"In 2024, YouTube Banner Blueprints A Gamers' Design Handbook"
YouTube Banner Blueprints: A Gamers’ Design Handbook
Gaming videos have become increasingly popular on YouTube, especially among young people. It is not uncommon for older folk to enjoy this type of content, especially if they want to unwind after a long day. However, the industry is becoming pretty crowded, making it harder for content creators to stand out from the crowd.
An excellent way to get your target audience to notice you would be to design a killer YouTube banner that will immediately cause anyone scrolling past to click on your video. Stick around to learn how to create a great gaming YouTube banner with templates.
Importance of a Banner for Your YouTube Gaming Channel
Imagine a scenario where you want to open a brick-and-mortar store. One of the most important things you need to get out of the way is the business name. Once you have settled on a fitting name, you will then move on to create a sign to place outside your shop.
For example, a banner for your YouTube gaming channel plays a similar role to signage for a brick-and-mortar shop.
- An excellent banner helps you make a solid first impression on your viewers, some of who is viewing your content for the first time.
- Secondly, a well-designed banner reflects positively on your brand and helps you grow your audience at a steady rate.
- Thirdly, you can use your banner to give your viewers a rough idea of what your video is about without them clicking to watch. A suitable banner can cause anticipation to build within your viewers. Once the video is over, they won’t resist visiting your channel to see what else you offer.
Guide to YouTube Gaming Banner Size
We can liken a banner for your YouTube video to a book cover to a novel you have been dying to read. Therefore, it would be wise to get the size right if you want to create an excellent first impression for yourself. Ideally, the best size for a YouTube banner is 2560*1440 pixels or an aspect ratio of 16:9.
We urge you not to upload a banner smaller than 2048*1152 pixels, or else the image will appear cropped. Keep your banner within 1235*338 pixels and centered on the screen to be on the safe side.
This YouTube banner dimension is ideal for viewing on any device since your audience might use their smartphones or laptop to watch your videos on YouTube. Lastly, ensure you keep the file to a maximum of 6MB. We believe this file size is pretty generous.
Tips for Designing an Attractive Gaming YouTube Banner
Below are some tips that will help you create beautiful YouTube banners.
Simplicity is key: Contrary to popular belief, a simple banner looks more polished than a complex one. If your YouTube banner has too many elements, your viewers using their mobile phones might have a challenge viewing the image.
Ensure the graphics are high-quality : Nothing is as frustrating to your viewers as seeing a blurry or pixelated YouTube banner. However, high-quality graphics with a resolution of at least 1920*1080 pixels make your work look polished and attract more viewers to your channel.
Leverage the grid system: Some of your viewers might watch your videos from their smartphones, and others on their laptops or tablets. The grid system allows you to ensure the full banner will be visible no matter what device your audience will use to watch your gaming videos.
Add a CTA: At the end of the day, you are trying to grow your audience on your YouTube channel. You might also have other social media platforms where you post content. Since your banner is one of the first things your audience will see, you could include a short, easy-to-read, and understandable call to action. For instance, you could encourage them to “Subscribe Now!”
Incorporate your unique color scheme: By now, you already have a theme for your YouTube channel that your existing subscribers associate with you. As you design your YouTube banner, ensure you incorporate your theme colors, so new visitors know what colors to look out for as they scroll on the platform.
Why Use Templates To Create Gaming YouTube Banners?
First and foremost, a gaming youtube banner template takes the tedium out of creating a design from scratch. They are also systematized, meaning you can download a template specifically for YouTube that comes in the correct dimensions. Most importantly, templates designed for gaming YouTube banners are optimized to help you generate more organic traffic to your channel.
You probably have other expenses breathing down your neck. No need to add your YouTube banner to the list. A youtube gaming channel banner template a budget-friendly way to create stunning designs for your banner that actually look good. If you are lucky, you might find free programs to help you create gorgeous YouTube banners for your gaming channel.
Make YouTube Gaming Banners With Templates in Filmora
Now that you understand why a gaming channel banner template is essential for your YouTube channel, you might wonder where you can find some good ones to incorporate into your videos. Don’t worry because Filmora is precisely what you need.
Wondershare Filmora has a fantastic template feature that helps you make creative videos effortlessly. You can use the preset templates in the platform, saving you lots of time you would have spent designing your template from scratch. We guarantee you cannot exhaust the 1000+ templates this platform offers, meaning you are spoilt for choice!
If you want to customize your video, you can replace the stock videos that come with the preset templates with footage from your internal storage. In addition, Wondershare Filmora lets you share your favorite templates with other content creators who would also like to try making their own cool videos.
Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)
Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a gaming YouTuber banner template with Wondershare Filmora.
Step 1. After creating a project with Filmora, click on the “File” tab, wait for a drop-down menu to appear, and select “Project Settings.”
Step 2. Once a dialogue box appears, go to the “Resolution” tab and adjust the resolution to 2560*1140.
Step 3. Upload your footage or photo from your internal storage by clicking on the logo below.
