How do you make a good documentary at home w/ a camcorder, a computer, and spend no more money?

Question

I'm trying to learn how to make good home movies for my family. I really could use some tips because I'm clueless. Help Me!!!!

Answer 1

Forget about "spend no more money." You'll have to spend some. That doesn't mean you'll have to blow your life savings, but some practical purchases are in order.
Get a tripod.
Get an extra battery.
Get an external microphone. And headphones.
Get lights. Even worklights from Home Depot will work in a pinch.
Don't zoom in and out a lot.
If you want a closer shot, get physically closer, don't zoom in. Your shot will be more stable.
Turn off the TV and the stereo.
Avoid unnecessary special effects in editing. Cuts and fades will do.

Basically, you don't need anything fancy--it's your skill and creativity that will make the difference. But that doesn't mean you can go without some essential tools.

Answer 2

So youre really not trying to make a documentary, but instead a home movie. In that case, an average consumer cam will do. If youre more creative, go for minidv, if not, or you just want to watch something right after shooting, get a DVD cam. Options for dvd cams end right after shooting. However, with minidv you can import onto your computer, edit and add effects, and burn to DVD. Since its a home movie, its okay to add flashy titles and effects, however dont go overboard, and if your goal is to imitate a hollywood film, the least you can do is use simple cuts and fades, staying more with cuts. Also, steady shooting and even lighting when recording help give your video less of the America's funniest home videos look. As for burning to DVD, most of that is pretty straightfoward as long as you have a burning program, such as nero. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

I think the best thing to do is to be creative