Are you not adding video to your podcasts? You might be falling behind. Nearly every generation prefers video podcasts to audio-only, and 50% of the world’s top 20 podcasts currently use video.
The good news is that recording video podcasts is probably easier than you’d think. All you need is the right recording equipment, good editing software, and a guide to help you get there.
We’re covering everything you should know about recording a video podcast, including the recording equipment, step-by-step process, and editing tips required to bring it to life.
But first: let’s talk benefits.
- Why Record a Video Podcast?
- Essential Equipment for Recording Video Podcasts
- Step-by-Step Guide to Recording Video Podcasts
- Best Practices for Video Podcast Recording
- Editing and Post-Production Tips for Video Podcasts
- The Bottom Line on Recording Video Podcasts
Why Record a Video Podcast?
You’ve already read some of the biggest reasons above, but it’s worth reiterating just how important video can be.
Here’s why you should upgrade your podcast from audio to video:
- Audiences prefer video. Approximately two in three podcast listeners prefer shows with video.
- Video podcasts enhance SEO and reach. With podcast audio, you’re limited to transcripts and highlights. With podcast video, you can optimize for SEO with quality thumbnail images, videos on your website, YouTube Shorts, and more.
- Video podcasts expose monetization opportunities. Some sponsorships and brand opportunities only extend to video podcasts. You also have to consider user engagement. Considering video can be more engaging than audio by up to 15%, podcast video could lead to more positive engagement, which could lead to higher ad revenue.
As you can see, the future of podcasting is video. The question is, are you ready for it?
The best place to start is by upgrading your equipment.
Let’s take a closer look at the section below.
Essential Equipment for Recording Video Podcasts
If you own a cell phone, a laptop, and editing software, you have the bare essentials for a video podcast.
That being said, there are a few accessories to keep in mind.
Here’s everything you need to get started with video podcasts:
Podcast Cameras
Your podcast camera could make or break the quality of your video. Cheaper cameras may be easier on your wallet, but they won’t necessarily be better for your show.
There are several different types of podcast cameras suiting a variety of setups. If you’re recording in person, you may want to investigate:
- DSLRs: Best for multipurpose use
- Camcorders: Best for dedicated video
- Action Cameras: Best for in-the-field video
If you’re recording virtually, webcams may be a decent option. You may also want to discuss equipment expectations with your guests (including if they need specific rental hardware).
If you’re on a slim budget, your existing smartphone might get the job done. Just keep in mind you’ll still need a podcast microphone since most smartphone mics don’t capture quality audio.
Podcast Microphones
Whether or not you’re recording podcast videos, you still need to think about high-quality mics. Some are designed for close-range audio, while others are meant to capture more distant sound.
In general, the five most popular podcast microphones are:
- Shure MV7X: For premium quality
- PreSonus Revelator: For bundled software
- RØDE PodMic: For built-in hardware
- Audio-Technica AT2040: For flexible recording
- Samson Q2U: For tight budgets
When setting up your recording station, you must also consider connecter types or microphone adapters. Some microphones connect directly to your camera, while others require a mixer or audio interface.
Mixer or Audio Interface
Mixers and audio interfaces aren’t necessary for podcast video, but they’re still beneficial for filming a quality show.
First, you should know the differences between the two.
A podcast mixer captures multiple sources of audio — including voices, music, and sound effects — on a hardware/software combo.
In contrast, an audio interface is typically hardware only that turns analog sound into digital signals.
It’s a good idea to compare your options and narrow down devices that make sense for you. We wrote comprehensive guides to mixers and audio interfaces for podcasting so you can select from the best options on the market.
Editing Software
You may need software that handles audio and video to bring your podcast to life seamlessly. There are a few different options available to choose from:
- Adobe AI: You can easily edit audio and video, but remember you’ll need a paid plan to do so ($9.99 USD).
- REAPER: You can access basic video editing tools in a customizable interface. Keep in mind you may need third-party plugins for specific editing tasks.
- Hindenburg PRO: You can edit offline video without an internet connection, although its price may be steeper than other competitors.
- Descript: You can perform simple video editing tasks (and record cloud-based video) in both browser and desktop apps.
Learn more in our guide to podcast editing software.
Hosting Software
Not all podcast hosting platforms can handle video podcasts. However, several of them do — and most of them cost nothing to use.
For example:
- YouTube is the most popular video-sharing platform in the world, so it might make sense as your video podcast host. Just know it wasn’t specifically designed for podcast videos, so it may not be as robust as dedicated platforms.
- Spotify for Creators supports audio and video. It’s also 100% free for new creators.
- Podbean offers video podcast hosting for up to 200 hours per month. This option isn’t free, though — prices start at $29 USD per user per month.
Curious to learn more about your options?
You’re welcome to read our guide to video podcast software.
Video Podcast Accessories
Some podcast accessories aren’t necessary for video production, but they’re still helpful tools when you’re just starting out.
This includes:
- Podcast headphones may be helpful if you’re recording with lots of people at once and are worried about mixing audio correctly.
- Acoustic panels can help you dampen unwanted sounds by improving reflections and reverb.
- Green screens can work wonders on messy or undesirable backgrounds.
- Lighting fixtures can help remove shadows, contrasts, and sharp angles.
- Spare SD cards are necessary for storing large video files.
- Boom arms may be helpful if your podcast camera is far away from your microphone(s).
Step-by-Step Guide to Recording Video Podcasts
Now that you know what it takes to record podcast videos, let’s start by recording your very first show.
You can start recording video podcasts in 10 easy steps:
- Check your recording equipment. Is everything functioning correctly? It’s a good idea to start with this first in case you notice something missing, broken, or out of place.