Step 4. Click on the “Template” tab at the top of the page and click “Game.” Browse the available templates till you see one you like.
Step 5. Drag and drop the template you have chosen to the timeline as shown below.
Step 6. Replace the sample footage in the template by dragging and dropping your own footage into the timeline.
Step 7. Customize the footage and change the settings until you are happy with the outcome. Edit the text using the tools provided in the platform.
Step 8. Take a screenshot of the final result.
Step 9. Specify the snapshot format and choose the storage location before saving a copy to your device.
Step 10. Once the snapshot appears in the Media Panel, right-click on it to open. Select “Reveal in Explorer” to locate the picture in your internal storage. You can now use the photo as your YouTube gaming banner.
5 Websites for Gaming Banner Templates Your YouTube
Wondershare Filmora is not the only platform you can use to create banner templates for your YouTube channel. Here is a list of 5 more websites you can try and a detailed breakdown of the remarkable features you are bound to enjoy.
1. Canva
The first alternative to Filmora on our list is Canva, which has thousands of professional, ready-made designs to wow your audience. You can work alone or with a dedicated team to ensure you design only the best banner for your channel to attract the masses to the kind of content you create.
2. PosterMyWall
We couldn’t forget to include PosterMyWall to our list, which has pre-made templates you can customize to suit your needs. With PosterMyWall, you can save the time you could have used to design a banner from scratch to think of more content for your channel. The developers suggest various templates you might like, not to mention that you can sign up for free!
3. Freepik
Another suitable alternative to Filmora is Freepik. We guarantee you cannot exhaust all the numerous templates this platform offers. Each template is unique, with different color combinations and fonts to cater to the theme colors on your YouTube channel. You could opt for the free version or sign up for a Premium account and get 30% off.
4. Pickmaker
The fourth alternative on our list is Pickmaker, a sure way to take your gaming channel to the next level. The templates are arranged in broad categories to help you pick the best one based on the type of content you post. In addition, you don’t have to part with your precious monies to start designing YouTube banners with Pickmaker.
5. Placeit
Last but definitely not least is Placeit, which contains picturesque templates fitting for a gaming YouTube channel. We guarantee your audience won’t resist clicking on your videos once you use any of the templates within this platform. All you need to do is create a free account to enjoy the perks. Placeit makes your work easier by allowing you to indicate your favorite templates for use later.
Conclusion
Gaming content is far from boring, and neither should your banner. Remember, your audience will judge you based on your banner, the first content they interact with before they click to watch your video.
The better you can design your banner, the higher your chances of growing an audience that supports you by watching your content regularly. Once you have created an enticing banner, all that’s left is to ensure you have the content to match.
Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a gaming YouTuber banner template with Wondershare Filmora.
Step 1. After creating a project with Filmora, click on the “File” tab, wait for a drop-down menu to appear, and select “Project Settings.”
Step 2. Once a dialogue box appears, go to the “Resolution” tab and adjust the resolution to 2560*1140.
Step 3. Upload your footage or photo from your internal storage by clicking on the logo below.
Step 4. Click on the “Template” tab at the top of the page and click “Game.” Browse the available templates till you see one you like.
Step 5. Drag and drop the template you have chosen to the timeline as shown below.
Step 6. Replace the sample footage in the template by dragging and dropping your own footage into the timeline.
Step 7. Customize the footage and change the settings until you are happy with the outcome. Edit the text using the tools provided in the platform.
Step 8. Take a screenshot of the final result.
Step 9. Specify the snapshot format and choose the storage location before saving a copy to your device.
Step 10. Once the snapshot appears in the Media Panel, right-click on it to open. Select “Reveal in Explorer” to locate the picture in your internal storage. You can now use the photo as your YouTube gaming banner.
5 Websites for Gaming Banner Templates Your YouTube
Wondershare Filmora is not the only platform you can use to create banner templates for your YouTube channel. Here is a list of 5 more websites you can try and a detailed breakdown of the remarkable features you are bound to enjoy.
1. Canva
The first alternative to Filmora on our list is Canva, which has thousands of professional, ready-made designs to wow your audience. You can work alone or with a dedicated team to ensure you design only the best banner for your channel to attract the masses to the kind of content you create.
2. PosterMyWall
We couldn’t forget to include PosterMyWall to our list, which has pre-made templates you can customize to suit your needs. With PosterMyWall, you can save the time you could have used to design a banner from scratch to think of more content for your channel. The developers suggest various templates you might like, not to mention that you can sign up for free!
3. Freepik
Another suitable alternative to Filmora is Freepik. We guarantee you cannot exhaust all the numerous templates this platform offers. Each template is unique, with different color combinations and fonts to cater to the theme colors on your YouTube channel. You could opt for the free version or sign up for a Premium account and get 30% off.
