Steps to Film a Professional Looking Video Online Course

Are you interested in creating an online course? Do you want to record professional-looking videos for your online course? In this article, we will guide you through the steps to film a professional-looking video for your online course. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced video creator, these tips and techniques will help you create high-quality videos that engage your audience. 

Video courses allow you to share in-depth training and monetize your expertise. But creating a polished, effective course requires careful planning and execution.

This comprehensive guide will walk through the key steps for filming a professional quality video course – from crafting your curriculum to optimizing filming conditions and editing for maximum impact.

Follow this tactical advice and you’ll be able to produce stunning video courses that boost credibility, impact and income without expensive equipment or teams required. Let’s dive in!

Why Launch a Video Course?

Before we get into the production details, let’s quickly review the many benefits of launching a video course:

• Establish yourself as an expert on a topic
• Deliver more in-depth training than a webinar or blog post
• Package and productize your knowledge for passive income
• Build closer relationships with students through video
• Capture leads through gated access and email nurturing
• Get more discoverable in search compared to fleeting webinars
• Scale your reach dramatically through on-demand access
• Option to license and sell the course access rights
• Repurpose course videos into other content formats
• High perceived value compared to free written content

Now let’s explore how to take your course concept and create high-quality videos from start to finish.

What is Video Production?

Understanding the Video Production Process

Before we dive into the specifics of filming a video, it’s important to understand the video production process. Video production involves planning, shooting, and editing videos to create a final product. It involves capturing and manipulating visuals, audio, and other elements to tell a story or convey a message.

How Video and Audio Work Together

Video and audio go hand in hand to create an immersive viewing experience. They complement each other to enhance the overall quality of the video. Understanding how video and audio work together will help you create videos with great sound quality and visual impact.

Tips for Shooting High-Quality Video

When it comes to shooting high-quality video, there are several factors to consider. Lighting, camera settings, composition, and framing play a crucial role in capturing professional-looking shots. By following these tips, you can ensure that your videos look visually appealing and engaging.

Steps to Plan and Film a Video Course

Follow these key steps to develop, film and polish your course:

Choose Your Course Topic and Goals

Select a topic with significant demand that you have deep expertise around. Outline learning objectives and your ideal target student.

Develop a Curriculum Outline

Map out modules, lessons, and topics in a logical learning sequence. Include estimated runtimes.

Write Detailed Lesson Plans

Expand each lesson into talking points, activities, case studies, and materials to cover. Time out sections.

Set Up Your Filming Studio

Optimize lighting, audio, camera angle, backdrop and setup to achieve professional recording quality.

Script an Introduction and Course Wrap

Write an opening and closing segment to welcome students and recap key takeaways.

Compile Visuals, Slides and Graphics

Develop any visual assets, slides, animations and on-screen text to incorporate during filming.

Rehearse Each Lesson

Practice delivering your teaching points smoothly as they will appear in the final videos.

Record Your Videos

Film each lesson in its entirety without stopping using your script. Capture B-roll videos as well.

Edit Videos

Trim segments, insert graphics, add intros/outros, optimize pace, color correct, and finalize each video.

Upload and Host Your Videos

Upload to a video hosting platform and make accessible from your website with accompanying materials.

Let’s explore each step in further detail.

Choose the Right Course Topic and Goals

Your topic should meet four key criteria:

Fills a Knowledge Gap

Identify subjects people urgently want to learn that currently lack quality educational resources. Research demand.

Draws on Your Expertise

Select fields where you offer rare skillsets or perspectives only you can provide. Backed by real experience.

Appeals to a Specific Audience

Who faces problems your course can solve or needs to skill up? Understand their motivations for enrolling.

Aligns with Your Goals

Map out how the course supports your brand, revenue, and audience-building goals both short and long term.

Choosing the right focus area sets your course up for success. Get this critical first step right before planning details.

Creating an Online Course

How to Make an Instructional Video

An instructional video is an effective way to teach your audience about a specific topic. In this section, we will explore the techniques for making instructional videos. From scriptwriting to delivery, we will cover all the essential steps to create informative and engaging instructional videos.

Video Editing Techniques for Online Courses

Editing plays a crucial role in creating an online course. It helps refine your videos and polish them to meet the standards of a professional course. In this section, we will discuss various video editing techniques that you can use to enhance the quality of your online course.

