Best Practices/Tips for Success

Recording in the Classroom, Home, or Office

If you are recording in the classroom:

  • For manual recordings, please reference Create a Panopto Recording (Windows).
  • For automatic recordings, be aware of the recording start and end time and plan announcements and lectures accordingly.
  • Repeat student questions when giving an answer.
  • Remember it is difficult for the camera to record the whiteboard and causes glare; look for alternative electronic solutions such as tablets or the document camera.
  • Use mute or turn off the microphone when having private conversations.
  • Consult with Academic Outreach and Innovation (AOI) staff if you are unfamiliar with the classroom equipment and functionality.

If you are recording from your home or office:

  • Close your windows and door (consider putting a “recording in progress” note on your door).
  • Silence your cell phone and avoid sitting next to an office phone that might ring.
  • Turn off/mute any sound coming from your music device, TV, radio, etc.
  • If recording with video, sit in a well-lit area and wear solid-colored clothing; pinstripes or very small/detailed patterns create distracting and undesired interference.
  • A headset microphone is preferred, users without headsets should be sure to record in a quiet area to prevent background noise.
  • Check your surroundings, make sure there is nothing distracting in the background that can draw attention and disrupt your video.
  • Eliminate desktop distractions (email pop-ups, Twitter feeds, etc).
  • Close all other computer applications, except what you are using, and try not to use more than one application at a time. Too much load on the computer can distort audio and video quality.

General recording tips

  • Give yourself time to setup to ensure everything is prepared and working correctly.
  • Familiarize yourself with the recording software.
  • Make a short test recording to check audio, video, and presentation content.
  • Do not chew gum or have food in your mouth while recording.
  • Camera position is important. Place the camera over the monitor with content. This helps direct your attention at your audience.
  • Annotating over your slides allows students to easily follow your lecture and keeps them engaged.