Podcasting Tips
If you want to get into podcasting your audience is expecting more than they used to. Quality has to be good and you have to convey a message. You might also be surprised to find out how much is involved and how time consuming it is to get it right.
Start off by having a message or story you want to get across. This could be about what you do or a how to video? Make sure you can get it across and straight to the point. Of course try and make it enjoyable but don't leave the viewer waiting for something to happen.
Whether you are making a video or audio podcast make sure you have good sound recorded. That means you can hear what is being said, it's not too loud, and if there is any background noise make sure it is not too distracting, hammering, drilling, doors slamming etc can put your audience off. Sound can make or break a podcast. Think about what you do if you are having trouble listening to something, eventually you switch off.
Keep your podcasts short, no one complains that a podcast is short, but I have heard people complaining when a podcast is too long, even one as long as 12 minutes. However, if what you are covering is relevant and interesting then it can be longer. I usually aim for five minutes but that does not always happen, depends on the topic. Some of 20 minutes have proven popular simply because it was interesting. One thing to keep in mind, just because you find it interesting others may not. You may need to show it to some honest people. If they look at their watches it is too long.
If you are making a video podcast please use a tripod or at least have someone with a very steady hand videoing it. Also make sure it is well lit and in focus. If lighting is a problem consider doing it outside, that is a fantastic lighting source, however, look out for lighting conditions changing like clouds coming over and then having to cut it together.
Use makeup, it doesn't matter who it is but under bright lights people become shiny, get some translucent powder, it works on any skin type. Keep some makeup remover wipes with you to clean it off.