skip to Main Content

Practical Tips for DIY Video Production

Digital Video is a Valuable Marketing Asset.

Video has fast become a valuable asset for online marketing, allowing businesses to gain visibility and reach new customers on the social web. And even if you’re not ready to make the leap to invest in professional video marketing services, you can still use this powerful tool to promote your brand online.

Advances in technology have made it easier than ever for anyone with a video camera, some editing software, and an internet connection to create and distribute videos on the Web. With a bit of do-it-yourself initiative, you can take advantage of the benefits of digital video, without incurring major expenses.

Ready to get started?
Here are a few tips you may want to keep in mind, to maximize your success at DIY video marketing…

Use a Storyboard
It might seem excessive if you’re only making a short promotional video, but when producing scripted videos of any length, a storyboard will help keep you organized, disciplined, and mindful of the big picture.

Shoot More Than You Think You Need
Get multiple takes, shoot from a variety of angles, and make sure to get plenty of supplemental footage (what the pros call “B-roll”). This gives you options and flexibility when it comes time to edit the final product.

Keep the Camera Still
Unless you’re trying to achieve the “shaky cam” look for a very specific reason related to the story you’re telling, you want to keep the camera level and still, so keep your camera on a tripod.

Be Careful When Adding Music and Graphics
Using licensed assets without permission or proper attribution can land you in hot water. Steer clear of headaches by using music, sound effects, or graphics you’ve made yourself – or, those that are royalty-free, or that you’ve purchased the rights to use.

Include Video Captions
Recent estimates suggest that up to 80% of videos on Facebook are viewed with the sound turned off. So, if you plan on distributing through this or any other social media channels, you may want to use video captions to maximize the effectiveness of your videos.

Video marketing doesn’t have to involve a major commitment of funds. With a small investment and software, and a bit of practical know-how, you can produce your own digital videos for your business, and modernize your marketing strategy, DIY-style.

 

Back To Top
Search