How to record a video avatar?
Here is a set of do's and dont's and best practices on recording your video replica and getting your perfect video avatar.
A Quick list of Do's and Dont's when recording your video avatar
✅ Set up your HD camera or recording software
✅ If using a smartphone, film in landscape
✅ Make sure your face & upper body are in focus
✅ Ensure the recording space is quiet and well-lit
✅ Speak naturally, we'll capture tone & emotion
Best Practices & Examples
Set Up: Environment
🌞 Lighting
Ensure your face is evenly lit with no shadows.
Example: If a window casts shadows on your face, change your orientation or use a ring light to even it out.
A large diffuse light will work best, providing consistent even, and neutral lighting for the entire face.
This helps Phoenix to properly map your face, resulting in a better-looking video overall.
🔊 Noise
Your space should be silent or almost silent.
Avoid noise from air conditioning, construction, traffic, refrigerators, and conversations.
Choose rooms with minimal reverb to prevent sound amplification.
Clean audio, free from background noises, will produce the best audio output for your replica.
🌆 Background
Keep your background clear.
Remove moving objects.
Ensure no other people are visible in the video.
Set Up: Equipment
📷 Camera & Placement
Use a high-quality camera with at least 2K pixels.
Examples: DSLR, newer laptops, iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel.
Frames per second: Optimal FPS is 30, but 24-60 FPS is acceptable.
Distance: Maintain a distance of 3ft-6ft (or 0.9m-1.8m) from the camera.
Level: The camera should be at eye level.
Lens: Ensure the camera lens is clean of smudges.
🎙️ Microphone
Start with your phone or computer’s microphone.
A high-quality mic can mitigate background noise/echo.
For external USB or XLR mics:
Place the mic 1ft (0.3m) from your mouth, not exceeding 2-3ft (0.5-0.9m).
Position the mic at least 1 inch below your chin to avoid blocking your mouth.
Wireless earbuds, like Apple AirPods or Samsung Galaxy Buds, are not recommended due to poor mic quality.
👾 Software
Disable any software-based audio enhancements.
Turn off compressors, equalizers, noise suppression, etc., as we perform our own sound processing post-recording.
Set Up: Yourself
👀 Gaze
Maintain eye level with the camera and act naturally.
🗣️ Speaking Vibe & Pace
Be yourself and relax.
Pace: Take your time, don’t rush.
Pausing: Close your lips during pauses (the script will remind you).
Tone: Aim for an upbeat tone to keep content positive and engaging. Keep continuous eye contact with the camera. Be animated in your mouth, eyes, and cheeks.
Gestures: Keep hand gestures to a minimum and avoid blocking your face.
Mistakes: If you stumble, continue speaking. Perfection isn’t necessary.
🎅 Accessories & Beards
If possible, avoid beards, glasses, and accessories.
Our model is still being refined to process these elements better.
This comprehensive guide ensures you capture the highest quality footage for your replica, leading to a more authentic and engaging digital representation.
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