Make Better Science Videos: Our Top 10 Equipment and Technique Hacks

Filming science is not like filming anything else. Flames, splashes, colour changes, and sudden bangs are wonderful for grabbing attention — but they also present unique challenges. Over the years, we’ve tested countless setups in our studio and lab, and here are our top 10 hacks for making science videos look professional without breaking the bank.

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1. Use Multiple Camera Angles

One wide shot + one close-up camera is the bare minimum. A second close-up on the experiment itself means you never miss the “wow” moment.

2. Get Good Lighting

Science glassware reflects everything. Diffused LED panels reduce glare and make colour changes easier to see. A simple softbox kit can transform your shots.

3. Always Record Sound Separately

Camera mics are rarely good enough. Use a lapel mic or shotgun mic and record into an external recorder or directly into your editing software. Sync later for clarity.

4. Macro Lenses for Detail

Want to show crystals forming or liquids bubbling? A macro lens (or even a phone macro attachment) lets your audience see the magic up close.

5. Use a Neutral Background

Busy backgrounds distract. A black or white backdrop makes flames brighter and colour changes more vivid.

6. Stabilise Your Shots

A wobbly camera undermines credibility. Use a tripod for main angles and a clamp arm for close-up shots of glassware.

7. Slow Motion for Dramatic Effects

Dropping a Mentos in Coke looks fun — but in slow motion, it’s spectacular. Most modern cameras or even phones can manage decent slow-mo.

8. Overlay Live Data

Use PASCO sensors or digital meters and capture their live displays. Overlaying the data graph directly in your video makes your experiments both visual and informative.

9. Colour Grading in Post

Even simple tweaks to contrast and saturation make experiments look clearer. Free software like DaVinci Resolve gives professional results.

10. Plan Your Cuts

Don’t just roll and hope. Think ahead: what shots will show the reaction best? Planning saves editing time and ensures you capture the action from the right angles.

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Final Thoughts

Making science videos isn’t about flashy gear — it’s about clarity, planning, and showing the science at its best. With these ten hacks, you can elevate your videos, whether you’re filming for a classroom, YouTube, or professional training.

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✅ At Philip M Russell Ltd, we’ve spent years refining our approach — so you don’t have to. Try one or two of these hacks in your next video and see the difference.