Embedding and streaming videos is easier than ever before – and Instagram has made it a snap to create eye-catching, shareable video content. But how do you generate cost-effective content, especially if you’re a start-up? We’ve put together the best ways to create videos for Instagram without breaking the bank!
Photo Credit: My World Films (http://www.myworldfilms.co.uk/how-to-make-videos-with-instagram)
Click here to read more tips on incorporating videos into your marketing campaigns.
Back to the Drawing Board
You don’t have to go overboard – or draft an elaborate storyboard – but it’s a good idea to have a plan for what you’re going to shoot. A written summary, or a few notes to give you a guide, is all you need to get started. You can also shoot multiple videos, so don’t worry about perfection on your first try.
Use Your Phone, Not the App
The Instagram app is simple and easy to use – and Instagram’s Power Editor gives you a lot of snazzy new features to finalize a short video clip. But thanks to Instagram’s new upload option, there’s no reason you should limit yourself. Experiment with video camera apps for iPhone and Android and desktop editing programs like Windows Movie Maker or Adobe Premiere – even if you upload a clip created in another app, you can edit in Instagram, trimming until you reach Instagram’s limit.
Work with the Tools at Hand
Don’t worry about special effects – think about using a simple stop-motion technique to create an Instagram video message with Post-It notes and Sharpies, or a faux “News Update” in a blazer. If you get creative with materials, you don’t have to worry about the cost. A quirky, DIY look will endear you to your customers and help you integrate seamlessly into Instagram’s user-friendly brand.
Face Time
Personality is an asset in marketing, and Instagram is no exception. One great way to draw interest and increase customer loyalty is to put a human face on your company by turning yourself into the star of your videos. A quick daily update will help your customers feel like they know you.
Previews for All Audiences
Showing off a new product is a great way to generate buzz, so consider shooting a short Instagram demo. You can combine this basic idea with a quick tutorial or some quotes from your creative team. If you have time, see if you can find a few customers to help demo the product for you, and film their rave reviews!
Try a Tutorial
If you’re looking for a simple, easy-to-produce video, why not show your customers how to do something? Demonstrate how to use one of your products, or offer customers advice related to your business. You can get around Instagram’s short-segment limit by setting up your tutorial as a series, or experiment with stop-motion or time-lapse. You can add information in a caption, using text onscreen, or in a linked blog post.
Film a Slideshow
A slideshow is a great way to take advantage of Instagram’s short format. You can dress up slides in Photoshop or use a simple stop-motion editing technique to liven up text slides with quick animation. This format pairs well with blog entries, particularly in a series.
Text to Video
Fifteen seconds is the perfect amount of time to send your customers a short message – use a whiteboard, a chalkboard for an old-school vibe, or a set of cue cards held up by a smiling team member. If you can add a punchline at the end, you’ll have a memorable, shareable video! This technique also works great for promo codes and special offers.
Give Your Customers a Backstage Pass
For a cost-effective theme for a short video, take customers behind the scenes at your business. If you can show them the production or design process, or introduce them to your team, they’ll feel like they’re part of the show. Consider using a time-lapse effect to show off a modification or install, or highlight the activity in your office.
Cover an Event
Instagram’s ultrashort format won’t work to stream from an event – but you can shoot a short preview from the entrance or at your company’s display. This technique works beautifully to preview a full-length video, slideshow, or presentation on your website. You can also use Instagram to preview a live streaming event through Facebook Live.
Click here to learn about creating live streaming events in Facebook Live.
With a little creativity and some practice, you’ll be able to produce campaign-ready Instagram videos to market your business. Instagram was designed to give every user the chance to sit in the director’s chair, so be sure to take advantage of this innovative video platform. And remember – have fun!
Are you interested in learning about more budget-friendly ways to create digital marketing campaigns? We recommend contacting a digital marketing firm that prides itself on finding the most cost-effective technology solutions to every client. Contact Square 1 Group for a consultation today!
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