Many times before it has been said that the era of the homemade video was here. The first time this happened was in the mid-1960s, when the Super 8 film cameras made its appearance, inaugurating the first era of homemade videos. Nevertheless, Super 8 cameras proved inconvenient, and they didn’t actually allow the production of quality pieces.
Almost twenty years later, a new era of homemade video arrived, this time thanks to the Camcorder. The bulky piece of equipment became an instant hit: unlike the Super 8 cameras, the camcorder recorded directly on video cassette, which at the time became the standard video format for nearly everything. In parallel, the rise of cable TV propelled the use of the camcorder, and thousands of amateur shows went live thanks to this artifact. Still, film quality was still an issue, and editing required extra (and often expensive) equipment.
Despite the great leaps towards the so-called era of homemade video, we weren’t quite there yet: the real era of homemade video would have to wait for another two decades, until the late 2000s. It was there when three vital elements collided to produce a new reality for all things video: smartphones, social networks, and great editing software. Small businesses today can rely on these three elements to create astonishing marketing videos at scandalously low costs. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list with the best types of marketing videos for small businesses:
- Explainer videos. Not only the best way to translate complex concepts into a simple message, but also a great branding tool. Explainer videos are similar to sales pitches, but instead of focusing on the ‘what we do,’ they’re focused on the ‘how we do it.’ These are perhaps the most challenging videos concerning production and require a well-trained sense of timing, pure aesthetics and a carefully crafted message.
- Company intros. A handy type of video, particularly for social media use. Placed on
top of a Facebook page it can save valuable time and do a tremendous job in introducing your company to new audiences.
- Interviews. These videos are ideal for individual cases. Of course, it all depends on who are you interviewing. Thought and industry leaders that use a company’s product or service make great interview videos; also, interviews can be helpful when placed within company intro videos to reinforce a message.
- Live webcasts. The only rule to follow here is a golden one: do not engage in live broadcasting unless there’s something absorbing to show. If that’s the case, don’t forget to build up matching expectations within your audiences.
- Demos and Screencasts. These videos are becoming the norm when it comes to improving the customer support side of a company. Tackling potential issues of a product in advance shows that your company cares about customers.
- Reels. Ideal for companies that offer a broad range of products and services. Highlighting all (or most of) the possibilities in 2 minutes is a great conversation starter when talking business.
To conclude, make sure you have the right editing software – affordable, yet professional. There are many options out there with different features, but you can always trust industry leaders that offer seamless editing experiences.
