Lights, Camera, Action | Steps to Your Video Success

Creating your first video is an exciting step. It can also be challenging, overwhelming and downright scary. However, the pros to integrating video marketing into your online efforts far outweigh the cons. Stepping into this medium is in my opinion, well worth the effort!In my four part series Steps to Video Success, you will learn how to write effective scripts, how to capture the attention (and information) of your viewers, where to post, how to post and what camera, lighting and additional equipment you will need to get started.

Why Use Video Marketing

• Video marketing offers an endless supply of content to your website and blog and gives your visitors the opportunity to see the guy or gal behind that great content. Use it for everything from educational to hyperlocal videos. Check out this fun example from David Ames.
• With the popularity of YouTube (We spend 2.9 billion hours on YouTube per month!!) adding video to your online presence can certainly be a game changer for your business.
• Statistics show that 80% of people will watch a video while only 60% will listen to an audio presentation and a mere 40% will read an article. WOW, those are telling stats!

The problem for most people is taking the first step. Whether it’s fear of the camera or a fear of the unknown, we usually are the biggest barrier between ourselves and video success. So before you go diving in, let’s take a look at the first 3 steps to your video success.

Choose Your Topic

• Is your topic relevant to your audience? Is it information that is of interest and does it provide a solution or answer to their needs? Look to your local news, industry headlines and keyword research for high demand topics.
• Does your topic offer value to your viewers? Just like any other content, your video should offer tips, advice and valuable offers. Video gives you the opportunity to impart timely information in an entertaining and appealing way.
• Does your content have an emotional appeal? Can you share a funny, poignant or inspiring story? Tapping into emotions isn’t necessary. However, it does help your viewers connect with you, your business and your message.

Create Your Script

• Outline your key points – What is the number one goal of your video?
• Include information that will connect with your audience. For example, a personal story that relates to your topic.
• Offer something that adds value to their life, solves a problem, gives them hope or shows them how to do something.
• Create a very clear call to action. What do you want them to do (opt in to your newsletter) or where what would you like them to check out (your new website).
• Now practice, practice, practice! I choose to do this in front of a mirror but you can also try it out on a loved one (This would be a supportive loved one that offers constructive not destructive criticism!)
• Time your content to ensure you move through your video quickly. (The average viewer won’t watch a video longer than 2 minutes)
• Create note cards and position them near your camera or use an online teleprompter to highlight your key points.

Choose the Right Equipment

• Have you purchased a video camera? Here are a view examples and specific cameras that I have used:
• Flip
• Pocket
• Orbital Webcam
• Tripod I LOVE the Gorillapod!
• Lighting – While natural lighting is always the best way to go, there are alternatives. Below is listed from least to most expensive.
• Clamp Lights
• Gorilla Torch
• Box Lights (kits)

Just remember, when it comes to video and creating your online persona, Be Yourself!Creating your brand is all about building credibility and trust between you and your audience. When who we are is accurately depicted in our video and writing, people will respond. Plus, being YOU on video is so much easier than acting!So get out there and start your video blogging journey!And don’t forget to check out our next installment in our Steps to Your Video Success series!