The advent of book trailers has given authors a new opportunity to promote their work to the online world. The more professional or creative the video, the more effective the campaign, or so goes the theory; so many writers have turned amateur videomakers to produce the best trailer possible.
Finding helpful software and creative alternatives to troubleshoot common problems enables writers to improve their technique when putting together a book trailer. From sound quality to translating digital files, there are a range of options available to help transform simple footage and problematic shots into a working project.
Tips for Converting Files
Taking footage with a digital camera or similar device doesn't necessary result in easy-to-edit footage. Many camera software programs and pre-installed default programs can't edit digital video files. In a case where the video editing software and the digital medium of the footage are incompatible, conversion software may be needed to complete the connection.
Free online programs like IMToo software can translate video footage into files more compatible with popular computer software programs, such as Windows Media files. The free trial version can only translate short pieces of film, however, so filmmakers who want to convert longer clips will need to purchase an expanded software version.
Producing Better Video Sound
Digital sound produced by an in-camera mike is typically poor quality, emphasizing background noise and static equally with the recorded voices. Most editors tend to silence the video clips during the editing process, using dubbed sound recorded separately or public domain music tracks.
To add voices or a narrative to the clips, filmmakers can try recording directly to a computer software program using a quality mike and a "sock" to help muffle surrounding static and noise. Edit the digital sound separately: the more advanced the software, the better the quality of the final version, since good editing programs allow filmmakers to modify the quality of the recording.
Lighting Indoor Shots
Shooting indoor footage is more challenging for amateur filmmakers, since the quantity and quality of available light is typically limited to windows and lamps. Using standard clamp lights (like the ones made popular for home construction and maintenance) can add a powerful glow to dark or dim interiors.
Use a three-point system similar to professional camera shots, providing a back light and sight lights to triangulate the camera and its object. Adjust both the lighting and the camera before taking footage; for a truly professional touch, shoot test shots first in different conditions, reviewing them on a monitor before taking the final footage.
Using Video Transitions
Amateur videographers are often torn between a world of simple, straight transitions and the dazzling effect of every unique one available to the software, from keyholes to spirals. The best method is a subtle compromise between the two, using a few mildly-interesting transitions (or one striking version) sprinkled in between simple dissolves or fades.
Avoid "quick cuts" and multiple fancy moves, which tend to be the hallmarks of poor videographers. Try several transitions before choosing one that compliments not only the scene at hand, but the project as a whole.
Professional-grade book trailers are a growing industry and can charge writers impressive fees to create a promotional trailer inspired by some of Hollywood's best techniques. Writers with a small budget can produce a creative trailer on their own, with a little time, patience, and helpful techniques to guide them through the most difficult problems.
Sarah Briggs - For the last two years, I have designed primitive dolls and folk art sculptures (such as Edwin Drood and the Ghost of Marley) for Cordwood ...
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