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How I Film My Tutorial Videos for YouTube

April 30, 2018

How I Film My Tutorial Videos for YouTube

It feels like just yesterday when I posted my very first process card making video on YouTube. In reality, it was just over a year ago this month when I posted the first installment of Cathy Makes a Card (later, I dropped the Cathy Makes a Card nomenclature to be a bit more more descriptive in my video titles.)

First things first: you should know that I film with an iPhone 7+. In the early days of my card videos, I decided for budgetary reasons to make do with what I had because, well, money. As much as I would like to have a sweet video camera with a ceiling mount, I can’t really justify the expense and so, iPhone 7+ it is**. And really, it’s a pretty sweet little video camera and fully capable of doing everything I need it to do.

But I’ve struggled finding the perfect set up for filming. I’ve filmed in an upstairs bedroom. I’ve filmed in my kitchen. I’ve filmed in my craft/dining room. It took me a while to realize that if I was going to rely solely on natural light, I was going to be an incredibly frustrated videographer. Enter my first purchase in the quest for better quality video: inexpensive studio lights.

I learned about this light kit from my friend Jen Gallacher (who has a really great post about studio lighting she recently shared!), and I’m so glad I bought these lights! I rarely use the smaller stand, but the two larger ones pretty much just hang out in my craft/dining room most of the time. Basically you point the umbrellas (the top sides are what should be facing your project) at your filming area to get a nice, even, diffused light.

2021 UPDATE: The stand I use I will not promote any more. I’m currently in the market for a new one!

Because of the vibration, I use a two-step stool from made by Cosco to set the mount onto. I also use the step stool for all of my straight down photography, as well. I use a five-pound weight to place on the base of the mount, to make sure it doesn’t tip or move.

I was using an app called Reflector to wirelessly turn my laptop into a video monitor, thereby enabling me to really see what I am filming at any given moment without having to stand up and look through my phone’s monitor. I’m updating this post to say that I have ditched the wireless set up. After thoroughly testing it out, I’m not happy with Reflector at all (when using a third-party video app), which I do. It might work better with the native iPhone app, but it kept losing the connection, messing up my entire filming process. Live and learn.

Now I’m using the OBS Studio software on my laptop and using a lightning cable to connect my phone directly to my laptop. This eliminates any dropped connection. I also use a cool laptop stand by 12 South called a Curve. This allows me to place my laptop just behind my mat area and have a clear view of my table top.

There is ONE more thing, and this is an iPhone app that is also making a world of difference: MoviePro. What is so great about MoviePro? It let’s you control focus, exposure and white balance individually and lets you lock them down so you don’t have to deal with your iPhone reading the light and making all those weird shifts. This is the main reason not to use the video app that is built into iPhone. (This video offers a really great overview of Movie Pro.) It took me awhile to find an app that I liked for filming and this one, so far, is my favorite. And the best news? It’s $5.99. (Android users: I do not have any first hand info on best apps to record video on Android devices, however, I found this link that might be helpful.)

For a more controlled light, I’m finding that filming at night is pretty sweet. I just pull the two lights closer to the table and film. This video was shot at night with the lights and using my new wireless monitor set up: (Note: click on over to YouTube to see a better representation of the quality. I’m never sure how WordPress embeds look.)

I share this because I have had a lot of help from wonderful members of this card making community (Yeah, I’m looking at YOU Jennifer McGuire!) and I just want to share what I have learned and encourage others who want to film their creative efforts on a relatively small budget!

I also get asked about my microphone which I use to add voice overs after my clips are edited together. I use a Rode Podcaster kit, which was not cheap, but it has been a workhorse for me. I’ve been using this for about 3 years now and have recorded all of my class voice over audio with it. Although I will say this: my audio is not as good now that I record in iMovie. iMovie has zero ability to do anything other than raise or lower your levels (at least not that I am aware of!). I’m presently researching a better audio program. That said, I stand by this mic. It’s been a great tool for me.

If you’re serious about audio, consider adding a pop filter. I will say, however, that is only if you have a problem with plosives. I have that problem, ergo, I need a pop filter.

