How to Record Teaching Videos | Cameras, Lighting, & More!

[@626morgan]

I love how you filmed your whole video on your phone to show that you don't always need the fancy things to do this virtual learning!!

[@PocketfulofPrimary]

YESSS! You definitely don’t need fancy equipment! Keep it simple!

[@judybarry1136]

I noticed that you do not mention just flipping your iPhone video mode to selfie. Instead, you say to use a mirror to set it up. Why is that?

[@emanuellearismendez2270]

Judy Barry I’m think that then quality on selfie mode is not as good.

[@judybarry1136]

Emanuelle Arismendez That’s what I figured, but if Michelle is using her iPhone to video herself, in my head it makes sense to just flip the screen around? AND I agree with everybody on here. These videos are priceless! Thank God for this girl!

[@gretaalejandra9584]

Pocketful of Primary hello how are you

[@33onw]

As a veteran teacher, I want you to know how much I appreciate your videos. I really enjoy trying new things in my classroom and your tech ideas have been a game changer for me. I am really excited for your upcoming editing video. YOU ARE AMAZING!!!

[@showlovejen1386]

You are a true treasure to teachers and students. You are giving me the confidence to reach out to students and create content that is valuable, engaging, professional, and FUN! Thank you.

[@victoriaLL345]

I'm glad I found your channel years ago. Thanks for helping all teachers through this distance learning. You are such a blessing. Thank you!

[@Mydarianj18]

Hilariously enough, I started thinking about recording equipment and video efiting last night and said to myself that I was sure that you would have tips on your channel. Get up this morning and it's the first notification I see. Thank you for all the tips! I am excited for the video on editing.

[@lauriegrissom672]

Thank you Michelle for all you do for teachers! I have learned more from you than most professional development meeting! Love wearing my positive pants in this crazy new era of teaching!

[@kwehkuohene-djan1358]

👏👏👏👏

[@jeannebeck8191]

Yes! Completely agree!

[@readthinkimagine127]

I think you make a great point when you say to pretend or talk like your talking to a best friend. I'm starting my filming journey soon and that's really great advice!

[@elementarystemwithms.crosm5345]

Great ideas! I use my MacBook Air's camera to film my videos but prop the laptop up on a bin so the angle is right. The built-in mic works okay if I edit in iMovie and change the audio to reduce background noise and focus on voice audio. I sit on my deck under an open shade umbrella for filtered light. And I've learned that it's best to film during specific blocks of time each day to avoid weird sun angles.

[@lisavanderkleed1665]

Thanks for sharing all of this information as usual! Another tip for videoing from an iphone when no one is there to help: To make sure I'm in the phone view, I just do a test video and stand where I want to stand for the lesson. I record for a few seconds, and then I look at my phone to make sure I was in the frame. If needed, I will reposition the phone and do more tests, or if I was in the frame, then I press record and record my video.

[@reneerittenburg7773]

Thank you, for making this virtual experience better and enjoyable.

[@dianatorres-koss5872]

Thank you so much. I really enjoy watching your videos. Since we all "pivoted" (haven't we all come to dislike that word?) back in March to learn new ways to teach, we have all gone down many rabbit holes about video, editing, and a million apps and programs. Always looking forward to your next videos!

[@monroe.Kristin]

Your Apple Watch can also be used as your view finder and to start and stop your recording. I used it for my meet the teacher and it was super helpful. I could see lighting and framing directly on my watch screen. I also could stop and restart the recording as many times as I needed while I stumbled over my words.

[@PocketfulofPrimary]

SO SMART! Why didn’t I think of this LOL! Thanks for sharing! You rock!

[@firefly3453]

Thank you ever so much for everything that you have shared on your channel. Thank you from the first day I bumped into your video. I'm out of words to describe how I feel about your videos. Can I just say 5 words, "I love you for everything 💕"

[@PocketfulofPrimary]

Thank you so much for your kind words! ❤️

[@marthaestelaanaya971]

Ms. Ferre, I do apppreciate all the information you have been uploading, which I have found very useful. Because as a teacher I have been asked to deliver instructional videos, I did the following: First, I created a Prezi, which is nothing else than a presentation such as PowerPoint. Next, I went for the option of creating a video. And.. I can have a professional instructional video for your students.

[@Gabby-kz5xu]

I used my iPhone for all my instructional videos this spring and summer! I have an XR and the front camera quality is almost as good as the rear with bright window lighting! I would air drop to my Mac and combine the clips on iMovie. All together takes a few minutes!

