How to Record and Share Your First High-Quality Performance Video

Want to share your performance but worried about poor video quality? This step-by-step guide provides practical tips on lighting, framing, audio recording, and basic editing, helping you shoot a clear and great-sounding accordion video with just your phone, so you can confidently showcase your talent to the community.

Here in the AirHug community, we're all eager to see each other play. However, many hesitate because they're unsure how to record a high-quality video. The truth is, you don't need expensive equipment—a smartphone is all it takes! Follow these steps, and you too can easily create an impressive performance video.

Step 1: Set Your "Stage" (The Visuals)

Light is Key: Good lighting is half the battle. The best light source is natural light from a window. Position yourself so the light comes from your front or side. Never sit with your back to the light, as it will turn you and your beloved accordion into a silhouette.
Keep the Background Simple: Choose a clean, uncluttered background to avoid distracting your audience. A solid-colored wall or a simple bookshelf are great options.
Framing and Angle: Use a tripod or prop your phone securely against some books to prevent shaky footage. Try a diagonal front angle that captures your face, both hands, the keyboard, and the bellows. This gives viewers the most complete picture of your performance.

Step 2: Capture Clear Audio (The Sound)

Step Away from the Built-in Mic: Your phone's internal microphone has its limits. It tends to pick up ambient noise and can't fully capture the rich tones of an accordion.
Simple Solutions: Investing in an inexpensive lavalier (lapel) microphone or a basic USB microphone will result in a massive leap in audio quality.
Mic Placement: If using an external mic, try placing it about one meter in front of you at the same height as the instrument. This helps to capture a balanced sound from both your right and left hands.

Step 3: Hit Record

Do a Test Run: Before you record your final take, shoot a quick 10-second test clip to check if you're happy with the picture and sound.
Play with Confidence: Choose a piece you know well, so you can focus more on musical expression than on technique. Relax, enjoy the music, and don't be afraid to do multiple takes. You can always pick the best one later.

Step 4: Basic Editing and Sharing

Trim the Ends: Use your phone's built-in photo album editor or download a free editing app (like CapCut) to trim the beginning and end of the video, making it more concise.
Upload to AirHug: Open the AirHug app, go to the "Moment" feature, and upload your edited video. Don't forget to give your video a nice title and write a sentence or two about your performance.