4. Pickmaker
The fourth alternative on our list is Pickmaker, a sure way to take your gaming channel to the next level. The templates are arranged in broad categories to help you pick the best one based on the type of content you post. In addition, you don’t have to part with your precious monies to start designing YouTube banners with Pickmaker.
5. Placeit
Last but definitely not least is Placeit, which contains picturesque templates fitting for a gaming YouTube channel. We guarantee your audience won’t resist clicking on your videos once you use any of the templates within this platform. All you need to do is create a free account to enjoy the perks. Placeit makes your work easier by allowing you to indicate your favorite templates for use later.
Conclusion
Gaming content is far from boring, and neither should your banner. Remember, your audience will judge you based on your banner, the first content they interact with before they click to watch your video.
The better you can design your banner, the higher your chances of growing an audience that supports you by watching your content regularly. Once you have created an enticing banner, all that’s left is to ensure you have the content to match.
Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a gaming YouTuber banner template with Wondershare Filmora.
Step 1. After creating a project with Filmora, click on the “File” tab, wait for a drop-down menu to appear, and select “Project Settings.”
Step 2. Once a dialogue box appears, go to the “Resolution” tab and adjust the resolution to 2560*1140.
Step 3. Upload your footage or photo from your internal storage by clicking on the logo below.
Step 4. Click on the “Template” tab at the top of the page and click “Game.” Browse the available templates till you see one you like.
Step 5. Drag and drop the template you have chosen to the timeline as shown below.
Step 6. Replace the sample footage in the template by dragging and dropping your own footage into the timeline.
Step 7. Customize the footage and change the settings until you are happy with the outcome. Edit the text using the tools provided in the platform.
Step 8. Take a screenshot of the final result.
Step 9. Specify the snapshot format and choose the storage location before saving a copy to your device.
Step 10. Once the snapshot appears in the Media Panel, right-click on it to open. Select “Reveal in Explorer” to locate the picture in your internal storage. You can now use the photo as your YouTube gaming banner.
5 Websites for Gaming Banner Templates Your YouTube
Wondershare Filmora is not the only platform you can use to create banner templates for your YouTube channel. Here is a list of 5 more websites you can try and a detailed breakdown of the remarkable features you are bound to enjoy.
1. Canva
The first alternative to Filmora on our list is Canva, which has thousands of professional, ready-made designs to wow your audience. You can work alone or with a dedicated team to ensure you design only the best banner for your channel to attract the masses to the kind of content you create.
2. PosterMyWall
We couldn’t forget to include PosterMyWall to our list, which has pre-made templates you can customize to suit your needs. With PosterMyWall, you can save the time you could have used to design a banner from scratch to think of more content for your channel. The developers suggest various templates you might like, not to mention that you can sign up for free!
3. Freepik
Another suitable alternative to Filmora is Freepik. We guarantee you cannot exhaust all the numerous templates this platform offers. Each template is unique, with different color combinations and fonts to cater to the theme colors on your YouTube channel. You could opt for the free version or sign up for a Premium account and get 30% off.
4. Pickmaker
The fourth alternative on our list is Pickmaker, a sure way to take your gaming channel to the next level. The templates are arranged in broad categories to help you pick the best one based on the type of content you post. In addition, you don’t have to part with your precious monies to start designing YouTube banners with Pickmaker.
5. Placeit
Last but definitely not least is Placeit, which contains picturesque templates fitting for a gaming YouTube channel. We guarantee your audience won’t resist clicking on your videos once you use any of the templates within this platform. All you need to do is create a free account to enjoy the perks. Placeit makes your work easier by allowing you to indicate your favorite templates for use later.
Conclusion
Gaming content is far from boring, and neither should your banner. Remember, your audience will judge you based on your banner, the first content they interact with before they click to watch your video.
The better you can design your banner, the higher your chances of growing an audience that supports you by watching your content regularly. Once you have created an enticing banner, all that’s left is to ensure you have the content to match.
Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a gaming YouTuber banner template with Wondershare Filmora.
Step 1. After creating a project with Filmora, click on the “File” tab, wait for a drop-down menu to appear, and select “Project Settings.”
Step 2. Once a dialogue box appears, go to the “Resolution” tab and adjust the resolution to 2560*1140.
Step 3. Upload your footage or photo from your internal storage by clicking on the logo below.
Step 4. Click on the “Template” tab at the top of the page and click “Game.” Browse the available templates till you see one you like.
Step 5. Drag and drop the template you have chosen to the timeline as shown below.
Step 6. Replace the sample footage in the template by dragging and dropping your own footage into the timeline.
Step 7. Customize the footage and change the settings until you are happy with the outcome. Edit the text using the tools provided in the platform.
Step 8. Take a screenshot of the final result.
Step 9. Specify the snapshot format and choose the storage location before saving a copy to your device.
Step 10. Once the snapshot appears in the Media Panel, right-click on it to open. Select “Reveal in Explorer” to locate the picture in your internal storage. You can now use the photo as your YouTube gaming banner.