One additional thing I use for all of my photography, and even for blocking light coming in from my craft/dining room window is my Wescott 4-in-1 Reflector Kit. I’ve had this for 15 years and have used it religiously to bounce and reflect light where I need it. I will place the reflector on the floor, silver side facing the project an it will flood the area I’m shooting with light. I always use the silver side because I prefer a cooler light. I stand on the step stool and shoot down.

For taking photos of my projects that I use for my video openers, I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark II (here is the current model) and a Canon L-Series 24-70mm lens. I’ve had my Canon 5D for many years now and am very happy with it, however, if it should ever die, I would look strongly at the Canon 7D.

LIVE STREAM SET UP: In 2020, I started live streaming on my YouTube channel. For that, I also use my iPhone for my table view, and I use a Canon M50 for my front facing camera. I use a simple Boya lavalier mic for my audio, plus assorted cables to plug into my old MacBook. I use Ecamm Live for Mac as my software.

I hope this info has been helpful! I’m sure my set up will evolve over time, but I’m just happy that I have something that is working well, finally!

**In late 2020, I upgraded to an iPhone 11.

***On January 1, 2022, I upgraded to an iPhone 13

SUPPLIES:

Affiliate links are used in this post and below at no additional cost to you. I receive a small percent of compensation when you click through and shop using the provided links. Thank you! I am no longer an affiliate for Arkon Mounts.


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Comments

  1. Susan Ringler says

    April 30, 2018 at 8:17 am

    Oh my! Lots to absorb, Cathy, but so helpful. Thanks for this post full of tips already explored so we don’t have to struggle!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 8:31 am

      Glad you liked it! As I said, I’m not an expert, but I really wanted to have better looking videos. The white balance shifting crap really bugged me! And the iPhone’s native video app lets you lock exposure but it also locks focus, which I didn’t want. So… it’s a continual learning process for sure!

      Reply
  2. WhamBamPam says

    April 30, 2018 at 8:51 am

    Thank you for sharing, very informative.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 10:33 am

      You’re welcome! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  3. Becky says

    April 30, 2018 at 9:48 am

    Wow it’s a lot to think about. But I appreciate that you compiled all of this into one post. The research can be overwhelming. And trying out things without knowledge can be pricey. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 10:33 am

      I’m all about being on a budget!

      Reply
  4. Mary Ellen Harrison says

    April 30, 2018 at 9:58 am

    Thank you! This is such great info!!!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 10:33 am

      You’re welcome!

      Reply
  5. Melissa Miller says

    April 30, 2018 at 10:03 am

    Thanks for the info on Reflector! I constantly struggle with wondering if I’m still in frame, so this is going to be so helpful. I gave it a quick test run using the free trial option. I was so impressed, I immediately purchased it!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 10:34 am

      Yeah, it’s a great app. Funny thing is, I’ve used it for a number of years to record my iPhone for tutorials for other things but I never made the connection that I could use it in that way. Like I said, game changer for me!

      Reply
  6. Kathleen McConnell says

    April 30, 2018 at 11:34 am

    Wow, Cathy, this is of the most thorough and helpful articles I’ve read during my fledgling year as a cardmaker and blogger. Believe me, I’ve done a lot of searching. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 11:57 am

      Well that’s wonderful to hear! I have found this community of crafters to be SUPER generous with sharing info and I want to share as well!

      Reply
  7. Linda Rivera says

    April 30, 2018 at 11:58 am

    Hi Kathy
    Thank you so much for this tutorial, this information is invaluable to me and many others. The struggle is real. Thanks again and bless your kind heart ❤️

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 1:57 pm

      Oh that is so good to hear!

      Reply
  8. Ishani says

    April 30, 2018 at 12:21 pm

    Wow..Cathy..am glad I came here from your IG post. I DO want to start making videos but I didn’t know where to start. Thank you for this great post. I am so glad to be part of this community, which is so supportive and kind. Everyone loves to share.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 1:57 pm

      Hi Ishani! So glad you stopped by! And yes, the people in this community seem to really support and encourage and I really want to give back, as well!

