How to Make Video Lectures: Step-by-Step Guide & Top Tips

What is a video lecture?

Video lectures are pre-recorded videos that cover various topics. They come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from short and snappy to longer and more in-depth sessions.

It's like having a knowledgeable instructor, explaining concepts, giving examples, and sharing valuable information. 

Benefits of video lectures

Here are some of the core benefits of video lectures:

Flexibility 

Video lectures provide choices for how and when students can access the material. It is handy for students to watch the lectures, which enables them to accommodate their education into their schedules.

Visual learning 

These types of lectures are highly versatile. For students who learn most effectively through sight and sound, video lectures’ combination of visual and auditory components makes them the ideal option.

Chance to review 

Did you miss something along the way? One of the significant advantages of video lectures is the ability to replay and review the content. You can quickly pause, rewind, or rewatch specific parts to ensure you fully understand. 

Accessibility 

Are you hoping to reach people far and wide? You might have found the answer. Video lectures can reach a wide audience all around the globe and accommodate various learning styles and preferences. Additionally, video lectures often come with captions or subtitles, making them accessible to individuals with hearing impairments.

Types of Video Lectures

Now that you have an overview of what a video lecture is, let’s talk about the various types out there. This is not a one-size-fits-all situation. Quite the contrary. Here’s a look at some of the varying types of video lectures you may decide to use. 

Traditional lecture 

As the name suggests, this format resembles a traditional classroom lecture, with a lecturer delivering a presentation or speech on a specific topic. The only difference is that you record the entire lecture. The focus is on the instructor and their delivery.

Slide-based lecture 

Ideal for visual learners, this type of video lecture consists of the presenter using slides to deliver the content. It may involve a combination of voice-over narration and text on the slides to convey information effectively. The multimedia approach works well. 

Whiteboard lecture 

Whiteboard video lectures simulate a classroom setting, with the instructor explaining concepts or solving problems on a whiteboard or chalkboard. Note that the whiteboard may be digital and interactive. The recording captures the instructor's actions and explanations while also showing the content that is on the board.

Animated lecture 

Looking for something more engaging? An animated lecture is the ideal way to capture viewers’ imagination. They employ various forms of animation, such as 2D or 3D graphics, illustrations, or cartoons, to convey information engaging and visually. 

Interview or discussion-based lecture

Instead of a traditional lecture format, this style involves video interviews or discussions between multiple individuals. Experts or panel members discuss a topic, share insights, and provide different perspectives. You may decide to invite a guest speaker, for example. 

Field-based lecture 

Fancy a field trip? These lectures take place outside of the traditional classroom setting. The instructor records video footage on-location, such as at a historical site. They may also film themselves conducting experiments or exploring natural environments. The idea here is to provide practical demonstrations and real-world examples. 

What Do You Need To Create a Video Lecture?

Ready to get started and make your own video lecture? Before you begin, you need to ensure you have all the right equipment. Here’s what you will need to get: 

Equipment

Video camera: A good quality camera is essential for capturing high-resolution video. You can use a DSLR camera, a mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone with a high-quality camera built into it. Decide which one works the best for you. 

Microphone: Clear audio is crucial for a video lecture. You need to be heard! Invest in a good external microphone to ensure high-quality sound. Options include Lavalier microphones, shotgun microphones, or USB microphones.

Lighting: Proper video lighting helps you to create a professional-looking video. Don’t make the mistake of skipping this step. You have two options here: You can use natural lighting (e.g. daylight) or invest in studio lights to illuminate your subject.

Tripod or camera stabilizer: Not everyone has a steady hand. A stable camera is important to avoid shaky footage which will make your video lecture look amateur. A tripod or camera stabilizer will help you keep the camera steady during recording.

Background setup: If you’re not using a green screen or background, viewers will be able to see everything behind you. Choose an appropriate background for your video lecture. It should be clean, well-lit, and free from distractions.

Software

Besides equipment you need to make sure you have the right video lecture software. Here are some recommendations:

Recording software: Before you get started, it’s helpful to have the right recording software by your side. Investing in the right platform means you can make slips, add effects, and even invite remote guests to your video lecture. 

Video editing software: After recording your video, you will need video editing software to edit and enhance the footage. There are plenty of options out there from which you can choose. You should keep in mind your budget, the features you want, and the quality too. 

