Tag: voice over

  • 3 Common Video Editing Mistakes That Most Beginners Make

    Video editing is a skill that one gets better with time. When one is on their early stages, they make simple mistakes that only professionals in the video production industry can spot.

    If you are a beginner video editor, you will relate with some the video editing mistakes that I am going to share with you here. How you edit a video will determine the viewers perception. People rate the quality of content by how it is edited.

    Does it communicate clearly?

    Is the sequence pleasant to watch?

    a woman using a computer

    These questions can only be addressed by a video editor who knows how to well arrange different video components on the video editing timeline.

    On this blogpost, I will be sharing 3 common mistakes that beginner video editors make so that you can watch out.

    Balancing the Background Music and Voice over

    This is a mistake commonly made by beginners. You find out that the volume of the background music is higher than the presenters voice. This makes audibility very difficult to the personal watching the video.

    In order to contain this, its important for the video editor to learn how to control audio on the timeline. Learning how to do this manually as opposed to using automatic premade audio templates is the only way out. When you approach it this way, you will be able to control the volume as you listen to changes in real time. You can do this until its on the right levels that you are satisfied with.

    Adding Several Transitions and Sound Effects

    Video transitions and sound effects are cool as it spices up a video. But too much of it becomes distractive and draws away the viewer. Most beginners love to use several video transitions and sound effects as a way to wow their viewers. It’s fine if creatively put together.

    Video: 3 Common Video Editing Mistakes People Make

    But as they say, too much of something is poisonous. As an editor, try to minimize the use many of those effects.

    My rule of thumb when it comes to video transitions is narrowing down to a minimum of two per video. This way, if it appears in multiple sections of a video, the viewer will be already familiar with it as it’s registered in the subconscious part of the brain. Also, it makes my work have a professional ‘corporate feel.’

    Serious action takers appreciate videos with little or no ‘koso koso‘ in it. They are interested with the information you are sharing with them. So, prioritize your message.

    Poorly Designed and Placed Text Or Graphics

    be brilliant neon light

    This is a very popular mistake many video editors make thinking it’s creativity. You watch a video and text suddenly appears and disappears fast before you can even read them. On some occasions, the video editor uses very bright background color with text formatted in different colors and font. They have no transition or animation at the beginning and the end of the title.

    Such kind of text and graphics presentation on a video is unprofessional in my view especially in this day and age. As a video editor, you should first do your research, see how other people design their tittles and then learn how to do it directly from your video editing software.

    Basic knowledge on design requires that you use a minimum of 3 colors on a tittle for it to look professional. Secondly, choose a font that is visible and easy to read. And lastly, add a transition at the beginning and the end of the tittle. ‘Fade in‘ transition works well on most corporate type of videos.

    And that is it from me here.

    I know there are more. What are those mistakes that you see video editors make every day?

    Share them with me on the comments section below.

    And if you need help to produce any of type of video, do not hesitate to let me know here. Remember you can request a free quote on www.techtubestudio.com.

    And until next time, bye bye and take.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony.

  • 5 New Ways to Make More Money Online As a Video Producer

    Producers who have been in the industry long enough, will agree with what I am about to share with you today in this blog post.

    Video production has evolved over time. When I started as a producer back in the year 2010, I only knew videography and video editing.

    In this blog post, I share with you how to make more money by breaking down video editing and production components and offering each one of them as an independent service. 

    If you are creative enough to produce a captivating video, then, you are also creative enough to write the same script. You just need to believe you can do it.

    Clients will love you more if you can go an extra mile and provide a professional voice over. Find ways that you can get the voice cheaply from freelancers and have your client pay more it.

    I recently learnt this. More and more clients are in need of Subtitling service. It can be for a movie or video intended to be viewed in a different language. YouTube has integrated Google translate on their video player so that you can watch a video in any language.

    You can charge between $10-100 per video depending on your clients budget and video duration.

    Every video producer know how to use graphic design software’s like Adobe Photoshop  or Adobe illustrator. You can propose to design a nice custom thumbnail for your client and charge them $5-50 per thumbnail. The rates you charge is up to you. If you haven\’t done this before, here is the best way to get started.

    There are many other things you can do to make more money as a online video producer in 2019.

