One of the best social media platforms for sharing videos right now is Instagram. There is a significant increase in video watch time. So many brands and marketers decide to create videos specifically for Instagram.
Here are some tips about how to create a perfect video for Instagram.
- Write a script
A script is the base of any good video. So, before you start recording, write down what you would want to show in the video.
If you are making a video documentary, write the script based on information, stats, and facts, etc. The script gives you a clear idea of video actions and flow.
Always keep in mind that the text needs to be concise so everything should be brief.
Write a script and edit it to take off unnecessary information. Keep editing until you reach a script that is compact enough. Make sure not to put extra words that take time away from viewers.
- Create a storyboard
In some cases, it makes perfect sense to create a storyboard as well. Here is why.
It may be better to have a clear guide on how the video will be recorded. Doing so will help save time as various errors are avoided on the papers, and no fluff content appears in the video.
A storyboard is a guide that visualizes how the video will progress and the types of shots or frames that will be used to develop the idea. Usually, you absolutely need to create a storyboard when you are working with content such as whiteboard videos for example.
The storyboard is the instruction on how to create a video. With instructions, it is easier to work and get the expected result.
- Use the right equipment to create your video
Next, select the equipment you need to create your video. You can use your phone camera or a specialized camera such as DSLR.
There is another option, i.e., using the inbuilt camera feature of the native Instagram app. But this option is not recommended as it offers limited settings. With the equipment, pay attention to lighting and audio.
If you want to create a high-quality Instagram video you can use lights and an external microphone.
- Check the Settings
Before you hit record on your camera make sure to check the settings you are using.
Keep in mind the technical specifications for the perfect Instagram video which are as follows: Codec H.264, Audio AAC, bite rate 3,500 kbps, 30 frames per second (fps), 15 MB as maximum file size, and the maximum width of 1080 pixels.
In case you are using a fancy camera, you will see there are many options you can adjust, Exposure, auto or manual focus, frame rate, resolution, white balance, etc. So you can get really creative with it.
On your phone camera, the setting options are limited, but still, you can create effective videos with nothing but your phone.
- Video Editing
Video editing will make a difference.
The post-production process is usually a very time-consuming task that’s why many Instagram influencers or businesses that post on Instagram chose to outsource video editing.
Just make sure to communicate all your requirements, branding guidelines and editing style with your contractor, otherwise, the video editing services you will be getting will not represent your brand’s voice.
Export the final edit in a square or 4:5 aspect ratio. There are many tools available that help you edit your video in square format. Square or vertical videos perform better than landscape videos on Instagram as they are using more screen real estate on people’s phones.
While editing, it is important to consider the duration of the video and not abuse the use of effects. Remember that you only have a few seconds to capture the attention of your target audience.
- Description and Thumbnail
Once you have the final edited video, make the thumbnail of the video and the description of the post so that in combination, they draw attention to the brand and convey the idea of the video.
Both the thumbnail and the description should contain elements of intrigue that are funny or emotional.
For the thumbnail, you can just capture a frame of the video or create a personalized creative out of that. If you don’t, Instagram will choose the first photo of the video and use it as a cover to show the material.
- Use Hashtags
Finally, before publishing the video you created, it is very important to use relevant hashtags to promote your video. Know that leveraging the hashtags is an effective method to boost the reach and visibility of the content.
So make sure you place these tags in a sense that makes them relevant to the video. There’s an entire strategy behind hashtagging, so make sure to do your research and see which are the most common hashtags used in our niche.
Make your research and discover more tips and techniques about video creation and promotion on Instagram.