Author: Cheptiony Mutai

  • Increase Your Chances of Getting Freelance Video Jobs with Storyboard

    Any seasoned video producer will tell you they don\’t need a storyboard in order to create a video- and that script is enough. Well, me being one of them, I agree that it is possible to work on  a video without a storyboard. But how do you make yourself stand out from others in this competitive industry and command a bigger pay-especially when proposing? Well you have to be creative enough to show your  prospect that you are organized. Having in mind that not every editor/producer breaks down the process they use when working on their videos, you need to utilize this as your strength and make yourself stand out in the market. And Storyboard can be your savior. Here are reasons why storyboard will help you stand out.

    Storyboard works best for clients who have never worked on a video before 

    Most new clients who have never worked on a video with someone before; are clueless on how to go about it. And for them to trust you, you need to take them step by step on the process. If they are willing to provide the script, then you can introduce them to \’storyboarding\’ where they will have a clear picture on how the video will come out. This way, they will view you as an expert; besides, they will feel a sense of ownership as they will get a chance to contribute to it.

    Storyboard is good for videos that require royalty free videos 

    Now, sometimes as a video producer, your royalty free video choices for different parts of a video may not be what your client wants. This thus means that if you had purchased the footage, you will have to dig deeper to your pockets and purchase an alternative footage to replace it. To avoid this, creating a storyboard and sharing links to videos you  propose to use is very crucial as you will have advance client approval before purchasing them.

    Storyboard will help you stop guessing 

    If you are working on a technical video, sometimes, in some sections, you need to consult the client to clarify some terms and thus help you create a scene to reflect the meaning. Storyboard will be the best medium to raise such questions. Clients love this as they get also to contribute towards the production of the video. You only need to a good listener here.

    Storyboard is the avenue to win the heart of your client 

    Now, the first thing to do when your client agrees on a storyboard, is to propose to them that you can use online collaboration tools where changes can be reviewed in real time. In this case, the best tool to use for story board is Google slides. Even if you have worn the contract, don\’t stop showing to your client how professional and experienced you are by action. This way, he/she will trust you opinion on matters that are not even related to your line of expertise. Be that guy that can be trusted to not only deliver, but deliver to satisfaction.

    And this will in turn lead to repeat business and before you know, you will have more work and less stressful marketing.

    That\’s all from me here today. Till next time, bye and take care:-)

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail on connect@cheptiony.com

    Don\’t forget to give me a thumbs up and leave a comment below.

    Also, follow me on twitter @cheptiony

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn’t mean that, I don’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other english accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the ‘taste’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice modulation/articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their ‘will.’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That’s all from me today. What’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists\’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It\’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don\’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn\’t mean that, I don\’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn\’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other english accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the \’taste\’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It\’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice modulation/articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their \’will.\’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It\’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it\’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don\’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That\’s all from me today. What\’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It\’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don\’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn\’t mean that, I don\’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other English accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the ‘taste’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It\’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice Modulation/Articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their ‘will.’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It\’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don\’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That\’s all from me today. What’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists\’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It\’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don\’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn\’t mean that, I don\’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn\’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other english accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the \’taste\’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It\’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice modulation/articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their \’will.\’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It\’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it\’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don\’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That\’s all from me today. What\’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Invest on a 27inch Screen or Higher for Editing Videos Today

    Now, if you are video editor and your NEW clients have never requested for an Ultra high definition (UHD) 4K video, then you probably have no idea why you should invest in a 27 Inch monitor/computer or higher.

    But, that\’s not all, it has to be a COi3 or higher system with a minimum of 6GB RAM to fully enjoy it the services it gives. For those new to this subject, Please go first and read video-resolution-definitions-on-demand-in-2018 to understand more.

    Freelancers who currently own a 21 Inch or 24 Inch screen that they use for video editing and they think it can render 4K video, they will be shocked when a client hires them to edit and produce video only to find that they  \’can\’t create a project\’ leave alone rendering/exporting.

    You see, when you try to enter a custom resolution dimensions on any editing program, the program crashes or cannot play a video project created in 4k output monitor.  Here is a summary of the reasons you should invest in a 27 Inch screens.

    Editing 4K Videos with it is Smooth and Seamless 

    Now, this varies with the R.A.M. If  the computer RAM is higher than 8GB, your video will never lag when editing compared to lower RAM. I mean, you will play videos from the editing suite smoothly without grinning and swearing several times that your computer is hanging:-). That is why iMac Coi5 27Inch comes with RAM of 8GB and higher.

    Previewing 4K Videos With it is Breath-taking 

    If you have your video rendered in 4K and you try to play in a screen with a resolution lower than 3840 x 2160, you will think that the video has scratches. This is because the monitor is unable to handle the resolution in full screen. This is opposite if you are doing this on a 27inch screen.

    Rendering 4K Videos With it is Seamless and Takes Shorter Time 

    I have tried once to render a video in 4k with a 24inch screen in Camtasia and the computer crashed. I was lucky to open to the project at start. I noted also that you can\’t create a project on Camtasia with 4k resolution dimensions if your monitor is less than 27 Inch.

