Video Recording Guidance #
There are no particular requirements, nor restrictions for equipment used (particularly since WISDAA contests are non-comparative). One-act entries may use microphones for performers.
The current, most universal and versatile file format is .mp4. Use a free tool, such as CloudConvert (which is entirely cloud-based and can be run in your web browser), to convert video files to MP4.
Editing #
Recording should be single camera, single-take, except to allow stitching separate student video segments together (particularly where scheduling or bandwidth is a concern). Fade-in/out transitions are allowable in that context, but no other editing other than connecting the video with subtle transitions is allowed. Single-take recording does allow for camera switching for both in-person video capture as well as screen recording of videoconferences (such as using Switcher Studio or a similar tool). The key rule is no post-production editing, which is what delineates theatre from film.
Platforms & Sharing #
YouTube, Vimeo, and Dropbox are popular options. Advisors are responsible for ensuring the link from any video or file sharing platform is viewable by anyone, so adjudicators can see the presentations. Do NOT use links shared directly/privately to a specific email address, as those will not be accessible to the various adjudicators who attempt to access the link.
Sharing Instructions #
- YouTube (follow instructions for Unlisted videos)
- Vimeo (follow instructions for Unlisted videos)
- Dropbox (see section “Create and share a Dropbox link with view-only access”)
- Submit to WISDAA’s Dropbox
Google Drive[see red box below]Ludus AnywhereSeat[no longer available for hosting videos].
Adjudicators are encouraged to notify the State Office when they are unable to access a video, but it is up to advisors to respond quickly and within the window of time provided for adjudication. In cases where this cannot be resolved in a timely manner, the entry will be considered a no-show. Advisors are strongly encouraged to double-check that sharing settings are correct by accessing links from incognito/private browser windows, where they are not logged into their usual Google/YouTube/Dropbox account.
