Category Archives: Big Tips

A video podcast is a great way to reach a wide audience with your marketing message. But how do you make one? Here are 10 easy steps to get you started.

Define your purpose

Most people who start a podcast do so because they’re passionate about a certain topic, and they want to share that passion with the world. However, it’s not enough to just have a passion for your subject matter. In order to be successful, you need to have a clear purpose for your podcast. Ask yourself: what do you hope to achieve with your show? Do you want to inform, entertain, or both? Once you’ve answered this question, you can start brainstorming ideas for episodes and planning out your content. Keep in mind that your purpose may change over time, and that’s okay. As long as you stay true to your vision, you’ll be able to create a successful podcast that resonates with your audience.

Choose a format

There are several different ways you can format your video podcast. You can opt for a traditional interview style or go for something more informal, like a roundtable discussion. Pick the format that best suits your purpose and audience. There are a few different options to choose from, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, interview-style podcasts are easy to produce and can be very engaging, but they can also be somewhat one-note if you don’t mix things up from episode to episode. On the other hand, narrative podcasts tend to be more work-intensive, but they can offer listeners a more immersive experience. Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing a podcast format – it’s all about what you’re looking for in terms of content and production value. So take some time to consider your options and decide which format is right for you and your show.

Watch our Big Chat podcast with Alice ter Haar, Deliveroo

Choose your equipment

You don’t need fancy equipment to make a great video podcast. A simple webcam or even your smartphone will do the trick. Just make sure the audio is clear and unobstructed.

If you’re looking to add some visual interest to your podcast, or if you simply want to have a record of your show, you may be considering videotaping your episodes. While it’s certainly possible to do this on your own, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind in order to get the best results. First, make sure you have a good-quality microphone – this will ensure that your audio is clear and easy to understand. Second, if you’re using any props or visuals, make sure they’re well-lit so that they’re visible on camera. Third, if you’re recording video as well as audio, be sure to use separate devices for each – this will help to prevent any sync problems. And finally, if you plan on editing your video episodes, be aware that this will take additional time and effort. With these tips in mind, filming your podcast can be a great way to add another dimension to your show.

Find your guests

If you’re doing an interview-style podcast, you’ll need to find people who are interesting and have something to say. Reach out to industry experts, thought leaders, or even passionate customers. This can be easier said than done, especially if you’re just getting started. Here are a few tips to help you find guests for your podcast:

Start with your network

Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances who might be interested in being on your show.

Use social media

Platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn are great places to find potential guests. Use hashtags to search for people who might be a good fit for your podcast.

Check out guest booking services

There are a number of companies that can help you connect with guests for your show.

Pitch yourself to guests

If you’re having trouble finding guests, why not pitch yourself? Contact people who you think would be interesting to talk to and offer to be a guest on their show. This is a great way to build up your network and get your name out there.

Finding guests for your podcast doesn’t have to be difficult. By using these tips, you’ll be able to line up some great interviews in no time.

Create an outline

Once you have your guests lined up, it’s time to create an outline for your podcast. This will help keep the conversation on track and ensure that all the important topics are covered.

Promote your podcast

Once you’ve recorded and edited your podcast, it’s time to promote it! There are a number of ways to promote a podcast. Perhaps the most obvious is social media. Using platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram can help to spread the word about your show and can also be a great way to interact with listeners. Make sure to embed it on your website or submit it to popular podcast directories like iTunes or Stitcher, and Spotify. Another effective promotion method is partnering with other podcasts. This can involve cross-promotion, guest appearances, or even co-hosting an episode. In addition, many podcasters find that live events are a great way to connect with fans and attract new listeners. Whether it’s a live recording of your show or simply meeting up with listeners at a conference or meetup, getting out from behind the microphone can be a great way to connect with your audience and grow your show.

Measure your success

Finally, once your podcast has been published, take some time to measure its success. How many people downloaded it? How much traffic did it drive to your website? Which Promotion strategies were most effective? Use this data to fine-tune future episodes for even better results.

