6 Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Online Video

Should I use a script?

Absolutely not! We’ve mentioned it several times on other blog posts, but using a script in an online video is a big mistake. We naturally make microexpressions when we speak, and these microexpressions are critical when it comes to your authenticity and believability on camera. When you use a script, you seem less natural and thus less believable. It’s okay to have a general idea of what you want to say in the video, but memorizing a script word-for-word is never a good idea.

What should I wear?

Solid colors work best on camera, with the exception of white (which should be avoided – it messes up the camera’s exposure levels). You want to look professional, but approachable. Depending on your industry, a suit and tie (or the female equivalent) in dark colors are generally best. If you work in a more relaxed field, such as photography or hospitality, business casual is the way to go.

How long should each video be?

This depends on a few factors; the purpose of the video, and how long you need to get your point across. Typically, the shorter the better. Consumers these days have a very short attention span. If you’re just answering a simple question, the video only needs to be 20-45 seconds long. If you’re explaining a specific service, 1-2 minutes might be more appropriate.

Here is a handy list from One Market Media that outlines the best video lengths depending on purpose:

  • Corporate Overview Videos  – 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Product or Service Promotions – 60 to 90 seconds.
  • Customer testimonials –  1 to 2 minutes
  • Viral Videos – 60 to 90 seconds.
  • Video Case Studies – 2 to 4 minutes.
  • Training Videos – 2 to 30 minutes.
  • Product Reviews – 1 to 3 minutes
  • Event Videos – 2 to 60 minutes.
  • Vlogs – 1 to 10 minutes

Do I need fancy equipment?

Of course not! You can make great videos with footage from your iPhone and Windows Movie Maker. However, the more complicated or involved the content, the more footage and editing will be necessary. Video blog posts and Video FAQs are easy to do on your own, but longer videos will be easier with the help of an online video production company such as authenticWEB.

What if I look or sound stupid?

Many people suffer from the Fat and Unprofessional Mindset. They worry too much about how they look or sound on camera. Here’s a little secret – no one cares. If you’re trying to connect with potential clients, all that matters is that you’re providing them the information they need to either a) solve their problem or b) make an informed decision to hire you. If I’m looking for an attorney to help with my divorce, do you really think I’m going to notice your suit or the fact that you may have stuttered during your video? No!! I just want to know that you are knowledgeable about what I need, and can help me with my problem.

Do people really watch online videos?

Yes. From YouTube: more than 1 billion unique visitors visit YouTube each month, with over 6 billion hours watched. You might think people are only watching videos of cats – but look at these statistics from one of our clients here at authenticWEB.

Video Statistics from One of Our Clients

We didn’t actually start posting videos until this summer, so in just a few short months website visitors have watched over two hours of our client’s videos. He’s a personal injury attorney, so it’s not like his videos are full of small fuzzy animals. Almost half of all viewers watch the entire video to completion (a great percentage, considering some his videos are 4-5 minutes long). Sure, your thirty second video blog post might never go viral – but the people who actually need the information will find it, watch it, and associate you with solving their problem.

Orlando Website Design and Online Video Production

authenticWEB is an Orlando website design agency that also focuses on SEO, inbound marketing, and online video production. We believe authentically telling your story through cohesive design and video is the best way to not only boost your search rankings, but to convert more website visitors to paying clients. Contact us today to discuss making the best decision you could ever make for your business.

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