Making a recording

PCRS aims to encourage the sharing of best practice amongst healthcare professionals. A video can be an easy and effective way to promote and share your work.

Please read our hints and tips below on making a good quality video. 

Recording devices

Mobile phones

Many people find the easiest way to record is on their phone. If using your phone, and you have not already been given some instructions on who and how to send your video to, you are always welcome to WhatsApp the video to the PCRS administration team who will be able to save the file and upload it for use. Alternatively, you can email the PCRS team at info@pcrs-uk.org.

PowerPoint presentation

If you'd like to present slides as part of your recording, you may wish to record your presentation within PowerPoint. 

There is lots of online help and guidance on how to do this. We recommend the information found on the Microsoft Support website.

Getting ready to record

To record high-quality video, take a moment to prepare your recording space and prioritise 

  1. bright, soft lighting;
  2. clear audio using an external microphone;
  3. a quiet environment;
  4. and stable, high-resolution footage (4K or 1080p) shot in landscape mode.

Video hints: Keep the computer camera at eye level or slightly above. Use books, a table or bookshelf as a stable base to prop up your computer, if needed. Ideal framing is from the top of your head to the top of your chest, leaving a little space (about the size of an apple) at the top of the frame.

If indoors, avoid standing in front of a window so the video isn’t backlit and use a lamp to light your face. (hint: if needed; you can drape a sheer cloth over it to soften the light). 

Audio hints: Make sure you’re in a quiet room or setting. Keep doors to other rooms shut to eliminate excess noise and other disturbances. If you’re in a room with a lot of hard surfaces (brick, hard wood) add fabric (drapes, pillows) near you to soften the sound.

Presentation hints: Speak clearly and look directly into the camera. If you’re reading from a script, prop it up so it’s not flat on your desk. Look up into the camera as often as possible. Try not to sit in a chair that moves; extra movement can be distracting for the viewer. Avoid shuffling paper or other small movements that could pick up extra noise.