Celebrate

Now time to celebrate. You did it! You created a video podcast! Be proud of this accomplishment and use it as motivation to keep pumping out great content. Your audience will thank you for it.

Keep going! The hardest part is starting, but once you get going, making podcasts will become easier and more fun. Commit to cranking out new episodes on a regular basis, and watch as your skills (and audience) grows over time

Video podcasting should be enjoyable, so make sure you’re having fun with it! If not, take a break and come back when you’re recharged and ready to create great content again.

Podcasts are a great way to get your voice heard. But how do you get people to actually listen to your podcast? Promoting your podcast can be a bit of a chicken-and-egg situation. You need listeners to promote your podcast, but you need to promote your podcast to get listeners. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Creating a video podcast is a great way to reach new audiences with your marketing message. These 10 easy steps will help you get started so that you can begin reaping the benefits of this powerful marketing tool.

If you’d like support from the Small Films team with your video podcast, then do get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.

In today’s digital world, a business website is often the first point of contact between the company and its potential customers. And in order for a website to be effective, it needs to have engaging content that tells visitors what the business is all about and why they should care. That’s where explainer videos come in—these short videos help businesses quickly and effectively communicate their value proposition to viewers. But with so many different types of explainer videos out there, it can be tough to decide which one is right for your business. Here’s a rundown of the different types of explainer videos to help you make an informed decision. If you’d like to find out more about how the Small Films team can help, then take a look at our explainer video services.

What is an explainer video?

If you’re looking for a new way to market your product or service, an explainer video is a great option. An explainer video is a short, informative video that tells potential customers about your product or service. They can be used on your website, social media, or even in email marketing campaigns. And because they’re usually only a few minutes long, they’re perfect for busy people who don’t have time to read a long piece of text. Plus, they’re often more fun and engaging than traditional marketing materials. So if you’re looking for a new way to reach your target audience, an explainer video is worth considering.

2D Animation Explainer Videos

A Small Films example of 2D animation

2D animation is the classic style of an animated explainer video. These videos are created using vector-based graphics, which give them a polished look that is perfect for businesses in industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare. 2D animation also allows for a high degree of creative freedom—animators can pretty much bring any vision to life with this style of animation.

Whiteboard Explainer Videos

Whiteboard explainer videos are characterised by their simple drawing style and use of bright colours. They are often used to break down complex concepts in a way that is easy for viewers to understand. Whiteboard videos work well for businesses in industries such as education and training, as they are often used to teach viewers something new. Additionally, whiteboard videos tend to be on the shorter side—usually 60 seconds or less—which makes them perfect for grabbing viewers’ attention and delivering a quick message.

3D Animated Explainer Videos

3D animated explainer videos are similar to 2D animation explainer videos in that they are created using vector-based graphics. However, 3D animation gives videos a more realistic look thanks to the addition of shadows and depth perception. This style of animated explainer video is perfect for businesses that want to showcase their products or services in action. Additionally, 3D animated explainer videos tend to be longer than other types of explainer videos—usually 2 minutes or more—which gives businesses plenty of time to tell their story and deliver a detailed explanation of what they do.

Read about our animated explainer video offering.

Live-action explainer video

A live-action explainer video is a video that uses real people and footage to explain a concept or promote a product. These videos are usually between one and two minutes long, and they often use humour and simple language to get their point across. Live-action explainer videos can be an effective way to engage viewers and communicate information in an engaging way. For businesses, live-action explainer videos can be used to introduce new products or services or to explain complex concepts in a simple way. These videos can also be used to increase brand awareness and build customer trust. When it comes to creating a live-action explainer video, the sky is the limit. With a little creativity, these videos can be both informative and entertaining.

Motion Graphic Explainer Video

A motion graphic explainer video is a video that uses graphics and animation to explain a concept or tell a story. They can be used to promote a product, explain how to use a service, or simply convey information in an engaging and visual way. Because they are easy to understand and can be quickly digestible, motion graphic explainer videos are often used by businesses to promote their products or services. While they can be expensive to produce, the return on investment can be significant.

