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How to Record Drums on Video

One of the most important things to do if you want a career in music is to get known for your talents. Drummers have a bit of a dilemma regarding this, as they cannot simply strap their drum kit to their backs and go perform at an open mic. Because of this, one of the best ways for a drummer to get recognition if to make videos of themselves. When completed, these videos can be sent out to bands looking for drummers or be posted on viral video sites such as You Tube. Creating your own video recording can be done at home for a relatively inexpensive price.

Things You'll Need

  • Tripod
  • Microphone with extension chord
  • 3 small floodlights
  • 2 directional lamps
  • Stack of books
  • 3-by-3-foot thick carpet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up your camera on a tripod 15 feet away from your drum kit. Place a piece of thick 3-foot-by-3-foot wide carpet under the tripod. This will help to eliminate some of the vibration that can occur when you are playing the drums. Frame yourself so that you are in the center of the shot and each cymbal and drum can be seen in the shot.

    • 2

      Set the camera to "sports" or "action" mode if it has one. If not, increase the shutter speed on the camera if possible so that all of your movements are caught on video without any blur. Alternatively, you can lower the shutter speed, and this will cause the camera to show traces of your actions following you as you play the drums.

    • 3

      Ensure proper lighting. Place two floodlights to the each side of you and one light in front. Place a lamp behind either side of the camera and tilt the light toward where you will be sitting.

    • 4

      Hook up a microphone to your camera and run the wire along the floor until the microphone is behind the drum kit by at least 3 feet. Place the microphone inside the middle of an thick, open book. It will help if you stack some books or boxes up to 2 1/2 feet and aim the mic directly at the center of your drum kit. Using a microphone instead of the built-in mic will help to cut down on the environmental noise and record only the sound of your drums.

    • 5

      Hit record on your remote control. Let the tape run for at least five seconds, and then start playing.

Recording Music

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