Exploring Different Types of Video Content

Video content comes in various forms, each serving a different purpose. It’s important to understand the different types of video content you can create to cater to your audience’s needs. Whether it’s interviews, demonstrations, or presentations, we will explore the different types of video content you can incorporate into your online course.

Filming and Editing Tips

Essential Tools You Need to Film a Course

To film a professional-looking video course, you need the right tools. In this section, we will discuss the essential tools you need to film your course. From cameras to lighting equipment, we will guide you in choosing the right equipment for your video project.

Improve Your Videos with Editing Techniques

Editing is a crucial part of the video production process. It allows you to enhance the quality of your videos and create a seamless viewing experience. In this section, we will share editing techniques that can help you improve the overall quality of your videos.

Captivating Your Audience with Short Films

Short films are a powerful way to captivate your audience and deliver your message effectively. In this section, we will explore the art of creating short films and discuss different storytelling techniques that you can apply to make your videos more engaging.

Create an Effective Course Curriculum Outline

With a topic selected, build out your course framework:

Organize into Modules or Sections

Group related lessons and topics together into modules or sections for cohesion.

Map Out Individual Lessons

Identify the core concepts, skills or steps each video lesson will teach. Include time estimates.

Structure for Sequential Learning

Order modules and lessons in a logical progression that builds knowledge incrementally.

Balance Depth With Breadth

Alternate between deeper skill-building lessons and higher-level overview sessions.

Sprinkle in Supplementary Materials

Consider including PDF downloads, quiz assessments, slide decks and other supplements.

Plan an Estimated Runtime

Outline how long students should expect to invest total to complete the full course at a reasonable pace.

Align to Learning Objectives

Ensure every module and session ladders up to overarching skill goals. Cut superfluous fluff.

A strategic curriculum provides the educational roadmap for your course.

Recording Videos for YouTube

How to Film and Edit YouTube Videos

If you want to create videos for platforms like YouTube, it’s important to understand the specific requirements and techniques involved. In this section, we will guide you through the process of filming and editing YouTube videos to help you make your channel stand out.

Make Your Videos Stand Out Like a Pro

Creating professional-looking videos for YouTube requires attention to detail and a solid understanding of the platform. In this section, we will share tips and techniques that can help you make your videos stand out like a pro and attract more viewers.

Editing Tips for YouTube Content

Editing is a crucial part of creating compelling YouTube content. In this section, we will discuss editing tips specifically tailored for YouTube videos. These tips will help you optimize your videos for the platform and make them visually appealing to your audience.

Tips for Filming an Online Course

Setting up Your Camera and Tripod

Setting up your camera and tripod correctly is essential to ensure stable and high-quality footage. In this section, we will guide you through the process of setting up your camera and tripod to capture professional-looking shots for your online course.

Tips for Speaking Confidently in Front of the Camera

Speaking confidently in front of the camera is crucial for creating engaging videos. In this section, we will share tips and techniques to help you overcome stage fright and speak confidently on camera, delivering your content effectively to your audience.

Editing Your Course for a Professional Finish

Editing plays an important role in giving your online course a professional finish. In this section, we will explore different editing techniques you can use to refine and polish your course videos, making them look more professional and compelling.

Screen Recording for Online Courses

How to Record and Edit Your Screen

Screen recording is a popular technique for creating online courses. In this section, we will guide you through the process of recording and editing your screen to create informative and engaging course content.

Tools You Need for Successful Screen Recording

Using the right tools for screen recording is essential to ensure high-quality video and audio output. In this section, we will discuss the tools you need for successful screen recording and provide recommendations for different budget ranges.

Enhancing Your Course with On-Screen Videos

Incorporating on-screen videos in your online course can significantly enhance the learning experience. In this section, we will explore the benefits of using on-screen videos and provide tips for creating effective on-screen videos that engage your audience.

Develop Detailed Lesson Plans

With your curriculum defined, expand each lesson into granular teaching points:

Break Down Key Concepts

Deconstruct larger ideas, theories, frameworks or procedures into discrete steps or explanations.

Plan Analogies and Examples

Note specific analogies, use cases, and examples to illustrate concepts in action for each point.

Identify Activities or Exercises

Develop hands-on activities or worksheets for students to apply skills learned.

Incorporate Case Studies

Build in real-world examples and case study profiles showcasing the lesson in action.

Outline Discussions and Reflections

Draft prompts for self-reflection, peer discussion or deeper thinking around the material.

