A Guide to Social Media Marketing

Shoot to Thrill

Capturing video footage for social media is like giving your online presence a creative boost. Imagine being able to showcase your projects, events, and life in a dynamic and engaging way that truly captures the essence of who you are and what you do. It’s like adding sprinkles to a delicious ice cream cone; only the sprinkles are high-quality video footage, and the ice cream cone is your social media marketing presence. With the right approach, video content can help you stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on your followers.

In today’s digital age, social media marketing has become an indispensable tool for businesses, organisations, and individuals alike to promote their brand, showcase their projects, and connect with their audience. With so many different platforms to choose from, each with its own unique specifications for video content, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, to help you navigate the often-complex world of social media video production.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro with years of experience or just starting out, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to create videos that look and sound their best, no matter where you share them. From the right aspect ratio to invest in good equipment, and from keeping it short and sweet to paying attention to sound and lighting, this guide will cover all the important dos and don’ts you need to know to create engaging and memorable social media videos.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to take your social media marketing game to the next level with this comprehensive guide on filming for different social media platforms!

Filming for social media video platforms – the do’s and don’ts

When it comes to filming for social media, there are a few things you should keep in mind, or you may end up with a video that’s as exciting as watching paint dry. But don’t worry, we’re here to save the day!

Dos:

• Do choose the right aspect ratio: Each social media platform is unique, and that includes the aspect ratio they prefer. So, before you start filming, make sure you know which format your chosen platform likes best. For example, Instagram is all about that square life, while YouTube is all about the widescreen look.

• Do invest in good equipment: Sure, you don’t need to have the latest and greatest gear to make great videos, but investing in some quality equipment can make a huge difference. Choose a camera with good image quality and sound recording capabilities, and consider adding lighting, tripods, and mics to your setup to enhance your videos.

• Do keep it short and sweet: Attention spans on social media are shorter than a Goldfish’s, so keep your videos concise and to the point. Aim for videos that are no longer than 2-3 minutes, or break up longer content into shorter clips for maximum engagement.

• Do consider the audience: Know your audience and what type of content they enjoy and engage with. Make sure your videos align with their interests and preferences, whether that’s humorous, educational, or inspiring content.

• Do use storytelling: People are naturally drawn to stories, so incorporating storytelling into your videos can be a powerful way to connect with your audience and build a relationship with them. Think about how you can bring your brand’s story to life in a way that resonates with your audience.

• Do experiment with different formats: Don’t be afraid to try different video formats, such as time-lapse, slow-motion, or stop-motion. Experimenting with different styles can help you find what works best for your brand and audience, and keep your content fresh and exciting.

Don’ts:

• Don’t neglect sound quality: Good sound is just as important as good visuals, so invest in quality microphones and sound-recording gear. And for the love of all that is holy, check your audio levels before you start filming!

• Don’t ignore lighting: Lighting can make or break a video, so make sure you pay attention to it. If you’re filming indoors, consider using softbox lights or other lighting gear to enhance your shots. And if you’re filming outside, choose a location with good natural lighting.

• Don’t neglect editing: Keep your videos short and sweet, but don’t skip out on the editing process. Take the time to edit your videos, removing unwanted footage and enhancing the overall look and feel.

• Don’t forget about the background: Your background can either enhance or detract from your footage, so be mindful of what’s behind you when filming. Choose a clean, uncluttered background or use a green screen for ultimate versatility.

• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Social media marketing is all about standing out from the crowd, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different filming techniques and styles. Try shooting from unique angles, using slow-motion or time-lapse, or playing around with color grading to make your videos truly stand out.

Conclusion

As the importance of visual content on social media continues to grow, it becomes increasingly crucial to know how to properly film and edit videos that will engage and captivate your audience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, following the dos and don’ts outlined in this guide will give you a strong foundation for creating videos that will truly stand out from the crowd.

It’s important to remember that each social media platform is unique, and as such, may require a different approach to filming and editing. Whether you’re creating content for Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, or any other platform, knowing the specific requirements and best practices for each can make all the difference in the success of your videos.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. While there are certain guidelines you should follow, there’s also room for creativity and innovation. Try new filming techniques, explore different editing styles, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and try something new. The key is to find what works best for you and your audience and to continue to refine and improve your approach over time.

Ultimately, the goal of social media marketing is to connect with your audience, share your message, and build your brand. With the right equipment, a little know-how, and a passion for creativity, you’ll be well on your way to creating videos that will truly capture the attention of your followers and leave a lasting impression. So, grab your camera, and let’s start filming!

We’ve created tons of content specifically tailored for social media campaigns, so if you are interested in having a look at some of the above in application, check out our social media marketing page.

Thinking about using an award winning production company for your next project?