic camera features you need are a fast autofocus and a format that shoots in 1080p at 60 fps. 4K is the new rage, but it’s not necessary unless you require brilliant videos for viewing on a large screen. For YouTube and social-media videos, you’ll achieve a professional hi-definition look with 1080p.
Multiple lenses can make your video stand out. Like arrows, lenses can be costly. Evaluate your needs and choose the lens quality that matches your goal. Photo Credit: Scott Einsmann.
How Many DSLR Lenses?
Think of a DSLR camera body as your bow and its lenses as your arrows. One bow can handle your indoor, 3-D and bowhunting needs, but you’ll need different arrows for each discipline.
Likewise, multiple lenses can make your video stand out. And like arrows, lenses can be costly. Evaluate your needs and choose the lens quality that matches your goal. You probably wouldn’t tell a new archer to shoot X10s, and you might not need that awesome lens with Swarovski glass.
A solid, versatile lens like a 24-105mm covers most situations, much like 5/16-inch diameter carbon arrows for your bow. If you need a lens for special projects, you can rent one online or at some camera shops.
How About a Microphone?
If you want to capture high-quality sound, you’ll need a microphone. A camera’s onboard mic can work well, but it can also sound unclear and amplify high winds. A shotgun mic is more versatile. This model captures excellent sound with minimal setup. A wireless microphone is another option, especially if you want to isolate and capture the sound of someone talking.
As you work, remind yourself that your customers are searching for interesting content. Help them learn more about you and the products you sell by creating engaging videos for your website, social media and YouTube. Photo Credit: Scott Einsmann.
What About Editing Software?
Once you shoot your video, the next step is producing a great product with video-editing software. In most cases, free software handles everything you need, and it’s a great way to learn basic editing. More expensive video software, however, offers more ways to edit audio and video, and add graphics and animation. YouTube offers tutorials on how to get the most of your video software.
Tips for Better Video
- If you’re creating a how-to or informational video, don’t get too cinematic. Choose shots that clearly demonstrate the lesson.
- For social-media, videos less than 2 minutes are the standard. For YouTube, longer videos can succeed if they hold the viewer’s interest.
- Don’t overuse transitions when editing. Fades, blurs and spinning transitions are often unnecessary. Before using any special-effect, ask yourself, “How does this help me tell my story?”
- Mount your camera on a tripod for steady, professional-looking video.
- Study people who are experts at making the type of videos you want to produce. If you want to create dramatic hunting films, study work by Donnie Vincent or Jason Matzinger. If you want to do educational videos, YouTube offers great examples by MeatEater and World Archery.
- It’s easy to overlook SD cards in this equation, but don’t skimp on them. Buy SD cards that have more space than you need, and can handle HD video. Some cameras require specific brands of SD cards, so study which cards will work best in your chosen camera.
- As with archery, practice makes perfect. By itself, the best equipment can’t make you the best videographer. Choose a camera and gear that can help you reach your goals, and then start making videos. The more you make, the better you’ll get.
As you work, remind yourself that your customers are searching for interesting content. Help them learn more about you and the products you sell by creating engaging videos for your website, social media and YouTube.
