Step-by-step Professional Video Preparation Series: How to Film a Podcast Series

Podcasts are a powerful tool for storytelling and audience engagement, but the ones that captivate us are adding a visual element that takes them to the next level. Filming your podcast series can broaden your reach, enhance your brand, and offer a dynamic experience for your audience to get to know you. As social media views go down, YouTube viewers are increasing! DMV productions can help you transform your podcasts into visually compelling content, and we want to tell you how you can do it too.

Before hitting record, decide how your podcast will look and feel on camera. Will it feature a single host, a roundtable discussion, or guest interviews? Consider whether you’ll include supplemental visuals like on-screen graphics, video clips, or live demonstrations. Create a clean and visually appealing backdrop that reflects your podcast’s theme, and if possible, use multiple cameras for dynamic angles. Proper planning ensures a polished final product.

Filming a podcast doesn’t require Hollywood-level gear, but investing in quality equipment ensures your video matches the professionalism of your audio. Use DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or even high-quality smartphones for video. Pair them with proper lighting, such as softbox lights or LED panels, to eliminate shadows. Audio remains crucial, so professional-grade microphones are a must. Keeping your shots steady is a must with tripods or mounts, or consider a gimbal for smooth, dynamic movement.

Unlike audio-only podcasts, filming introduces new considerations. Position your speakers using the rule of thirds for balanced composition – this involves dividing your frame into nine equal parts by drawing two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines. The points where these lines intersect are called power points or hotspots, and they are areas where the viewer’s eye naturally gravitates. Eliminate clutter or distractions from the background, and add elements that reflect your brand, like props or logos. Wardrobe choices also matter – solid colors are best, avoiding busy patterns or reflective materials that can distract the viewer.

Editing, which we already discussed in a previous blog post, is where your podcast transforms into a polished video production. Sync your high-quality audio with the video using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. Enhance your visuals with intro/outro animations, lower-thirds for guest names, and overlays for calls-to-action. Trim unnecessary pauses or interruptions, and use color grading to give your video a professional finish.

Filming a podcast series is an excellent way to elevate your content and reach new audiences. Video podcasts episodes also offer unique opportunities to connect live with your viewers, where listeners can interact via chat or can be encouraged to like, comment, and subscribe. Ask for their input on future topics or guests to foster community engagement. Use analytics to monitor viewer behavior, refine your content strategy, and keep improving your series. By planning your format, investing in a few pieces of equipment, and optimizing your production process, you can create visually compelling podcasts that captivate viewers while maintaining the essence of your audio content. 

Ready to take your podcast to the next level? Contact DMV productions to help bring your vision to life with professional filming and production services.