5 Websites for Gaming Banner Templates Your YouTube
Wondershare Filmora is not the only platform you can use to create banner templates for your YouTube channel. Here is a list of 5 more websites you can try and a detailed breakdown of the remarkable features you are bound to enjoy.
1. Canva
The first alternative to Filmora on our list is Canva, which has thousands of professional, ready-made designs to wow your audience. You can work alone or with a dedicated team to ensure you design only the best banner for your channel to attract the masses to the kind of content you create.
2. PosterMyWall
We couldn’t forget to include PosterMyWall to our list, which has pre-made templates you can customize to suit your needs. With PosterMyWall, you can save the time you could have used to design a banner from scratch to think of more content for your channel. The developers suggest various templates you might like, not to mention that you can sign up for free!
3. Freepik
Another suitable alternative to Filmora is Freepik. We guarantee you cannot exhaust all the numerous templates this platform offers. Each template is unique, with different color combinations and fonts to cater to the theme colors on your YouTube channel. You could opt for the free version or sign up for a Premium account and get 30% off.
4. Pickmaker
The fourth alternative on our list is Pickmaker, a sure way to take your gaming channel to the next level. The templates are arranged in broad categories to help you pick the best one based on the type of content you post. In addition, you don’t have to part with your precious monies to start designing YouTube banners with Pickmaker.
5. Placeit
Last but definitely not least is Placeit, which contains picturesque templates fitting for a gaming YouTube channel. We guarantee your audience won’t resist clicking on your videos once you use any of the templates within this platform. All you need to do is create a free account to enjoy the perks. Placeit makes your work easier by allowing you to indicate your favorite templates for use later.
Conclusion
Gaming content is far from boring, and neither should your banner. Remember, your audience will judge you based on your banner, the first content they interact with before they click to watch your video.
The better you can design your banner, the higher your chances of growing an audience that supports you by watching your content regularly. Once you have created an enticing banner, all that’s left is to ensure you have the content to match.
Direction and Intensity in Video Lighting
Lighting Tips for Vlogging: How to Light
Richard Bennett
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
One of the best things you can do for your video quality is to ensure you have great lighting. Viewers find poor lighting distracting and it’s hard for them to see how great your content is if they are busy thinking about why your video is so dark. By creating a great lighting set up you can ensure that the people watching your videos are only thinking about how much they’re enjoying them.
Going outside and using natural light is the cheapest way to get a lot of light for your videos. If your vlog is not suited to the great outdoors then you need to get more strategic. You can turn on all the lights in your living room and still end up with a dark, grainy, video.
Video Lighting Basics: Three Point Lighting
The most common technique of lighting a scene is called three-point lighting. It involves three different sources of light in the shot and is used by portrait photographers, which is also a great method for lighting your vlog.
The brightest source of light is also known as the key light which need to be high quality. A window will work, but if you do not have access to one where you are filming then consider an LED panel light or a softbox light like the ones used in portrait photography.
This first light will create a dramatic shadow across half of your face. You want to reduce this shadow, but not get rid of it completely.
Rather than setting up another light source on the opposite side of the camera, put up a reflector to bounce some light back onto your face. This reflector is called your ‘Fill Light’.
The fill light is less bright than the primary source of light and it is placed on the side opposite to the key light. Its purpose is to reduce shadows produced by the key light and the reflector will need to be mounted on a stand.
The final step to creating three point lighting is to set up another light behind you. This is your ‘Backlight’, and it will help you stand out from your background. Backlight or Hair light is always placed behind and above the subject to create separation between the subject in the shot and the background. This basic lighting technique can be applied in almost every scene you shoot, which is why it is important to keep an open mind and to continue experimenting with possible light setups.
Watch Video! Top Lighting Tips for Vlogging
Lightning Tips for Aspiring YouTube Videographers
Becoming the master of light will take some time and practice, so it is crucial to remain curious and anxious to learn new tricks throughout that process if you want to continually become better. These tips will help you make the first steps on that journey.
1. Focus Your Key Light
Try to focus your Key Light so that it lights only you and not your background. Do this by mounting anything that can cast a shadow onto your Key Light to control the area where the light hits. If you are using a window for your Key Light then you can use a curtain. If you use a softbox light then your light will already be somewhat focused.
2. Use Natural Lighting
The light provided by the Sun is still the best light source, you can have in your video. The trouble is that natural light changes quickly, which makes it highly unpredictable. The best way to deal with this challenge is to come prepared to the set and to get the shot you want as quickly as you can.
3. Try DIY Lightning
Literally, anything from candles to LED light bulbs can serve as a source of light in a shot. You just need to pay attention to the light temperature, because warmer light sources may highlight reds and yellows that can make your footage look less realistic.
4. Use Lightning Kits
This is by far the best option if you want to be in complete control of the light on your set. You can adjust the intensity of the lights, use filters, diffusers and all sorts of other accessories to create the light that flatters the subjects of your videos. The only downside is that you’ll have to spend a considerable amount of money if you want to have a professional lighting kit.
