Your guide to video content creation - Part 1

What does this mean?

Well, if you’re going to get your audience to pay attention to you, then you need to create videos, and a lot of them. Whether you're just starting out or you're looking to up your video game, this guide is perfect for you. It's packed with all the tips and tricks you need to make video content that grabs people's attention and makes your brand stand out.

Introduction to video content creation

So you want to get into video content creation? Here are some stats to get you up-to-date in the world of video.

What type of video content are companies creating?

• In 2023, companies are seeing the most return in product videos, educational videos, and webinars. (HubSpot, 2023)

• Most videos are between 2 to 4 minutes long. (Vidyard, 2023)

5 reasons why video is important for your brand

Let's look at some numbers from the Wyzowl video marketing report:

• 96% of people have watched an explainer video to learn more about a product or service.

• 89% of people say watching a video has convinced them to buy a product or service.

• 79% of people say watching a video has convinced them to buy a software or app.

• 91% of people say they want to see more online videos from brands in 2023.

• 51% of people are more likely to share video with their friends than any other type of content, making video comfortably the most ‘sharable’ type of online content.

4 misconceptions about video content creation

Before we start talking about how to create videos, let's clear up the myths that stop many people from getting started or keeping at it.

1. You need a whole new video content plan: You don't need to hit the drawing board if you want to start using video. While it's true that video content can benefit from tailored strategies, it can also be seamlessly integrated into an existing content plan. Video can complement and enhance other content types (blogs, case studies, ebooks, etc.), offering a dynamic and engaging way to communicate text that you already with out the need for an entirely separate strategic framework.

2. Video creation is expensive: Many believe that making videos costs a lot of money. While it's true that some videos, like high-quality commercials, can be pricey, making videos doesn't always have to break the bank. These days, with smartphones and affordable software, you can make good videos without spending a lot of money.

3. You need specialized skills to create video: Some people think you need to be a pro to make videos. But now, with easy-to-use software, anyone can start making videos. You don't need to be an expert; you just need to be willing to learn and get creative.

4. Video creation is a time-consuming process: It's a common belief that making videos takes a lot of time. Sure, some videos, especially those with lots of details or high-quality effects, might take more time to make. But not all videos need to take that long. With good planning and the right tools, making videos can be pretty quick and easy.

Video is not rocket science. It is fun and effective when you know what you’re doing.

‍How to start creating video content for your business

Where do I start when it comes to video content creation? What should I create? How do I create it? What equipment do I need? These are the questions that often hold companies back when they decide to start creating video.

So, before you move on with anything, ask yourself these questions instead:

• What type of videos do I want to make? Why?

• What is my video creation strategy?

• What do I want to communicate?

• What goals do I want to achieve?

• What platforms will I publish on?

Have trouble answering them? Good, we’re going to help you.

5 types of videos you can create

Navigating the world of video creation can be a bit like solving a puzzle. Many businesses aren't aware of the different types of videos they can create, leading to unnecessary spending on external experts, wrestling with complex software, or producing videos that don't quite hit the target.

We're here to simplify things for you by breaking down your options and helping you focus on what's most effective.

1. Text-based video

Text-based videos are the secret weapon in your video arsenal. They're super easy to make (no need for any editing expertise), highly effective on social media platforms where silent feeds are the norm, and they democratize content creation within your team.

But here's a tip: while tools like Canva and Adobe Premiere Pro can create text-based videos, they usually require some editing know-how and aren't the easiest to scale.

Our preferred solution? Storykit. This is because you start with the text and turn it to video, rather than the other way around. We'll explain this in more detail further down.

2. Talking head videos

These videos are trending, especially in sales. They are perfect for adding a personal touch to individual profiles and interactions. But remember, they might not be the best choice for larger-scale brand messaging. Want to give them a try? Platforms like Loom make creating these videos easy and efficient.

3. Webinar/interview style videos

Webinars and interview-style videos are fantastic for in-depth storytelling and engaging with your audience on a more personal level. They're perfect for educational content, expert discussions, or deep-dives into specific topics. While they require a bit more planning and might involve coordinating with guests, platforms like Zoom and Contrast can simplify the process considerably.

4. Animated videos

Animated videos, like the ones you've seen from Dropbox, are fun and can make a big impact. However, they require a bit more expertise to ensure they stay on-brand and consistent. You can create these videos using platforms like Animaker, but be prepared for a learning curve.

5. Big production style videos

Think about major players like Google, Apple, or Nike. They have the budget for high-end, professionally shot campaigns that showcase their brand and products. However, if you're a smaller or mid-sized company, this approach might be overkill. These videos are expensive, not always evergreen, and hard to produce frequently. So, if you're just starting with video, you might want to hold off on this type.