By now you know that an initial email with a video increases click-through rate by 96%. There is no doubt that video is the new, most effective way to share content, but in reality the videos you make are only as valuable as the message they convey. To make a impactful, high-quality video here are a few best practices to follow:
1. Prepare Your Speech
It is always beneficial to rehearse what you’re going to say before you start recording. Do a few practice runs in your head, jot down notes or even write a full script. The more prepared you are to record, the less time it will take to make your recording. If you make a mistake while recording, don’t be afraid to do another take. It is up to you to make a good impression. Don’t forget to speak concisely and slowly so that people can fully understand what you are saying.
2. Look Presentable
While you might be fully comfortable working from home in your Calvins, people would much rather watch a professional in a video. Don’t be afraid to dust your shoulders off in a nice outfit for your shoot — especially if your new, snazzy Tartan plaid blazer.
3. Use Good Lighting
You don’t need to be a Hollywood socialite to know that good lighting is the key to making a selfie recording look good. Position yourself in ample natural or artificial light to brighten your pretty mug and pearly whites. You can also find some very cost-effective portable or tripod-mounted lighting kits online which make a world of difference.
4. Use a Good Microphone and Avoid Background Noise
Aside from being Rick Rolled, there is nothing worse than background noise in a video recording. Find a quiet place where you can do your recording and don’t be shy to use a wired or Bluetooth-enabled microphone to record your voice. If you really want to sound crystal, consider buying a USB, shotgun or Lavalier microphone to connect to your computer or mobile device.
5. Find a Comfortable Position and Maintain Good Posture
Seeing someone positioned uncomfortably or unnaturally on camera can be hard to watch. Find a comfortable position either seated or standing and try not to fidget or stare in different directions. If you’re going to record a video while walking, make sure you are holding your camera so that it does not shake erratically and annoy your viewers.
6. Get Your Framing Right
The ideal framing of a video is a medium-shot which includes your face and torso. Avoid being too close to the camera or too far away — especially if you don’t have a stand-alone microphone.
7. Stabilize Your Camera
It can be distracting if your camera is shaking while you are recording. Set your phone on a lifted object or use a tripod to stabilize your mobile device. Don’t forget to not have the camera too low, otherwise you will get the double neck look!
8. Personalize Your Message
If you’re sending a personalized video message to one person, don’t forget to include their name at the beginning and possibly even the end of the message. We sometimes recommend using a whiteboard and writing the person’s name on it as the first frame of the video to give a personalized effect.
9. Be helpful, not Salesy
Remember, you can record a personalized video for one person or for multiple people to watch. Either way, make sure your message is clear, concise and truly helpful to the recipient. It is very easy to communicate the things that you want, but you will always receive a better response if you frame your message as educational, beneficial or entertainment to the recipient of the message.
And last, but not least…
10. Don’t forget to smile!
This article was submitted by Dubb. You can find the original content here.