Overview:

The final video is only as good as its parts, so it is important to have good audio and video on the individual recordings. A good video can be made from decent individual recordings, and good individual recordings lead to a GREAT video! The process is relatively simple and straight forward, but also requires paying attention to a few key details.

Equipment needed:

• recording device – any device that can record audio & video (usually a smart phone)
• playback device – laptop, tablet, 2nd smart phone (separate from recording device)
• headphones/earbuds – to listen to guide track playback while recording

Step 1: Practice with your guide track

You can film with: a smart phone, a webcam, a tablet, a desktop, a laptop, a digital camera, a video camera… Anything you have that you’ll be able to upload to a computer is OK. Your smartphone is likely your best option.

• learn your part and get used to singing along with headphones and the guide track
• find a QUIET space and silence any fans, pets, roommates, etc.
• do a test recording to make sure the audio is clear, not too soft or too loud, and there is not unwanted background noise

Step 2: Lighting & framing

Make sure you look good! Make sure your background looks good too! Can we see your face? Your smile? Frame your video so that you are not too close or too far from the camera, typically from the waist up.

• ensure adequate lighting and that your face is well lit without shadows
• horizontal or vertical is okay and make sure to leave a little extra room on each side
• don’t record too close to the camera & don’t record with a bright window behind you or in a dark room

Step 3: Recording

Now that you are ready to record, double check that there are no fans or other noises that will be picked up on the recording. Also make sure that the guide track is only playing through headphones and will not be picked up on the recording.

The guide track will contain a countdown and clap at both the beginning and the end. These are used to sync the performances together. Make sure to start the guide track before the clap for each take, and make sure to play through clap at the end too.

• the only sound in the room should be your voice or instrument
• make sure to follow along and clap at the beginning and the end
• record multiple takes until you are happy with your performance
• double check for noises you may not have noticed during recording (crickets, electronic hums, etc.) and make sure the recording is loud enough with no clipping or distortion

Step 4: Upload your recording

• we will provide you with a link to upload your final recording
• before uploading, please rename your file to something descriptive such as “part_name_songtitle” (ex. Tenor_Alan-Goodman_Somewhere-Over-the-Rainbow)

Step 5: Done!

You did it, great job! Now it is time to sit back and relax while we do the editing, mixing and mastering. We will send your finished video as soon as we have it ready for you.