The Mechanics of Production

While professional cameras offer superior quality, smartphones today are equipped with high-definition cameras capable of shooting in 1080p or higher resolutions. This fact makes them an excellent choice for beginners.

For editing, there are numerous user-friendly video editing software options available, such as iMovie (for iOS), Adobe Premiere Rush, and Filmora. These are somewhat intuitive, relatively inexpensive, and have basic (and advanced) editing features. iMovie comes with a Mac, and PCs have a Photos App built in. A quick Google search can also point you to free online software like HifFilm Express and Lightworks.

Good lighting and proper framing can significantly enhance your video's quality. Natural light is a great option. Also, it goes without saying that you should make sure whatever you are videoing is actually well-framed within the shot.

File Format: If you want to know in what file format you should save your video files, MP4 is a file type that will work universally. MOV is a file type used particularly in the Apple world.

Resolution: Sometimes you need to choose a resolution for your video. The minimum standard is 720p (pixels). However, 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels) is a better standard to aim for.

Aspect Ratio: The aspect ratio will determine whether your video fits nicely on standard displays, platforms, and devices. If you want to make sure your video fully uses up the screen (without any black bars), use a 16:9 aspect ratio.

Frame Rate: The frame rate is how many frames pass the eye per second. Traditionally, 24fps (frames per second) has been used for film and gives a cinematic feel. However, 30fps is more common for digital video today.

Audio Quality: Clear audio is crucial. Record in a quiet environment and consider using an external microphone. Save audio files in MP3 format (universal) or WAV format for the best balance between quality and compatibility.

File Size and Compression: Keep file sizes manageable (e.g., under 2GB) to facilitate smooth uploads and streaming. You can use video editing software to compress your files and balance quality with file size. Most software provides presets for web uploading that optimize this balance.

For any still images you include in your course materials:

File Format: Save your image files as JPEG (JPG) and PNG. These are widely supported and provide high-quality images.

Resolution: As with video, aim for a minimum of 1280x720 (for 16:9 ratio images), 1200x900 (for 4:3 ratios) and 800x800 (for 1:1 ratios) to make sure that your images are clear and detailed.

Aspect Ratio: Consistency is key. Stick with 16:9 for widescreen images or 4:3 for a more traditional look, matching your video content.

File Size: Optimize your images to be under 5MB in size to ensure fast loading times on web platforms without sacrificing too much quality.

Color Profile: Use the sRGB color profile for the most consistent color display across different devices.

4. Accessibility

It is important that your content is accessible to those who, for various reasons, have difficulty with default video. Not only is such accessibility considerate, but it is often required.

Subtitles and Closed Captions: Include subtitles for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Many video editing programs allow you to add captions easily.

Readable Fonts and Sizes: Choose fonts that are easy to read and size them appropriately for easy viewing on small and large screens.

Contrast and Color Use: Ensure there is high contrast between text and background colors. Avoid color combinations that are difficult for color-blind users to distinguish.

Alternate Descriptions for Images: Provide text descriptions for content-carrying images to make them accessible to visually impaired users. This can be done in the video’s description or as an audio description.

It is essential to respect copyrighted material and to make sure that your content is compliant with the law.

Ownership and Permission: Use only content you own or have permission to use. This includes music, video clips, images, and any other materials.

Proof of Permission: Keep records of licenses or permission for content used.

Waivers for Individuals: If you feature individuals in your content, obtain waivers, especially if the filming isn’t in a public space.

Attribution: Credit authors, creators, and any sources used in your materials appropriately.

Avoiding Infringement: Be careful that your content doesn’t infringe on other people’s rights. Use royalty-free or licensed materials if you don't own the content.