Most businesses know that using video is an excellent tool for marketing themselves, so we're not going to try and sell you on the why, so much as the how.
What many businesses don't realise, is just how much content they can produce themselves, and it doesn't need to take massive amounts of time to create engaging content that boosts your social media presence.
I know, a video production company telling you to learn how to make videos yourself! Madness!
Well, not really. The way businesses market themselves on social media means that content needs to be quick, cost-effective and spontaneous. If you've been to a great networking event and want to create a short video about it, it doesn't make any practical sense to book a video production company, wait for them to arrive, film, edit etc., before putting out your video. This is what we call Active content, and we call it that because above all else, it requires action now for it to be of real value to your digital presence.
Businesses have become quite used to taking photos and sharing those online, but are often hesitant about shooting videos. Many people we speak to are put off by one of 3 things;
Concern about the overall quality of the video
A lack of confidence in front of the camera
Not knowing how to edit the video
Fortunately, we have solutions to all three of these issues, which means there is no excuse not to begin marketing your business with video.
1) Concern about the overall quality of the video
While smartphone cameras have improved drastically over the last decade, some people still worry about the quality of their shot. There are many tips we could give you on this one, which is why we run workshops teaching people how to shoot and edit on their phones.
To get you started, however, our Top 3 tips for getting better quality video content are;
Hold your phone horizontally - this will ensure it fits all platforms video players and gives you room to move your arms around or add text next to you. The only exception is for Instagram Stories.
Buy a Lapel Mic - You can get them for just a few pounds on eBay, and good clear audio is vital to get your message heard.
Stand Still - It can be tempting to try moving around or talking and walking to make the shot more interesting, but without a good gimbal, you risk making your audience feel motion sick. Use a selfie stick, or better still, a tripod to get a steady shot.
2) A lack of confidence in front of the camera
This is probably the biggest problem our clients face. If you're concerned about being in front of the camera, rest assured you are not alone. Gaining more on-camera confidence can be challenging, but you can tackle this in several ways. For example, a fantastic workshop we run to help you develop and deliver your messages. Otherwise, our tops tips for improving your confidence are;
You don't have to be in the video - Try starting your video journey with some exciting shots and voice over, or interview someone else. Over time, you'll get used to creating videos, and before long, you will be ready to step in front of the lens yourself.
Go Networking - Attend events where you have to stand and do a 30-60 second pitch, such as 4Networking. This will vastly improve your public speaking skills and grow your confidence.
Learn to Edit - If you know how to edit, it doesn't matter how many times you have to film your to camera pieces, you can just cut out anything you don't like.
3) Not knowing how to edit the video
Editing can help make your video look more professional, and allows you to be off-screen with the use of B-Roll (cutaways). Whether you're using an Android or iOS device, you will have access to editing software on your phone. Guess what, our fantastic workshop also covers how to edit your video footage, add titles and music! But, if you can't wait for the next one, there are a few things you can do;
Check Youtube - Youtube has a lot of great tutorials covering everything from app-based editing to industry professional software.
Download and learn - Editing apps are pretty straight forward to learn; it just takes a while and a bit of trial and error. You should be able to learn to cut together your clips in no time.
Speak to a tutor - There are several editors online that offer tutoring services which can be done in person or, if you prefer, online. A skilled editor will be able to show you around an editing app in a couple of hours. (Pop us an email if you want more info about our workshops and training)
So those are our top tips for DIY video. As you may have noticed in this article, we are promoting our next DIY Video Skills Workshop which will cover all of the above issues, as well as showing you our formula for turning content into leads and sales. If you're interested in taking the workshop, find out more here.
If you're not interested in the workshop, we hope you have still found some of this information helpful, and can start getting ready to think about beginning your video marketing journey.