    If you need help to create and produce professional screen-cast video tutorials, let me know here.

    You can follow me on Twitter @cheptionymutai

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists\’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It\’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don\’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn\’t mean that, I don\’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn\’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other english accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the \’taste\’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It\’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice modulation/articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their \’will.\’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It\’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it\’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don\’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That\’s all from me today. What\’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It\’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don\’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn\’t mean that, I don\’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other English accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the ‘taste’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It\’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice Modulation/Articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their ‘will.’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It\’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don\’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That\’s all from me today. What’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists\’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It\’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don\’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn\’t mean that, I don\’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn\’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other english accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the \’taste\’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It\’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice modulation/articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their \’will.\’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It\’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it\’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don\’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That\’s all from me today. What\’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 7 Things Every Client Looks at When Auditioning Freelance Voice Over Artists’

    If you are a voice over artist and wishes to improve your rate of winning clients online and getting highly paid- pay close attention to this post as I will be addressing what the clients looks into before hiring a professional voice over artist. Now, this will depend on the level of profession you are in and the platform you are looking those clients in. Most freelancing sites  allow clients to categorize their requirements when posting their jobs. These ranges from entry, intermediate and expert.

    With this said, irrespective of the category you fall in the above, have in mind that the client is always looking for the best. So, what do you do to stand out from the crowd? Having hired and worked with over 100 different voice over artists in the past 5 years to voice the video scripts I work on, I have learnt that many great talents are gathering dust online for failing to clearly read and understand the what the client is looking for. It’s that simple, but somehow, some behave as if they are robots and apply for all the jobs that are posted online.

    So, let me take you through the process in which I filter different job applications.

    Did he/she read the job post? 

    I usually post a job and wait for a few hours so that I have at least a number of applicants on my list. To be precise, start reviewing applications when I have 10 applicants on my list or more.  So the first thing, which comes automatically is, did this person read the job post and adhered to the requirements? All the time, I find 20-30% of the applicants apply for the job using generic cover letter. They want the job but the don’t even understand the instructions I give them. e.g In the post I clearly state that I am looking for a male voice over, and a female artist applies for the job. This says a lot about that person and without even reviewing their demo, I trash the application. Who wants to work with someone who does not follow instructions? You will agree with me, none.

    Level of Understanding to my Project – Any past experience always helps 

    The second thing I look into is if they understand the  type of audience my project is purposed for. In this case, I do a lot of video tutorial scripts, have they done video tutorials voice overs in the past? If yes, do they  have an example of voice over that that he/she has done on the same line. If they do, they they become my first priority.  This doesn’t mean that, I don’t review proposals for those who have not done video tutorials in the past. Most of those who know what they are doing will mention in their applications that they have not done it in the past work similar to what I am looking for- because the opportunity has not presented itself -but would like to give a try. I love this type of people because-they are honest – will give me their best.

    Does he/she  have the correct accent I am looking for 

    If you thought accent doesn’t matter, then you have not worked or projects targeted at global audience. We have many accents depending on the regions and continent request is coming from. For English, we have three main common accents, Neutral,  British native and American Native. Of-course there are several other english accents namely African accent, Indian accent, North American Accent and many more. Some of the clients who request for my services as a video producer, are usually specific on the type of voice over I should use in the video.

    Audio demo recording quality 

    Now, we are  at my favorite stage, downloading and listening to the demos sent by applicants. An audio recorded on phone and the one recorded on as studio is easily recognizable with the first 5 seconds. In the audio world, we say the ‘taste’ differs. One is deep and pleasing to listen while the other is not.  So, if the applicant says in his/her cover letter that he has a home studio yet you can hear from the recording that it was done in an environment with some echoes all over; that freelancer is not honest. It’s better to say you have an audio recorder which you compile it with your talent. Sometimes, I oversee the quality and choose to go with someone who knows to articulate his/her words well when recording.

    Voice modulation/articulation 

    At this point, in all occasions, I find myself with only 4 -5 voice overs to pick one from. This is what I refer as the best. Voice modulation is very important. I many a times receive several demo done with  high quality equipment but the presenter lacks the energy to project their words in a manner that I would want them done. So, artists ability to add some life to their words and convince someone listening to take action is very important. It has everything to do with the readers projecting their ‘will.’

