This wiki page lists suggestions on how to produce a high-impact NanoTube video.
Drafting a video outline:
Creativity and clarity are important! Also, NanoTube videos are not limited to presentations of articles published in ACS journals.
Even normally-confidant speakers may have trouble finding the right words when the camera is actually rolling. As teleprompters are uncommon, consider the use of index cards held just above the camera or rehearsed memorization (read: practice audio recordings) of all lines. Both scientifically-trained viewers and the general public will appreciate a well-prepared message coupled with visually-arresting footage.
Video effects and filming location can create a professional look. Although videos are limited to ~90 seconds duplicate speakers or photograph overlays are useful storyline elements.
Additionally, the advice of friends and colleagues may be helpful in drafting the video outline and proofing the final product.
Preparing to film:
Filming next to laboratory instrumentation creates an interesting backdrop but is not always appropriate. Please note that proper safety equipment (e.g., safety glasses) should be used when in an active laboratory .
Suggested alternative locations are in-office or outdoors (but distraction-free!) using natural sunlight.
Editing:
After the raw footage is transfered to a digital editing station it is necessary to trim and sequence to prepare the final film. A variety of video software suites are available—use the one that best suits your needs.
Technical upload instructions are also available.
Legal considerations:
The unloader is responsible for ensuring the video complies with United States copyright law and ACS Nanotation Terms of Use (especially re-distribution rights for any music or images used). Additionally, please provide an appropriate copyright notice as the first comment to the uploaded video (i.e., © 2008 by ___________. All/some/no rights reserved.)
Additional Resources:
Many institutions and universities have professional staffing and equipment for digital content creation (e.g. Penn State Digital Commons).
Also, Current TV has prepared a number of easy-to-learn production techniques.