    Its Best for Capturing Screens in 4k 

    If you have a screen less than 27inch, then it\’s impossible to capture full 4K resolution screencasts. You may do full screen with a 24 Inch but when you import it to a 4K resolution timeline, you will have to stretch it for it to fit into  the screen. This will affect the final video resolution as it looses quality from stretching. There are many other several advantages of investing in a 27 inch screen. I have been using a 27Inch screen monitor and the results that I get from it is enormous. When doing animations in FHD on After effects, the video plays seamlessly, something that I was not getting from a 24Inch coi5 monitor.

    As, I close, if your step up and use this Kick ass monitor- editing FHD videos will be a child play to you:-)

    That\’s it from me today. Till next time, bye bye and take care. And if you need help with anything on video, get in touch with me here 🙂

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail on connect@cheptiony.com

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Video Resolution Definitions On Demand Today

    Every year, there is a software Upgrade in video production which in many ways makes the existing software obsolete. Some feature upgrades may sound basic but very crucial for you to remain relevant in the market as a video producer.

    When exporting the video that you have edited, there are two main things that one looks at; Video resolution and video format. This two determines the video clarity and the size of your final video output. In this post, I will be exploring video resolution quality currently on high demand in the market.

    UHD 4k (Ultra High Definition 4K) 

    This video resolution quality is gaining a lot of demand especially on youtube and is being used a lot by veteran Youtubers who have a huge subscriber base. It has a dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels or 4096 x 2160 pixels.  Even though most video producers claim that it makes no difference to render video in 4k vs the common 1080P/i, for the fact that most viewers watch videos on mobile phones, a lot of people still choose the 4k resolution. Most of them say that their videos are viewed in 4K resolution screens i.e Televisions.  If you are a video producer, you might miss a lot of business opportunities because of your inability to offer something new in the market which is the 4K videos. I recommend you invest in a 27Inc monitor and at-least 8GB RAM on your PC for fast rendering speed.

    NOTE: For videos recorded on Location, it has to be done in UHD 4k or rather the camera has to have the 4K recording ability. Stretching a 1080P video may work in some scenarios but the output quality when played in some of the machines will look  pixelated.

    UHD 2k (Ultra High Definition 2K) 

    This is an alternative of the 4K video. It has dimensions of 2048×1080 Pixels. Most clients will choose this option if  you are unable to render in 4K quality. For this, you need at least a 24 Inch screen. In Screen-casting, this kind of resolution is best for capturing the video and later editing it to suite your clients needs. Screen recordings captured in UHD and edited into HD is very clear. Note that the final render size on the disc is slightly small compared to the 4K quality.

    FHD (Full High Definition 1080p/1080i) 

    Note: There are other new sets of U.H.D videos. These are 6K (6144×3072 pixels) and 8K (7,680×4,320 pixels) and are commonly used in concept Televisions and projectors.

    That\’s it for today. If you have any question, please post it on the comments below. If you need help to create a quality video contact me here. Till next time, have a great time and take care.

    Almost every computer can export video in HD including Phones. It\’s definition is 1920×1080 Pixels. Most phone gadgets can also capture video in HD at 15fps. With this said, when the same video is edited, the final resolution is quite distorted because of other features like ISO and more. FHD is the current standard video resolution most people love. When it\’s rendered in .mp4, the size is small and you can carry it around easily. Remember you can resort to use H.D 1280×720, if you are after a smaller size video in high quality. So, are you ready to upgrade your videos to UHD?

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  • Four Commonly Used Video File Formats Playable Online

    If you are a seasoned video editor or producer, am sure you are aware of video file formats playable on PC,mobile and tablets.  But if you are a newbie or a client intending to hire someone to produce videos for you, then go on reading.

    Clients who have an audience and have done analysis on them know their clientele behavior online very well. When I say \’know their audience,\’ I mean how the consumers view the video they produce.

    Thanks to Google analytics, they show you everything including the devices your consumers are using.  Now, here are four common video types playable in most devices.

    .MP4 Video Format 

    This is a popular file for publishing videos on youtube. MP4 is a digital multimedia container format most commonly used to store video and audio, but it can also be used to store other data such as subtitles and still images. Most video editing softwares has this format available to choose when rendering. Its popular for its ability to save files in a compressed format.

    .MOV Video Format

    A MOV file is a common multimedia container file format developed by Apple and compatible with both Macintosh and Windows platforms. It may contain multiple tracks that store different types of media data and is often used for saving movies and other video files. 

    .M4V Video Format 

    This is a file format popular among the Mac users. The M4V file format is a video container format developed by Apple and is very similar to the MP4 format. The primary difference is that M4V files may optionally be protected by DRM copy protection.

    .WMV  Video format 

    This is common  file among the Microsoft users.  Windows Media Video (WMV) is a series of video codecs and their corresponding video coding formats developed by Microsoft. It is part of the Windows Media framework.

