Knife Review Tips

[JSMcustoms]

I've just gotten into reviewing and testing knives. Right now, I'm not the best at and my Youtube videos make it very obvious. I know it's probably a shot in the dark here, but I'm looking for advice on how to improve my videos and also the sorts of things that I should cover in my reviews (order as well). Any advice you guys could give would be helpful.

Link to my Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/JSMcustoms?feature=mhee

 

[keepright]

My general thoughts based on watching many of them, and dabbling a little myself:

- Good video is hard work. If you're making a video because it's easier than writing a review and taking some quality photos, then you're doing it wrong.

- People have finite lifespans. You don't need a script, but have a clear idea of what you're going to say and practice it. Out loud. Write out your main points in marker and have them placed as cue cards outside the frame.

 

[Bob W]

I haven't seen any of your videos, but some things to keep in mind based on other video reviews:

Hold the dang camera still.
Edit out the parts where nothing is happening.
Avoid obnoxious music.
Edit in high quality pictures, slide show style, instead of relying on crumby cell phone video camera for closeups.
Replace some voice commentary with text.

 

[Jesse B.]

The best reviews I've seen are well-thought out, well-spoken, and feature good camera work. They're informative without being overly repetitive. The reviewer will have rehearsed or at least prepared well for the speaking part, which can be tricky. Some of the worst reviews I've seen feature an overabundance of "...uhhhhh....(silence)...um..." so try to avoid that sort of thing. I'm not a videographer, but shaky, poorly-lit, and out-of-focus video are pretty common problems. Obviously your results will depend in part on your equipment; but even with limited equipment, good results can be achieved.

I hope that's not too broad. Good luck!