      Reply
  9. Caly Person says

    April 30, 2018 at 1:15 pm

    Thanks so much for sharing this! I have the Akron mount and love it. I love learning about the different apps that are available to improve videos-like MoviePro! Such an invaluable post!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 1:58 pm

      I think this app is a good one. I had tried an app called FilMic and videos kept disappearing after I’d filmed them. That didn’t endear me to that app at all! lol.

      Reply
  10. Dana says

    April 30, 2018 at 5:17 pm

    Great post Cathy. I have been using a different app for videos however I’m not sure it’s the one for me. I just can’t seem to keep my videos consistent so I will definitely be trying this app. Thanks for all the tips.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 30, 2018 at 7:00 pm

      You are so welcome!

      Reply
  11. Tina Hicks says

    April 30, 2018 at 5:44 pm

    Kathy,
    Thank you! A million times thank you! You have just solved the filming problems I was having. My Bd & Mother’s Day are coming up!
    I know what I’m getting ? I love your videos & your work!

    Reply
  12. Cathy Zielske says

    April 30, 2018 at 7:01 pm

    Yay! So glad it was helpful!

    Reply
  13. Maggie B says

    April 30, 2018 at 9:08 pm

    FANTASTIC info Cathy! You’ve taken so much of the guesswork out of it for everyone and shared what you know. Thanks and I hope you’re having an awesome week. ~HUGS~
    #kindnessmatters

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 1, 2018 at 5:55 am

      Happy to share! I’m sure it will change at some point but for now, I finally have something that seems to work!

      Reply
  14. Theresa says

    April 30, 2018 at 9:50 pm

    Yes!!! This is perfect timing! I just started watercoloring and want to video my process. Thank you for being so informative and transparent about how easy it really can be!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 1, 2018 at 5:55 am

      Happy to share!

      Reply
  15. Priscilla Joseph says

    April 30, 2018 at 10:21 pm

    A month or so ago you told me you were using an app called”FilMic
    Pro” to film. Is what you mentioned in today’s email something different?
    Also, do you know if the “Reflector” allows you to monitor what you’re filming on an iPad vs a laptop?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 1, 2018 at 5:56 am

      Okay, I WAS using Filmic Pro and then I filmed a whole video and half the clips literally disappeared. This happened two more times and I said, “I’m done!” So I found MoviePro and that seems much more straightforward!

      I would assume that yes, Reflector does let you do that, but I would email them and ask.

      Reply
  16. Priscilla Joseph says

    April 30, 2018 at 10:27 pm

    A month or so ago you told me you were using an app called “FilMicPro” to film. Is this something different than what you mentioned today? Also, do you know if the “Reflector” app allows you to monitor what you’re filming via an iPad versus a laptop?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 1, 2018 at 5:57 am

      I should add that my issues with Filmic could have been user error but it was really frustrating the way it managed your filmed clips. MoviePro is more straightforward. And cheaper.

      Reply
  17. Priscilla Joseph says

    May 1, 2018 at 6:01 am

    Thanks for the update! I’ll contact them.

    Reply
  18. Priscilla Joseph says

    May 1, 2018 at 6:02 am

    Gotcha!

    Reply
  19. Janie says

    May 5, 2018 at 7:18 pm

    Love your dining room table!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2018 at 8:06 am

      Thanks! I would love to give it to you. lol. My hubby is very attached unfortunately.

      Reply
  20. Adelina says

    November 2, 2018 at 12:03 pm

    Thank you so much!! I have been searching high & low for advice on just this topic. You are so generous to share your knowledge and that discount!

    Reply
  21. Cindy Bowman says

    April 4, 2020 at 12:03 am

    I would be very interested in your design class. I love making cards and sometimes the card just looks plain and boring. I want to look at what I can do to add the right element. Please keep me posted and if you can direct me to your blog I would like to subscribe. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      April 4, 2020 at 8:09 am

      Hey Cindy!

      If you sign up for my newsletter, I let people know when and what I’m doing:
      http://bit.ly/cznewslettersubscribe

      Also, I am not sure yet if I’m going to do the quick tip video series on Facebook or YouTube, so… feel free to follow/subscribe to both!

      YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/user/czdesign

      FACEBOOK PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/CathyZielskeDesign/

      Reply
  22. Lynn Hill says

    April 27, 2020 at 6:57 pm

    Fantastic post, Cathy! Even though it’s an old post there is a lot of good information – and I love the discount from Arkon. I have heard about the Arkon mount in the past but had never really looked at it. It’s on back order right now but I have put this on my “Gift Ideas for Me” board on my Pinterest.

    Reply
  23. Karen S says

    May 17, 2020 at 6:06 pm

    Such awesome info! Thanks for sharing your insight and tips. Do you think the Akron mount would work for photographing 12×12 layouts? I’ve been looking at scanners and they’re way out of my budget.

    Reply
    • Cathy says

      June 27, 2020 at 7:18 am

      Yes, I would imagine. You could get everything lined up and just start shooting!

      Reply
  24. Sarah says

    June 26, 2020 at 7:23 pm

    Hi Cathy, I just found this post and wondering what plugin you use for OBS to work with your phone? There are so many out there – is there one specifically for Movie Pro?

    Reply
    • Cathy says

      June 27, 2020 at 7:18 am

      Hey Sarah! I just wire in with an Apple Lightning USB cable. That’s it. When I plug in, the computer recognizes it and let me create a view setting for OBS.

      Reply
  25. Sam’ Moore says

    March 10, 2021 at 4:35 am

    Hi Cathy,

    Thank you so much for this really educational and helpful post. I want to start my own YouTube craft channel and am very overwhelmed and lost. This is a great help to kick start. I have a few further questions… I have an IPhone 8. And I have a Lenovo laptop.
    1. Do all these apps and gadgets you mention work with the non Apple laptop and software?
    2. What video editing software / program would you suggest?
    3. What website would you suggest? WordPress as an example.

    I love your videos btw. My 8 year old daughter is mad about you and always tunes in too. She wants her own craft channel too, as inspired by you.

    I have some hints and tips and would love to share them with you- one great one for assembling those layered die cuts and also card assembly! You’re welcome to email me for those. You e helped me so this is my “give back”.
    I also have some awesome and practical die design ideas….. how can I go about getting those out there?

    Kind, warm and crafty hugs from England,
    Sam

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      March 10, 2021 at 7:04 am

      Hey there! So, I cannot speak to PCs. The Ecamm Live is only for Mac. All the apps I use are from the Mac iOS store. I edit my videos using iMovie (Mac program) but want to migrate to Final Cut Pro (also Mac). My website is WordPress and to be honest with you? It’s a pain in the ass. I don’t know how to keep it updated without hiring a web person. It’s far more expensive in my opinion, than going with an easier, more automated service. But I didn’t know what else to do to be able to have the customization that I needed.

      I know, not so helpful, right? hahah! I wish I had more to give to you!

      Reply
      • Samantha Moore says

        March 11, 2021 at 5:26 am

        Hi Cathy,
        Thank you so much for your reply and for getting back so quick. I will need to have a big think about logistics as I am PC based…and those MACS are kinda pricey right? Years ago I had a You Tube channel and I did video editing on a PC based editor. I recall it being a nightmare. Off to investigate and add to the ideas you have kindly shared.

        Crafty hugs
        Sam!

        Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      March 10, 2021 at 7:05 am

      Oh, and for ideas you have for dies… you’d need to find a company and pitch ’em. That’s how you start!

      Reply
  26. Veronica Ulicsni says

    August 9, 2021 at 11:10 am

    WoW! Just, well, WOW! Can’t believe I’ve JUST found this. I’ve wondered how you do this. I’ve started creating vids because of a work friend wanting to know how I make cards, backgrounds for cards and just overall, everything! LOL It’s been a learning experience. She’s MAKING ME become better!! Seeing your process has helped immensely. I’ve been a fan of yours BEFORE you began making cards! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!! I love “budget friendly” tips. Keep being you. Perfect. For me anyway. 😉

    Reply

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