YouTube Shorts: why you need them and how to get started

What-is-YouTube-Shorts

 

YouTube Shorts is a new way for content creators to share their videos with the world. The best part of it all is that it’s free, writes digital marketing and content creation guru, Adam Stewart.

YouTube Shorts is a simple, fast and easy way to create and share videos that are up to one minute long. You can use YouTube Shorts to create all kinds of videos, from short but thorough product reviews to quick and wholesome travel vlogs and more.

What is YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts is the latest social media craze sweeping the internet. And, like all the best things in life, it’s short, sweet and to the point.

Videos uploaded to YouTube Shorts must be 60 seconds long or less, making them perfect for quick, snackable content. The format is similar to that of TikTok videos and Instagram Reels, which means that users can easily create and share engaging videos with others on the site. So far, YouTube Shorts has been a hit with users, with many creators using the platform to showcase their creative talent.

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With this, it seems that YouTube Shorts is truly thriving and it might just be the next big thing in social media.

How to get started with YouTube Shorts

To get started with YouTube Shorts, follow these simple steps:

1. Log in to your YouTube account

Make sure you log in to your account via the YouTube app on your phone.

2. Click on the + Button

Simply navigate to the bottom of the app where you’ll see the plus sign button.

3. Select “Create a Short”

Three options will then be presented to you (also see image above):

  • Upload a Video
  • Create a Short
  • Go Live
4. Upload an existing video or record it on the spot

You’ll now be greeted with your camera turned on, where there are several features you can utilise such as the option to add music, flip your camera, adjust the speed of your video, add a timer, add filters and so much more.

So make sure you experiment and explore the options that will best help your video stand out.

5. Add your video title and upload

Simply add the title for your YouTube Short, and add the #shorts hashtag to it for visibility purposes. You can also choose how it will be published from the following options:

  • Public
  • Unlisted
  • Private

If you’d like to schedule it for a later date, you may also do so. Finally, the last option at the bottom will ask you to choose whether your YouTube Short is for kids or not, where you can further restrict who sees your content.

Tips for making your YouTube Shorts

social media influencers making unboxing video

If you’re looking to create better videos using YouTube Shorts, here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Keep your videos short and to the point

The maximum length for a YouTube Short is one minute, so keep it short and to the point.

2. Make sure your videos are well-lit and properly framed

Lighting and framing are two of the most important aspects to consider. Make sure your videos are well-lit so that your viewers can see everything clearly.

If you’re shooting in a busy or cluttered space, be sure to frame your shots carefully so that the focus is on your content and not the background.

3. Narrate your videos if possible – it can help keep viewers engaged

When creating videos for YouTube, it’s important to keep your viewers engaged. One way to do this is by narrating your videos. This can help keep viewers interested and helps them understand what you’re trying to present.

In addition, adding humour or interesting facts can also help keep viewers engaged.

4. Add creative titles

Adding creative titles to your videos can help them stand out from the crowd and be more successful. Titles can be catchy or funny and can give potential viewers a better idea of what the video is about. This can help attract more viewers and increase your chances of getting popular on YouTube.

5. Make sure your video is interesting and entertaining to watch

When creating a YouTube Short, make sure that your video is interesting and entertaining to watch. This means that you’ll need to come up with a clever concept, put in the effort to make a high-quality video, and edit it well.

6. Use creative and interesting visuals in your videos

One of the best ways to make your YouTube Shorts more interesting is to use creative visuals. This could include fun graphics, interesting shots, or creative editing techniques. By using visuals that are unique and eye-catching, you can help keep viewers engaged with your videos.

If you’re not sure how to get started, there are a number of online tutorials and courses that can teach you the basics of video editing. There are also a number of software programs and apps that can help you create professional-looking visuals for your videos.

Whatever route you choose, be sure to experiment with different visual elements to see what works best for your videos. With a little creativity and effort, you can create videos that are both informative and entertaining.

7. Be sure to use good audio quality in your videos

One of the most important aspects of creating good videos is having good audio quality. If your viewers can’t hear what you’re saying, they won’t stick around for long.

Creating good YouTube Shorts can be a lot of work, but it’s worth it if you want to increase your viewership and engagement. By following the tips we’ve provided, you’ll be on your way to creating high-quality videos that are both informative and entertaining.

And, who knows? You may even become a YouTube star in the process!


This article was originally published on Flying Solo, read the original here.

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Founder of Digital Bond Marketing, Adam Stewart works with clients to develop their digital strategy and find the perfect balance between SEO/SEM, social media marketing and content creation.

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