Lights! Camera! Action!December 13, 2011
Video is an essential feature on Web sites. Web video is particularly important for small and mid-sized businesses as they represent the largest percentage of online businesses in the US. Having a video on your site can generate foot traffic as well as increase your search engine optimization.
First set-up an account a free account with Youtube.com or there are several private online services that will hosts videos for you. Not familiar with Youtube? Check out this tutorial, you'll be set-up in 10 minutes: Tuturorial: YouTube Account Set-Up
You can successfully dive in only after you review a few do's and don'ts.
VIDEO DO’S
- Produce video with a steady hand
- The “Blair Witch” documentary style often deters more attention than it invites
- Be mindful of lighting
- Too dark and the view will not be able to see, too bright and it’s irritating to watch
- Make audio audible
- Pay attention to sound, background noise is ok (IF APPLICABLE TO VIDEO)
- Main focus must be the “star” of your video, must be the predominant voice
- Keep is short and sweet and fun!
- People will get bored if you drag it on, why take 5 min to learn something when you can learn it in 3 minutes?
VIDEO DON’TS
- Don’t “free style” it
- Plan it out, determine the process in advance
- Don’t speak heavy industry jargon
- If they are watching your video, they’re trying to learn, not be frustrated with un-translated terminology
- Don’t discuss multiple topics in the video
- If you want to discuss multiple things, have multiple videos
- Too many topics are unappealing
- Don’t condescending
- Be knowlegeful and informative, but remain modest and explanatory
VIDEO-POINTERS
- WITTY FUN is your goal, information mixed with awe. Captivate, entice, and make your viewer yours. Whereas knowledge is important, if they’re bored, they won’t learn.
- DIAMOND your video is better than gold, it’s valuable, captivating and valuable. Diamonds are one color, one shape, one theme. Keep it simple, complication is a deterrent.
Making a movie can be simple. Use a high quality webcam or videographer. Become familiar with Windows Movie Maker, you can find a 10 minute crash course here: 10 Minute WMM Course