As you can see, there are a variety of different types of explainer videos available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The key is to figure out which type of video will best communicate your message to your target audience. Once you’ve done that, half the battle is already won—now it’s just a matter of finding the right explainer video company to bring your vision to life.

Why use an explainer video company?

If you’re thinking about using an explainer video company to produce a video for your business, there are a few good reasons to do so. First of all, an explainer video can be an effective way to communicate what your business does and how it can benefit potential customers. Secondly, a professionally produced video can help to build trust and credibility with your audience. And finally, an explainer video can be a great marketing tool, helping to promote your products or services to a wider audience. So if you’re looking for a way to improve your business’s online presence, an explainer video could be the perfect solution.

Interesting in reading more about explainer videos? Read our other blogs

How to write an explainer video script
How to use explainer videos to boost your SEO
How to make instructional videos
10 best explainer video examples in 2023
What are animated explainer videos
How to write a killer explainer video script
How to make an awesome explainer video that sells
How to find the best explainer video company

If you’d like support from an explainer video company in London, then do get in touch with the Small Films team.

About George Hughes

George Hughes is the Founder and Creative Director of Small Films in London, UK. His debut book “Resonance: Unleash your Brand’s Potential with Video” is a number 1 bestseller on Amazon and is recognised as a leading authority on how businesses can master their video marketing strategy. George comes from a 14-year career in the television industry directing for an array of networks from the BBC to the Discovery Channel. He went on to found the video production agency Small Films, and for the last 6 years has been creating video advertising campaigns and branded content for an array of brands, from Aldi supermarket to disruptive startups like Lick Paint.

You’ve seen them before. Those little two-minute videos that explain complex subjects in a way that’s digestible and easy to understand. They’re called explainer videos, and they’re an incredibly effective tool for marketing your business. But did you know that explainer videos can also be used to boost your SEO? Here’s how.

Google loves high-quality content

Research shows that internet users are almost three times more likely to watch a video than they are to read an article or blog post. But why? Well, for one thing, people are visual learners. We tend to retain information better when we see it, as opposed to just reading it. Videos are also bite-sized and easy to consume; we can watch them on our lunch break or when we’re waiting in line at the grocery store. And finally, video is an engaging format that allows us to connect with the content on a personal level.

But how does this all relate to SEO? Well, Google loves video content. In fact, they’re 50 times more likely to rank a piece of video content higher than they are written content. This is because video is perceived as high-quality content, and Google wants to provide its users with the best possible experience by delivering the most relevant and highest-quality results.

In today’s online world, it’s more important than ever to make sure your content is high quality and engaging. One way to do this is to incorporate explainer videos into your blog posts. Explainer videos are a great way to add depth and visual interest to your writing while also providing your readers with valuable information. In addition, explainer videos can help to break up long blocks of text, making your blog more visually appealing. When done right, explainer videos can be a powerful tool for improving the quality of your blog. So if you’re looking for ways to take your blog to the next level, consider adding some explainers to your repertoire.

1. Improve Engagement and Reduce Bounce Rate:

When it comes to SEO, engagement metrics matter. Search engines like Google take into account how long visitors stay on your website and how many pages they view. Explainer videos are an excellent tool for capturing and maintaining your audience’s attention. By providing valuable information in an engaging format, you can significantly reduce bounce rates and improve dwell time on your website, which are both factors Google considers when ranking websites.

2. Enhance Content Quality:

High-quality content is the cornerstone of effective SEO. Explainer videos are a powerful medium to convey complex ideas in a concise and visually appealing manner. When you create informative and well-produced explainer videos, you not only provide value to your audience but also improve the overall quality of your content, which can positively impact your search engine rankings.

