Below is a repurposed one-pager we’ve sent to half a dozen clients this year, intended to coach them through how to record content easily and affordably.

If this is your first time reading the New Edition Newsletter, I’m Brandon Blum, Founder and Managing Partner at New Edition - a boutique creative agency based in New York City that helps seven and eight figure eCommerce brands create content.

In this week's newsletter, I’m breaking down the most important factors to consider when recording high-quality founder or employee interview videos for social media.

If you need help with creative strategy and production, hit us up! I’m sure New Edition can help.

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💡 LIGHTING

• Record near nature lighting, if possible. Ensure lighting is consistent and not creating any harsh patterns.

• Position yourself so you are facing the primary light source (artificial or natural).

• DO NOT record with the primary light at your back

In other words, face your primary light source—whether natural or artificial—to ensure consistent, flattering illumination without harsh shadows or backlighting that compromises video quality.

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🔈 SOUND

• Use an external microphone if possible. HERE is our suggested, budget-friendly microphone that works with any smartphone.

• Record in a quiet location with minimal background noise (HVAC/AC, other people talking, etc.)

• Test audio levels before the full recording to ensure clarity

In other words, invest in an affordable external microphone, record in quiet environments free from background noise, and always test audio levels beforehand to ensure professional-quality sound that keeps viewers engaged.

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👀 BACKGROUND

• Choose a clean, uncluttered background that won't distract from your subject

• Consider branding elements that subtly reinforce your company identity. Record in front of a Company logo (decal on window, sign on wall, etc.).

  • Note: if this isn’t possible, don’t stress. You can always layer in a logo in the corner of the video during post-production.

• Position video source 3-6ft away from you.

• Use a tripod to ensure camera is stable. HERE is an $18 tripod we’ve purchased for clients in the past.

• Ensure the background complements rather than competes with your subject

In other words, select a clean, uncluttered background with subtle branding elements, position your camera 3-6 feet away on a stable tripod, and remember that logos can always be added during post-production if needed.

🖼️ FRAMING & COMPOSITION

• Frame shots at eye level or slightly above for the most flattering angle

• Leave appropriate headroom (space above the subject's head)

• Record using VERTICAL video (not horizontal), as this will primarily be viewed on Mobile.

In other words, frame yourself at eye level or slightly above with proper headroom, and always record vertically since your content will primarily be consumed on mobile devices.

Your social video success hinges on production fundamentals most brands overlook. 

From leveraging natural lighting to investing in affordable external mics, these technical basics separate scroll-stopping content from ignored posts. 

Master framing, eliminate background distractions, and record vertically—because production quality directly impacts conversion. 

Which element will you optimize first?

Email me at [email protected] and let me know.

See you next week ✌️