A birthday is a big day for children, and even bigger for their parents. The number of ways you could celebrate it is nigh-infinite, but some of them are less common than others. Like, for example, making a birthday video.
Sometimes video is a fun way to sum up a year of your child’s life in a fun way. Sometimes it’s the only way for you to be “present” at the celebration, because, sadly, life gets in the way now and then. Regardless of “why”, you are probably more interested in “how”. And we have some thoughts to share that might help you figure it out.
The Groundwork
Before making a video, you should think about its content. What will you say? What images and footage could you use? How will you record yourself? If you have those questions answered, then it’s time to do the preparations. Record yourself on camera, phone, or whatever you have available. Store your footage and imagery in easily accessible folders. Keep the audio tracks (if you have recorded any) close as well.
The Software
Once all the building blocks are prepared, you’ll need a tool to fit all the pieces together. This is where it gets overwhelming, and unrightfully so. Yes, the number of available video editing software is daunting, but most of them follow the same routine. Since you are not making a Hollywood production, choose something simple and run with it.
However, recording a voice-over is more or less its own thing. Audio recording hardware warrants its own discussion. Software, on the other hand, is easier to pick, you can just check out this list of the best voice-over software and choose one.
The Editing
Now for the fun part! Video editing is a kind of science, which means it is governed by rules and techniques, which you have to master to achieve excellent results. But it is also an art form, which means you may just try anything and, if you are happy with the results, rightfully say that the work is done.
Thankfully, many developers share this mindset and design their programs around it. Even if you have zero editing experience, you can pick software that includes themed templates to do most of the work, and comprehensive tutorials so you could handle the rest. This basically means that you can throw your media into a blender and get a cohesive video in no time.
The Tips
Here are a few more recommendations that should help you:
Write it down
One piece of advice that works universally is to try writing a script. This way, you’ll be able to piece together the vision you want to realize. Plus, having your video planned out saves a great deal of time, since you don’t get lost in the process.
Keep it simple
There’s no need to go over your head and create an overly complex montage. Choose the fitting birthday music, put your clips one after another, and place the voiceover where it should – that should be enough to convey the idea.
Mix photo and video
Including still images and slideshow sections may help to add more diversity to the montage and preserve the editing flow, in case you don’t have rough footage at your disposal.
Include big and small
If your aim is to make a slice of the year in your kid’s life, it is best to include everything. Big wins and small day-to-day events matter equally and contrast each other, bringing more life into the video.
Back it up
This advice is applicable at any stage of production. Videos you shot, pictures you take, audio you record – have it all backed up, better to have it and not need it than the other way around. Plus, the loss of an only photo or video of a certain moment from your child’s life is something you’d rather not experience.
Birthday videos are priceless. They allow you to relive the little moments again and take a fond look back. Not to mention that it’s an awesome idea for a kid’s birthday party. And, with the advice above, you’ll be able to make the most heartfelt videos and keep the happy memories with you.
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