3. Target Long-Tail Keywords:

Long-tail keywords are specific search queries that typically have lower competition. Integrating these keywords into your video titles, descriptions, and transcripts can help your videos rank for more specific and niche search queries. As you create explainer videos around these long-tail keywords, you’ll not only attract a more targeted audience but also improve your chances of ranking well in search results.

4. Earn Backlinks and Social Shares:

Engaging, informative explainer videos have the potential to go viral or, at the very least, attract a substantial number of social shares. When other websites and social media users link to and share your video content, it can generate valuable backlinks to your website. High-quality backlinks are a vital SEO factor, as they indicate to search engines that your content is reputable and authoritative.

5. Optimise Video Metadata:

To ensure your explainer videos have the best possible chance of boosting your SEO, it’s crucial to optimise the video metadata. This includes writing keyword-rich video titles, descriptions, and tags. Additionally, providing accurate video transcripts or closed captions not only makes your content more accessible but also allows search engines to understand the video’s content, improving its chances of being indexed and ranked.

6. Use Schema Markup:

Schema markup is a type of structured data that can be added to your website to provide search engines with additional information about your content. When implementing schema markup for your explainer videos, you can enhance the way your video listings appear in search results. This can lead to higher click-through rates, which can positively impact your SEO.

7. Leverage Video Hosting Platforms:

While YouTube is the most popular video hosting platform, don’t limit yourself to just one. Hosting your explainer videos on platforms like Vimeo, and your own website can expand your online presence. Be sure to optimise your video descriptions and titles on these platforms and include links back to your website to drive traffic and improve your SEO.

8. Monitor and Analyse Performance:

As with any SEO strategy, it’s essential to monitor and analyse the performance of your explainer videos. Use tools like Google Analytics and YouTube Analytics to track metrics such as view duration, click-through rates, and the number of backlinks and social shares. This data will help you refine your video marketing strategy and optimise for a better SEO result

Examples of Explainer Videos from the Small Films team

EDF Energy

Dabbl Smartphone App

Authored

Explainer videos are a great way to engage your audience and deliver complex information in an easy-to-understand format. And as an added bonus, they can also help boost your SEO. So if you’re looking for a new way to market your business, consider using explainer videos.

Interesting in reading more about explainer videos? Read our other blogs

If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an explainer video that supports your SEO strategy. And if you need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to get in contact with a professional explainer video company, such as Small Films, that can assist you in making your vision come to life.

There’s a continual flow of spirit brands coming to market, and many of them are smashing their video marketing. From stand-out recipe videos to brand collaborations, there’s a whole variety of ways you can market your spirit brand. We’ve picked out our favourites UK spirit brands that are nailing their video marketing right now. If you’d like to chat with the team about how we can help with our video production services, then do give us a bell.

Pentire

Image via ethy.com

Spirit drinkers rejoice! There’s finally a non-alcoholic spirit that actually tastes good. Pentire is made with botanical extracts and natural flavours, so it has all the complex taste of a real spirit without the alcohol. With strong Cornish roots, Pentire brings the flavours and aromas of their surroundings into their spirit, so expect green, citrussy and salt notes. Pentire nails its video marketing content with films designed for every stage of the marketing funnel.

From cinematic brand films to Instagram recipe reels to partner content, they’re successfully building a really strong non-alcoholic spirit brand with their awesome video content.

Read our article: 6 ways Pentire nail their video marketing strategy

Sipsmith Gin

Image via Treehouse Hotels

Sipsmith gin is a London dry gin that is made in small batches using traditional methods. The company was founded in 2009 by Sam Galsworthy and Fairfax Hall, who were determined to revive the art of craft distilling in London. The gin is distilled using a combination of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, orange peel, and liquorice. These botanicals are macerated overnight before being distilled, ensuring that they are thoroughly infused into the spirit. The result is a smooth and complex gin that has earned numerous awards, including a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Their video content ranges from ‘how to make sloe gin’ to celebrating their Biscuiteers partnership. And there’s a mix of styles too, from the more homemade but effective recipe videos to high-production films of their Wimbledon Championships collaboration.

