Re: So, I went and started an anime review channel on Youtube...
Ooohh... sounds like you're going to be doing something a bit different to me, AF. So I wouldn't know where to begin.
My channel was very much a matter of trying things out to see how I got on with different things. I'll never post them, but I have about three reviews that I put together just to try things out with the software and other bits I'm using.
It seems bogus to say 'here's how I did it' when I have, like, two videos up and 12 subscribers. But if it helps you, here's the approach I used:
1. I have a REALLY clear idea about what I want to do. I'm trying to be informative, down to earth and a little bit humourous. But not excessively crude or OTT zany like some reviewers. Basically, the content I'm creating is what I'd want to see, as a guy nearing 40, if anime had a short review section on a TV show or something. What you want to do will likely be completely different to what I'm doing. Just make sure you feel comfortable with what you do.
2. I went in forewarned. You WILL get content ID and copyright infringement claims thrown at you, so learn in advance how serious these are and what your defense should be. Know the boundaries of fair use and be prepared to back down and alter your approach when people like Bandai and Sony flag your content. Within the letter of the law, they're in the wrong to do so if you're reviewing and doing so conscientiously. But you'll still need to know when to back down. If you're not fussed about getting mondo page views and monies, this isn't too big a concern.
3. I learned the software and hardware I needed to use. You'll need to do this, too. In fact, allow yourself a month or two just to fiddle about with what you have and work out how to get the best results from it.
I was in a position to throw some money at this venture, so I bought a Blue Yeti microphone and a pop shield. I used to play music years ago, so I had a mic stand already. You NEED good quality audio on your videos. Don't use a headset mic if you can help it. My trial run videos were recorded using the headset I skype with, and it generated loads of nasty handling noise. Also, I have a voice that's naturally sibilant (meaning: any 'ssss' or 'chh' sounds in words are emphasised when I speak) so that all gets amplified. Basically, a decent mic and pop shield make me about 150% more audible.
Audacity is a REALLY powerful piece of software, too. But it'll take practice to get the best from it, and that can be daunting. I'm still struggling to get the best from it, and while I'm editing out a lot of nasty mouth noises and things, there's still a lot of stuff I need to get better at minimising and cutting out.
Best bet: if you have anything you need to learn to use better, see if there are tutorials on Youtube.
4. I have a script. Every time. I spend about as much time on this as I do on the video editing, although I tend to record my ideas out loud into my tablet's sound recorder as I'm working on comics. Working from script is good, because it makes you sound more confident and authoritative right away.
I hope that's useful! Don't forget to follow my channel, and good luck!
