Video Advanced
Hardware
Panasonic P2 AG-HVX170 Camcorder - Features of this pro-quality camcorder include 1080i/720p image quality, a 28mm wide-angle zoom lens, manual and auto focus, solid-state memory storage, a shock-mounted stereo microphone, and XLR microphone inputs. Click here for more specs.
Video-capable Digital SLR Cameras (Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 7D, Nikon D7000 and Nikon D90) - A growing number of pro- and consumer-level digital SLR cameras are capable of recording HD video. Certain cameras, such as the Canon 5D Mark II and Canon 7D, allow you to attach an external microphone for better sound quality. Others, like the much-less-expensive Nikon D90, rely on inferior on-board microphones.
Software
Final Cut Studio/Final Cut Express (official sites) - Final Cut Studio is a powerful, pro-level video production software package. While the learning curve can be somewhat steep, this is a great option for those looking to impress viewers with high-quality, sophisticated visual storytelling. The less-expensive Final Cut Express includes many of the basic features included with Final Cut Studio. Compatible with Mac computers only.
Adobe Premiere (official site) - PC-compatible video production software with a similar set of features as Final Cut.
Sony Vegas (official site) - Another popular PC-compatible video production package.
Tutorials
Video Shooting Techniques (Knight Digital Media Center) - Comprehensive set of best practices for videographers aspiring to create more professional videos, with sections on how to plan your shoot, frame and compose your shots, shoot sequences, conduct interviews and more.
Final Cut Pro Tutorial and Adobe Premiere Tutorial (Knight Digital Media Center) - These thorough guides carefully walk you through the entire process of editing video in Final Cut and Adobe Premiere, including how to transfer video from your camera to computer; edit and move clips; work with multiple tracks of audio and video; and export your movie for publication.
Articles & Resources
How To Maximize Your Nonprofit’s Impact with YouTube (Socialbrite) - Did you know YouTube has a program for nonprofits? This brief article explains how nonprofits can take advantage of this program to better reach their audience, raise money on their channel and recruit volunteer videographers.
Video Advocacy Resources & Tools (Witness) - Comprehensive and engaging multimedia guides on how to produce videos for social change. Includes chapters on developing a video action plan, effective video strategies, case studies, and technical tips and tricks.
Comparing Terms of Service at Video Sites (Socialbrite) - If video is part of your organization’s media strategy, you should be aware of the Terms of Service (ToS) of the various video hosting sites. This site-by-site breakdown covers the ToS for YouTube, Blip.tv, Yahoo!, DoGooder.tv and others.