Develop Quizzes and Assessments

Create quiz and assignment formats to test comprehension of key concepts.

Time Out Each Section

Apply estimated timings for each piece so lessons don’t become too compressed or disjointed.

Detailed plans ensure you cover topics thoroughly while staying on track.

Steps to Film a Professional Looking Video Online Course

In today’s digital age, online courses have become increasingly popular for sharing educational content and expertise with a wide audience. One of the most effective ways to deliver educational content is through video courses. However, creating a professional-looking video online course requires careful planning, execution, and post-production editing. In this article, we will explore the steps you can take to film a professional-looking video online course that engages your audience and delivers high-quality instructional content.

How can I improve the quality of my video production?

What is the video production process?

Before diving into the details of video production, it is important to understand the overall process. The video production process involves several key stages, including pre-production, production, and post-production. Pre-production involves planning and preparation, such as scripting, storyboarding, and gathering necessary equipment. The production phase involves actually filming the video content according to the planned script and storyboard. Finally, post-production includes editing, adding effects, and sound design to create a polished final video.

How can I optimize video and audio quality?

To ensure your video course is of the highest quality, it is crucial to optimize both video and audio aspects. Start by selecting the right equipment for filming, such as a high-definition camera and tripod to stabilize the shots. Pay attention to lighting, as it can greatly impact the overall look of your videos. Use natural or artificial lighting to achieve a well-lit and visually appealing environment. Additionally, consider investing in a quality microphone or audio recording device to capture clear and crisp audio.

What are some tips for shooting video?

When shooting video, there are several best practices to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your camera is properly set up and adjusted for the desired composition. Use different shot types, such as wide shots, close-ups, and medium shots, to add variety to your videos. Pay attention to framing and ensure your subjects are well-positioned in the frame. Use movement and camera angles strategically to create visual interest. Lastly, don’t forget to shoot enough footage to allow for seamless editing in post-production.

How can I create an engaging online course through videos?

What are the key components of an instructional video?

To create an engaging online course, it is important to understand the key components of an instructional video. Firstly, start with a clear introduction that grabs the attention of your audience and introduces the topic. Then, provide step-by-step instructions in a logical and easy-to-follow manner. Use visuals, such as diagrams, charts, and on-screen text, to enhance understanding. Incorporate real-world examples and practical demonstrations to make the content relatable and applicable to your audience’s needs.

How do I edit my videos to make them more professional?

Editing plays a crucial role in making your videos more professional. Start by organizing your footage and selecting the best takes. Trim out any unnecessary content or mistakes to keep the video concise and engaging. Add transitions, music, and on-screen graphics to enhance the visual appeal. Pay attention to the pacing and flow of the video, ensuring that each segment transitions smoothly. Consider adding captions or subtitles for accessibility. Finally, review the edited video multiple times to ensure quality and make any necessary adjustments.

What are the different types of videos I can create?

There are various types of videos you can create for your online course. Some common types include lectures, presentations, tutorials, interviews, case studies, and demonstrations. The type of video you choose depends on the nature of your content and the preferences of your audience. Experiment with different formats to find the most effective way to deliver your instructional content.

What tools and equipment do I need for filming and editing a video?

What equipment should I have for filming my videos?

When it comes to filming your videos, investing in the right equipment is essential. Besides a high-quality camera and tripod, consider using additional tools such as a microphone, lighting setup, and a green screen. A microphone will improve sound quality, while proper lighting will enhance the visual appeal of your videos. A green screen can be useful for creating custom backgrounds or adding special effects during the editing process.

What are some editing tips and techniques?

Editing is a critical step in the video production process. To enhance the quality of your videos during the editing phase, there are several tips and techniques to keep in mind. Firstly, pay attention to the pacing of your videos and ensure a smooth flow between different segments. Use appropriate transitions and visual effects to enhance the viewer’s experience. Consider adding graphics or text overlays to emphasize important points. Additionally, adjust the color grading and audio levels to achieve a polished and professional look.

What are the essential tools you need for video editing?

To edit your videos effectively, you will need access to video editing software. There are various options available, ranging from beginner-friendly tools to professional-grade software. Some popular video editing software includes Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and iMovie. Learn the basic functions and features of your chosen software, such as the ability to trim clips, add transitions, adjust audio levels, and export the final video in a suitable format.

How can I improve my on-camera presence and deliver effective instructional content?

