I've been disappointed by a lot of the magic I've seen on youtube, so I decided to post some tips for the young magicians out there. Please think about these things before you upload your video.

1. Watch your video before you upload it. Did you effectively perform the trick? The beauty of video, is unlike real-world performances you get the luxury of a do-over. Also, unlike real-world performances, so does the viewing audience so the deceptiveness of your performance must be held to a higher standard than normal. It most hold up to repeated viewings. If it can't withstand that level of scrutiny, don't upload.

2. Production values Make sure the camera is in focus, the scene is well lit, white balanced, good audio levels, no distracting backgrounds. You think I wouldn't have to say this, but just watch magic on youtube and you'll see that I do. If you are still getting set up when you hit "record", edit that part out... Better yet, get someone else to work the camera.

3. Present yourself! Point the camera away from your hands and crotch and get your face in the shot. Get some recognition for your performance. And for god sakes, put some decent clothes on! No more performing in your pajamas, gym shorts, whatever beat up old t-shirt you happened to have on at the time.

4. Come up with a new name for your video If you're doing the Laser scissors trick, don't call your video "The laser scissors trick", unless you want your viewers to find 10 related videos linked directly to yours that say "The laser scissors trick revealed!" Unethical jerks are out to ruin the magic, count on it. Plan ahead

5. Control the comments Either turn them off completely, or require that they get your approval before posting, otherwise you'll have those same jerks saying "The laser scissors were up his sleeve!" (also, see tip #1)

Really goos post Geoff!

In almost every beginners book on magic it says to never perform the same trick twice for the same person. In the advanced books it suggests changing the method, when repeating a trick. I feel that posting videos goes against the basics.

I keep all of my magic videos private. When I want feedback, I have others join and add me as a friend. Then I can let them watch a private viewing. I've also emailed bits to people as well.

I think for demo purposes, edited funny patter, flashy changes/restorations, and audience reactions are sufficient. Why post anything else?

That would be great,if people who upload videos heed that advice.

Very true. What your username Josh, as I bet you kick some major ass with your magic, Ed, (Eddini), C.H.

I'll hook you up Ed. Look for my invite.

Great advice

Stefan

I reckon this fabulous thread has earned Sticky-Status .

I would also like to add that you should take note of what will also be behind you in the shot. Try not to get your pile of laundry, trash cans, or any other items that don't fit into the shops.

It's also nice to see clean hands and finger nails. Don't mumble and talk like you have a mouth full of marbels or talk too fast.

I totally agree with all the point you mentionned on your post, I do not post video on youtube but i'v posted some on my facebook profile most of the video are just flourishes or visual trick that are hard to figure out even after repeatinig it like the melting point and aquarius.

I'd like to add that it isn't necessary to twirl between the fingertips every card before it's turned over. It can get irritating.