File compression software: Want to share your video lecture with the masses? No problem. You might need software like Handbrake or Adobe Media Encoder to optimize your video lecture for sharing or uploading. These platforms will enable you to reduce the file size while maintaining reasonable quality.

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6 Steps to Make Video Lectures Professionally Online

If you’re ready to get started, you will want to know how to make video lectures from scratch. Luckily, we have the answers you’ve been looking for. Here’s a quick step-by-step tutorial that breaks things down for you quickly and easily: 

Step 1: Plan your content

The first thing you need to do is create a quick plan. Start by outlining the main points and objectives you want to cover in your video lectures. Next, break down the content into logical sections or modules to make it easier for viewers to follow along.

Step 2: Prepare your script

Don’t make the mistake of ad-libbing here. A script helps you stay organized and ensures that you cover all the necessary information. Practice reading it aloud to ensure it flows naturally and sounds conversational.

Tip! If you’re recording with Riverside, you can use our built-in script notes and teleprompter to keep track of your lecture. 

Step 3: Gather the necessary equipment

When it comes to how to record lectures, you need the right stuff. Invest in good quality equipment to ensure your video lectures look and sound professional. At a minimum, you will need a high-definition camera, a good microphone, and proper lighting.

We also suggest you sort out your choice of recording and editing software. While there’s tons of options on the market, choose something that’s easy to use, records in studio-quality and offers you easy tools to share slides and other class materials. Riverside is a good place to start. 

Step 4: Create a suitable filming environment

Let’s talk about the background of your video lecture. You want to make sure that your background is clear and doesn’t distract your viewers. Consider using a plain, uncluttered background or a green screen to add graphics or visual effects later.

It’s also important to think about noise levels. Try minimize background noise by choosing a quiet room and switching off any air conditioners or fans. You can also buy soundproofing equipment to really keep your audio crystal clear.

Step 5: Record and edit your video lectures

Next up, it’s time to shout “Lights, camera, action!” You can record your video lectures in segments to make editing easier. If you’re recording live, feel free to call on students to participate in your class. 

After recording, use video editing software to enhance the video quality, trim any mistakes or pauses, and add necessary visual aids or graphics.

Step 6: Publish and promote your video lectures

When you’re happy with the final product, it’s time to get it out there. Create engaging titles and descriptions for your lectures to attract viewers. Promote your video lectures through social media, email newsletters, or other relevant channels to reach your target audience.

Creating video lectures with Riverside seamlessly online

Riverside is an easy-to-use platform where you can record and edit your video lectures all in one place. Once you’ve signed up, you can set up your own online studio to record a high-quality video lecture in up to 4K resolution. You can record with up to 8 speakers at a time, and 1000 audience members can watch you live!

Everything records directly to your device so you won’t need to worry about internet connection ruining your resolution. The same applies for any presentation slides you upload to Riverside. You’ll get separate audio, video, and screen share tracks for each participant, and you’ll also receive AI transcriptions straight after recording. 

It doesn’t end there. When you have completed your video lecture, you can add effects and alter your lecture with the straightforward Editor. Our Editor uses AI transcriptions so you can trim your recordings by simply deleting text in your transcript. Polish everything off with captions, your own custom background and logo, and easy automatic audio fine-tuning tools.

• Set up virtual studios and record your lecture from anywhere in the world
• Record locally to ensure internet connection doesn’t ruin your video resolution
• Capture lectures in up to 4k video studio-quality
• Edit recordings by simply editing your transcript with our text-based Editor 
• Download audio, video, and any screen shares on separate tracks 
• Invite up to 7 remote guest lecturers, or up to 1000 audience members who can call in live
• Receive AI Transcription straight after recording, available in 100+ languages
• Polish your audio seamlessly with automatic background noise removal and level normalization

How to create a video lecture with Riverside

If you want to use Riverside to record your video lectures, the process couldn’t be easier. Before you get started, make sure you have created your slideshow or presentation using your chosen software. Next up, follow these steps to get started: 

Sign up to Riverside: If you haven’t done so already, you need to sign up to the Riverside platform. You can use Google, Apple, or your email address to get started here. 

Launch a virtual studio: Use the platform to launch your virtual studio. You should choose a name for the studio and decide what type of recording you will be doing. 

Invite remote guests: Do you want to have a guest lecturer join you? No problem. You can invite remote speakers to join you when presenting your video lecture. Riverside also records in separate audio and video tracks for each participant. This means you’ll have much more editing control, even when you’ve got multiple participants.

