How I WRITE ON TOP of My Videos using the iPad - Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to overlay handwritten text from your iPad onto your videos, creating a visually engaging presentation style. This technique is perfect for educators, content creators, or anyone looking to enhance their video communication by adding a personal touch. We will cover the necessary tools, planning, recording, and editing steps to achieve this effect seamlessly.

Chapter 1: The Tools You Need

To get started, gather the following tools:

• iPad: For writing and drawing.
• Apple Pencil: Essential for precise handwriting.
• Note-taking app: Use an app that supports black paper backgrounds (e.g., Goodnotes).
• Black paper template: Ensure it is truly black, not gray. Templates can be downloaded from the creator's links if needed.
• Recording device: This can be a professional camera or a smartphone.
• Video editing software: Final Cut Pro is recommended, and a 90-day free trial is available for Mac users.

Chapter 2: Planning

Before filming, take time to plan your content:

1. Identify your concept: Choose a topic that benefits from visual explanations (e.g., math problems, scientific concepts).
2. Visualize your content: Think about how you want to present the visuals alongside your spoken words.
3. Simplify your idea: For your first attempt, keep the concept straightforward to ease the learning process.

Chapter 3: Recording

Follow these steps to record your video:

1. Set up your location: Choose a comfortable space to record.
2. Prepare your iPad: Open your note-taking app and select the black paper template.
3. Screen record on your iPad:
   • Swipe down from the top right corner to open the control center.
   • Tap the screen recording icon to start recording.
4. Record your video: Start your camera and explain your concept while writing on the iPad.
5. Stop recording: Once done, stop the recordings on both devices.
6. Transfer files: Use AirDrop or an SD card to upload the video files to your computer.

Chapter 4: Editing

Now, let’s combine your recordings in Final Cut Pro:

1. Open Final Cut Pro: Don’t be intimidated; focus on the basic tools.
2. Create a new library:
   • Go to File > New > Library.
3. Create a new project:
   • Press Command + N, title your project, and click OK.
4. Import your videos:
   • Drag the camera video onto the timeline.
   • Drag the iPad screen recording above it.
5. Align clips: Ensure both clips are synced properly.
6. Cut clips if necessary: Use Command + B to cut any mistakes.
7. Apply the overlay effect:
   • Select the iPad recording clip.
   • Change the blend mode to "Overlay" in the top right corner.
8. Enhance readability:
   • Create a black background by inserting a screenshot of your black paper template.
   • Adjust its opacity to ensure the text stands out.
   • Optionally, apply a Gaussian blur effect to the talking head video to enhance focus on the text.

Chapter 5: Alternate Method

If you’re short on time, you can film your speaking segment first and record the iPad visuals later. Speed up the video playback in Final Cut Pro to match your spoken content. This method allows for more flexibility in editing.

Conclusion

This tutorial covers the essential steps to create an engaging video with handwritten overlays using your iPad. With the right tools, planning, and editing techniques, you can create visually captivating content that enhances your message. Experiment with different concepts and styles to find what works best for you. Happy creating!