    Does the artist edit his/her work based on the demo 

    Having edited videos for now 7 years, It’s no brainer that audio editing is a simple job especially if it involves editing out pauses and breaths. And the good thing about it is; you can do it within the software you are using to record the voice. So, if you are the type who thinks that the client will not mind unedited work – you now know why you are missing out on getting to work on those best jobs.

    Communications 

    Is the artist available for a chat or call during your timezone? If yes, then this is a good deal. Any professional voice over artist, will be specific on the times they are open for communications. Sometimes, it’s all about responding to e-mails promptly and on time when necessary. I usually prefer a freelancers who who promptly respond to my messages when available.

    Conclusion 

    Freelancing is now days a serious career. Clients who run their businesses remotely 24 hours are on the look for serious freelancers to help them. Among the most important things they look at is, their personality. How do they care for them as individuals as well as their business success? If you can address your clients requirements from the onset- I bet you – That client will be excited to talk to you. Don’t sound like someone who is hungry to make a buck as you will be dropped like a hot cake:-)

    That’s all from me today. What’s your do you think clients look at when finding a freelance voice over artist? If you need help with creating professional videos, contact me here. Till next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Top 9 Things Every Client Should Know Before Contacting a Video Editor or Producer

    Most clients who hire video editors or producers do so because they have little or no knowledge in video production and are in search for an expert. So, as a new client, how do you address the video editor you contact so that he/she understand what you are looking for? There are many components which when compiled together, makes a winning video.

    Each of these items has a name or a keyword. Knowing the various components that makes a video is crucial. It will make your communication with the producer or editor smooth and easy. Here are some of the common components that you should know

    Script

    This may sound straight forward to many,  but surprisingly , some clients can\’t fathom the need for a script in a video. To understand why a script is an important element for your video read my post on writing a winning explainer video script to learn more.

    Story board 

    Once you have the script ready, the producer will work alongside you in creating a storyboard for your video. This is a sketch of how your video will be presented in real time. Storyboard is best designed in slideshow style or table style where script is broken down into sections with proposed videos/images/graphics inserted for each text line.

    Background audio music/voice over 

    Some scripts will need just background music or voice over to accompany the video presentation. This is one of the components that makes up your video. It\’s therefore important that you are aware of the right term to use for the editor or producer to understand you well.

    Intro and Outro 

    This is a branding component that is used in the introduction and at the end of your video. The intro may be your own company logo animated and it\’s Outro being how your customers can contact you for service. This is very important as it shows your users that you own the video.

    Video Quality and Format  

    This is the level of quality the video will be shared. Currently, the most common video quality is HD 1080 (high definition) and UHD (Ultra High Definition)2k, 4k. To learn more about video quality, please read video resolution definitions on demand in 2018. When it comes to video format, there are several formats available outside there. The most used forma that plays in most devices is .mp4 and .m4v.  To learn more about the latest video formats read four commonly used video file formats online in 2018.

    Lower Thirds 

    These are the text or graphics that appears below the video as it is playing. The best example is the name of a person in an interview. Sometimes it\’s the phone number or website address. Make this know the editor from the onset if you need them.

    Subtitles is the text transcription of the voice over in the video. It appears as it is spoken below the video. In some occasions where there is no voice, subtitle text appears on the screen to explain what is happening.

    FTP 

    FTP  stand for File sharing Protocol. Most of you subscribe to it. This where you will share your folders and files. The most common FTPs outside there is Dropbox and Google drive. FTP allows to collaborate with the freelancer easily and speed up the process of production.

    Video thumbnail  

    Finally when the video completed and ready for publishing, video thumbnail is crucial. It will prompt viewers to click on it and play the video in most common video publishing sites like YouTube.

    These are nine common things you should know as a client before you contact a producer. Most of the editors will ask you to provide some of these. It will be a bit confusing if you do not understand what they mean.

    Do you have anythings else you think the client should know? Please share in the comments area.

    Till next time, bye bye and take care!

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail on connect@cheptiony.com

    Don\’t forget to give me a thumbs up and leave a comment below.