- Prepare your recording space. Setting up green screens, clearing clutter, turning off AC systems, and orienting chairs.
- Begin setting up larger podcast equipment. This includes lights, boom arms, microphones, cameras, and your mixer/audio interface.
- Get your talent comfortably seated. This will allow you to orient your podcast recording equipment.
- Check your audio and video to make sure there’s nothing out of place. Is the audio signal feeding into the mixer? How does the shot look on camera?
- Record a short practice piece. Once you get your camera(s) rolling, have a casual conversation with your host and talent. This allows you to check your equipment for video issues or audio peaking.
- Begin recording your podcast. You may be recording to your mixer and camera, or you might be streaming or using cloud-based recording software. Either way, it may be helpful to mark the beginning and end of your recording with an on-camera clap (especially if you have a multicam setup).
- Double-check everyone’s names and titles so you can add them to cards during the video editing process. It’s a good idea to do this while you have your host and guest(s) in one place.
- Begin editing your podcast video. If you captured your audio and video separately, you’ll need to sync them in your editing software. If you used more than one camera, you’ll need to cut between preferred shots.
- Publish your podcast video. This requires a video host such as YouTube, Podbean, or Spotify for Podcasters.
Would you rather watch than read this step-by-step process? Check out the video breakdown below:
Best Practices for Video Podcast Recording
There’s a big difference between a good video podcast and a great video podcast.
As you can probably guess, the devil’s in the details.
Here are some suggestions so you can start on the right foot:
1. Refine your Podcast Studio Setup
Your recording room will significantly impact your audio and video quality.
If you record your podcast in an empty room, you might have to worry about echo-y audio. Plus, capturing video in rooms with lots of natural light might make the footage look pale, bright, or overexposed on camera.
Do your best to record in a smaller space with plenty of soft surfaces. You should also position your microphone correctly and install proper acoustic treatments. With podcast video, your room will appear on camera, so you’ll need to purchase acoustic treatments that look acceptable in recordings.
Learn more about creating a winning podcast studio setup.
2. Keep an Eye on Your Podcast’s Performance
What happens after you publish your podcast is almost as important as what comes before. This is because audience feedback is invaluable — and you can use their insights to your advantage.
For example:
- What are your metrics trying to tell you? If one of your podcast videos gets more views and engagement than others, look for ways to replicate the style or topics and iterate on what people like.
- Do your best to read the comments. Are viewers happy with the colors and aesthetics, or are they looking for something else? Listening is often the key to success, especially with podcast videos.
- Benchmark yourself rather than others. What could you personally do to get better at video podcasting? Should you take a course or sign up for a webinar? What about consulting with podcasting experts?
Speaking of benchmarking yourself. . .
3. Don’t Wait for Perfect
Perfect might be the enemy of good, but it’s also a cause of analysis paralysis. Waiting until you have everything ‘perfect’ — like the ‘perfect’ setup, equipment, and editing software — could prevent you from taking that pivotal first step.
Not only does this keep your podcast from reaching its true potential, but it could also cost you potential monetization revenue.
The best and most efficient solution is to just get started today. The sooner you start to practice your skills, the sooner you can produce a high-quality product.
4. Know Your Limits
There’s a very big difference between learning the ropes of video podcasting and throwing yourself against a wall. You may lack the time, money, or audience to dive headfirst into video podcasting by yourself.
That’s why you need to be honest with yourself about what you can (and cannot) do alone.
Recording your own video podcasts makes sense if:
- You’re recording as a hobby or for fun
- You don’t have a strict monetization goal
- You don’t yet have an established audience
However, you may want to consider partnering with professionals if:
- You’re recording business podcasts
- You want to transition with an established audience
- You don’t want to take the time to learn video podcasting on your own
The Podcast Consultant offers free discovery calls so you can learn more about partnering for video podcasting.
Editing and Post-Production Tips for Video Podcasts
Once you have your podcast footage, it’s time to edit, adjust, and optimize your video. This can be as simple or as complex as you want depending on your skill and familiarity with editing software.
First, you need to decide what software to use. Our ultimate guide to editing software can help you decide which platform makes sense.
Next, you need to consider your stylistic editing options. There are a few tried-and-true elements to add to each video:
- Name and title cards. These are helpful if you’re introducing new guests each week.
- Cut verbal ticks, awkward silences, and filler words. Be sure not to cut the video in an awkward or jolting way.
- Check for audio delays and syncing issues. These are easily fixed with the right podcast editing software.
- Add call-outs and CTAs. These can drive your viewers to action, like signing up for a newsletter or filling out an application form.
“When editing video, keep in mind that unlike audio, you shouldn’t focus on removing every filler word as this will create a “jumpy” or “choppy” distasteful edit. Your focus should be on content editing along with multi-cam cuts and overall visual production” — Rob Van Vranken, Launch Specialist @ The Podcast Consultant
Again, keep in mind that delegation might make more sense for your specific needs. You’re welcome to contact The Podcast Consultant to discuss video podcast production for your growing show.
💡Related: How The Podcast Consultant Ensures the Highest Quality Editing
The Bottom Line on Recording Video Podcasts
Video for podcasts isn’t anything new — but as demand grows stronger, the most successful shows will be those that adapt. It may seem intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with recording video, but as you’ve read in this guide, it’s best to just get started.
The steps required are easy enough. First, gather or purchase your equipment. Then, record your footage and sync your audio. You can tinker around with editing software to optimize the quality of your audio and video.
Ready to take the leap for yourself?