How to set up the lighting, framing, and background for a YouTube video

Lighting

• Large diffused light, otherwise known as "soft light".
  • Diffused light is light that passes through a material that softens it and spreads the light out. Not to be confused with indirect light - which is light reflected off another object.
• Use a lightbox or a window.

• Have the light setup at a 45 degree angle from your face. (Not head on, not 90 degrees, not backlight.)

Framing

• Have the camera level, the lines in the background should be straight. (Don't have to camera below your face tilted up, or above your face tilting down, this is a weird effect for a video.)
• Have the subject in the center, with the top of the head just brushing the top of the frame. (In some cases the subject can be to the left or right, but follow the rule of thirds.)

Background

• Be deliberate with what you put in the background to create the vibe you want. Plants, lamps, and bookshelves are all nice additions.
• Keep it neat and clean.
• Make it interesting with aesthetic decorations.
• Teal and orange colored lights contrast each other well, can be placed in each corner of the frame.