Help/Tips Page

Decision 1: Method (One Take or Two)

There are multiple ways of capturing the best possible sound and video. We are all naturally a little too critical of our own sound and likeness, so first of all, treat yourself with the same kindness you would a friend.

Second, don't overthink the set up. You have options, and keeping it simple is best.

You have two basic options:

Record the audio and video together in one take:
Record the video in a well lit spot, not concerned audio, and record a second session with JUST audio.
- Pros: An audio/video recording an be less work, only submitting one file!
- Cons: You need to find both a quiet place and one that is well lit with one audio/video. You also have to focus on singing correctly and looking like you are not thinking really hard! (I struggle with this daily.) You also don't have to have headphones in your ear when you are recording video and audio separate.

Decision 2: How and Where?

Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

Your phone likely has a better camera and better mic than a computer. Wether you are recording audio/video together or separate, please consider using a phone.
Sound: Make sure your space is quiet.
- Consider turning off the furnace fan while you record.
- Bribe your siblings, pets, and parents to give you a moment of solitude
- Make sure your device is on a stable surface (not handheld)
- If your phone mic is fairly close, it is far better than a laptop mic, and even better than an the inline mic on earbuds.
- You can always bring the mp3 into GarageBand or Audacity if you want to get fancy. If you haven't done that before, don't try to learn it now. It will only enhance your life if you have experience with those programs.
Video: Lighting is everything.
- Try to have the camera at eye level and not pointing up or down at you.
- Try to have the music source and the camera as close as possible
- Be aware of what's in the background. Solid background is nice, but something festive is okay too.
- Remember to wear your tux or gown
- Record in landscape mode (sideways)

The Setup

Below are a couple of set up possibilities based on the above information

Video Setup

(Can be used for video only, or for both audio and video:

Computer (playing track) is on a high shelf.
Phone is just off center capturing image and sound.
Headphone is plugged in to computer so the track isn't heard in the recording (only required if doing both audio and video together. If you are recording video separately, still have audio in the background... it helps sync it up. You can lip sync or sing along, your choice.)

Audio only setup

Phone is resting upside down (so mic is pointing up).
Recording on voice memo (can use another recording program, or record a video).
Headphones are plugged into the computer so track is not heard in recording.

Submitting

The Google Form is the best possible way to track the file coming through. If you don't have a goole account, or it is not working for you, use this link to upload via Dropbox.

Still having trouble?

Email Mr. Lathe (glathe@youthchorale.org), or text his YCCM number (320-200-4711). The texts are received by email and will not necessarily get a quicker response, but might be more convenient for you.

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