Check out these latest photos of my video studio along with a detailed component list. Discover a few simple tricks and secrets to make your own videos look better.

When preparing to shoot how-to videos, one of the most important and time consuming tasks is setting up the video studio so you get the right 'look' on tape.

Getting the right look requires placing the right components in just the right places - and knowing a few secrets and tricks can help you get better results on even the lowest budget.

The photos below show how I've set up my studio for a computer training how-to video.

By reviewing the placement of the various pieces of equipment, you might see something you can use in your own how-to video productions.

My Video Studio

Items in the Photo:

1. Fluorescent light - two 40 watt, 48" 5000k fluorescent tubes in a surface mount, electronic ballast fixture. Cost $40.
2. Light stand - a DJ speaker stand I modified to hold fluorescent lights. Cost $54.
3. Light reflector - 30" circle on stand to remove shadows. Cost $64 (including stand).
4. Muslin backdrop - 9'X12' wrinkled, painted muslin backdrop hung on wall, gives nice effect, easy to change. Cost $34.
5. 'Hair' light - 30 Watt GE Reveal True Color Flood focused on talent from above. Cost $6.
6. Fluorescent light on stand - two two 40 watt, 48" 5000k fluorescent tubes in a surface mount, electronic ballast fixture. Cost $40. Stand cost $54.
7. Camcorder - Sony VX2000 3CCD camcorder on tripod.
8. TV monitor - located directly below camcorder so talent can view what is being recorded. Cost $60.
9. Rolling cart - Used as stand for TV monitor below camcorder, and to store video gear during shooting. Cost $39.

With this simple studio setup, I can shoot a wide variety of how-to videos, and I can quickly alter the look of the set by replacing the backdrop with other colors, or even chromakey green.

The results when shooting in this simple set, look professional and the entire set can be packed up and stored in a closet when the production is completed.