What should I consider when filming in front of the camera?

When filming in front of the camera, it is important to consider several factors to improve your on-camera presence. Firstly, practice proper body language and maintain good posture. Make eye contact with the camera to establish a connection with your audience. Use gestures and facial expressions to add emphasis and convey your message effectively. Along with body language, pay attention to your voice and tone. Speak clearly, vary your tone, and use pauses strategically to engage your viewers.

How do I script and structure my content?

To ensure clarity and coherence in your instructional content, scripting and structuring your videos is crucial. Start by identifying the key points and objectives of each video. Create a detailed script that outlines the main ideas, supporting examples, and step-by-step instructions. Structure your videos in a logical manner, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Break down complex concepts into smaller, easily digestible chunks. Use headings, subheadings, and visuals to enhance the organization and flow of the content.

What are some tips for delivering instructional content effectively?

Delivering instructional content effectively involves more than just presenting information. Consider these tips to engage your audience and make your videos more impactful. Firstly, be enthusiastic and passionate about the topic, as this will naturally attract and retain viewers’ attention. Encourage viewer participation by asking questions or providing opportunities for reflection. Use storytelling techniques to make the content more relatable and memorable. Finally, be authentic and genuine in your delivery, establishing yourself as a credible source of knowledge and expertise.

What are the final steps to create and publish my online video course?

How do I edit my course videos and make them more engaging?

During the final phase of creating your online video course, focus on editing your course videos to make them more engaging. Apply the editing tips and techniques mentioned earlier, such as trimming out unnecessary content, adding transitions, and enhancing visual effects. Additionally, consider incorporating interactive elements, such as quizzes or exercises, to keep your audience actively engaged. Seek feedback from beta testers or colleagues to identify areas for improvement, and make necessary revisions based on their input.

What are some techniques for screen recording and capturing video?

If your online course involves screen recording or capturing video demonstrations, there are specific techniques you can employ to ensure quality. When screen recording, close unnecessary programs, notifications, or tabs to avoid distractions. Use a screen recording software that allows you to capture high-resolution footage with clear audio. For capturing video, ensure good lighting and proper framing to present a visually appealing demonstration. Test your recording setup and techniques beforehand to avoid any technical issues during the actual filming.

What are the important elements to consider when editing an online course?

When editing an online course, it is important to consider several elements to enhance the overall quality. Ensure a consistent visual style throughout the course by using similar fonts, colors, and graphical elements. Pay attention to the audio levels and make necessary adjustments to ensure clarity and consistency. Use chapter markers or timestamps to help viewers easily navigate through the course. Additionally, consider adding introductory and concluding slides to provide context and summarize key takeaways.

Set Up Your Video Recording Studio

Your filming setup directly impacts video quality. Follow these tips for professional results:

Choose an Appropriate Space

Select a quiet, distraction-free room with ample space to set up equipment.

Optimize Lighting

Invest in lighting equipment or strategically use natural lighting sources for clear, even illumination.

Improve Audio Quality

Purchase an external microphone for clear voice pickup without background noise.

Stage an Attractive Background

Set up an interesting but non-distracting backdrop related to your niche and brand.

Frame Shots Tightly

Position the camera at eye level and framed close on your upper body. Cut out excess headroom.

Reduce Camera Shake

Mount cameras on a high-quality tripod to avoid shaky handheld shots.

Check Video and Audio Levels

Test recording quality ahead of filming sessions and make adjustments so levels are strong.

Your studio setup drives production value, so invest time perfecting conditions before filming.

Script Your Introduction and Conclusion

Bookend your course with intro and conclusion videos to orient and summarize for students:

Opening Welcome

Draft a warm welcome explaining who you are, what they will learn, and key ground rules.

Closing Recap

Script a final video recapping the key takeaways and lessons from the course.

Next Steps and Call to Action

End with clear guidance on applying what they’ve learned along with next course or offer recommendations.

Course Materials Overview

Remind learners of available supplemental materials like workbooks, slide decks, or extras.

Share Student Success Stories

Highlight inspiring stories of past students who successfully applied the course teachings.

Offer Certificate of Completion

Note that completing all videos and assignments earns them a certificate they can showcase.

Thank Your Students

Express gratitude for their time and commitment to the course. Welcome them to a community of alumni.

Strong opening and closing videos add professionalism while anchoring the learner experience.

