Set Up: Environment

🌞 Lighting

Ensure your face is evenly lit with no shadows.

  • Example: If a window casts shadows on your face, change your orientation or use a ring light to even it out.
  • A large diffuse light will work best, providing consistent even and neutral lighting for the entire face.
  • This helps Phoenix to properly map your face, resulting in a better-looking video overall.

πŸ”Š Noise

Your space should be silent or almost silent.

  • Avoid noise from air conditioning, construction, traffic, refrigerators, and conversations.
  • Choose rooms with minimal reverb to prevent sound amplification.
  • Clean audio, free from background noises, will produce the best audio output for your replica.

πŸŒ† Background

Keep your background clear.

  • Remove moving objects.
  • Ensure no other people are visible in the video.

Set Up: Equipment

πŸ“· Camera & Placement

Use a high-quality camera with at least 2K pixels.

  • Examples: DSLR, newer laptops, iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel.
  • Frames per second: Optimal FPS is 30, but 24-60 FPS is acceptable.
  • Distance: Maintain a distance of 3ft-6ft (or 0.9m-1.8m) from the camera.
  • Level: The camera should be at eye level.
  • Lens: Ensure the camera lens is clean of smudges.

πŸŽ™οΈ Microphone

Start with your phone or computer’s microphone.

  • A high-quality mic can mitigate background noise/echo.
  • For external USB or XLR mics:
    • Place the mic 1ft (0.3m) from your mouth, not exceeding 2-3ft (0.5-0.9m).
    • Position the mic at least 1 inch below your chin to avoid blocking your mouth.
  • Wireless earbuds, like Apple AirPods or Samsung Galaxy Buds, are not recommended due to poor mic quality.

πŸ‘Ύ Software

Disable any software-based audio enhancements.

  • Turn off compressors, equalizers, noise suppression, etc., as we perform our own sound processing post-recording.

Set Up: Yourself

πŸ‘€ Gaze

Maintain eye level with the camera and act naturally.

πŸ—£οΈ Speaking Vibe & Pace

Be yourself and relax.

  • Pace: Take your time, don’t rush.
  • Pausing: Close your lips during pauses (the script will remind you).
  • Tone: Aim for an upbeat tone to keep content positive and engaging. Keep continuous eye contact with the camera. Be animated in your mouth, eyes, and cheeks.
  • Gestures: Keep hand gestures to a minimum and avoid blocking your face.
  • Mistakes: If you stumble, continue speaking. Perfection isn’t necessary.

πŸŽ… Accessories & Beards

If possible, avoid beards, glasses, and accessories.

  • Our model is still being refined to better process these elements.

This comprehensive guide ensures you capture the highest quality footage for your replica, leading to a more authentic and engaging digital representation.