5. Set up reflectors
Sets of reflectors are often under $50, so they are fairly affordable. However, some vloggers choose to forgo purchasing reflectors and make their own out of tinfoil.
If your strong main light is too hard on your eyes then you can use a translucent ‘reflector’ to soften it. Set your translucent reflector, or other screen, up in front of your main light to diffuse it.
If you are hosting a beauty vlog then you might consider a slightly different set up. Instead of having your main light off to one side set it up directly in front of you so your entire face is lit evenly. It is still a good idea to use fill lights in this set up to give you some dimension, and a backlight is even more essential for helping you stand out from the background. The even light hitting your face will also make you look flat if you do not use a backlight.
If you are using all of the lighting options available to you and your video still looks too dark then you can try brightening it by opening up the aperture of your camera lens/setting a lower f-stop. Letting more light into your camera can help your footage look brighter, although you also run the risk of making things look overexposed/ washed out if you are not careful.
If you are stuck shooting in low light conditions it is best to use a lens with a wider aperture/lower f-stop. This will make the best of the light you do have.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
One of the best things you can do for your video quality is to ensure you have great lighting. Viewers find poor lighting distracting and it’s hard for them to see how great your content is if they are busy thinking about why your video is so dark. By creating a great lighting set up you can ensure that the people watching your videos are only thinking about how much they’re enjoying them.
Going outside and using natural light is the cheapest way to get a lot of light for your videos. If your vlog is not suited to the great outdoors then you need to get more strategic. You can turn on all the lights in your living room and still end up with a dark, grainy, video.
Video Lighting Basics: Three Point Lighting
The most common technique of lighting a scene is called three-point lighting. It involves three different sources of light in the shot and is used by portrait photographers, which is also a great method for lighting your vlog.
The brightest source of light is also known as the key light which need to be high quality. A window will work, but if you do not have access to one where you are filming then consider an LED panel light or a softbox light like the ones used in portrait photography.
This first light will create a dramatic shadow across half of your face. You want to reduce this shadow, but not get rid of it completely.
Rather than setting up another light source on the opposite side of the camera, put up a reflector to bounce some light back onto your face. This reflector is called your ‘Fill Light’.
The fill light is less bright than the primary source of light and it is placed on the side opposite to the key light. Its purpose is to reduce shadows produced by the key light and the reflector will need to be mounted on a stand.
The final step to creating three point lighting is to set up another light behind you. This is your ‘Backlight’, and it will help you stand out from your background. Backlight or Hair light is always placed behind and above the subject to create separation between the subject in the shot and the background. This basic lighting technique can be applied in almost every scene you shoot, which is why it is important to keep an open mind and to continue experimenting with possible light setups.
Watch Video! Top Lighting Tips for Vlogging
Lightning Tips for Aspiring YouTube Videographers
Becoming the master of light will take some time and practice, so it is crucial to remain curious and anxious to learn new tricks throughout that process if you want to continually become better. These tips will help you make the first steps on that journey.
1. Focus Your Key Light
Try to focus your Key Light so that it lights only you and not your background. Do this by mounting anything that can cast a shadow onto your Key Light to control the area where the light hits. If you are using a window for your Key Light then you can use a curtain. If you use a softbox light then your light will already be somewhat focused.
2. Use Natural Lighting
The light provided by the Sun is still the best light source, you can have in your video. The trouble is that natural light changes quickly, which makes it highly unpredictable. The best way to deal with this challenge is to come prepared to the set and to get the shot you want as quickly as you can.
3. Try DIY Lightning
Literally, anything from candles to LED light bulbs can serve as a source of light in a shot. You just need to pay attention to the light temperature, because warmer light sources may highlight reds and yellows that can make your footage look less realistic.
4. Use Lightning Kits
This is by far the best option if you want to be in complete control of the light on your set. You can adjust the intensity of the lights, use filters, diffusers and all sorts of other accessories to create the light that flatters the subjects of your videos. The only downside is that you’ll have to spend a considerable amount of money if you want to have a professional lighting kit.
5. Set up reflectors
Sets of reflectors are often under $50, so they are fairly affordable. However, some vloggers choose to forgo purchasing reflectors and make their own out of tinfoil.
If your strong main light is too hard on your eyes then you can use a translucent ‘reflector’ to soften it. Set your translucent reflector, or other screen, up in front of your main light to diffuse it.
If you are hosting a beauty vlog then you might consider a slightly different set up. Instead of having your main light off to one side set it up directly in front of you so your entire face is lit evenly. It is still a good idea to use fill lights in this set up to give you some dimension, and a backlight is even more essential for helping you stand out from the background. The even light hitting your face will also make you look flat if you do not use a backlight.
If you are using all of the lighting options available to you and your video still looks too dark then you can try brightening it by opening up the aperture of your camera lens/setting a lower f-stop. Letting more light into your camera can help your footage look brighter, although you also run the risk of making things look overexposed/ washed out if you are not careful.
