The Complete Guide to Filming and Editing Epic Dog Videos

Disclosure: We might receive a commission on purchases made through links on this page. Learn more >

Dog videos are some of the most popular content on the internet today. People love watching cute, funny, and talented dogs do amazing tricks, have silly antics, or just be adorable goofballs. Creating engaging and entertaining dog videos is a fun hobby that can even lead to viral fame or opportunities to monetize. This guide will provide tips and best practices for filming your dog videos, from choosing a canine star to editing techniques.  

Dog videos appeal to a massive audience because they are heartwarming and put smiles on people’s faces. In our stressful modern world, people enjoy the pure joy and comedy of dogs simply being dogs. Watching dog videos can provide a mental break and emotional lift during someone’s day. The best dog videos show off a dog’s personality and capture endearing moments. With some preparation and planning around filming and editing, you can create videos starring your dog that delight viewers.

Choosing a Dog Star

When choosing a dog for your epic dog videos, consider both breed and individual personality. Some breeds, like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds, are naturally athletic and energetic, making them well-suited to action shots and stunts. Herding breeds often focus well and aim to please, following directions for takes.

However, any dog can become a star with the right training and personality! Look for dogs that are social, engaged with their owner, and interested in toys or challenges. A dog that gets excited about playing fetch or tug-of-war shows enthusiasm that translates well on camera.

Filming Equipment

When it comes to filming epic dog videos, having the right equipment is essential. Here are some of the key pieces of gear you’ll want to consider:

Cameras

DSLR cameras: These allow you to shoot high-quality video and give you control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and more. Popular models for dog videos include the Canon EOS 90D, Nikon D7500, and Sony Alpha a6400.

Mirrorless cameras: Mirrorless cameras are lighter and more compact while still offering great video quality and manual controls. Good options include the Sony a7 III, Panasonic Lumix GH5, and Fujifilm X-T3.

Action cameras: Action cams like the GoPro HERO10 or DJI Osmo Action are perfect for capturing your dog’s point of view or fast action shots. They’re small, rugged, and have built-in stabilization.

Lenses 

Wide angle zoom lens: A lens like the Canon 10-18mm or Sigma 10-20mm allows you to fit more of the environment into the frame when filming your dog. It’s great for landscapes or playing fetch.

Telephoto zoom lens: The Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 or similar telephoto zoom is ideal for close-up shots of your dog or when you can’t get near the action.

Prime lenses: Prime lenses like the 50mm f/1.8 have wide apertures perfect for bokeh blur effects. Great for portraits.

Macro lens: For really cool close-ups of details like your dog’s face or paws, a macro lens like the Canon 100mm f/2.8 is a must.

Stabilization Equipment

Gimbal: A handheld gimbal like the DJI Ronin-SC helps smooth out shaky footage when filming your dog on the move. This gives a cinematic effect.

Tripod: A sturdy tripod like the Manfrotto BeFree Live provides stable shots for more composed framing. Useful for interviews or stationary footage.

Monopod: Monopods allow freedom of movement while still providing some stabilization. Good for following your dog.

Slider: Get creative tracking shots with a motorized slider like the NEEWER 39.4”/100cm Motorized Camera Slider. Perfect for stylish running or fetch sequences.

With the right cameras, lenses, and stabilization gear, you’ll be ready to start capturing epic dog videos. Invest in quality equipment suited to your specific needs.

Filming Tips

When filming your epic dog video, there are a few key tips to keep in mind regarding locations, lighting, and camera angles.

Locations

• Film outdoors whenever possible, dogs love running around in nature and it makes for a more visually interesting backdrop. Parks, beaches, forests, and open fields are great location options.
• If filming indoors, choose rooms with nice natural lighting and space for your dog to move around. Living rooms, backyards, and dog training facilities can work well.
• Consider filming at multiple locations for variety. You can even tell a story as you move from place to place.

 Lighting 

• Filming outdoors on a sunny day is ideal. The natural light will make your dog shine.
• If filming indoors, position your dog near windows for flattering natural light. Or use artificial lighting like LED panels to brighten up shadowy rooms.
• Avoid having too much contrast between light and dark areas that may cause your camera to improperly expose the shot.
• When filming outside, shoot during the Golden Hours around sunrise or sunset for a warm, glowing look.

 Angles

• Vary your camera angles to make the video more dynamic. Shoot from eye level with your dog for engaging close-ups, or hold the camera lower to the ground for a cute “dog’s eye view”.
• Capture a mix of wide shots to showcase the whole environment, as well as tight shots to highlight your dog’s adorable face.
• Get creative with angles like slow-motion running shots from the front or dogs jumping towards the camera.
• Use higher angles from balconies or hilltops to establish landscape shots. Then transition into closer, lower angles with your dog.
• Keep your camera movement steady. Avoid shaky handheld shots. Use a tripod or stabilizer for smooth pans and tilts.

Editing Tips

Editing is key to taking your raw footage and turning it into an engaging video that viewers will love. Here are some tips for editing your dog videos:

Add Music 

Music can be a powerful way to set the mood and tone for your video. Choose upbeat, happy music with great lyrics. And make sure the music matches the energy of the video and doesn’t distract or overpower.

Fade the music in and out at the start and end so it’s not jarring. Adjust the audio levels so the music complements the original audio without drowning it out.

Use Transitions

Transitions like fades, wipes, and dissolves can smooth out jump cuts between clips and make the editing feel more professional. Use subtle transitions that don’t call too much attention to themselves.

Save flashier transitions for creative videos. For example, a slide transition could mimic a dog sliding into the frame. 

Apply Effects

Subtle video effects can enhance the look of your dog footage. For example, color correction can improve colors that look washed out or dull.

Slow motion or speed ramping effects highlight exciting moments like your dog catching a frisbee. Use them sparingly so they stand out.

Don’t go overboard on effects and filters. Let the natural charm of your dog shine through! Simple, well-executed editing often looks more professional than over-edited videos.

Also, consider using an AI tool like AI Video to generate more creative video clips! 

Sharing Your Video

Sharing your epic dog video with others online is one of the most rewarding parts of the process. There are several great platforms for getting your video seen.

YouTube

YouTube is the top destination for sharing original dog videos. Some tips for maximizing views on YouTube:

• Optimize your title and description with keywords people may search for
• Add your dog’s name and breed to the tags
• Engage with commenters and build a subscriber base
• Promote your videos on social media

Social Media

In addition to YouTube, leverage other social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to share your video. Consider creating short clips or compilations tailored for each platform. Use relevant hashtags and tag influential pet accounts.

By sharing your edited dog video across multiple platforms, you’ll be able to reach the widest audience of dog lovers possible!