Recording Guidelines
Video Submission Expectations
This guide outlines how to create a professional, accessible, and engaging presentation video. Please take a moment to watch one of our past speakers as she demonstrates the power of good sound, video, and lighting.
Your SENIA Unplugged presentation must include:
- A clear video of you speaking
- Your presentation slides or visuals, presented in picture-in-picture mode (see our complimentary slide templates)
1. Recording Tips
Software Options
Choose a recording tool that supports both camera and screen capture:
- Canva (Free for educators): Create slides and record in one place.
- Zoom: Works well for longer recordings (free accounts limited to 40 minutes)
- Screencastify: Simple tool for screen and video capture (free version capped at 5 minutes)
Lighting
- Use front-facing natural light for the best appearance
- Avoid light sources behind you (e.g., windows or lamps)
- Consider using a ring light for better clarity
- Follow a basic 3-point lighting setup if possible
Backdrop
- Present from a tidy and neutral space (desk, plain wall, bookshelf)
- Avoid distracting backgrounds
- You may also create a virtual background using Canva (Build your own with Canva)
2. Record Your Introduction Video
Record a one-minute overview of your talk to excite the audience about your upcoming content. It also helps us test the tech (video, audio, etc.)and give you feedback.
Please include:
- A brief visual description of yourself at the beginning for accessibility.
- Your presentation topic
- A short, compelling overview of your topic and goals
Please see this example introduction
3. Video Requirements (Both Intro & Full Presentation)
To ensure a consistent and accessible viewer experience, your video must meet the following criteria:
- Intro in Full-Screen Mode: Start your video by introducing yourself and your presentation title in full-screen mode before transitioning to picture-in-picture.
- Horizontal Orientation: Record your video in landscape (horizontal) mode.
- Visual Description: Include a brief visual description of yourself at the beginning for accessibility.
- Lighting & Clarity: Ensure your video is well-lit and free of visual distractions.
- Clear Audio: Your voice should be easy to hear, with minimal background noise.
- High-Quality Format” Export your video at 1080p resolution or higher.
- Correct File Naming: Name your file: [Your Name – Title of Presentation]
4. Record Your Introduction Video
Create a 1-minute introduction that includes:
- Your name
- Your presentation title
- A short, enthusiastic summary to promote your session
This video will be used for marketing and technical review. Enjoy this example
Upload Instructions
- Export in 1080p or higher
- File name: [Your Name – Title of Presentation]
- Upload to the Intro Video Upload Form
- If you are having any problems with Google Forms, please send it to us via WeTransfer, a free service. Send to conferences@seniainternational.org
- If you are having any problems with Google Forms, please send it to us via WeTransfer, a free service. Send to conferences@seniainternational.org
5. Record Your Full Presentation
Once your intro is approved, begin your complete session recording.
Required Step
- Record your introduction in full-screen mode, then go to the “floating head,”(picture-in-picture) smaller version of you mode. Viewers really want to get to know you first before the presentation begins.
- Check out this example.
- If you are using Canva, watch this tutorial from SENIA Community Member, Hannah McIntosh.
Upload Instructions
- Export in 1080p or higher
- File name: [Your Name – Title of Presentation]
- Upload to the Full Presentation Upload Form
- If you are having any problems with Google Forms, please send it to us via WeTransfer, a free service. Send to conferences@seniainternational.org
Questions? Panic Attack? Need Some Help?
Drop me an email: Conferences@SENIAinternational.org. Please include "Conference Question" in the subject line.