If you are stuck shooting in low light conditions it is best to use a lens with a wider aperture/lower f-stop. This will make the best of the light you do have.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
One of the best things you can do for your video quality is to ensure you have great lighting. Viewers find poor lighting distracting and it’s hard for them to see how great your content is if they are busy thinking about why your video is so dark. By creating a great lighting set up you can ensure that the people watching your videos are only thinking about how much they’re enjoying them.
Going outside and using natural light is the cheapest way to get a lot of light for your videos. If your vlog is not suited to the great outdoors then you need to get more strategic. You can turn on all the lights in your living room and still end up with a dark, grainy, video.
Video Lighting Basics: Three Point Lighting
The most common technique of lighting a scene is called three-point lighting. It involves three different sources of light in the shot and is used by portrait photographers, which is also a great method for lighting your vlog.
The brightest source of light is also known as the key light which need to be high quality. A window will work, but if you do not have access to one where you are filming then consider an LED panel light or a softbox light like the ones used in portrait photography.
This first light will create a dramatic shadow across half of your face. You want to reduce this shadow, but not get rid of it completely.
Rather than setting up another light source on the opposite side of the camera, put up a reflector to bounce some light back onto your face. This reflector is called your ‘Fill Light’.
The fill light is less bright than the primary source of light and it is placed on the side opposite to the key light. Its purpose is to reduce shadows produced by the key light and the reflector will need to be mounted on a stand.
The final step to creating three point lighting is to set up another light behind you. This is your ‘Backlight’, and it will help you stand out from your background. Backlight or Hair light is always placed behind and above the subject to create separation between the subject in the shot and the background. This basic lighting technique can be applied in almost every scene you shoot, which is why it is important to keep an open mind and to continue experimenting with possible light setups.
Watch Video! Top Lighting Tips for Vlogging
Lightning Tips for Aspiring YouTube Videographers
Becoming the master of light will take some time and practice, so it is crucial to remain curious and anxious to learn new tricks throughout that process if you want to continually become better. These tips will help you make the first steps on that journey.
1. Focus Your Key Light
Try to focus your Key Light so that it lights only you and not your background. Do this by mounting anything that can cast a shadow onto your Key Light to control the area where the light hits. If you are using a window for your Key Light then you can use a curtain. If you use a softbox light then your light will already be somewhat focused.
2. Use Natural Lighting
The light provided by the Sun is still the best light source, you can have in your video. The trouble is that natural light changes quickly, which makes it highly unpredictable. The best way to deal with this challenge is to come prepared to the set and to get the shot you want as quickly as you can.
3. Try DIY Lightning
Literally, anything from candles to LED light bulbs can serve as a source of light in a shot. You just need to pay attention to the light temperature, because warmer light sources may highlight reds and yellows that can make your footage look less realistic.
4. Use Lightning Kits
This is by far the best option if you want to be in complete control of the light on your set. You can adjust the intensity of the lights, use filters, diffusers and all sorts of other accessories to create the light that flatters the subjects of your videos. The only downside is that you’ll have to spend a considerable amount of money if you want to have a professional lighting kit.
5. Set up reflectors
Sets of reflectors are often under $50, so they are fairly affordable. However, some vloggers choose to forgo purchasing reflectors and make their own out of tinfoil.
If your strong main light is too hard on your eyes then you can use a translucent ‘reflector’ to soften it. Set your translucent reflector, or other screen, up in front of your main light to diffuse it.
If you are hosting a beauty vlog then you might consider a slightly different set up. Instead of having your main light off to one side set it up directly in front of you so your entire face is lit evenly. It is still a good idea to use fill lights in this set up to give you some dimension, and a backlight is even more essential for helping you stand out from the background. The even light hitting your face will also make you look flat if you do not use a backlight.
If you are using all of the lighting options available to you and your video still looks too dark then you can try brightening it by opening up the aperture of your camera lens/setting a lower f-stop. Letting more light into your camera can help your footage look brighter, although you also run the risk of making things look overexposed/ washed out if you are not careful.
If you are stuck shooting in low light conditions it is best to use a lens with a wider aperture/lower f-stop. This will make the best of the light you do have.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
One of the best things you can do for your video quality is to ensure you have great lighting. Viewers find poor lighting distracting and it’s hard for them to see how great your content is if they are busy thinking about why your video is so dark. By creating a great lighting set up you can ensure that the people watching your videos are only thinking about how much they’re enjoying them.
Going outside and using natural light is the cheapest way to get a lot of light for your videos. If your vlog is not suited to the great outdoors then you need to get more strategic. You can turn on all the lights in your living room and still end up with a dark, grainy, video.
Video Lighting Basics: Three Point Lighting
The most common technique of lighting a scene is called three-point lighting. It involves three different sources of light in the shot and is used by portrait photographers, which is also a great method for lighting your vlog.
The brightest source of light is also known as the key light which need to be high quality. A window will work, but if you do not have access to one where you are filming then consider an LED panel light or a softbox light like the ones used in portrait photography.