[@patriciamcgovern7097]

Hi, I see you have experience with this. I have a question about using the iphone. Once the video is recorded on the iphone, What's the easiest way to get it to my computer? Email? Send it to Google Drive? Thank you

[@Gabby-kz5xu]

Patricia McGovern Hi! Do you have a Mac? If you do, you can select the video and share using AirDrop. Once you see your laptop appear on your iPhone screen, press it. The video will send in a few minutes! (I'm sure there are tons of AirDrop tutorials on YT if I didn't explain that well.). If you don't have a Mac, I think Google Drive would be best. There's a Drive app in the App Store.

[@patriciamcgovern7097]

Hi. No I don’t have a Mac. Ok. I’ll check out the App Store in the morning. I just tried sending a short video to drive but didn’t go. Hoping an app helps. THANK YOU!!!

[@florancefernandez8770]

Thanks a lot for this superb video. From Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

[@Ruaquilter]

I am a retired first grade/reading specialist teacher with two children who are first and eighth grade teachers. My DIL is looking to get back in the classroom as a primary teacher. I review your videos, recommend many of your videos for my kiddos. It is my job to find tips and tricks online to share with these two. Love your videos.

[@alysonserenastone2917]

I try to keep my videos under 15 minutes-I have older kids. Also, create playlists. Mine will actually just play the entire playlist on one go. I like prerecorded videos because it allows my students to watch them whenever they want and how often they want to. I had one student who could not get a lesson on the first go and went back and watched the video more than once. He would also pause it to try to work on the problem before hand and use the step by step guide to check his work and see where his mistakes were.

[@corinnawoita2676]

Your videos are great! You're so upbeat and reassuring for us "vintage" teachers! I can't wait to watch your editing video.

[@michellehooper2492]

You are a rock star! But then again, your a Michelle - You can't help it!

[@peterpan-zn2qm]

Your channel is just a perfect package i have been searching for a long time Thank you so much

[@jmangum307]

This was super helpful. Another helpful tip when it comes to recording yourself is if you are not a person who is comfortable with recording yourself (like I was), do some practice recordings around your home so you can get used to talking to a camera. It really helped me. I hated the feeling of "talking to myself". I felt foolish but with practice, it does get better. I love that you mentioned act as if you are talking to friend. That really helps too

[@TipsyArtist]

LOVED this so much!! Thank you!! I wear glasses and have really struggled with lighting. You are awesome!

[@trishagonzalez5688]

Thank you for sharing these tips! I'm already looking forward to the editing video.

[@kathleenhartegilsenan1534]

Thanks so much for taking the time to record and share this. So helpful.

[@hamletsfriend]

Thank you Michelle. This is exactly what I needed to know and I love the ring light phone holder. Your videos are always so watchable.

[@katherinekilpatrick9971]

Your videos just make me happy! Here’s to a great school year (I return to school tomorrow!)

[@mialorenzen3538]

This is super helpful! You’re a great teacher.....and sweet and positive! Thanks for sharing this! 😊🙏💕🌸

[@lamekagratton6130]

I really enjoy watching your videos. I learn so much from each of them. So using the line, "put your positive pants on!"

[@catherinevalos671]

I have learned a lot from you. You speak clearly and understandably about virtual learning!! Thanks I am teaching Kindergarten and I really recommend your videos.

[@kimberleyperisho7856]

Thank you that the music was soft in the background and not distracting. :)

[@YEAR-dw6qc]

Outstanding and very sincere. Thank you

[@theoldnewteacher1749]

Thank you! This a fantastic resource for so many that are worried about filming videos that will keep students engaged! Knowing that fantastic picture quality is possible through your phone takes a lot of pressure off teachers!

[@erikapauladavid8590]

Great Video! All the love from the Philippines😊

[@ashleybrawner560]

Yes this was so helpful! I'm looking forward to the editing video. I especially loved the tip of using a mirror when recording on your phone. I can't wait to try it!

[@johnmakanda9122]

Thanks for all your videos. They are clear and have good content.

[@SugaChellez]

My fav Youtubber!!...so helpful, so real, so SmArT.... xoxo Rachelle

[@TeacherWhatIDo]

YES! These videos can be made with so little tech. I've been publishing instructional videos on KZbin for my classroom students for a few years now. They don't look quite as nice as the videos of a professional KZbinr, but they effectively get the content to my students. Ring lights can also cause glare issues if you're using a whiteboard in your video. I film during the day with all the blinds closed, and my iPhone 7 camera compensates for the low light really well. I also loved your tips at the end of the video-- keep it short! all in one take! I take it one step further and skip editing altogether. Students don't mind a few small mistakes, and it allows me to create more videos for them and spend time on other planning tasks.

[@samanthabrown359]

Thank you Michelle! 🙏🏾I am more confident about recording videos for my classes. I cannot wait for the editing tutorial.

