Better Internet Video

Big things, small packages

The length of your internet video can play a huge factor in how many views it gets. Even though YouTube will let you upload videos up to 10 minutes long, the recommended length that’s cited most often in the world of video marketing is 3 minutes or less. If you reference the graph below, an even better length would actually be 90 seconds or less. But are internet attention spans really that short? If we can take a hard look at that question, we may be able to unlock the secret to attracting unlimited video views. I have a few theories on why people usually click away so quickly: (more…)

Keep the chain going

Video blogging (or vlogging) has gained a lot of popularity in recent years and for good reason. They give the feeling of being raw, honest, and can be the perfect way to steadily build an audience over time. Anyone can host a web video series. In fact, being an unconventional host can work in your favor by getting people’s attention. If you don’t believe me, check out the board game review video series Games with Hayden, featured below.

If you’re considering starting a web video series of your own, here’s a few tips to live by: (more…)

I subscribe to a few different video training programs so I can keep up to speed on how other video professionals are perfecting their craft and, just today, I received an announcement from Izzy Video that he’s selling a new discounted version of his normal membership specifically designer for beginners. (NOTE: I’m not receiving any commission for this — I just wanted to share the good news with my readers, many of whom are also video beginners.) (more…)

FTC: friend or foe?

Testimonial videos have long been listed as one of the best ways to promote you or your business on the internet. With how easy it is to pull out a miniature camcorder and shoot a video testimonial with your past clients and customers, I’ve noticed that more and more people are getting started with web video so they can capture these testimonials themselves. But could it be dangerous to post a testimonial video considering the recent guidelines published by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)? With the 2009 FTC guidance on testimonials and endorsements, there are a few important things to keep in mind when planning your next testimonial video: (more…)

The Webby Awards come around once a year to recognize the best of the web in categories such as Websites, Interactive Advertising, and — my personal favorite — Online Film and Video. Since 1997, they’ve been helping the average web-surfer navigate the neverending ocean of content to spotlight who’s making the best use of web tools and technology. (more…)