tips for making how-to videos

As my journey in video creation evolves, I find myself increasingly drawn to the vast expanse of Youtube. This colossal platform serves as a global stage where individuals from every corner of the planet can showcase their video creations. The sheer volume is staggering; with 400 hours of video content being uploaded every single minute, it’s easy to feel lost in the shuffle.

My relationship with Youtube has been a gradual evolution. Initially, it was merely a repository for a handful of videos I wished to share with friends, a digital storage space I believed was the extent of Youtube’s purpose. However, as I delved deeper into the platform’s intricacies, my understanding broadened. Youtube is not just a storage space; it’s a dynamic channel that connects creators with audiences who share their passions.

The realization dawned on me that Youtube is more than just a platform; it’s a community. It’s an opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, to share your creations and potentially even monetize your passion. The potential of Youtube as an effective channel for sharing and growth is immense, and I am only just beginning to tap into its possibilities.

Like I mentioned it on my earlier post, my first attempt to embrace Youtube is starting my own weekly VLOG.  It forced me to continue to create a new content every week.  At the same time, force me to try new things and experiment with different ideas.  That is where I started to experiment with how-to videos.  I know there are lots of how to videos out there, but I want to start creating good quality and entertaining how-to videos.

In my vlog episode 11, vlogged about doing few chore around the house.  One of the chore was replacing trim liner for my grass trimmer.

I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to start experimenting with how-to videos by creating a “How to Replace Trim Liner” video. Since most of the footage was already shot for the vlog, it would be easy for me to get started. My goal was to create a video that would be helpful to other viewers who are trying to replace their trim liners. I attempted to address all the issues that I encountered while trying to replace the trimmer myself. The result was not too bad. It was somewhat of a struggle since I had never really made how-to videos before, but I managed to push through. Here is the result:

At the end of the video, I put the link to parts I used in the video using Amazon Associate program.  So the viewers can easier click on the link and purchase the parts that is needed.  At the same time, I could get few dollar for commission if they purchase through the link I posted.  It’s win win situation for both of us.  My plan is to continue to make how to videos and trying to make the internet better place, at the same time, make few bucks.

Tips for Making How To Video

Making how-to video is same as making any other videos.  Here are some tips that will help you.

  1. Before shooting the video, quickly do pre-production by figure out how you are going to layout the video.  You may want to ask these questions: What are you going to talk about?  What are some of the issues you faced that will be helpful?  Where are you going to shoot? Are there good lights?  What camera are you going to use?  Where you going to put the camera? How are you going to shoot?  How can you get the best audio for your video?
  2. What are you going to talk about?  It might be good idea to write down things you want to say, specially if you are doing it for the first time.  But if you are having hard time talking in front of camera, you might want to go far as word by word script.
  3. Remember that you are going to edit things later, so if you make a mistake, just start over from beginning of the sentence.  You don’t have to do it from the start of the video.
  4. Shoot much footage as you can.  It is better to have more footage than you need, because you have more freedom in the editing room.  If you find out you are missing some shots, it is better to shoot is again instead of just releasing video half done.
  5. Make the video short as possible with all the points covered.  If you are not sure you need to keep certain shots or not, chances are, you probably don’t need it.  If are pausing between words, you need to cut all the silences out. So the it flows quickly.
  6. Get to the point quickly as possible in the beginning of the video.  Avoid long intro.
  7. Good audio is key to good video.  Make sure you have good audio and talk slow and clearly.  Be sure to look at the camera.  If you are having hard time with this, don’t get discouraged.  Just keep practicing.  I promise you, you’ll get better.
  8. Make sure, at the end, engage with the audiences by asking them to subscribe and leave a comments.
  9. Don’t forget to add background music and make the volume low.
Tips for Making How To Video

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