[@Stitchin_is_the_Besst]

Omgosh!! You’re amazinnnnng!! I keep envisioning Sheldon helping you (like in his “Fun with Flags” episodes...yes, you remind me of Mayim. So cute!! (I’m sure you’re not going for “cute” but you’re young enough to be my kid, so you’re “cute” to me. ❤️❤️) Oh Thanks for imparting all your knowledge with us. Those of use who have 30+ years of experience in education have seen SO many changes and your videos have helped more than you can imagine! Keep up the fantastic work! We’re all watching and listening intently 😁😊😊

[@yonizazon]

you are great. love your explanations. hallo from Israel

[@jordanhopkins7020]

Also a budget friendly lighting trick is a reflector shield! They are affordable and can be used on the the side of your face that's receiving less light. So if you only have one window or one soft box for light, you can have the reflector on the other side to diffuse light on the other side.

[@rachelparilis4503]

I love all your videos.Very informative. Thanks so much!!

[@melissam6898]

PE teacher here! My favorite quote that's in my work email signature says "The most biologically respectful way to learn is in short bursts", so thanks for pointing that out! I'm actually getting more excited about virtual learning and interacting with the kids again because of your videos. I would love to learn how to make a little graphic intro with music for the start of my videos if you know how to do that!

[@lipsofcolorj4963]

Top notch information!! You are truly inspiring us all as teachers to push through this upcoming year with selfless service to your subscribers. Thanks a million🙏🙏🙏

[@randychris5031]

What 😦 is top 🔺 about the notch ?

[@janelleguild3866]

Thank you for making this video because this kind of worried me. Last Spring, I used class dojo for my platform and the videos there.

[@Karhald]

Great advice, thank you for your time and sharing your experiences. I am just starting on the video editing process and it is quite a bit of a stretch from my experience and training.

[@kendriennem]

This was so helpful and a stress reliever. I had an idea of how to do this for my kids and you definitely confirmed some of my thoughts. A tip for a viewfinder when using your iPhone would be to use your Apple Watch to make sure you're in frame! It's SO helpful!

[@christibrennanmackes2586]

Thank you!! All of your videos have been super helpful! I appreciate the energy and thoughtfulness that you put into everything.

[@jocelynbriones2643]

Thank you so much Ma'am. God bless.

[@cherrillroth6912]

Thanks for the tips for eyeglass wearers! The ring light I ordered came yesterday...I'll be returning it unopened! Big Thanks!

[@queenking6524]

This was actually needed for edTPA as well. Thanks 🙏🏾

[@jceades1950]

I was glad to hear your comment about excessive editing. I would prefer a person to be natural, even with a few mistakes or corrections than watch a video that seems to be clipped out at the end of every sentence. Good advice.

[@marjpoirier7386]

I love that you did this all with your iPhone!! Although I really think that the light with the phone holder is a great idea.

[@leighhalliburton4806]

You read my mind! I’ve been searching your channel this week for this!! You are truly a life saver!! Thank you😍

[@shawnsnana1]

Hi Michelle! I could not find a link to your basement backdrop. Thank you so much for this video. Again, you are reading our minds--just what we needed most for the time. Also, you and Bridget have an AMAZING Podcast! Wishing the BEST for you both!

[@maryt8600]

She did a vid where she setup her home office. It's a quite recent one.

[@elenaaguirre8479]

Thank you Michelle! You are answering so many questions with your videos- I really appreciate what you do : )

[@moxeman]

Totally agree with using iPhone. I use epoccam to stream as a video source to my Mac.

[@marylittlepage6394]

Yay! Thank you so much for this video! I can’t wait to see the editing video!!!!

[@irmavasquez3809]

Looking forward to see the next video 😉

[@marasoronioebonalo6539]

Love the positivity and content as always..

[@simplykalimba]

I love every video of yours because of your voice clarity which I have mentioned several times before and the details you provide. Thanks a ton for this video . If you could upload an instructional video even if it means a few snippets that would be great . I would truly appreciate it. Hugs Ms Arati from Mumbai, India.

[@michellerank8212]

That was a very helpful start. I also need to know how to “teach” a lesson. Using computer like showing google slides and perhaps whiteboard. What does an actual instructional video look like for your kiddos. I’m a math teacher. I would love to see how you do that

[@CheryleJanasiak]

Michelle Rank ME TOO!

[@claudineamato1161]

Yes.

[@meagmcphee]

yes!

[@donnahebert7511]

I would love to see that as well.

[@kimdesantos6619]

me too!!

