Tips for Visual Storytelling like a PRO

Tips for Visual Storytelling like a PRO

 

Recently, I attended the Go Blog Social Conference, I can only describe it in two words: “Awe Inspiring”. I left the conference feeling like I could conquer the world as I do a Mary Tyler Moore twirl. But what type of person would I be if I did not share some of the wealth right? 

Here are a few of my takeaways from the conference. I will share the information in a series so you get all the valuable tidbits. 

Bianca Jade of MizzFit.com shared how to was let go of her high paying job in Advertising. Utilizing her work experience, she begin to tap into the world of workout. Most women do not have time to work out nor find items that fit in their busy lifestyle. Bianca begin to share with products, services, and workouts to assist women in this area. She recorded her first video with a “cheap” hand held camera, she admitted her first video was not the best video but she was determined to get better. 

Video became her outlet. But it wasn’t just about shooting great video, it was about becoming a visual storyteller. 

The Gift of Video is important – here’s why

• Voice – Video allows you to create and share your voice in this digital space. 

• Personality – Allow your personality and relate ability to shine through the camera.

• Presence – Your presence should connect with your audience. If you can connect with your audience they will trust you and eventually buy from you. 

• People are lazy – As much as we love a good long blog post, lets keep it real. No one wants to read it. But they will watch a 3 minute video repeatedly. 

• Shift to the digital media is happening now – Most people including millennials are going to video. Don’t get left behind – Switch now. 

You can grow your blog and brand with video

• It’s easier than ever to start video content by using your DSLR camera or even your cell phone. 

• Video is everywhere not just on Youtube, but Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You also have save and repost lifestreams such as Periscope and Meerkat.

• Video helps your blog jump off the page. 

• Brands you want to work with LOVE video! 

Recipe for Good Visual Storytelling

• Start with a greeting and tell us who you are.

• Say where you are.

• Tell us what you’re going to talk about then break it down in sections. 

• Keep it short and compelling.

• Fill in the details with visuals (photography and b-roll).

• Arrive at your conclusion or climactic ending that makes ever second of your video worth viewing.

• End with a call for action. 

But I don’t know the first thing about video you’re saying! Here are some tips to help…

• Visit websites like Youtube, SkillsShare or Lynda to learn the how-to’s.

• If you do not have a camera, you can purchase a cheap one for $100 or you can use your cell phone. (You can always upgrade later)

• Learn to use basic video editing with IMovie on MAC or Windows Moviemaker on HP.

Rules to be successful on YouTube

• Create a channel with the same name as your blog,

• Make your channel your second blog.

• Plan out and shoot videos related to your blog content.

• Link videos back to your website in the description. 

• Keep your videos under four minutes long. 

The secret sauce to working with brands

• In the beginning, offer to collaborate, ask for the budget or ask for a fee to cover production costs. Or you can just do it for free for practice. 

• Mention: “Hey, I also do video.”

• Send your YouTube channel or video to brands.

• Make videos about products or services you absolutely love. 

• First, create enough content to show off (this is known as your video resume).

• Eventually they’ll be asking you how much you money you charge. 

I have been debating on creating a YouTube channel for a while. But I admit fear was stopping me. The (I don’ts) begin to slow me down – I don’t have a MAC book, I don’t have a great camera, I don’t know what I’m doing and I don’t have the time. 

After hearing Bianca, I was motivated to start my YouTube Channel. It was as if she verbally kicked me in the pants. I went home after the conference and created my first video. Be sure to follow me on YouTube @FashionplateKCTV . See my first video below. 

 

Let me know your thoughts! 

Remember, making videos is a learning process. Don’t get discourage you will get better.

fashionplatekc@gmail.com