    Also, follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Writing an Explainer Video Script that Stands Out

    If you are an animator or video creator, then you know the power of working on a video with a creatively written script. It\’s exciting, it\’s thrilling; I mean there no words to describe it. Visualization of characters when working on the storyboard is mind blowing.

    Now, not everyone can differentiate between a creatively written script and one that is not. With the advent of sales letter templates that you can buy online for as low as $5 on fiverr.com, anyone can be a writer in a fortnight. But what\’s the difference between an originally crafted script and a script written out from a template? Well, here is how you can tell.

    Writers Understanding of the Product and it’s Connection with the Customer 

    A creative writer who knows how to play around with human psychology will first take time to understand the product the client is trying to sell to his customers. Marketing is all about playing around with human  emotions. Before he/she starts scripting, he/she will use most of his time to research and identify  one thing that the product solves and devise the script to magnify the problem in many dimensions that the prospect could not think of. This part of the script is the ‘anchor.’ The first 150 words of the script should knock the readers socks off and make them want to know more about the solution being offered to them. This is where you can introduce the product.

    Ability to Connect the Problem with the Product 

    Since I work most of the time on explainer videos for apps and software’s, the second section of the script should go straight to address how the product in questions will solve the problem. Mention the common keywords that the user is aware of. As you do this, visualize that the same features is being shown on the video. Simplify the the process and focus on the pain points. In other words, the solution should sound like it\’s possible to achieve it with a ‘single click.’

    Proper Approach on Call to Action 

    Don’t take a lot of time showing the product. 60 seconds or less is enough. Tell them how they can make use of the product by taking action you ask them to. If the product being sold is on offer for the first month, say so. It\’s also important to consider a person watching the video from youtube when writing your call to action.

    These three things are most crucial. If the writer fails to connect this, then, the entire script might be totally confusing when deciphered into video. If you have anything else to add to my list, let me know on the comments below. Till next  time, bye bye and take care.

    If you need professional help on video, let me know by sending me an e-mail here.

    Also, follow me on twitter @cheptiony 

  • Five things to Improve in your Screencast Instructional Video tutorials

    If you own a software, application, website, program then at some point you have used a screencast video tutorial to demonstrate to your users how your product works.

    But over time, the style of presenting these screencast instructional videos have evolved. Marketers are now using more sophisticated presentation styles to win the confidence of their customers.

    But this without proper preparation is a total waste of time and resources. At the end of the presentation, your target needs to be able to understand how your product works. The message has to be conveyed in the shortest time possible.

    Over the years, I have found out that most instructional video tutorials fail to retain viewer attention because of the following reasons;

    Sound Quality

    The presenter may have an accent that is not clearly understood by everyone.

    On the other had, most presenters lack proper equipment to use in recording the videos thus the voice is distorted with lots of background noise.

    This thus lead to boredom and may make your customer loose interest in watching the video besides not taking you serious.

    Video Length

    Some presenters repeat themselves without knowing and end up with a long tutorial which if proper planning or scripting was done, the information could have been presented in half the time.

    This is costly if you are dealing with high end customers who have less time to watch the video clip.

    Screen Recording Settings

    Good understanding on best recording and rendering settings is the key to producing a high resolution video.

    Someone with no knowledge in video production may not know this and will end up producing low quality video.

    It will take a professional video producer to record a high resolution screencast video.

    More Videos Means Good SEO

    Everything you do must be duplicable especially if the tutorial being produced is to be published on YouTube.

    It starts with scripting. If you take time to segment your software videos into sections, it will help you reach out to more new customers because you will have several videos posted online.

    For instance \’how to add a product to your site on (your website)\’ may get you ranking on YouTube or google.

    Branding

    Besides using the tutorial to support your existing customers, its crucial to consider branding it in order to market you company to new customers. Branding displays professionalism and will make new prospects to take you seriously.

    There are many other things that if you consider when planning to produce a screencast video, will help you archive your expected results besides ranking high on the search engines.

    Of-course I have mastered the art of producing screen-cast video tutorials. If you need professional help, you can request a quote for free here. 

    Don\’t forget to give me a thumbs up and leave a comment below.

    Follow me on X @cheptionymutai