The Complete Guide to Video Podcasting
Everything you need to know about creating professional video podcasts. From multi-camera setups to audio recording and post-production workflows.
Video podcasting has exploded in popularity. What was once an audio-only medium now includes engaging visual content that increases audience connection and opens new distribution channels like YouTube.
Why Video Podcasting?
Adding video to your podcast offers significant benefits:
- YouTube Distribution: Reach the world’s second-largest search engine
- Audience Connection: Facial expressions and body language create deeper engagement
- Clip Potential: Visual content performs better on social media
- Monetization: More platforms mean more revenue opportunities
- Accessibility: Captions and visual aids help more listeners
Essential Equipment
Cameras
You’ll need at least one camera per host. Options include:
Webcams: Easy to set up, affordable, limited quality DSLR/Mirrorless: Excellent quality, more setup required PTZ Cameras: Remote-controlled, great for studios iPhones: Surprisingly capable with the right apps
Audio Equipment
Never compromise on audio:
- Quality microphones (USB or XLR)
- Audio interface if using XLR
- Pop filters and shock mounts
- Acoustic treatment
Recording Software
You need software that can:
- Record multiple video sources
- Capture audio separately
- Embed timecode for sync
- Handle multi-hour sessions
PixelRecorder excels here with multi-stream recording and SMPTE timecode.
Multi-Camera Workflow
Professional video podcasts use multiple cameras for visual variety.
Camera Positions
Two-Person Setup:
- Wide shot of both hosts
- Individual close-up per host
- Optional detail/b-roll camera
Solo Host:
- Main frontal shot
- Secondary angle (45 degrees)
- Desktop/screen share capture
Switching vs Multi-Track
Live Switching: Cut between cameras in real-time
- Requires dedicated switcher
- Less flexibility in post
- Faster turnaround
Multi-Track Recording: Record all cameras separately
- Maximum flexibility in editing
- Requires timecode sync
- More storage needed
Audio Considerations
Audio quality separates amateur podcasts from professional ones.
Recording Best Practices
- Each host gets their own microphone
- Record each mic as a separate track
- Monitor levels during recording
- Use pop filters to reduce plosives
- Control room acoustics
Sync is Critical
When recording video and audio separately, sync becomes essential. SMPTE timecode embedded in your recordings enables frame-accurate alignment in post-production.
Post-Production Workflow
Importing
Import all sources into your NLE:
- DaVinci Resolve
- Premiere Pro
- Final Cut Pro
Syncing with Timecode
With timecode-embedded files:
- Select all clips
- Use “Sync by Timecode” feature
- Clips align automatically
Without timecode:
- Find common audio spike
- Manually align waveforms
- More time-consuming and error-prone
Editing
Typical editing workflow:
- Sync all sources
- Create multicam sequence
- Switch between angles
- Cut dead air and mistakes
- Add graphics and lower thirds
- Color correct all cameras
Export
Common export settings:
- 1080p or 4K resolution
- H.264 for delivery
- AAC audio at 320kbps
- Chapter markers for navigation
Distribution Strategy
YouTube
- Optimize titles and thumbnails
- Add timestamps in description
- Create playlists for series
- Consider YouTube Shorts for clips
Audio Platforms
Don’t forget traditional podcast platforms:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Google Podcasts
- RSS feed
Social Media
- Create short clips for TikTok/Reels
- Quote graphics for Twitter
- Full episodes on LinkedIn for B2B
PixelRecorder for Podcasting
PixelRecorder is ideal for video podcasting:
Multi-Stream Recording: Record all cameras and audio simultaneously SMPTE Timecode: Frame-accurate sync in any NLE System Audio: Capture remote guests from apps Professional Codecs: HEVC and H.264 for any workflow BWF Audio: Broadcast-quality audio with embedded timecode
Getting Started
- Start simple with one camera
- Focus on audio quality first
- Add cameras as you grow
- Invest in proper sync (timecode)
- Develop a consistent workflow
Video podcasting doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and workflow, you can create professional content that stands out.