Keep Your Invention Prototype Video Brief
Keep the length of your videos of invention prototypes should at around a minute or less. The shorter the better. Because most most attention spans are short, you have a brief period of time to get your core message across.
If your invention is extremely complicated or requires a lengthy demonstration, you can make a longer video, but it should never eclipse 5 to 10 minutes in length.
Define the Problems Your Invention Solves
Define the problem that your invention solves early in your invention prototype video. If possible, demonstrate how an activity is performed without your invention and the problems that result from it. Then show how your using your invention solves these problems.
Final check before you photograph your invention prototype
The last thing you need to do before you press that button is to look at anything that might be obstructing the camera lens. Be careful that your finger or the camera strap doesn¡¯t slip in front of the lens. Check the lens periodically to make sure it¡¯s free of dust.
Also, if you¡¯re shooting outside on a breezy day, wait until the breeze dies down before you take the picture of your invention.
Videotaping Invention Prototypes: Before and After
Run the video camera for an extra second or two before and after each shot in your invention prototype video. You can edit out what you don¡¯t want later, but this ensures that you will get the entire shot you do want.
Choose a Spokesperson for Your Invention Prototype Video
Because you know the most about your invention and are the most enthusiastic about it, you are the best spokesperson for your invention video. If you feel uncomfortable in front of a camera or would rather take the video, choose a spokesperson as knowledgable and energetic as yourself. Write a script for the person to make sure that your important information is conveyed in the way you want it to be conveyed.
Show Invention Prototypes in Use
Use an invention prototype video to show your invention in use. By using action shots, you'll give people a better idea of how your invention works and how it easily solves common problems.
Tapes, Video CDs and DVDs
If you don¡¯t have access to a computer with video editing software and a disc burner, use a VHS tape. DVDs and VCDs are the wave of the future, but not everyone is comfortable using them or set up to use them on their computer.
If you are able to burn video CDs or DVDs, offer this as another option for people who are interested in viewing your invention prototype video.
If you are sending a VCD or DVD to a different country, be sure to use the standard format for the region that country resides.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Both the spokesperson and the cameraperson should rehearse before filming the invention prototype. The spokesperson should be familiar with the lines and the cameraperson should be familiar with the camera and any movements he or she will have to make while filming. Then the spokesperson and cameraperson should practice together.
Lighting for your invention prototype video
Always use as much light as possible in your invention prototype video but avoid a strong light behind subject. Backlighting creates a silhouette effect that hides the details of your model. Also do not position your actors with their faces toward the sun. This will cause them to squint.
Invention Prototype Videos and the Zoom Feature
Don't overuse the zoom feature in your invention prototype video. Overuse of the zoom is a sure sign of an amateur. Zooms are usually too fast, cause unwanted camera movement and are not pleasant to watch.
In a movie, television show or commercial, if you see the subject of the shot getting closer, it's probably the camera getting closer to it (a move called a ¡°Dolly Shot¡±), not the operator using a zoom lens.
The zoom button is best used to frame shots of invention prototypes while the camcorder is paused. If you must move closer to the invention while recording, carefully move the whole camera. The effect is much different and more inviting to watch.
Make Sure Your Invention Prototype Fills the Frame
Get as close as you can to the subject you¡¯re shooting by filling the viewfinder with your invention prototype or model. This helps eliminate background clutter and draws further attention to the invention prototype by making it the only item in the photo.
Be careful if your invention is small. Cameras have a minimum focal distance meaning you can only get so close to your subject before you lose focus. Most auto focus cameras have an indicator light that lets you know if the subject is in focus. If not, consult the manual for the camera or lens to find the minimum focal distance.
Take lots of pictures of your invention prototype or model
Take as many photos of your invention prototype or model as you can so that you will have plenty of great shots to choose from. Photograph your invention prototype or model at different angles and different distances. Use different backdrops. Study advertising and product shots in your favorite magazines to get ideas of how the pros do it. If you see something that catches your eye, try to immitate it. If your invention is a working model, get a friend to take pictures of you demonstrating the invention in its natural environment. Be creative and have fun with the project.
Features and Benefits of Your Invention Prototype
When filming invention prototypes, point out its main features and benefits. Describe how the invention functions as a whole and how the parts work together.
However, keep in mind that while you want to explain the most important aspects of your invention prototype, you also must be succinct enough to retain your audience's attention.
Do a Background Check Before Filming Invention Prototypes
Eliminate background distractions in your invention videos. In video, there are two types of background: audio and visual. Be aware of background noises that may distract your audience from the invention. Visually, pay attention to everything in your shot with your invention prototype. Check the foreground and background to make sure there aren¡¯t any distractions and remove excess clutter.
Do a Background Check
To take the best photograph of your invention prototype, eliminate background clutter from your photograph with a backdrop. An easy backdrop to use would be a plain, solid, neutral-colored sheet or tablecloth.
For best results set up your invention some distance (at least a foot) from the backdrop and make sure the backdrop doesn¡¯t block the light source. Your backdrop should complement or contrast with your subject.
More adventurous photographers may try photographing the invention in its natural environment or while it is in use. Even if you try one of these options, do a quick check of the background to ensure the proper setup for photographing your invention model or prototype.