Correcting Audio, Video After the Podcast is Recorded
I have equipment that helps with audio and video when I record the podcast. Some times I look at that video or audio and realize it’s not looking as great as I wanted it to. For instance, I just recorded an episode of iPad365, and the video was not level.
That is when you have to use your eyes and ears to make those ever slight changes to your video and audio. These changes will give final depth and feel to what you are getting across.
Making these changes are also a reason why I like using a video and audio editor. In some cases I can set things and forget them. They need to be done anyway, so having the process in place saves me time.
Audio Compressor, Gate, EQ on your Program
I have recorded some shows where I seem to be grasping for air – or something. I am a heavier breather, that is why I want to control my sound better. The best thing is to capture your sound, then fix it. If you compress or gate a microphone too much, you might not be able to fix that in post production.
I use 2 VSTs I found years ago. Both were made by the same person (who has seemed to abandon the program). Classic Compressor and Classic Master Limiter.
WARNING: I just pointed you to two download sites. These pages have a lot of “DOWNLOAD” buttons for other 3rd party software. Please look over the pages carefully and choose the download that will get you the right software you are looking for.
I use both of these VST files in the track, and in the master mix. They bring down peaks and push up quieter sections for a smoother audio file.
I also use a gate and EQ on my mixer in both the track and the master mix. Once you have adjusted a room, you can save those settings to use for future videos. Keep in mind, you might have to make small adjustments for each video you record.
Color Correction, White balance, Zooming
For most of my shows in-studio. I use only one camera. I let the software help me do some zooming in post-production.
Here’s a Tip: When you start your video, try to zoom in on a face. When you end a video, try to zoom out. When you zoom in, you are inviting people to watch you. When you zoom out, you are saying “so long for now”.
Watch any TV news show and you will see this happen. Some will actually show an overhead shot of the studio,ultimately zooming in on the host.
Comedy Central’s Daily Show with Jon Stewart is a great example. They will zoom in on every new segment, then zoom out when it’s done.
Another thing I do is post-color correction and focus. I use the “Sharpen” vst to define lines a little more. You never know what will happen with the camera, and sometimes – even though I spend 10 minutes focusing in and out – the setting doesn’t work right.
Even in Wirecast (for Mac), I use the correction options to even out the video. For that show, I actually do use 2 cameras, so I want them to look as similar as possible. When you start putting lower 3rds and side graphics on your video, that is when you notice how good or bad your video is.
Can I over-do a video with editing?
Yes. That is why I suggest you have a 2-monitor system. Look at the video from your preview windows, then turn on the 2nd display preview to get a larger view.
For the first couple videos, I would suggest copying the file to another computer or try to play it on the big screen (if you have a Mac and Apple TV, then you can use AirPlay to send the video). Remember – a TV is not a computer screen. Your video can look different when switching to the TV screen.
Technically, this is all called “Mastering”. If you were to get a CD made of your band’s music, they would master it before sending out. Same thing with video.
The idea is to make you look and sound as best as possible. If you are going all over the map, people might just get annoyed and stop watching your show.
Once you get the initial items dialed in, it gets easier. You still have to adjust now-and-then. In the end, people might just watch your show more if it looks visually appealing and the audio is crisp.
I will personally go in-depth to topics like this in a future Master class. Subscribe to the newsletter to find out how to be part of the class.
