After watching Squadcast’s episode #9 on how to make web video, I realized people need to know as much (if not more) about what to avoid. If you’re considering your own web show, be sure to avoid these beginner mistakes.

1. YouTube is Your Show’s Home- If you don’t have a web site where you post your episodes, either you’re really cheap or you don’t want to see your show really succeed. Spend the $10 and buy your own domain. Eventually, you’ll probably want the flexibility to expand your content beyond just YouTube or another single video site. I suggest using WordPress as a great starter site.
2. You Use The Built-in Microphone - This was my first mistake on my very first web show. If your audience can’t understand what you’re saying, will they care to watch? Most newbies focus on a great camera shot, but viewers have no patience for a show with bad audio. You don’t have to buy a great Shure or Behringer microphone, but a simple lavalier microphone will do you wonders.
3. Your Webcam is Your Primary Camera - You don’t have to spend thousands to get a good camcorder, but using your webcam eventually becomes boring to watch. During Squadcast’s episode they referenced using your digital camera in video mode. That may surprise you, but many digicams have decent video quality. If you want to use your webcam for some footage ok, but don’t let it be your only shot.
4. Your Video Has Bad Lighting - While having bad audio is worse, you need to be sure to setup more lighting than normal. If you’re shooting at night or indoors, plan on how you’ll light your shot. Your audience will appreciate it because they can actually see you!
5. Copyrighted Material - If you’re using clips from “The Simpsons” or Jay-Z’s latest song, you’ll struggle to find an advertiser. If you don’t want to make money, then use it at your own risk. Eventually using other’s material will have consequences and no one wants to go back and edit a year’s worth of videos.

Many will argue good content is king (and it is), but don’t ruin your show’s great concept with these foolish mistakes. If you have seen other simple errors, leave a comment below.

Posted by Todd Earwood | 1 Comment »

Popular blogger, Jim Kukral launched his own web show this week called, “The Daily Flip.” While we don’t know if he’s shooting the show with the actual Flip camcorder, it’s nice to see he’s kicked off his show.

Jim’s a bright guy and a sharp marketing, so I suspect he’ll come up with a decent concept, even if his goal to sell “flip” cameras is a little overt. His first episode is shown below and the fact that he’s moved away from YouTube shows he’s getting it.

Posted by WSS | 2 Comments »

Virtual Hosting.com has posted a great list of 100 resources for online video producers. While I do think there is a distinct line between videoblogging and web shows (good future post), most of these links are great for web show producers and enthusiasts.

They break down these resources into the following categories Articles and How-tos, Free Video Editing Software, Online Tools for Editing, Mixing and Fun, Blogs, Video Sharing Sites, Video Organization, Video Converters, Video Hosting and a few other miscellaneous links. Be sure to check out their Video Blogging Toolbox: 100 Tools, Resources, and Free Software Packages.

Flickr photo credit: ghb624

Posted by Todd Earwood | No Comments »

The very popular blog, Performancing.com is hosting their Reader’s Choice Awards. This audience will want to go vote for the best Video Blog. You can write-in your vote or choose from this list…

Daily Idea
YouTube’s Blog
1938 Media
Hot Air
PopCrunch Show
Ask a Ninja

The blog with the most number of votes by January 10, 2007 wins the 2007 Reader’s Choice award. A Judges’ Choice award will also be awarded at the same time.

Posted by WSS | No Comments »