Whether you are operating an online consulting business, eCommerce store, or a local retail location, one thing is certain- your business needs at least one video to be discoverable online.
Consider the following:
Using the word “video” in a marketing email subject line increases opens by 19%.
By 2017, 74% of all internet traffic will be video.
Online video now accounts for 50% of all mobile traffic.
Social media posts including videos boost views by 48%.
59% of senior executives prefer to learn about professional topics through video, rather than text.
The research is compelling and the message is clear- If your business marketing mix does not include the use of video, you are missing out on huge opportunities.
Create a DIY Video Studio
Is your marketing budget on a shoestring? No problem.
Set up your own video studio in your office, conference room, a hallway, or even a walk in closet. The secret is to piece together all of the necessary components and your audience will never know the truth about the location of your studio.
- Use a backdrop. Shooting video in front of a solid background creates the most professional look on a budget. Painted walls can create a glare and are not recommended. A roll of seamless paper taped to a wall will do the trick.
- Use studio lights. Overhead lights throw shadows across faces in a way that screams amateur. Three well placed lights will give the appropriate amount of light for the video shoot. Block out natural light and overhead light. FancierStudio is a great place to get packages on lighting kits and backdrops for less than $200.
- Control sound. To avoid the echoes of an empty room, you may need to dampen the sound to create a professional video sound. Be sure to turn off ventilation vents and invest in sound dampening material.
Let’s Get Shooting
Choosing a Camera
If you have decided to invest in a professional camera for ongoing use, consider one of these options for professional quality with a cinematic blurred background:
- Canon DSLRT5i/T3i
- Canon 60D/70D with the 50mmf/1.8 lens
- Canon PowerShot
- Blackmagic Micro Ultra HD Studio Camera
- Nikon D3300
Keep in mind that although DSLR cameras are the best when it comes to versatility, they sell as “body only.” So, in addition to the DSLR camera, remember that you will have to purchase various lenses as well.
Choosing a Microphone
Lavalier microphones are small and clip onto the speaker’s shirt. If the talking head plans to move around or demonstrate a product, lavaliers are great because there are several inexpensive wireless versions. Placement is everything with these microphones, though. They should be placed about six inches below the chin and have an unobstructed path to the mouth for the best sound.
Here are a few of our favorite options:
Shotgun microphones are a bit simpler, especially if your studio space is permanent. When the shotgun mic is set up, speakers can easily shoot videos on the fly without much mic prep or testing. The shotgun mic isn’t visible and delivers a clear sound without having to be as close as the lav mic. If this mic will work best for you, consider the following:
- Rode Videomic Shotgun Mic
- Sennheiser MKE 600
- Audio Technica AT897
Add Finishing Touches with Software
The difference between an amateur looking video and a professional one is the detail and attention that is put into the editing, the voiceover, the screencast, and any other graphic additions or touches. With the right tools, your finished product can look like a million bucks, even on a budget.
Video Editing Software
Editing your video is more than just arrangement and trimming. Simple footage can be transformed into dynamic and compelling content with a few creative tools.
Additional Video Graphics
If additional graphics or screenshots would take your video to the next level, a few tools are perfect for adding additional visual interest.
There are limitless options when it comes to creating your own videos for business marketing purposes. This ultimate guide was designed to narrow your search and get you started. In addition to professionally made explainer videos, every business is wise to invest in creating a personal connection with their audience through the use of ongoing videos.
"The video looks great, thank you!"