This first light will create a dramatic shadow across half of your face. You want to reduce this shadow, but not get rid of it completely.
Rather than setting up another light source on the opposite side of the camera, put up a reflector to bounce some light back onto your face. This reflector is called your ‘Fill Light’.
The fill light is less bright than the primary source of light and it is placed on the side opposite to the key light. Its purpose is to reduce shadows produced by the key light and the reflector will need to be mounted on a stand.
The final step to creating three point lighting is to set up another light behind you. This is your ‘Backlight’, and it will help you stand out from your background. Backlight or Hair light is always placed behind and above the subject to create separation between the subject in the shot and the background. This basic lighting technique can be applied in almost every scene you shoot, which is why it is important to keep an open mind and to continue experimenting with possible light setups.
Watch Video! Top Lighting Tips for Vlogging
Lightning Tips for Aspiring YouTube Videographers
Becoming the master of light will take some time and practice, so it is crucial to remain curious and anxious to learn new tricks throughout that process if you want to continually become better. These tips will help you make the first steps on that journey.
1. Focus Your Key Light
Try to focus your Key Light so that it lights only you and not your background. Do this by mounting anything that can cast a shadow onto your Key Light to control the area where the light hits. If you are using a window for your Key Light then you can use a curtain. If you use a softbox light then your light will already be somewhat focused.
2. Use Natural Lighting
The light provided by the Sun is still the best light source, you can have in your video. The trouble is that natural light changes quickly, which makes it highly unpredictable. The best way to deal with this challenge is to come prepared to the set and to get the shot you want as quickly as you can.
3. Try DIY Lightning
Literally, anything from candles to LED light bulbs can serve as a source of light in a shot. You just need to pay attention to the light temperature, because warmer light sources may highlight reds and yellows that can make your footage look less realistic.
4. Use Lightning Kits
This is by far the best option if you want to be in complete control of the light on your set. You can adjust the intensity of the lights, use filters, diffusers and all sorts of other accessories to create the light that flatters the subjects of your videos. The only downside is that you’ll have to spend a considerable amount of money if you want to have a professional lighting kit.
5. Set up reflectors
Sets of reflectors are often under $50, so they are fairly affordable. However, some vloggers choose to forgo purchasing reflectors and make their own out of tinfoil.
If your strong main light is too hard on your eyes then you can use a translucent ‘reflector’ to soften it. Set your translucent reflector, or other screen, up in front of your main light to diffuse it.
If you are hosting a beauty vlog then you might consider a slightly different set up. Instead of having your main light off to one side set it up directly in front of you so your entire face is lit evenly. It is still a good idea to use fill lights in this set up to give you some dimension, and a backlight is even more essential for helping you stand out from the background. The even light hitting your face will also make you look flat if you do not use a backlight.
If you are using all of the lighting options available to you and your video still looks too dark then you can try brightening it by opening up the aperture of your camera lens/setting a lower f-stop. Letting more light into your camera can help your footage look brighter, although you also run the risk of making things look overexposed/ washed out if you are not careful.
If you are stuck shooting in low light conditions it is best to use a lens with a wider aperture/lower f-stop. This will make the best of the light you do have.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Also read:
- [New] 2024 Approved Drive More Viewers to Your Videos Top Growth Hacks
- [Updated] 2024 Approved Climb the Popularity Ladder Essential YouTube SEO Practices Uncovered
- [Updated] YouTube's Guide to the Best Gaming Tech
- [New] 2024 Approved Examining YouTube's Mobile App for iOS/Android Devices
- [New] In 2024, Best 12 YouTube Game Openers A Comparative Guide (No Expense)
- [Updated] In 2024, Best Free Tools for Converting YouTube Videos
- [New] In 2024, Essential YouTube-to-WebM Video Transformers
- [Updated] Switching On/Off Comment Functionality on YouTube
- [New] Accessible Visual Aids for YouTube Videos for 2024
- [New] 2024 Approved Boost Your Visibility with a Cutting-Edge Set of Banners
- [New] In 2024, Enhance Your Channel's Image Adding Watermarks & Logos to Video Posts
- [Updated] In 2024, Best Free YouTube Ending Creators - Top 6 Picks
- [Updated] In 2024, Best 10 Screen Recorders for YouTube
- [Updated] How to Blur Background of Your YouTube Video - 2 Easy Ways
- [Updated] Revenue Revolution Unlocking Online Income Through YouTube Monetization
- Unlock Potential Top Free Video Opener Hacks for 2024
- [New] Transition Tactics Your YouTube Videos on Instagram
- [New] In 2024, Dissecting the Narrative in YouTube Dialogues
- [New] In 2024, Experience Beyond Reality with These Immersive Titles
- [New] In 2024, 9 Top-Tier YouTube Fitness Tips to Captivate Audience's Movement
- [Updated] 2024 Approved Engage More, Dissuade Less Top 6 Ways to Increase Watch Time and Stayers
- [Updated] How to Effortlessly Convert YouTube Videos Online
- The Dichotomy of Digital Minis YouTube's Efficiency Versus TikTok's Trendiness for 2024
- [Updated] How to Reverse a YouTube Playlist
- [Updated] In 2024, Expert Pick Mics for YouTube Entrepreneurs
- [New] In 2024, Bargain Microphones for YouTube Creators Starting Small
- [Updated] In 2024, 9 Essential Apps for Pulling YouTube Videos (Android)
- Transforming Viewers Into Livelihood with Right Numbers for 2024
- [New] 2024 Approved Essential Free Services for Designing Impactful YouTube Intros
- [Updated] Premier Choice 10 Leading Intro Maker Tools (iPhone/Android)
- 2024 Approved YouTube Marketing Key Methods for Attracting Viewers
- [New] Explore & Download 50 FREE YouTube Banners!