    And that\’s all. Note that they are compatible and plays well in most latest Gadgets. Also, its available to choose in most video editing softwares when exporting or rendering the video.

    Till next time, bye and take care!

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail on connect@cheptiony.com

    Also, follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 9 Things Every Client Should Know Before Contacting a Video Editor or Producer

    Most clients who hire video editors or producers do so because they have little or no knowledge in video production and are in search for an expert. So, as a new client, how do you address the video editor you contact so that he/she understand what you are looking for? There are many components which when compiled together, makes a winning video.

    Each of these items has a name or a keyword. Knowing the various components that makes a video is crucial. It will make your communication with the producer or editor smooth and easy. Here are some of the common components that you should know

    Script

    This may sound straight forward to many,  but surprisingly , some clients can\’t fathom the need for a script in a video. To understand why a script is an important element for your video read my post on writing a winning explainer video script to learn more.

    Story board 

    Once you have the script ready, the producer will work alongside you in creating a storyboard for your video. This is a sketch of how your video will be presented in real time. Storyboard is best designed in slideshow style or table style where script is broken down into sections with proposed videos/images/graphics inserted for each text line.

    Background audio music/voice over 

    Some scripts will need just background music or voice over to accompany the video presentation. This is one of the components that makes up your video. It\’s therefore important that you are aware of the right term to use for the editor or producer to understand you well.

    Intro and Outro 

    This is a branding component that is used in the introduction and at the end of your video. The intro may be your own company logo animated and it\’s Outro being how your customers can contact you for service. This is very important as it shows your users that you own the video.

    Video Quality and Format  

    This is the level of quality the video will be shared. Currently, the most common video quality is HD 1080 (high definition) and UHD (Ultra High Definition)2k, 4k. To learn more about video quality, please read video resolution definitions on demand in 2018. When it comes to video format, there are several formats available outside there. The most used forma that plays in most devices is .mp4 and .m4v.  To learn more about the latest video formats read four commonly used video file formats online in 2018.

    Lower Thirds 

    These are the text or graphics that appears below the video as it is playing. The best example is the name of a person in an interview. Sometimes it\’s the phone number or website address. Make this know the editor from the onset if you need them.

    Subtitles is the text transcription of the voice over in the video. It appears as it is spoken below the video. In some occasions where there is no voice, subtitle text appears on the screen to explain what is happening.

    FTP 

    FTP  stand for File sharing Protocol. Most of you subscribe to it. This where you will share your folders and files. The most common FTPs outside there is Dropbox and Google drive. FTP allows to collaborate with the freelancer easily and speed up the process of production.

    Video thumbnail  

    Finally when the video completed and ready for publishing, video thumbnail is crucial. It will prompt viewers to click on it and play the video in most common video publishing sites like YouTube.

    These are nine common things you should know as a client before you contact a producer. Most of the editors will ask you to provide some of these. It will be a bit confusing if you do not understand what they mean.

    Do you have anythings else you think the client should know? Please share in the comments area.

    Till next time, bye bye and take care!

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail on connect@cheptiony.com

    Don\’t forget to give me a thumbs up and leave a comment below.

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  • Writing an Explainer Video Script that Stands Out

    If you are an animator or video creator, then you know the power of working on a video with a creatively written script. It\’s exciting, it\’s thrilling; I mean there no words to describe it. Visualization of characters when working on the storyboard is mind blowing.

    Now, not everyone can differentiate between a creatively written script and one that is not. With the advent of sales letter templates that you can buy online for as low as $5 on fiverr.com, anyone can be a writer in a fortnight. But what\’s the difference between an originally crafted script and a script written out from a template? Well, here is how you can tell.

    Writers Understanding of the Product and it’s Connection with the Customer 

    A creative writer who knows how to play around with human psychology will first take time to understand the product the client is trying to sell to his customers. Marketing is all about playing around with human  emotions. Before he/she starts scripting, he/she will use most of his time to research and identify  one thing that the product solves and devise the script to magnify the problem in many dimensions that the prospect could not think of. This part of the script is the ‘anchor.’ The first 150 words of the script should knock the readers socks off and make them want to know more about the solution being offered to them. This is where you can introduce the product.

    Ability to Connect the Problem with the Product 

    Since I work most of the time on explainer videos for apps and software’s, the second section of the script should go straight to address how the product in questions will solve the problem. Mention the common keywords that the user is aware of. As you do this, visualize that the same features is being shown on the video. Simplify the the process and focus on the pain points. In other words, the solution should sound like it\’s possible to achieve it with a ‘single click.’

    Proper Approach on Call to Action 

    Don’t take a lot of time showing the product. 60 seconds or less is enough. Tell them how they can make use of the product by taking action you ask them to. If the product being sold is on offer for the first month, say so. It\’s also important to consider a person watching the video from youtube when writing your call to action.

    These three things are most crucial. If the writer fails to connect this, then, the entire script might be totally confusing when deciphered into video. If you have anything else to add to my list, let me know on the comments below. Till next  time, bye bye and take care.

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail here.

    Also, follow me on twitter @cheptionyÂ