Simple Tips to Shoot & Edit a Travel Video 

Kool Pick

Plan your story
Ask yourself – do you want to highlight top 5 things to do in the city or would you rather show a single place or experience?


Keep the camera steady
Shaky footage is a no-no. If you have a tripod or monopod then not a problem. If not…

• Use the environment around you. Try resting your camera on a flat surface like a table or even a steady boulder to keep the camera still.
• While holding your camera with both hands, keep your elbows tightly secured to the side of your body.
• Add stability to your body by leaning against an object (like a wall) or by sitting or kneeling with one knee on the ground.

Do whatever you can to keep your hands steady when you shoot.


Sound
When you shoot, the camera picks up all background noise such as the howling wind or the voices from people around you. If you’re gonna get in front of the camera and speak, do so away from crowded areas or noisy streets so your voice will get picked up clearly.

Get in front of the camera
Have fun and get in front of the camera. Don’t judge yourself.


How to Edit your Video

• Use free video editing programmes out there such as Windows Live Movie Maker or if you have a Mac – use iMovie.
• Take out all unwanted, unnecessary and poorly shot footage
• Consider adding background music. Choose songs to suit the emotion of your video. Check out some sites which have royalty free and usable music such as www.istock.com, www.jamendo.com  and archive.org. You can also add your own original music or sound.

• Consider using still pictures, voice overs, transitions between scenes and special effects.

Above all the #1 rule is: Don’t bore your audience!

Now that you've got all the tips you need to make your own travel video, submit us your entry for the Koolred Travel Video Contest to win those free hotel vouchers. Here's a sample for you to check out: