Video Production Best Practices

Pre-Production Best Practices

Proper planning is essential for creating effective social media videos.

Planning and Strategy

1. Define clear objectives: Establish what you want to achieve with each video
2. Know your audience: Understand viewer demographics, interests, and behaviors
3. Platform-specific planning: Tailor content to the platform where it will be published
4. Content calendar: Develop a consistent publishing schedule
5. Storyboarding: Create visual outlines of your video content
6. Script development: Write clear, concise scripts optimized for social media

Equipment Considerations

- Equipment Type	Recommendations
Camera selection	Smartphone: Adequate for most social content (iPhone 12+ or equivalent), DSLR/Mirrorless: Better quality for professional content, Action cameras: For POV and dynamic shots
Audio equipment	Lavalier microphones: For clear dialogue, Shotgun microphones: For directional audio capture, Wireless systems: For greater mobility, Audio recorders: For professional sound recording
Lighting equipment	Ring lights: For even facial lighting, LED panels: For versatile lighting setups, Softboxes: For diffused, flattering light, Reflectors: For filling shadows
Stabilization	Tripods: For static shots, Gimbals: For smooth movement, Shoulder rigs: For handheld professional look

Production Best Practices

Video Capture

- Aspect	Best Practices
Resolution and frame rate	Shoot in 4K when possible (even if delivering in 1080p), Use 24fps for cinematic look, 30fps for standard, 60fps for smooth motion, Maintain consistent frame rates within a project
Composition techniques	Rule of thirds: Place key elements at intersection points, Leading lines: Use natural lines to draw attention, Headroom: Leave appropriate space above subjects, Look space: Leave space in the direction subject is facing/moving
Lighting techniques	Three-point lighting: Key, fill, and back lights for professional look, Natural light: Position subjects facing windows when possible, Avoid mixed lighting: Maintain consistent color temperature, Avoid backlighting unless intentional
Audio capture	Record in quiet environments, Use external microphones whenever possible, Monitor audio levels while recording, Record room tone for each location, Consider wind protection for outdoor recording

Mobile-Specific Tips

1. Stabilization: Use gimbals or built-in stabilization
2. Manual controls: Use apps that allow manual focus, exposure, and white balance
3. Clean lens: Regularly clean your smartphone lens
4. Orientation: Shoot in the correct orientation for your target platform
5. Battery life: Bring external battery packs for extended shoots
6. Storage: Ensure sufficient storage space before recording

Post-Production Best Practices

Editing Workflow

1. Organize footage: Create a logical folder structure
2. Select best takes: Review and mark best performances
3. Create rough cut: Assemble basic structure
4. Refine edit: Tighten timing and pacing
5. Add B-roll: Incorporate supplementary footage
6. Add graphics and text: Include captions, titles, and graphics
7. Color correction: Ensure consistent color throughout
8. Audio mixing: Balance levels and add music/effects
9. Final review: Check for errors before export

Platform-Specific Editing

- Platform	Recommendations
Attention spans	TikTok/Reels/Shorts: 15-60 seconds, Instagram/Twitter: 30-60 seconds, Facebook/LinkedIn: 1-3 minutes, YouTube: 7-15 minutes (depending on content type)
Pacing considerations	Faster cuts for shorter content, Pattern interrupts to maintain interest, Visual variety to prevent viewer fatigue
Text and graphics	Large, legible text (readable on mobile), High contrast for visibility, Consistent branding elements, Keep text on screen long enough to read (general rule: read aloud twice)

Export Settings

1. Resolution: Match target platform specifications
2. Codec selection: H.264 for most platforms
3. Bitrate optimization: Balance quality and file size
4. Audio levels: Normalize to platform-specific standards
5. File naming: Use consistent naming conventions

Accessibility Best Practices

- Aspect	Recommendations
Captions and subtitles	Add closed captions or open captions, Ensure accurate timing and spelling, Use appropriate contrast for readability
Audio considerations	Clear narration and dialogue, Balanced audio levels, Avoid relying solely on audio for critical information
Visual considerations	Sufficient contrast for text elements, Avoid flashing content that could trigger photosensitive conditions, Include descriptive alt text when uploading

Measurement and Optimization

- Aspect	Recommendations
Key performance indicators	Views and reach, Engagement rate (likes, comments, shares), Watch time and retention, Click-through rate for calls to action, Conversion metrics for marketing videos
A/B testing strategies	Test different thumbnails, Compare various video lengths, Try different opening hooks, Test call-to-action approaches
Iterative improvement	Analyze performance data, Identify patterns in successful content, Apply learnings to future productions, Maintain what works while experimenting with new approaches

Let's update the troubleshooting.md file:

---
title: "Troubleshooting Common Issues"
description: "Solutions to common problems encountered during video production and uploading"
category: "Support"
---

## Video Quality Issues

### Problem: Blurry or Pixelated Video

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Low export bitrate</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Increase bitrate: Use 8-10 Mbps for 1080p content</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Incorrect export settings</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use proper export settings: H.264 codec with High Profile, match resolution to source material, use two-pass encoding for better quality</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Multiple compression cycles</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Avoid re-compression: Export directly from your editor to final format</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Poor original footage quality</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Check source material: Ensure original footage is high quality</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

