How to Make a YouTube Video (Beginners Tutorial)

Introduction

When you're getting started in video creation, it can be frustrating due to the multitude of camera settings and gear options available. In this article, I'll guide you step-by-step through creating a YouTube video, utilizing the Canon M50, but the tips will be relevant for any DSLR or mirrorless camera. We'll cover gear setup, camera settings, shooting, and editing processes comprehensively.

Getting Started with Gear

The main camera I recommend is the Canon M50, which costs around $ 600 with a kit lens. It's an excellent all-around camera for YouTube, equipped with a flip screen and mic input. This guide will include all sorts of cameras for different budgets, listed in our Think Gear Guide.

Essential Equipment

• Canon M50 Camera
• 11-22mm Lens: Ideal for wide and small tight shots, great for vlogging.
• Kit Lens: Optional.
• 22mm Pancake Lens: For crispy shots with a blurry background.
• Task Car Shotgun Mic and Boya Mic: For capturing high-quality audio.
• K&F Concept Tripod: Suitable for solo creators.
• SD Card: To store your footage.

Camera Settings

Regardless of your camera, follow these steps with your M50 or similar device. Begin by choosing TV mode (Shutter Priority).

Steps for Settings

1. Set to Auto White Balance and Auto Picture Style: For quick and efficient color settings.
2. Face Focus Mode: Ideal for vlogging.
3. Frame Rate: Choose 29.97 or 30 frames per second for a standard look.
4. Shutter Speed: Set at 60 to match the frame rate.
5. ISO: Set to auto for automatic light adjustments.

Additional Tips

• A lower ISO value ensures better image quality under appropriate lighting conditions.
• Adjusting camera settings in TV mode allows for balanced exposure while ensuring critical details are crisp.

Audio Settings

For vlogging and stationary shots, use the shotgun mic with settings at +10dB and normal high pass filter. Manually set sound recording for better audio control.

• Manual Audio Settings: Ensures stable audio levels without unwanted noise.
• Shotgun Mic Placement: Adjust the shotgun mic direction based on recording needs.

Shooting Techniques

Vlogging

Utilize the flip screen for perfect shot composition. The wide-angle lens provides versatile room and tight shots.

Stationary Shots

For more stable shots, adjust tripod settings for motion. Switch from face to zone focus for accurate shots outside the central focus.

Organizing Footage

Separate your A-roll (primary footage) and B-roll (supplementary shots) for efficient video layering.

Thumbnail Creation

Thumbnail photography is crucial for video engagement. Take specific photos rather than pulling from your footage.

Conclusion

This guide covered essential steps to start shooting YouTube videos, from setting up your gear and camera to capturing quality video and audio. Stay tuned for the next parts where we dig deeper into thumbnail editing and final video production.

---

Keywords

1. Video creation
2. Canon M50
3. DSLR
4. Mirrorless camera
5. Gear setup
6. Camera settings
7. Audio settings
8. Video editing
9. YouTube video
10. Thumbnail creation

---

FAQ

What gear do I need to start creating YouTube videos?

To start, a basic setup like the Canon M50, an SD card, a useful lens, a good microphone, and a tripod will suffice.

How important is manual audio setting?

Manual audio settings help avoid the unwanted noise and hiss auto gain control might introduce, ensuring a cleaner sound.

Can I use any camera for video creation?

Yes, while specifics in the guide use a Canon M50, the principles apply to any DSLR or mirrorless camera.

How do I organize my video shots?

Categorize your footage into A-roll (primary footage) and B-roll (additional clips) for efficient editing workflows.

What's an efficient way to create a thumbnail?

It's beneficial to take dedicated photos for thumbnails instead of using screenshots from the video for better quality and catchy visuals.