So you wanna make a video tutorial.....

But don't know where to start?

First a step-by-step list:

1) Pick the move you want to teach...... Options include: A move that is old for you, and you can do it well lots of different ways OR a move that is new to you, and you can't do it all the time (hey, you can edit out the drops!) but you've been working on it, and so have a newcomers perspective to the move (sometimes the hardest stuff to teach is stuff that I have been doing so long, that I forget what it was like to learn it, and which problems arose) OR Any other move that you have had some interesting thoughts on, OR pick a move at random and think about it for a day or two to see what thoughts pop into your head OR a move that has been requested OR.....do you get the picture? the possibilities are endless!

2) Think of some methods for teaching the move. You do not have to use every method you think of, just whichever strikes your fancy...Options include: step by step, slow mo, body movement without the hoop first, theoretical stuff (i always explain about levers and see saws when teaching a kick start..it helps minimize the bruising a LOT to understand about optimum use of force.), spiritual thoughts (not my forte, but I've always wanted to hear the unique view of the HoopPathers and such), what else is it like, break it down into parts, how does it feel, etc.

3) OPTIONAL but very HELPFUL: If at all possible try out your methods on a couple hoopers. Did the method work? What parts need clarification? Did the hoopers often make the same mistake? (If so, address this in your tutorial..."A common mistake is...You can fix it by...") This also gives you experience in vocalizing the more difficult concepts.

4) Test your camera. Make a little 5 second clip, and make sure everything works BEFORE investing the time to make the tutorial. For example, I need to set up a HUGE amount of lights (I use the extra bright ones plumbers and painters use) in order to get a video you can actually SEE.

5) Write out a tutorial plan. Brainstorm all the things you want to mention (write them down) then put them in the best order. I recommend re-writing it (in dark ink for visibility) once you've ordered it. Otherwise you have to follow around all the numbers and arrows that will indubitably be on your rough draft. I often use a straight pin to stick this paper to the floor, to follow like a teleprompter. If I can't see it while I am taping, I just go up and look at it. I can edit out that part later.

6) Either set up your camera on a tripod, or get a friend to tape you. I personally recommend the tripod, because I feel stupid doing it in front of someone. Make sure whatever body parts you need for the tutorial are within the frame. (For example if you are hand hooping above your head, make sure that would not be cut off)

7) Do the tutorial. Sometimes I start going on a tangent or explaining things badly. Then I just say out loud "I am going to cut that" or something similar, take a deep breath, and start over at the last place I was making sense. Make sure you say it out loud, it will help you when you go back to edit.

8)OPTIONAL: Edit the tutorial. Cut out useless bits. If you drop a lot, feel free to cut it. People don't watch a tutorial to see "real hooping" but rather to learn a move, or a method to teach a move. I use Windows Movie Maker. Most of you non-Apple-ites have this. Access it by going to "start" in the bottom left corner, then "all programs" then "accesories." It is VERY user friendly.

9) Save the tutorial in a internet friendly way. (i.e. smaller file size) and upload it. I recommend YouTube. They are very easy to use, and anyone can access them. (I generally just dont watch videos that require me to download DivX or somesuch.)

10) CONGRATULATIONS! You have made a video tutorial.

Sample Tutorial Lesson Plan- How to Waist Hoop

Here is a lesson plan that I was all ready to do (lights were up and everything) about a month ago, and then something else came up. It is for How To Waist Hoop. As you can see, all I write down is a very basic outline to remind me of the info I want to cover. While taping, I expound on each point as I get to it.

1) Watch Physics and Flow Toys vid

2) Get the Right Hoop
-Not kiddie toy
-Gaff or other grip tape
-Bigger is Better!

3) Learn to Hand Hoop
-Feel how your hand presses against hoop (same physics as waist hoop)
-Stalls

4) Take it off! (Note: this part was about hooping on skin vs cloth)

5) Stance

6) Quick push and stand still....Let hoop fall
-With hoop? No! AGAINST hoop!
-Reiterate some physics

7)Gentle push and Rock hips (explain how) shifting weight
-If bellydancer, do NOT isolate (yet)
-Methods of rocking....choose which you like

8) Different Stance options