- [Updated] Unlock Your YouTube Potential Try These Proven Growth Strategies
- [New] 2024 Approved Breakdown of Steps Perfecting iDevice Video Features on YouTube
- Streamline Sound Transfer Top 10 YouTube Audio Converters for 2024
- [Updated] 2024 Approved Building Wealth Through Video Content Revenue
- [Updated] Maximize Content Consumption 6 Best Free YouTube Short Downloaders
- [Updated] Discovering 8 Ultimate Mirrorless Vlogging Cameras for 2024
- [New] YouTube Mastery Elevate Your Content with Smart Tag Techniques
- [Updated] Jittery Text Magic Two Dynamic Techniques Explored
- [New] 2024 Approved Creating Impressive 3D Beginnings on YouTube
- [Updated] Essential Steps to Designing Exceptional YouTube Thumbnails for 2024
- [New] In 2024, Effortlessly Embedding Visual Media in Free Content Creation
- [New] Navigating the World of PPC Advertising Essential Guidance for Newbies on Social Platforms
- In 2024, Transform Your Content Instagram-Ready Videos in Final Cut Pro X
- Ranking of Top 10 Budget-Friendly Video Calls (iPhone/Android)
- [Updated] SwiftRecordingTool with Narrator Functionality
- The Ultimate List of Quotes for TikTok Stars
- New In 2024, Top-Rated Free MP4 Video Editors for Cutting and Trimming
- In 2024, Detailed Review of doctorSIM Unlock Service For Apple iPhone 8 Plus | Dr.fone
- [Updated] 2024 Approved Capturing Motion Setting up a Timelapse on an iPad
- Superior Methods Transforming Pinterest Visuals Into Audios
- Sim Unlock Vivo Y100A Phones without Code 2 Ways to Remove Android Sim Lock
- New How to Easily Make Professional-Looking Movies and Slideshow for 2024
- How to convert AVCHD MTS to MP4 for 14 Pro?
- [New] Enhancing Live Broadcasts with Premium WebCams
- In 2024, 5 Best Audio Video Mixers
- 2024 Approved Pro's Guide to Capturing Every Angle
- 2024 Approved The Algorithm Advantage Tips for Achieving Instagram Video Fame
- New 2024 Approved Pro-Level Video Editing L-Cuts and J-Cuts in Final Cut Pro X
- [New] 2024 Approved Joke Journey Uncovering Top Talents on TikTok
- [Updated] Discord's Premier Love and Fun Sites
- 2024 Approved Startups' Guide to Earnings on YouTube Platform
- 2024 Approved Pushing the Limits Revolutionary Image Distortions with PS
- Updated 5 Best Chrome Extensions You Can Use to Translate Videos for 2024
- In 2024, From Manga to Screen Applying Snapchat's Anime Filter
- How to Transfer Data from Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra to BlackBerry | Dr.fone
- [New] Shooting in the Dark Elevating iPhone Photos with Shadows
- How to Bypass Google FRP Lock on OnePlus 11 5G Devices
- 2024 Approved Become a Meme Genius The Best 8 GIF-Making Methods
- [New] Video Mastery Posting on Snapchat From Twitter Revealed for 2024
- Tips for Effective PPT Sharing via Google Meet
- [New] In 2024, Quick-Shift Video Techniques Mastering Transitions
- Decode the Art of YouTube Shorts with Hit Songs
- New FREE Top 10 Best Online Video Editors without Watermark
- Enhancing Clarity with Time Indicators in YouTube Media
- Updated The Years Most Acclaimed PC Voice & Sound Capture Utilities for 2024
- 2024 Approved Crafting Stunning Visuals How to Master Use of LUTs in Photoshop Suite
- Title: "In 2024, YouTube Banner Blueprints A Gamers' Design Handbook"
- Author: Kenneth
- Created at : 2024-06-05 09:16:24
- Updated at : 2024-06-06 09:16:24
- Link: https://facebook-video-footage.techidaily.com/in-2024-youtube-banner-blueprints-a-gamers-design-handbook/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.