Tips for making videos outdoors

Stepping outside to film can add a whole new level of awesome to your videos. Instead of a plain background, you get natural light, cool scenery, and maybe even some interesting sounds. But filming outdoors also comes with its own set of challenges that you don't usually face when you're filming great videos indoors. Things like unpredictable weather, harsh sunlight, wind noise, and curious onlookers can make things tricky. Don't worry, though! With a little planning and some smart tips, you can make fantastic videos outside. This guide will walk you through the important stuff you need to think about before you hit record in the great outdoors.

Plan Ahead, Always

Filming outdoors is very different from simple ways to make videos at home. The biggest difference? You can't control everything. That's why planning is super important.

• Scout Your Location: Before you film, visit the spot at the time of day you plan to shoot. See how the light looks, check for background noise, and see if there are any potential distractions. Is it too crowded? Is there construction nearby? Knowing this helps you prepare or choose a different spot.
• Check the Weather: This seems obvious, but it's crucial. Rain, strong winds, or extreme heat can ruin your shoot or even damage your gear. Have a backup plan, like a nearby covered area or rescheduling for a different day.
• Get Permissions: If you're filming on private property, in a park, or somewhere that might require a permit, make sure you get permission beforehand. You don't want to be kicked out mid-shoot.

Mastering Natural Light

Light is everything in video, and outdoor light changes constantly.

• The Golden Hour is Your Friend: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset offer soft, warm light that is incredibly flattering. This is often the best time to film people.
• Avoid Harsh Midday Sun: When the sun is directly overhead (usually between 10 am and 2 pm), it creates strong shadows and can make people squint. If you must film then, try to find shade or use a diffuser to soften the light.
• Use Natural Reflectors: Light-colored walls, pavements, or even sand can bounce light back onto your subject, filling in shadows. Pay attention to how the light is hitting your subject and use the environment to your advantage.

Dealing with Sound

Outdoor sound can be a nightmare. Wind, traffic, birds, people talking – they can all mess up your audio.

• Use an External Microphone: The microphone built into your camera or phone will pick up everything. An external microphone, especially a directional one (like a shotgun mic) or a lavalier mic clipped to your subject, will focus on the sound you want and reject background noise better.
• Wind Protection is Essential: Wind is the enemy of outdoor audio. Use a windjammer or "dead cat" cover on your microphone. These fuzzy covers break up the wind before it hits the mic element. Even a slight breeze can sound like a hurricane on your recording without one.
• Find Quieter Spots: Try to position yourself away from obvious noise sources like busy roads or construction sites. Sometimes, just moving a few feet can make a big difference.
• Record Ambient Sound: If possible, record a minute or two of just the background sound at your location. This "room tone" or "ambient sound" can be useful in editing to smooth out audio transitions.

Choosing the Right Gear

You don't need a Hollywood setup, but some gear makes outdoor filming much easier.

• Portability: You'll likely be moving around, so keep your gear light and easy to carry. A smartphone with a good camera can be perfect for easy steps to record your first video outdoors.
• Stabilization: Wind and uneven ground can make your shots shaky. A tripod is your best friend for stable shots. If you're moving, a gimbal can keep your camera smooth. Even a small, flexible tripod can help stabilize a phone on a rock or fence.
• Batteries and Storage: Outdoor shoots can take longer than expected. Bring extra batteries or a power bank. Make sure you have enough storage space on your memory card or phone.
• Protection: Be ready for unexpected weather. Have covers for your gear in case of rain. Don't leave equipment sitting in direct sun for too long, as it can overheat.

Stay Safe and Comfortable

Filming outdoors isn't just about the video; it's also about taking care of yourself and your team.

• Hydrate and Protect: Drink plenty of water, especially on warm days. Use sunscreen and wear a hat.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to people, animals, and potential hazards like uneven ground or traffic. Don't get so focused on your shot that you miss something important around you.
• Tell Someone Where You Are: If you're filming in a remote location, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.

Using the Environment in Your Story

The outdoors isn't just a background; it can be part of your video's story.

• Show the scale of a landscape.
• Capture the feeling of a busy city street.
• Use natural elements like trees, water, or buildings to frame your shots.
• Let the location influence the mood and tone of your video.

Thinking about these things helps you move beyond just setting up your video recording space indoors and really use the world around you.

