When YouTube exploded onto the scene, it changed the way people learn, interact, and consume content of all types. Many people admire their favorite content creators and feel the desire to start their own channels. Since the platform is free to use, there is no barrier to entry. Aspiring creators can create an account and post their first videos quickly and easily. Before diving right in, it is a good idea for new users to decide exactly what type of videos they will be posting, read up on copyright laws, and learn how to optimize their keywords.
1. Select a Niche
One of the best things about YouTube is the immense variety of videos present on the website. Some people choose to give lectures about their favorite topics, post instructional videos for home repairs, perform comedy routines, and many more. While some content creators, like Dan Avidan, are able to diversify their offerings by appearing in different types of videos, it is probably best for a new creator to start with one specific type and then branch out later.
2. Research Existing Content
Once a specific type of content has been chosen, the new creator should try to find and watch as many different types of existing videos in the same genre as possible. It is not necessary to watch hundreds of hours of content, but enough videos should be watched so that a feel for the general style is developed. This can be helpful during the video creation process, as an audience that favors upbeat, high-energy videos will likely not respond well to one that is slow and nuanced.
3. Experiment With Video Creation
Although it is possible for someone to record the perfect video on the first try, most of the time, multiple takes are required. Use an engaging tone of voice and experiment with different gestures and facial expressions. Check each recording carefully to ensure that the sound is not muffled and the video is sharp. Work out all the kinks before posting the first video so that viewers do not become bored and leave before watching all the way through.
4. Find Editing Software
Whether the content will be entirely shot and edited on a smartphone or the creator has a cutting-edge desktop computer and a suite of programs, there are many options available when it comes to editing software. It is a mistake to think that videos will never need to be edited. Even candid videos of real-life events may need to be edited for time, clarity, or sound issues. Start out by finding free or cheap software and then upgrade later as needed.
5. Do Not Violate Copyright Laws
One of the stickier things to navigate online is copyright laws. Each country has its own set of laws regarding copyrights and chooses to interpret and enforce those laws in different ways. It is a good idea to know about the copyright laws in many different countries, especially if the videos are aimed at an international audience. It is generally better to be safe than sorry, so starting off by posting completely original content that complies with the terms of service is a great way to avoid legal trouble. If any music or sound effects will be required, then either find music that is old enough to no longer be under copyright or purchase something from a professional.
6. Use the Right Keywords
No matter how wonderfully crafted and entertaining a video is, it will fail to garner views if the right keywords are not used. Searching for videos on YouTube will yield results with matching keywords and ranking highly on the page depends on a variety of factors. Use keywords that are as specific as possible and try to avoid using identical terms used by hundreds of competing channels. Try to find similar videos and see what keywords they contain the differentiate them from others.
7. Set Realistic Goals
People start channels on YouTube for a variety of reasons. Some people want to post private content that can be enjoyed by family members and friends, while others hope to become famous or provide valuable information to others. Whatever the personal reason is that someone is starting a channel, they should have realistic expectations when they begin. While the potential for someone’s very first video to go viral exists, it is not very likely. If someone wants to garner a large following, they will need to understand that it will not happen overnight. Setting goals is a great way to stay motivated, and it is better to try to hit ten smaller goals than getting discouraged from failing to hit a big one.
Creating videos on YouTube is a great way for people to unleash their creativity, learn new skills, and interact with people around the world. As long as creators respect existing laws, set realistic goals, and strive to post quality content, they can enjoy a fulfilling experience.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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