Tips How To Get Started With Video Marketing

Tips for those starting with Video Marketing

Firstly, I suggest that you find a topic that you are very comfortable with so that you feel completely relaxed. If it is a new topic to you then first do extensive research. Always plan ahead so that you have really good product samples to show or interesting people to interview. Think in advance about the final production so that you position yourself and objects in a way that the final production of the video will facilitate the extra information you wish to bring in as overlays etc.

What are the steps that you take to prepare before making a video?

Firstly, I make sure that I am well practiced in what I’m going to say and what I’m going to show. I always practice everything I do at least twice. If I have a very defined short timeline then I will practice it up to four or even six times so it is perfect.

Secondly, I will scout out the location where the filming will take place. For me to be totally comfortable I need to know where all the wires are and the best viewing points. I need to control the lighting and sound quality. It is important to mitigate interruptions.

Using a script for filming?

If you are making a video with lots of technical terms and phrases which you feel you might have issues recalling correctly then you might find an autocue useful. I do not use scripts for most of my video work and often go by memory. I only use scrips with my own autocue when I am making formal training videos. You can purchase an autocue very easily.

Is it true that expensive equipment is needed to get started with video marketing?

You do not need expensive equipment to get started with video marketing. A good smart phone is all that you need to make a simple start. The newest smart phones have cinematic functions and very good image quality.

The next item to invest in is a good microphone. You can get a microphone that will use an audio jack or a lightning connector to an iPhone and these will give you superb sound. Always read the instructions for the microphone because good quality microphones can often be unidirectional or cardioid type microphones. They will need your voice to come from a particular direction.

Now the lighting, one of my favorite topics as I was a full time lighting designer. You will probably need artificial lighting when there is insufficient daylight.

You can choose from a selection of products from ring lights to soft boxes, umbrella lights and other type of lighting units.

Another important “must have” is knowledge about how to use good lighting techniques. I recommend the three light setup as the basic starting point. I always use it. This enables you to look good and the area you are in.

You do not need artificial lighting all the time. Good lighting is possible if you have ample daylight. You must be able to control direct sunlight from creating areas of huge contrast.

I also feel that location is a very important aspect. Make sure that there is no excessive background noise and nobody disturbing you making your videos. If you make videos solo (like I often do) then you will need to have stands and brackets that are available for microphones, lighting and camera equipment.

The end goal is successfully promoting your business or brand. Video is successful in online marketing particularly social media so keep going and learn from all your tests and mistakes and early successes.

Video Marketing Tips Podcast – Clive Roach & Ieva Vaitiekūnait?

Here is a podcast with Ieva Vaitiekūnait? as the host interviewing me. The topic is getting started with video marketing. Watch the video here

In Summary

My advice if you have not made any videos is to get started and make your first one. Then the second and then the third etc.

You will quickly learn about the factors that make your videos successful for your target audience and the aspects you like which makes them fun to make.