Quick Tips Checklist:

• Plan your location and check the weather.
• Aim for golden hour light.
• Use external mics and wind protection.
• Bring a tripod or stabilizer.
• Pack extra batteries and storage.
• Stay hydrated and safe.
• Let the location enhance your story.

Summary

Filming videos outdoors can seem a bit daunting at first because you have less control than when you're inside. However, with careful planning and by understanding how to work with natural light, manage sound challenges, and use the right basic gear, you can capture some truly amazing footage. Don't be afraid to experiment and learn as you go. The world outside offers endless possibilities for creative video content. So grab your camera or phone, follow these tips, and get started with vlogging today, taking your videos into the fresh air!

FAQ

What is the best time of day to film outdoors?
The best time is usually during the "golden hour," which is the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The light is soft, warm, and creates beautiful, flattering tones. Midday sun is often too harsh and creates strong shadows, making it less ideal for filming people.

How do I deal with wind noise when recording audio outside?
Wind noise is a major problem for outdoor audio. The best way to combat it is by using wind protection on your microphone. This usually involves a foam cover or, for stronger winds, a fuzzy cover called a "windjammer" or "dead cat." These covers help break up the wind before it hits the microphone element.

Do I need a fancy camera to film outdoors?
No, you don't need a fancy camera. Modern smartphones have excellent video quality and are very portable, making them great for outdoor filming, especially when you're just starting out. The tips about light, sound, and stabilization apply regardless of the camera you use.

How can I make my outdoor shots look less shaky?
Shaky footage is common when filming handheld outdoors due to wind or uneven ground. Using a tripod is the most effective way to get stable shots. If you need to move while filming, a gimbal is a device that helps keep your camera level and smooth as you walk or run.

What should I do if the sun is too bright?
If you have to film in bright sun, try to find a shaded area. If shade isn't available, you can use a diffuser (a translucent material) between the sun and your subject to soften the light. You can also position your subject with their back to the sun and use a reflector to bounce light back onto their face, but be careful not to get lens flare.

Is it okay to use my phone's built-in microphone outdoors?
While you can use it, your phone's built-in microphone will pick up a lot of background noise and wind, often making your audio hard to understand. For better sound quality, especially if someone is speaking, it's highly recommended to use an external microphone with wind protection.

How much battery life do I need for an outdoor shoot?
Outdoor shoots can be unpredictable and often take longer than planned. It's always a good idea to bring at least one extra fully charged battery for your camera or a portable power bank if you're using a phone. You don't want to run out of power just when you're getting the perfect shot.

What kind of permissions might I need to film outdoors?
Permissions can vary depending on where you are. You might need permission to film on private property, in national or state parks, or sometimes even in busy public spaces if your filming is disruptive or commercial. It's best to check local regulations or ask property owners beforehand to avoid issues.

How can I protect my gear from the weather?
Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If there's a chance of rain, have waterproof covers for your camera and other equipment. Avoid leaving gear in direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can overheat. In dusty or sandy environments, keep lenses covered when not in use and clean carefully.

Should I worry about background noise like birds or traffic?
Yes, background noise can be very distracting in your video. While you can't eliminate all noise outdoors, try to choose locations away from obvious sources like busy roads or construction. Using a directional microphone helps focus on your subject's voice and reduce ambient noise.

What is a reflector and how do I use it outdoors?
A reflector is a surface (often foldable and portable) used to bounce light onto your subject. Outdoors, you can use it to bounce sunlight or ambient light back onto a person's face to fill in shadows, especially if the main light source is behind them or overhead. They come in different colors (white, silver, gold) for different effects.

How can I make my outdoor video more interesting visually?
Use the environment! Don't just stand in front of a tree. Think about how the location can add to your story. Use natural elements to frame your shots, capture wide views to show scale, or focus on details in nature. Experiment with different angles and perspectives that the outdoor setting offers.

Is it safe to film alone in remote outdoor locations?
Filming alone in remote areas can have risks. It's always safer to go with someone else if possible. If you must go alone, make sure you tell someone exactly where you are going, your planned route, and when you expect to return. Be aware of wildlife and potential hazards in the area.

What should I wear when filming outdoors?
Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and location. Bright or busy patterns can sometimes be distracting on camera, so solid, neutral colors are often a good choice, especially if you are the subject. Don't forget practical items like comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses (though you might take the sunglasses off for filming).

Related Resources