Compile Your Visual Assets

Visual elements boost engagement and clarity:

Develop Slide Decks

Draft presentation slides with minimal text conveying your key points.

Create Graphics and Overlays

Produce titles, lower thirds, artwork, photos and graphics to cut away to.

Shoot B-Roll Footage

Capture supplemental footage of locations, activities, and processes to use as b-roll.

Source Stock Media Elements

Browse stock media sites like Shutterstock for relevant clips, animations and images.

Prepare On-Screen Text Elements

Add editable titles, captions and callouts using graphics software.

Animate Complex Processes

Illustrate intricate workflows using animated video scribing tools.

Quality visuals elevate your delivery, clarify concepts and add energy.

Rehearse Each Lesson Thoroughly

Practice makes perfect when it comes to quality delivery:

Time Your Delivery

Rehearse sections with a timer to ensure your planned script aligns with actual pacing.

Refine and Memorize Scripts

Avoid reading on-camera, but practice scripts enough to deliver content naturally.

Test Visual Asset Integration

Rehearse with slides and graphics timed and queued up exactly as they’ll be integrated during editing.

Iron Out Any Rough Spots

Identify confusing explanations, distracting mannerisms, or awkward transitions to smooth out.

Gauge Pacing and Energy

Analyze recordings of rehearsals to refine your pace, pauses, energy level and camera presence.

Thorough rehearsals prevent mistakes and speed up quality filming.

Record Your Course Videos

With your studio prepped and lessons rehearsed, it’s time to start rolling:

Shoot Each Lesson in Full

Record videos in their entirety without stopping to avoid jump cuts or tone shifts. Pause only if absolutely necessary.

Leave Padding

Record with 10-15 seconds of empty room tone at the beginning and end for editing buffer space.

Stick to the Script Structure

Follow your rehearsed pacing, content sections and teaching points – but avoid sounding robotic.

Be Expressive

Vary your energy level and tone to match lesson content. Avoid seeming bored or distracted.

Check Your Framing

Monitor your centering, distance and side margins to keep them even and avoid shifting.

Capture Multiple Takes

Redo full recordings of any flubbed videos to have options to pull perfect takes in editing.

Record Backup Audio

Capture audio-only backup via an external recorder as a failsafe to sync during editing if needed.

Filming straight through results in more natural delivery while capturing pristine source footage.

Edit Videos for Maximum Impact

Post-production polishing separates amateur from professional:

Trim Dead Space

Cut down pauses or wind up/down time to keep pacing tight.

Insert B-Roll

Break up talking head shots by overlaying relevant b-roll footage and graphics.

Incorporate Visuals

Cut away to slides, overlays, and other graphics at key points for visual variety.

Use Lower Thirds

Add your name, section titles and other text overlays for more polish.

Color Correct

Adjust color balance and exposure for consistent professional tone across videos.

Add Intros and Outros

Bookend each video with branded opening/closing segments.

Include Subtitles

Add captions of your voiceover script to improve accessibility.

Normalize Audio Levels

Adjust audio so volume remains consistent across multiple videos.

Refined editing separates high-end courses from home videos. Invest time here.

Upload and Host Your Videos

The final step is making your course available:

Choose a Video Platform

Research dedicated course hosting platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, Podia or Kajabi.

Offer Free Previews

Share the first 1-2 lessons for free to attract signups. Gate the full course.

Build a Sales Page

Create a sales page on your site with your course trailer video, curriculum and pricing options.

Promote the Course

Develop a promotion strategy across email, social media, affiliates, search and other channels.

Provide Supplementary Downloads

Offer any slide decks, worksheets or other free companion assets on the course site.

Set Up Course Analytics

Use platform tools to monitor enrollments, completion rates, social shares and other data.

Establish an Ongoing Community

Offer ongoing discussion forums for students to connect and collaborate after completing.

Get your polished course in front of students, then continue nurturing and monetizing interested learners over time.

Key Takeaways

Video courses represent a lucrative opportunity to engage students while monetizing your expertise – but only with proper execution.

By strategically choosing your subject matter, structuring compelling curriculum, optimizing your filming studio and techniques, extensively editing and rehearsing, and promoting to your audience, you can develop stunning courses.

The upfront effort is well worth it. A high quality educational video course elevates your authority and trust while providing passive income for years from each class of students.

So follow this production guide and transform your knowledge into a polished video course. The impact on your brand, relationships and revenue makes the work and investment more than worthwhile.