What are the most effective ways to record and edit video presentations for online platforms?

I remember thinking mid 2020, who is designing the next wave of video tools? The ones which help us connect online without becoming the postage stamp on the postcard of video meetings? And those people were the deliciously named mmhmm. mmhmm is the video software that keeps the speaker and content shoulder to shoulder. Co-presenters. Co-connectors. Communcaiton co-pilots. I first heard about them via word of mouth. "Oh you must of heard of mmhmm, right?" She asked "Heard of what...?" I replied. I Googled it. Signed up for the Beta. Went pro within the year. I can't think of making a video any other way. I love the way visuals co-exist with the presenter. How easy it is to use. How much fun it is to delight and surprise people.

I used to record online presentations using Zoom because it was the easiest option and still looked good. I have access to other tools, but ease of creation is key because it is more likely that things will be done. These days, I use OBS (a free software), which records and allows me to use some macro changes, which means I don't need to use editing software to show slides etc.

In the symphony of virtual presentations, one need not break the bank for a stellar performance. Forget the pricey gear; focus on the fundamentals – lighting, background, camera angles, and a good microphone. Navigate the vast sea of software options, from the free serenade of Loom to the orchestral prowess of Camtasia. It's the backstage magician, effortlessly recording and orchestrating macro changes, eliminating the need for tedious editing. In this digital dance, simplicity isn't just a virtue; it's the encore that ensures things get done.

The script is more important than the slides. By that, I mean it is more important that the slides add to the story and don't fall into the trap of the slides driving the story. That is what happens in lectures. Nobody enjoys lectures.

What a waste of time... My goal used to be one-take, error-free videos. What was I thinking? This ambition was purely playing to my ego. Proving to my insecurity that I was good. It was driving a wedge between me and the people I wanted to work with. Why? Because people who want to improve a skill are put off by people who appear flawless. It's like fitness instructors. If they are perfect, they are intimidating, & we will watch from a distance but never engage them for help. The same goes for presenting. Now, I practice being intentional but not perfect. I practice so it flows & I'm natural. If I stumble over my words, I keep going. If I say things a little back to front, I smile & keep going. Plan & practice to be confident

In the realm of presentations, the script steals the show. Before the record button, it's not just about slides; it's about crafting a compelling narrative. No lecture vibes here – engage with stories, questions, and visuals that groove to a rehearsed script's rhythm. Forget slides driving the story; let them gracefully waltz alongside it. In this digital dance, the script isn't a mere detail; it's the choreographer of a captivating performance.

With new tools, the process of recording in chunks is integrated into their platform. One of my favorites to use is mmhmm (mmhmm.app). With mmhmm, you record in "chapters" for each slide in your presentation. This means that mmhmm handles all the stitching together for you—all you have to do is press record. Once you finish, you'll have access to edit controls by slide (plus the ability to rerecord or rearrange slides as needed), without any fancy editing tools needed at all. Just export, and you're ready to share your entire presentation as one streamlined (edited) video.

Without a doubt, my favorite tool to use is Loom. Once you record, you are given editing tools and a link to share with others. You have a countdown, a time on the side bar and a pause button. You have the option to download it once you are finished. It is free for educators.

In video presentations, the secret lies in the art of editing without the one-take pressure. Opt for bite-sized recording segments, effortlessly woven together in post-production. Use the flawlessness of Loom, my personal favorite, offering editing tools, countdowns, and a pause button for a polished finish. It's not just a recording tool; it's a free pass for educators to master the rhythm of seamless presentations.

In the video alchemy, editing isn't just about cuts and joins – it's the art of weaving effects, transitions, and music into a captivating tale. Pick your editing software like a wizard selecting a wand, tailored to your skill and creativity. Ensure your video's length, pace, and tone resonate with your purpose and audience. Before the grand reveal, invite feedback from others; their insights are the finishing touch that transforms your creation from good to enchanting.

Before investing in high end video equipment, start recording videos with a smart phone. On my Apple i-Phone 12 I can record in Cinematic and 4K. Each has a different feel and both look amazing! Also, record using the BACK of a phone. Most people record content from the front (where we can see ourselves on screen) and this is distracting, because we are tempted to look at ourselves. By turning our phone around and using the back, there are more cameras (better quality), less distractions (more focus) and increased skill building (excellent for speaking). A video editor I use is Kapwing and it has been brilliant for editing my content.

For you to be more organized in your speaking, especially for a video shoot, you may want to use a teleprompter, except you’re recording to do a voiceover later.