Making Video Recordings Of Your DJ Gigs
As a DJ, you’re probably across the many different offerings of mixing software, DJing programs, equipment and general gear. But have you ever considered video recording your DJ sets and gigs?
Showcasing your skills, learning from your performances and building an online following should all be goals of just about every DJ, and recording a video of your work could be one of the best ways to achieve all three.
Why DJs Should Video Record Their Gigs
Did you know that 91% of people online want to see MORE video content in their news and social media feeds?
Video content is king online and for a DJ there are many benefits to recording your DJ sets and posting them.
1. Promote Yourself
Showing off your skills might seem a little uncomfortable, but it’s necessary to ensure you grow your audience. The more people that come across your videos (bearing in mind the popularity of videos online) the more of a following you’re going to build.
2. Fan Engagement
Fans and potential fans are likely to be interested in seeing both ‘behind the scenes’ of how you mix your tracks as well as experience the gigs you perform at without physically having been there. (Many probably live elsewhere in the country or world!)
Creating and putting our video recordings of your DJ work will help you interact with your online crowd, create an ongoing video from your live performances, and encourage fan engagement.
3. Brand Building
It’s not just about growth and promotion. Sharing video recordings on your website, on YouTube and across social media platforms can help you develop your personal and DJ brand.
If you have a unique style or a unique sound, videos are one of the best ways for you to display that to potential fans and help you create the sort of DJ persona you’re after.
4. Self-Improvement
Sports stars, musicians, actors, stand-up comedians… Many different professions and artists record themselves performing. Re-watching your own recordings allows you to analyse your performance and identify areas where you can improve.
It also allows you to engage other DJs to get professional feedback to further refine your skills and styles. Even when it comes to your audience, the more feedback you get from your fans, the better you can improve your performance skills and create better, more impactful DJ experiences in the future.
How to Video Record Your Gigs
It’s 2024 and thanks to new and cheaper technology, recording your DJ sets is easier than it’s ever been.
1. Choose the right camera
Smartphone cameras are pretty good quality nowadays, and if you’re on a tight budget you can get away with using your iPhone or Android.
However, for the highest quality audio and video, a dedicated camera will provide better results. Prioritise two things when weighing up camera options:
- Good low-light performance (as many DJ sets happen in clubs where lighting is low).
- HD or 4K recording for the best quality possible.
2. Use a tripod
Positioning your camera in the right way is crucial. Not only does the camera itself need to be at a good angle and good distance to capture your gig’s stage, your DJ booth, you and the crowd, but it also needs to be stable and level
Using a tripod is the easiest way to achieve this. Fortunately, tripods come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and styles, and they are more than affordable nowadays.
3. Test it first
Testing your audio and video before taking it on the road for you is essential. You’ll want to make sure that the quality is up to scratch and that you know exactly how to work it so that you’re not fumbling moments before you’re set to begin
It’s a good idea to experiment as well with an external microphone for better audio quality and to practise syncing or uploading the video to your computer to ensure smooth compatibility.
4. Edit with video recording software
Anyone with video experience will know that the real video is made in the editing suite. Luckily, as with many things, the 21st Century has made professional video recording software easily accessible and affordable for everyone.
Whether you use a standard video editing on your Mac or PC or choose to download and purchase a more robust editing program, spend some time learning and playing around with the software so that you can edit the footage into the perfect highlights reel or complete set as needed.
5. Record. Record. Record.
It can be nerve-wracking to record your DJ set for the first time. But you need to jump in and give it a go to learn the ropes and break the ice.
Always start recording your set before it begins and keep the camera rolling until after you have finished performing. You can always edit out the extra footage later, but the last thing you want is for the important bits on either end of the gig to get cut off.
Basic Equipment Checklist for Recording a Video
Over time you’ll be able to find what types of video recording software and equipment suit your needs best. To get started, here are some of the basic pieces of equipment to consider.
Video Camera
As mentioned above, smartphones can do the trick but we highly recommend going for a more professional and high-quality recorder for better results.
Tripod
Once again, tripods are critical for ensuring camera stability and keeping your angles and levels steady throughout the gig.
Microphone
Using an external microphone that’s synced up to your video camera will help you best capture the sound of your music and the crowd as well.
Memory Card
Memory cards with enough storage space are essential. The last thing you want is to run out of memory and miss out on recording your entire set.
Computer & Software
Editing your DJ set video will require you to have access to a reliable computer or laptop as well as good video recording software.
Social Media Platforms & a Website
Okay, not really equipment but we think these are critical nonetheless. As a DJ, having an online presence across social media and your website is vital. Even Spotify now allows video, so make sure your DJ profiles are set up across your chosen channels.
Need Help Video Recording Your DJ Set? Call us!
Recording a video of your DJ performance is a great way to improve your brand, promote your skills and better your skills.
If you need any assistance finding the right hardware for video recording or just want to discuss some more best practice tactics, make sure to reach out to the team at Australia’s largest online supplier of all things DJ equipment and gear: DJ City!
