The number of content creators on social media is ever-expanding and there’s no reason to think you can’t be a part of the phenomenon. Social media channels empower you to embrace your creativity, increase your brand awareness, reach new audiences, and connect with others who share similar interests. Sometimes they even generate income and launch careers. Here are four practices to start creating content and garnering followers.
Observe other Content Creators
It may seem like a lot of people really have this whole thing down, but the truth is there’s a learning curve when it comes to posting online material, and you can benefit from the experience of those who came before you. Take a look at the creators you enjoy the most and see how they set up their content. What kind of lighting and camera angles do they use? How do they introduce their videos? What kind of titles and phrases do they tend to use? What style of editing? What kind of music, if any? Go with what draws you in the most or even just start with what’s most simple and take it from there.
It Need Not be an Ambitious Project
Let’s face it, creating a video can feel like a daunting task. You might bring comedic acting to the table but have no idea how to light a set or edit; you may have the script and all the performers you need, but can’t seem to get the right location; perhaps you have eager, ready-to-go performers but no worthwhile project to pursue. It can always seem like something is stopping you. But it’s better to get something done than nothing at all, right? So consider creating a short video—it doesn’t have to be long—that is shot in one take. And it doesn’t need to be perfect either. It could be a scene or simply you catching an interesting moment in time. And remember, you can always edit these clips together, later on, to form one longer production if you so choose.
Think of a Theme
Consider the aspects of yourself that are unique, interesting, or funny—or something that is your expertise, is intriguing to you, or that you love. For example, Quina Brunson got her start by self-producing very short clips for a video series on Instagram called The Girl Who’s Never Been on a Nice Date, and Benito Skinner created a YouTube channel to feature one-minute sketch comedy routines and parodies. But your idea certainly doesn’t have to be comedic. The possibilities are truly endless. Social media personality Jaby Koay, who’s very adept with the technical aspects of filmmaking, created reaction videos, movie reviews, and short films, for instance. The point is to find a theme that showcases your strengths.
Keep Audiences Coming Back for More
Your chances of being viewed go up considerably if you make thumbnails and titles that are clickable. So, take some time and play around with what makes a thumbnail pop out on the page and perhaps leave an air of mystery in your title to invite curious clickers. Also, don’t forget to remind your audience to click the “like” and “subscribe” buttons early in the videos. And ask interactive questions so people can engage in the comment section. When comments are written, give them a “thumbs up” and don’t hesitate to reply.
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