Want to create stunning videos without all the fancy equipment? Christina Patterson of Beloved Women taught us all about the importance of video in today’s social media-driven world and how to get started. I always thought it took special equipment I didn’t have, or complicated technical skills to record and edit a video. Turns out, I may have been making excuses because I’m nervous to try it. Thankfully, Christina gave us her tips on jumping in and giving videography a chance so that we can serve our readers in another, more personable way.
Disclaimer: I received a free virtual ticket to the Blog Life University Conference as a member of the NC Blogger Network in return for sharing my conference notes and key takeaways. This post contains affiliate links. Purchases from these links provide a small commission to me at no extra cost to you.
Why Get Into Video?
Well here are some quick stats that Christina shared if you are reluctant to get started with video:
- 55% of people consume more video than simply reading a post
- Facebook live videos receive 135% more engagement than photos
- Open rates and click through rates on emails are higher with video
Don’t we want more engagement and higher click-through rates on emails we send? Encouraging interaction with our readers is essential for figuring out their biggest need so that we can serve them better.
What Equipment Will You Need to Create Stunning Videos?
Thankfully, Christina’s initial answer is simple: a smartphone is all you really need, the microphone on it works just fine. It’s how she got her start. Just hit record and go.
But as you discover your love for videography, here are some other tools Christina recommends.
- Canon Rebel camera for video
- Lavalier microphone like this one that clips to shirt for clearer audio
- Use natural light in front of a window if possible (a 3 box light system if you have to shoot at night)
- Windows Media Maker or iMovie
- Filmora editing software
- Adobe Premier Pro
- Terabyte external hard drive* and a hard case to protect it
What Do You Need Before You Hit Record?
- Do your research and create an outline.
- Use Google or YouTube search and see what “related searches” come up on your topic. It shows you what else people are looking for.
- Make sure your topic is clear and concise (not too broad so you can make a series of relevant videos).
- Pinpoint what new thing they will learn and what you can provide to help them.
- Remove distractions from the background (no clocks!).
- Keep a tight frame around you so you are the main focus.
Additional Components to Help You Create Stunning Videos
In the opening:
- Share a startling stat or promise how your video will help them
- A “bumper” – An animated logo to draw the reader in and looks professional. She paid $5 on Fiverr to have this done and it was up in 24 hours.
- Welcome – Establish your credibility and introduce yourself
- Share what you can offer
- Purpose – Include what the video is about
In the content:
- Fulfill the promise you made
- Make it concise and helpful
- 5-8 minutes long for a YouTube video or 2-3 minutes for a Facebook Live video
In the closing:
- Call to Action – Ask them to comment so you can talk with them further and promote engagement
More Advanced Strategies to Create Stunning Videos
Once you’re a video expert, Christina suggests these more advanced strategies to take your video to the next level:
- Overlay your logo on video to brand them
- Add background music
- Add a tagline, or something you always say at end of your video.
- Have an end screen with a link to the last episode, link to your channel, maybe a blooper reel to get viewers to stick around.
- Use a teleprompter. Content is all typed out, then you can copy/paste and transcribe it to add text transcript to bottom of your video.
Well, what do you think? Ready to jump into the world of videography? Christina definitely made the prospect less scary and showed us how it’s a wonderful way to connect with your readers on another level. Hearing your voice and your enthusiasm will help readers receive your message effectively and in a format they don’t get from simply reading the words on a screen. Video is the wave of the future on social media. Don’t miss out on the opportunity, jumping into videography doesn’t take fancy equipment to start, you just have to start.
Are you ready to take the plunge and record your first video or are you a video pro? What do you enjoy most about recording videos? How has it helped you connect with your readers? Let’s discuss in the comments!
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Leigh Hines says
Great advice.