What are the best ways to credit all collaborators in video production?

2 Use end cards or lower thirds

Another way to credit your collaborators is to use end cards or lower thirds. End cards are graphics that appear at the end of your video, usually with a black background and white text, that display the names and roles of your collaborators. Lower thirds are graphics that appear at the bottom of your screen, usually with a transparent background and colored text, that display the names and roles of your collaborators as they appear on screen. Both of these methods are useful for short videos, such as YouTube videos, commercials, or trailers, that do not have enough time or space for a full credit roll. They are also more visually appealing and engaging than plain text.

3 Use online platforms and social media

A third way to credit your collaborators is to use online platforms and social media. Many video hosting sites, such as YouTube, Vimeo, or Wistia, allow you to add tags, descriptions, and links to your videos. You can use these features to mention and link to the profiles or websites of your collaborators, as well as to give them a shout-out or a thank you. You can also use social media platforms, such as Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, to share your video and tag your collaborators in your posts. This way, you can not only credit them, but also promote their work and network with them.

4 Use contracts and agreements

A fourth way to credit your collaborators is to use contracts and agreements. This is especially important if you are working on a paid project, a commercial project, or a project that involves intellectual property rights. You should always have a written contract or agreement with your collaborators that specifies how they will be credited, how they will be paid, and how they will be able to use the video in their portfolio or resume. This will help you avoid any disputes, misunderstandings, or legal issues in the future.

5 Use creative and personalized credits

A fifth way to credit your collaborators is to use creative and personalized credits. This is a fun and unique way to show your appreciation and recognition for your collaborators, as well as to showcase your style and personality. You can use animation, music, sound effects, humor, or any other elements that suit your video and your collaborators. For example, you can use a video game style credit roll, a rap song that mentions your collaborators, a parody of a famous movie credit sequence, or a montage of behind-the-scenes footage and bloopers. The only limit is your imagination and your budget.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?