Video Recording Studio

Use 16x9 Widescreen Format for Your Slides

It is preferable to have your slides in "widescreen" 16x9 format rather than the more square 4x3 format. If you have 4x3 slides and are unable to convert them to 16x9, we can make them work, but we may need to use a background for a wide-format screen.

PowerPoint File Format Is Preferred

PowerPoint file format is preferred. Exporting Google Slides as a PowerPoint deck is fairly straightforward. Be sure to review all the slides in advance, as exporting sometimes alters the fonts or formatting. Let us know if you have any problems. We can usually work with the Google slides if necessary, especially if you only want to see your slides on the prompter (Please note that Google Slides Presenter View, however, is not as compatible).

Embedded Media Cannot Be Played During Recording

You will not be able to play any embedded videos or media in your slides during the recording process. Due to copyright restrictions, we cannot include any protected third-party content in the lecture video without the proper documentation. If you want to refer to third-party media, please add a link or placeholder image on your slide for clarity. You can also instruct viewers to pause and note the video title and URL or include them separately in Canvas. If you provide us with this information, we can create a title slide with the necessary details during post-production. The Center for Academic Information provides information on navigating copyright and protected third-party content issues.

Learn more about third-party copyright requirements and best practices.

Send Slides in Advance If Possible

If possible, it would be helpful to receive your slides a few days before your session. That will give us time to cue them up for testing on the prompter and hopefully catch any snags or adjustments ahead of time. At the very least, please send them to us the day before your presentation.

Bring Water and a Snack

We advise bringing a water bottle that can be easily opened and closed. You may also wish to bring a small snack or two (granola bar, apple slices, etc) in case you need a quick energy boost.

We Typically Film Against a Medium-Dark Blue Background

We typically film against a medium-dark blue background, focusing on a head-and-shoulders framing. Muted colors, jewel tones, medium solid colors, and pastels generally look great on video. It’s best to avoid wearing very dark or very bright shirts or tops, such as pure black or pure white. However, you can wear a white or black top if it is layered under a contrasting jacket, vest or sweater. Please steer clear of super vivid or neon colors, especially hot reds, oranges, and pinks, as they tend to "glow" on camera.

Avoid Tight Checks, Stripes, and Fine Patterns

Larger patterns are ok, but avoid tight checks, stripes, and fine patterns as they will exhibit a "dancing" moiré effect on video.

Wear Whatever Bottoms and Shoes Are Comfortable

Wear whatever pants/skirt/shorts and shoes feel most comfortable. We won't see them!

Avoid Noisy or Reflective Jewelry

Please avoid noisy or jangly jewelry, watches, and similar items, as they can interfere with clean audio recording. Additionally, try to avoid especially large, sparkly or reflective jewelry; smaller diamond earrings are acceptable.

Avoid Glasses If Possible, But They're Totally Fine If Needed

If possible, avoid wearing eyeglasses, as they can create unwanted shadows and reflections. However, if you need them, prefer to wear them or feel more comfortable with them, that's perfectly fine. We will adjust the lighting to minimize distractions as much as possible. Keep in mind that the prompter isn't very large, so using larger text on your slides will improve readability.

Bring Blotting Products for Shine

Video lights can amplify shiny skin. We can provide tissues for blotting your face before recording. If you have a good matte face powder or any preferred blotting product, please bring it.

You May Sit or Stand While Recording

You are welcome to sit or stand for the recordings. You might prefer standing if it helps you maintain your focus and energy. However, if it is a longer lecture, we advise sitting as your feet and legs may get tired, which could lead to excessive shifting and movement. Since our camera view is limited to the head and upper torso, any unnecessary movement can be distracting and problematic. We want you to feel comfortable, so please choose whichever position you prefer. If you can let us know your preference in advance, we can adjust the lighting accordingly, which will save us time at the top of your recording session.