They are everywhere, YouTube, AOL Videos, Flicker, Metacafe and many more. We are talking about people like you who make and post videos for the public to see.

With the availability of just about any topic, and I mean just about * any * topic, a video can address why not take the opportunity to have fun, learn a lot, and maybe earn a few extra bucks along the way. It can even help pay for all that equipment you wanted.

Speaking of equipment, you actually need very little to get started. Of course, you will need a camcorder and a computer to upload it to the video server. However, take heart; You don’t need anything near broadcast quality gear, especially when you’re just starting out.

When looking for a camcorder, consider the MiniDV format carefully. While newer MiniCDs and internal hard drive camcorders offer convenience, these formats don’t lend themselves to easy editing like MiniDV. One thing you don’t want to use is anything with analog tape, like VHS or Super 8. While these were popular formats, they are not digital, so editing is much more difficult with these systems.

Another consideration is a camcorder with an external microphone jack. While almost all entry-level camcorders will record adequate video (the right one may not necessarily be professional), without a microphone jack the sound will suffer. Videos with only adequate video and poor sound will not be successful; in fact, it can even be a deterrent to your future videos if someone buys your poor sounding video first. Remember — Sound matters!

An entry level camcorder that I have used and can recommend is the Canon ZR800. Currently (March 2008), the ZR800 can be purchased for less than $ 200 USD. This camcorder has a microphone jack and it’s likely the only one you’ll find for under $ 500 that will have one. Also, the image quality is good for a DIY video.

Another critical item that you must have is some kind of lighting setup. A very common lighting unit is a store-converted halogen lamp. These lights can be found in many large stores such as Big Lots, Lowes, Wal-Mart, etc. While they provide a lot of light, it is a strong light and needs to be dimmed a bit for video use. A good way to do this is to bounce the light off a nearby wall or use a foam board to reflect the light back to the subject. In a pinch, aluminum foil on cardboard or a reflective car sunscreen will do.

Now let’s get back to the microphone (mic). While you can spend hundreds or even thousands on a high-quality mic, that’s likely out of the question for most people just starting out. One suggestion is to search eBay for a lavalier condenser microphone or shotgun microphone. An advice; If you are using the ZR800, you need a condenser microphone with a built-in power supply. This built-in power supply (preamp) is generally powered by an AA battery or similar.

When I first started, I used a mic that was under $ 20. While I don’t recommend that it be that cheap, it does show what you can do with limited funds. Trust me on this case, the $ 20 mic sounded MUCH better than most built-in camcorder mics.

You need some way to get the video from your camcorder to your computer; Firewire is the most common and preferred way. When purchasing your camcorder, check to see if a Firewire is included or purchased separately. Here’s a tip. If the camcorder you are considering does not include a Firewire cable, purchase one from eBay. They are much less expensive there than at your local Best Buy / Circuit City type of store.

Also, make sure your computer supports Firewire; otherwise, you may need to install a card to accept the cable. It is a simple installation.

You already have a movie editor if you use Windows XP or Vista. It’s called Microsoft Movie Maker. Movie Maker is great, easy-to-use software that will take you a long way on your movie making journey.

The final piece of equipment required will be some kind of backdrop. A clear wall or even a sheet will do. Just make sure there is nothing in the background to distract your message.

Do you think you are ready to record your DIY video? STOP! Now is the time to plan or storyboard your production. The time you spend here is one of the most valuable you will spend. Consider recording your video in 4-5 minute sections to keep the viewer’s attention. Plan what you are going to say, do you need any support? Special configuration? Etc.

The last step is to practice, practice, and practice more. Check out YouTube for more great movie making ideas. The best for you and your projects.