[@paulamusique7083]

you are definitely a good teacher!!! :D

[@melodys7]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[@janetvillarreal5911]

Yay!! Another Video ❤️

[@mohammed.ezzikouri]

Bigg Love from Morocco

[@ruthrodriguez3793]

You are AWESOME! Thank you 😊🎉🎉

[@arozeisarozie]

YAS. I am SO ready for that editing video! I don’t have a Mac anymore, so I have no idea what program to get and use. When I research it, I get overwhelmed and shut down. 🤦‍♀️ Once I have a program, I want to learn how to add sound effects/graphics and how to do that dramatic and quick zoom in for comedic effect. The problem is I’m so sick of computers, that the impetus to learn is stunted like crazy.

[@irmavasquez3809]

I just love your virtual classroom!

[@irairod5160]

Yay! I requested this topic a couple of weeks ago and am THRILLED to see you share your tips with us! Thank you!

[@anthonynguyen9632]

IPEVO Visualizer (www.ipevo.com/software/visualizer) is a great free program that lets your record your document camera AND webcam (so your kiddos can you see you too in the corner). Great for recording lessons - and it doesn't cost a thing unlike Screencastify!

[@robinwilson133]

Thank you so so much. I recently found out I need to record a Meet Your Teacher video. I look forward to learning about editing in your next video. Thanx again.

[@teachinwithpositivity9745]

Thank you so much for sharing this video Michelle! For years Ive been wondering what you use to make your videos so perfect!

[@jeffsfolio]

To get rid of the reflections in your glasses while using a ring light, add a good CPL filter on your lens. This is for any lens that can have filters added to the front. If you use a phone camera, there are lenses and CPL filters that you can purchase to enhance your phones camera quality. There are also super cheap and good lapel mics that you can purchase on amazon in order to get perfect quality audio.

[@gabbyparr6099]

You are such a lifesaver, Michelle! As always! Thank you 😊

[@martindaly7327]

This was so helpful! Thank you for the clear direction and practical tips and suggestions!

[@lewism1847]

Love the background x

[@HughMadBro]

She does such a good job on a little time & a budget 🤷🏼‍♀️😍

[@russellpalatiere8852]

Absolutely love this!! This I am definitely sharing with my teacher friends who will soon be starting the year virtually. I completely forgot you can use an iPhone to record videos and the quality is so good!! You have some great budget items for recording I think a first year teacher can definitely use!!

[@russellpalatiere8852]

@@phyllisamyberry8382 only place I know of is Amazon. I have tried looking around me, but have found nothing

[@SheaStarr]

You are so amazing!! I just love you so much. I need a Pocketful of Primary everyday!! :)

[@katherinejohnson2204]

Best video ever!!!! I’ve been looking for something like this all summer!!

[@brendaray4687]

Thank you. I really want to record instructional videos for high school math.

[@brycegordon9390]

You are the best teacher

[@hamsanabulsi3640]

Love all your videos, you are a great teacher indeed!

[@ei98srl]

Excellent! I shared with EFL teachers.

[@djthereplay]

+Pocketful of Primary Michelle , You are proof that you don't need to be in an a classroom in a school teaching coriculum lessons to wind up teaching someone something . Sometimes I wish that I was one of Your Students when I was in school and you still taught me something about video making far after My School Student days . Keep it up beautiful teacher !! #ProjectDJ40 #Goals - Dwight

[@mrs.lloyd-kms3204]

Thank you! You answered so many of my questions!

[@mariamihm7817]

Thank you so much! This is very helpful. 🤗

[@HomeSweetHomeschoolLife]

This was so helpful!! Thank you so much!

[@sirjay2442]

You make the most helpful content! Thank you so much.

[@coripaez8386]

Thank you. I found you in one of our helpful youtube links on our school district website. Gracias, eres una maestra a todo dar.

[@pattiboek9966]

Thank you! All your videos are helpful and inspiring.

[@nellydujk]

Thank you sooooo much for this video! It’s so helpful especially now that we’re going back to school!!!! I can not wait for part 2 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@exzachly]

Hi. I love your energy. I clicked this video because I was curious about the lens you're using. It looks like its sigma art 35mm. If so, I love that lens. Sold all my other lenses and decided 35 was the perfect fit for me. BTW, you can use QuickTime to record the screen on your phone. I watched one video of yours the other day and you mentioned you have apple MacBook or something. Hope this helps.

[@asadjadoon1052]

Hi Michelle Ferry ,I am a lecturer in government college ,your videos are very helpful and also the way you delivered the things its really amazing ,please keep it up. Also suggest me the best tools/software products that I can use for online classes.

[@timothyludwig1885]

Great video, well explained.

[@cayleighsantana9140]

Yes! Thank you for this awesome video, Michelle!! It is definitely a highly requested one! Can’t wait for the editing video!

[@alexandragonzalez6637]

Thank you! So helpful.

[@anarabago]

Thank you for the amazing tips.

[@caribbeancuentos3501]

Amazing! Thanks so very much