Digital video content: Technical guidance for self-service video production


The following applies to members of the Princeton community who wish to create a video on their own, but need guidance and assistance. If you have questions on which tools to use, formats to work with, means of publishing/distributing, and University policies and guidelines, begin here. All video publishing and distribution at Princeton University is subject to video copyright and policy considerations.

 

PRODUCTION

Video recording

If you do not have your own recording equipment, cameras can be borrowed from Learning Spaces Support.

 

Audio recording

It is strongly recommended that you rent an external microphone so that you'll capture better audio of people speaking directly to the camera. Starting with higher-quality audio saves editing time and makes the final product easier to hear. Students can check out microphones at Learning Spaces Support.

The audio levels should generally "peak" at -8db to -6db so that they are not too loud or too soft for the viewers. You can adjust these levels while recording and also in post-production using Final Cut X or other video editing software.

Other technical services and recording facilities are available to Princeton faculty, students and staff through the The McGraw Center Digital Learning Lab and Video Production Support.

 


POST-PRODUCTION

 The Digital Learning Lab

The The McGraw Center Digital Learning Lab is a state-of-the-art multimedia lab equipped with the necessary hardware and software to capture, transfer, dub, create, edit, and transcode videos, including over 20 Mac Pro computers and Windows computers. The DLL is always staffed with students who are more than willing to help with your video projects. Please see the DLL website for hours of operation, location and contact information. The DLL also offers Web-based training for video post-production software at no cost to center visitors.

 

Video Editing / Capturing / Encoding Software

OIT recommends Final Cut X and Adobe Premiere software for editing and encoding video. Other less expensive software tools are available, but typically have fewer features. Encoding varies depending on final output and how you wish to publish your digital video. Please consult with knowledgeable staff at the DLL. Software by operating system type include:

 


DISTRIBUTION

 Have a finished product already? See: Video publishing and distribution on the Web

 


FULL-SERVICE ASSISTANCE

 Need someone else to plan, produce, edit and/or distribute your video? See article 9993 for information about full service video production facilities on campus.