You don't need high tech equipment to dazzle on video!
It's true Reader, video has become one of the key elements for a killer social media content strategy.
I tell all my clients to at least incorporate at least one type of video into their social media strategy to start (e.g. a IG Reels or Stories, Facebook Lives, Youtube Shorts).
It's such a great tool to use to build trust, have conversations and tell a story!
I can crank out intentional content in less than 5 minutes NOW, but at first it took practice and it was a little time-consuming. But the returns are worth it.
Most importantly, you don't need high tech equipment to create a FAB video!
Over many years of getting comfortable with video and learning what sets me up for success and shoot like a pro for social media, there are really only these 8 items that are essential:
- Understand platform limitations on length of videos as well as ideal lengths for videos - Instagram limits to 90 seconds with reels, TikTok videos can go up to 10 minutes. Facebook's cap is high, but an ideal length might be 1 minute.
- Focus on the right subject - Make sure the subject is clear and visible and is easy to understand. The environment around the subject should help support the story you're telling but not distract from it
- Ensure Good Quality Lighting - Natural Light is the best, and even better is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset! Otherwise avoid harsh sunlight and shadows on the subject, and if you're indoors avoid being right by a window
- Ensure Good Quality Sound - Try to get highest quality sound possible, and try to avoid background distracting noises. I might even consider using an extra microphone
- Ensure Camera is Steady - no one likes a shaky video unless that's part of the story 😁 Tripod to the rescue or just hold your phone with 2 hands.
- Shoot in Portrait Mode - Make sure to optimize your content for mobile. Did you know that TikTok won't reorient from portrait mode? Take time to understand the platform specs to make sure you're uploading the right dimensions and file size
- Catch Attention in the first 3 seconds - Have you noticed that most platforms autoplay videos as you scroll? And 65% of viewers who have their attention captured in the first 3 seconds will continue watching. So try adding movement and get right to the point of your story/ask a question right away so you can stop that scroll!
- Make it understandable without sound - Considering autoplays are mostly shown with sound off, create videos that are strong in the visual storytelling, and consider adding subtitles, texts, and closed captions to make it accessible for anyone who might be hearing impaired.
And FINALLY Reader....have fun!
I promise you, there's someone on the other side of the camera who's waiting for you to hit record! Like this IG Reel I created yesterday using a few clips from my waterpark trip with my kid last week.
Any questions? Hit reply and let me know!
Cheers!
Prathi