### Problem: Shaky Footage

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Handheld shooting without stabilization</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use physical stabilization: Tripod for static shots, gimbal for moving shots, shoulder rig for handheld look with stability</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Walking or moving while filming</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Apply post-production stabilization: Use Warp Stabilizer in Premiere Pro, use Stabilize in Final Cut Pro, use built-in stabilization in mobile apps</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Digital zoom causing amplified shake</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Shoot with stabilization in mind: Wider shots are less affected by shake, brace yourself against stable objects, use optical image stabilization when available</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Wind affecting camera stability</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use a heavier tripod or add weight to your existing one, find shelter from wind when possible</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

## Audio Problems

### Problem: Poor Audio Quality

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Using built-in camera microphone</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use external microphones: Lavalier mics for dialogue, shotgun mics for directional pickup, wireless systems for mobility</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Distance from subject to microphone</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Improve recording environment: Reduce background noise sources, add sound absorption to reduce echo, use wind protection outdoors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Background noise or echo</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Proper microphone placement: Position mics 6-12 inches from sound source, avoid clothing rustle with lavalier mics, test audio before full recording</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Wind interference</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use windscreens or deadcats for outdoor recording, position to minimize wind exposure</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Incorrect audio levels</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Post-production fixes: Noise reduction filters, EQ to enhance voice clarity, compression to even out volume levels</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

### Problem: Audio/Video Sync Issues

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Variable frame rate recording</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use constant frame rate: Avoid variable frame rate when recording, convert VFR to CFR before editing</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Audio drift during long recordings</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Sync points: Use slate or clap at beginning of takes, set sync points throughout longer recordings</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Editing software issues</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Software solutions: Use automatic sync features in editing software, manually align waveforms, add frame-level adjustments as needed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Separate audio and video recording</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use timecode or visual/audio cues to sync separate recordings</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

## Upload and Processing Issues

### Problem: Failed Uploads

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>File size too large</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Optimize file size: Reduce resolution if necessary, lower bitrate while maintaining quality, split longer videos into parts</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Unstable internet connection</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Connection improvements: Use wired connection instead of Wi-Fi, try uploading during off-peak hours, pause other bandwidth-intensive activities</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Incompatible file format</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Format compatibility: Convert to MP4 with H.264 codec, ensure audio is AAC format, follow platform-specific guidelines</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Platform technical issues</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Wait and try again later, check platform status pages for known issues</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

### Problem: Long Processing Times

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Very high resolution or bitrate</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Optimize for faster processing: Use standard resolutions (1080p instead of 4K), keep bitrate within platform recommendations, simplify effects if possible</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Platform processing queue</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Platform-specific approaches: Upload as private/unlisted first, schedule posts in advance to allow processing time, contact platform support for persistent issues</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Complex video effects or transitions</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Simplify effects for faster processing, pre-render complex sections</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Server-side issues</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Be patient during high-traffic periods, check platform status</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

## Platform-Specific Issues

### Problem: Content Being Cropped

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Incorrect aspect ratio for platform</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use platform-specific aspect ratios: Instagram: 1:1, 4:5, or 16:9, TikTok: 9:16, YouTube: 16:9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Platform automatically cropping to fit</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Safe zones: Keep important content in center 80% of frame, test on multiple devices before publishing</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Viewing on different devices</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Platform previews: Use platform's preview tools before publishing, make adjustments based on preview results</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

### Problem: Copyright Claims

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Using copyrighted music</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use licensed content: Royalty-free music libraries, licensed stock footage, original or properly licensed content</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Including clips from other content</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Understand fair use: Educational, commentary, or transformative use, proper attribution when applicable, limited use of original material</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Automated content ID systems</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Dispute incorrect claims: Follow platform-specific dispute processes, provide evidence of proper licensing, remove claimed content if necessary</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

## Technical Workflow Issues

### Problem: Slow Editing Performance

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>High-resolution source footage</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Optimize editing workflow: Use proxy editing for high-res footage, close unnecessary applications, use external SSDs for project files, regularly clean media cache</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Insufficient computer resources</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Hardware improvements: Add RAM for better performance, use GPU acceleration when available, upgrade to SSD storage</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Complex effects and transitions</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Project management: Break large projects into smaller sequences, render complex sections before final export, use nested sequences for complex timelines</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Large project files</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use optimized project management, clean up unused assets regularly</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

### Problem: Color Inconsistency Across Devices

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Uncalibrated monitors</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Color management: Calibrate your editing monitor, use scopes to verify levels objectively, work in Rec. 709 color space for standard content</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Different color spaces</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Export considerations: Include color metadata in exports, test on multiple devices before publishing, consider platform-specific color shifts</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Platform-specific processing</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Test on target platforms before final delivery</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Viewing environment differences</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Controlled viewing: Check content on target devices, view in similar lighting conditions to audience, make adjustments based on typical viewing scenarios</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

## Emergency Recovery

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>- Problem: Lost or Corrupted Files</th>
<th>Possible Causes</th>
<th>Solutions</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Software crashes</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Prevention strategies: Enable autosave in editing software, use redundant storage (RAID or multiple backups), cloud backup for critical files</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Power outages</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Recovery options: Check for autosave files, use file recovery software, restore from backups, check for project cache files</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Storage failures</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Use professional data recovery services for critical content</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Accidental deletion</li>
</ul></td>
<td>Partial recovery: Extract usable clips from partially corrupted files, rebuild sequences from source material, use proxy files if main files are corrupted</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>