Social Video Best Practices

September 13, 2023

By Yas Khavarian

Welcome to the “Best Practice Guide for Social Videos.” In today’s dynamic digital landscape, crafting compelling social videos is more than just a creative endeavour – it’s a strategic marketing tool that can take your brand to new heights. Whether you’re a content creator, a marketer, or simply looking to enhance your skills, this guide will give you a solid foundation for crafting videos that stand out. We’ll unravel the key elements that transforms an ordinary video into a powerful marketing asset that drives engagement, builds connections and boosts your brand’s presence.

01 Resolution

    • Set the video resolution to at least Full HD 1080p for better image quality.
    • Make sure the ratio is 9:16.

02 Camera Position & Stability

    • Raise your camera to eye level or slightly above eye level if possible. Position yourself in the middle of the screen for a well-balanced composition.

    • Keep the camera steady by using a tripod or a phone holder. This helps avoid shaky footage and ensures a professional look.

 03 Background

    • Select a clean and uncluttered background that doesn’t distract from the subject. Simple and neutral backgrounds work best.

    • Remove any unnecessary objects or clutter from the frame. Consider what appears in the background before hitting the record button.

    • Find a quiet space with minimal background noise. Close windows to reduce outdoor noise and turn off fans or other sources of noise.

04 Lighting

    • Use natural light whenever possible. Position yourself facing a window or shoot outdoors during daylight to achieve even and flattering lighting.

    • Position yourself with the light source facing towards you. If the light is coming from behind you, it can create silhouettes or wash out the subject.

    • Be mindful of harsh shadows. If the lighting is too intense, diffuse it by using a sheer curtain.

05 Rule of Thirds

    • Imagine dividing your frame into a 3×3 grid by overlaying two vertical and two horizontal lines. Position your subject along these lines or at the intersections to create a visually appealing composition.

    • If your subject is a person, place their eyes near the upper horizontal line to draw attention and give a more natural look.

    • Don’t place the subject too close to the edges of the frame, as it may feel cramped. Allow some space around the subject to create balance.

Every frame you capture is an opportunity – a chance to resonate with viewers, inspire action and make an indelible splash with your marketing efforts. Go ahead and apply these techniques – raise your camera to eye level, curate a backdrop that resonates with your brand, harness the magic of lighting and master the rule of thirds. If you find yourself in need of expert support as you embark on your video marketing journey, K&P’s Visual Communications team can help ensure your content is an embodiment of your brand’s story, purpose and values. 

Have a question? Interested in finding out more?