Video Setup Guide: Camera, Lighting, and Composition

Great video quality starts with a proper setup. Whether you’re recording tutorials, software demos, or educational content, your camera setup can make or break viewer engagement.

Choosing the Right Camera

For most screen recording scenarios, you have several camera options:

Built-in Webcam

Mac’s built-in FaceTime camera works for basic recordings. It’s convenient and always available, but has limited resolution and low-light performance.

External Webcam

A dedicated webcam like the Logitech C920 or newer models offers better image quality, adjustable positioning, and improved low-light performance. Look for:

• 1080p or 4K resolution
• Good autofocus performance
• Wide field of view for flexibility
• USB-C connectivity for modern Macs

DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

For professional quality, use a DSLR or mirrorless camera as your webcam. Many modern cameras support USB video output or use capture cards like Elgato Cam Link.

Benefits include:

• Superior image quality
• Interchangeable lenses
• Better depth of field control
• Professional color science

Lighting Essentials

Good lighting is more important than an expensive camera. Here’s how to light yourself properly:

Three-Point Lighting

The classic setup uses three lights:

1. Key Light: Your main light source, positioned at 45 degrees from your face
2. Fill Light: Softer light on the opposite side to reduce shadows
3. Back Light: Behind you to separate you from the background

Ring Lights

Ring lights are popular for content creators because they provide even, flattering illumination. They’re affordable and easy to set up, though they can create distinctive circular catchlights in your eyes.

Natural Light

If using window light, position yourself facing the window. Avoid having the window behind you, which creates silhouettes.

Camera Positioning

Where you place your camera affects viewer perception:

Eye Level

Position the camera at eye level or slightly above. Looking down at a camera can appear unflattering, while a slightly elevated angle is more engaging.

Distance from Screen

Keep the camera close to your main screen so your eye contact appears natural when looking at your content. If possible, place the camera just above or below your screen.

Framing

Leave some headroom above your head, but don’t leave too much empty space. Your face should occupy roughly one-third to one-half of the frame.

Background Considerations

Your background communicates professionalism:

• Clean and Uncluttered: Remove distracting elements
• Depth: Some depth behind you creates visual interest
• Branding: Consider subtle branding elements if appropriate
• Virtual Backgrounds: Use only if your camera and lighting support clean keying

Audio Sync

When recording camera alongside screen, ensuring audio sync is crucial. PixelRecorder embeds SMPTE timecode in all recordings, making it easy to sync multiple sources in your NLE.

Putting It All Together

A professional setup doesn’t require expensive equipment. Start with:

1. Good lighting (most important)
2. Proper camera positioning
3. Clean background
4. Quality audio (see our audio setup guide)

With these fundamentals in place, you’re ready to create professional-looking content.