Upload your slides:

If you’re hosting a lecture with slides, then try Riverside’s presentation recorder. Simply upload your slides, and Riverside will record them as a separate track. Just like with audio and video, we use local recording for slides to ensure maximum quality. You can also assign someone to control your slides.

Record and screen share:

Share your presentation (or screen if you need to), and start recording in your virtual recording studio. Start your lecture and record both your slideshow on the screen and your presenting. 

Edit your video lecture: When you have finished recording your video lecture, the next step is to edit it. You can use the Editor tool to change the background, upload a logo, change the speaker layout, and even export your presentation. 

Tips for making effective video lectures

By now, you should know how to create a video lecture. However, it’s important to make your content stand out from the crowd. Here are some top tips to help you along the way.

Make it a visual experience

Video is a visual medium. Incorporate engaging visual elements like slides, diagrams, and charts to enhance understanding. Be sure to use a consistent visual style and ensure the text on slides is clear and easy to read. Attention to detail is everything here!

Present your lecture like a pro

Your delivery can make or break your video lecture. Your best bet is to use a clear voice to maintain the audience's attention. Of course, you should also show some enthusiasm for the subject matter to make your lecture more engaging. The more interested you are in the topic, the more likely you are to pique each viewer’s interest.

Get the tone right from the start

If you sound as though you are bored, your audience will be too. Instead, imagine you are having a one-on-one conversation with the viewer. Use a conversational tone to establish a connection and make the lecture feel more personal.

Always review your recordings

The editing is where the magic happens when it comes to video lectures. Review your recordings and edit out any mistakes or unnecessary pauses. Enhance the video quality and audio clarity, and consider adding captions or subtitles for accessibility.

Give viewers some extra value 

There’s nothing wrong with giving your viewers more than they expect. Include additional materialps, such as links to relevant articles, books, or websites in the video description or as downloadable resources. This move allows viewers to explore the topic further.

FAQs on Video Lectures

What software to use to record lectures

Now that you know how to record a video lecture, let’s take a look at the various software that you can use. Here are some of the options that may suit your needs: 

Riverside: As we have already covered, Riverside makes recording lectures effortless thanks to its HD screen sharing and recording features. If you’re looking for a platform that allows you to do everything in one place like a pro, you have just found it. You can also use the Editor to customize your video lectures when you have recorded them. 

Zoom: This software is a widely used video conferencing tool allowing you to record lectures. It offers various features like screen sharing, virtual whiteboards, and participant management. The downfall is that Zoom records everything over the internet. This means your recording quality depends on your web connection, and you may end up with low-resolution videos.

Microsoft Teams: This is a collaboration platform that includes a recording feature. It provides real-time collaboration, file sharing, and integration with other Microsoft products.

What makes a good video lecture?

Video lectures should be engaging and accessible to a wide audience. To make a good video lecture that captivates your audience, your lecture should be high-quality and include interesting information. Chances are, you’ve got a lot to say. Ensure that the knowledge you share is easy to digest by breaking it down simply for your audience. 

While that is the baseline, you can make your video lectures even more accessible by adding visuals and also subtitles. That way, it will be easy for viewers to understand.

How do you make a pre-recorded lecture?

If you’re making a video lecture from scratch, it couldn’t be easier. Here’s how you can pre-record your lecture before you distribute it to your audience: 

• Determine the main topics and key points you want to cover in your lecture. Consider the overall structure and flow of the content.
•  If you're using slides or visuals, design them in a visually appealing way and easy to understand. Use clear fonts, concise bullet points, and relevant visuals.
• Start recording using your chosen software or equipment. We recommend using Riverside here. Speak clearly and at a comfortable pace. If you make any mistakes or stumble, pause and start over from the previous sentence or section.
• After recording, you may need to adjust the audio and video quality. You can use video editing software, such as Riverside’s Editor, to trim unnecessary parts, enhance the audio, or add additional visuals or branding. 

How to record a lecture on PowerPoint?

If you have already created your lecture using Microsoft PowerPoint, you can use it to record your content. With Riverside, you can upload your slides then record them as a separate track to your video and audio. This means that you can record a PowerPoint lecture while presenting it.  With our local recordings, the end result will be a clear, high-quality recording of both the slideshow and your lecture.