May is finally here! We’ve had a big couple of months with social isolation regulations meaning our traditional way of business was turned on its head. We have had to quickly adapt to overnight changes and many have scrambled to integrate digital and social media practices into their business model.
Communicating online can be difficult for some, especially if you don’t have a great understanding of digital and social media. However, we have never been in a better position to conduct business digitally, with just over 4 billion internet users globally. Video content is especially important for your business, as it is generally easier to digest by consumers. It can also have a lasting impact, as we are more likely to remember things that have been demonstrated through two mediums – audio and visual – which are two key components of digital content. Here are our must know tips!
If you are wanting to produce video content, see tips 1-5, however if you are wanting to hold a live video (such as Facebook or Instagram live) please omit tip 4!
- Planning. Planning can be as involved or basic as you’d like. You can create a script, or just draft some dot points to guide your conversation. It’s important to plan your video so that you stay on track and keep your audiences’ attention. An audiences’ attention span is an average of eight seconds. Therefore, the most important points of the video should exist within the first thirty seconds to grab their attention and keep them watching until the end of the video. With livestream content, you can create a loose plan and let your commenter’s participation guide you throughout the video. For example, if an audience member comments, make sure to answer any questions they pose to keep them engaged and watching!
- Filming. You’ll need to decide on what device to film or livestream your video. This could be your smartphone, tablet or video camera. It’s best to opt for the option with the best quality. You’ll want the video and audio quality to be as crisp as you can get it, as the quality of your video could deteriorate in post-production or in streaming. Your viewer’s internet connection can also affect the streaming clarity of your video. Hold your device or camera as still as you can, as shaking or moving can distract your audience. If you can get a staff member or friend to help you film your video, that’s great! However, if it’s just you, try propping your device on a stack of books or a solid rectangular like object. This will be sure to keep it stable. Moreover, make sure to keep yourself in frame, and film from the chest up, or a full body shot. If you’re filming your video by yourself, flip your device to a front facing camera to ensure you stay in shot.
- Location. Location is important! Consider filming your video in a well-lit area with a non-distracting background. Filming your video inside would be optimal, as outside lighting is often unpredictable, and can make your videos appear too bright (over exposed) or too dark (under exposed). Try and make sure your lighting source is ahead of you, not behind you, to ensure you don’t have any unappealing shadows. A great background to use is an inside wall where your logo is showing. This can help with brand awareness, whilst being simple and appealing to your audience.
- Editing. Your video will need to be edited after being shot. This can be as simple as cropping the end of the video to make it appear crisp and professional. This can be done on an iPhone or iPad by pressing “Edit” in the top right-hand corner. However, if you have shot multiple videos and would like to add music or effects, you’ll need to download editing software. Don’t worry, it’s not too difficult or techy! A great editing app you can download on your smartphone is Splice. It will allow you to crop videos and add multiple takes into one seamless video, whilst allowing you to add music and basic effects. If you’re working on a computer, apps like Vimeo, iMovie, Blender, and Adobe Premier Rush are great. If you get stuck, all of these apps have some great tutorial content on YouTube!
- Posting. You’re at the final stage- congrats! All you need to do now is publish it on your chosen medium. This could be your website or social media. Facebook will guide you through this process when you attach your video content. Make sure you post or schedule it for before or after work hours so it has the best chance of being seen by your audience. To hold a live video, go to Facebook and go to “Home” or your newsfeed. Simply click “Live”, allow Facebook permission to use your video and audio, add a description to your live video and invite others to join by clicking the top left. Once you are ready and prepared, click the blue “Start Live Video” button.
We hope this has been helpful to you. Like always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out! Check out our social media for more tips to help your business here! Happy posting 😊