Inside Sipsmith’s journey to B Corp

>> See Sipsmith’s Gin’s video marketing content here

Grey Goose

Image via amazon.co.uk

There are many different brands of vodka on the market, but Grey Goose is one of the most popular. This vodka is made from French wheat and is distilled five times to create a smooth, clean flavour. Their video content is truly directed towards their target audience, with video interviews with Grammy artists through to well-chosen brand collaborations. Their video content is all high-production, as expected from this global vodka giant.

How to make a Bloody Mary

>> See Grey Goose’s video marketing content here

Malfy Gin

Image via Spirits Kiosk

Malfy gin is a small-batch gin that is made in Italy. The gin is distilled using a traditional method that includes using juniper berries, citrus peel, and other botanicals. The result is a crisp and refreshing gin that has a distinct flavour. Placing lots of emphasis on marketing in 2022, this beautifully bottled gin jumped on our scenes this summer. Their video marketing content really highlights their Italian routes. Think beach shots accompanied by Mediterranean fruits and Amalfi coast backgrounds. Swapping between Italian and English copy, the Malfy Gin brand brings its audience a lot of sunshine with its fun and bright video marketing content.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdYaMf44uCY

>> See Malfy Gin’s video marketing content here

Isle of Raasay

Image via Mitchells Wine

The distillery is located on the island of Raasay, off the coast of Scotland’s Isle of Skye – the island known for its dramatic landscapes and Viking raiders. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and the distillery is one of its most popular attractions. The Isle of Raasay Distillery produces a single malt whisky that is made with water from an on-site spring and barley that is grown on the island. The whisky is matured in oak barrels that are sourced from Islay, another Scottish island known for its whisky. The result is a smooth, peaty whisky with notes of citrus and vanilla. With their video marketing content, they have a focus on behind the scenes of their whisky. This might be highlighting the launch of a new whisky, showing how their beautiful bottles are made or drone footage of the crops being grown and harvested.

>> See Isle of Raasay’s video marketing content here

Seedlip

Image via Seedlip

Seedlip is a non-alcoholic spirit that was created by bartender and passionate gardener Ben Branson. It is made from a combination of botanical distillates and natural flavours. The result is a refreshing, complex and versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails. Seedlip is also sugar-free, gluten-free and vegan, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious drinkers. They were first on the scene for non-alcoholic spirits, and so across the years, they’ve built a wealth of great video content. They use their films to highlight their global offering, to show fun ways to enjoy their spirit or to advertise their collections.

>> See Seedlip’s video marketing content here

Tanqueray Gin

Image via Secret London

Tanqueray is a brand of gin that originates from London, England. It is distilled four times and made with juniper berries, coriander seeds, angelica root, and liquorice. Tanqueray has a long history, dating back to the 1830s when Charles Tanqueray developed the recipe. The gin was originally produced in Bloomsbury and then moved to Tarquin’s Hall in Chelsea. In 1898, the company was sold to WD & HO Wills and then again in 1936 to Gall & Gall. The gin is currently produced in Scotland by Diageo. Tanquery goes big with its video marketing content. Think collaborations with Stanley Tucci, branded content with the Global Worldclass Bartender of the Year or collaborations with candle company cent.ldn.

>> See Tanqueray Gin’s video marketing content here

CleanCo

Image via CleanCo

CleanCo is a non-alcoholic spirit brand that is quickly gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers. The brand offers a wide range of products, including vodka, gin, and whiskey. CleanCo uses only natural ingredients and is completely free from artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives. The brand’s commitment to quality has earned it a loyal following among those who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional spirits. As it’s set up by TV personality Spencer Matthews, you can expect that as a company, they go big on video content. That might be Spencer in front of the camera showing the audience how to make a clean whisky sour, highlighting their collaboration with Adidas, or showing the team out and about at events.

>> See CleanCo’s video marketing content here

Mermaid Gin

Image via Lillywhite & Brown

Mermaid Gin is a small batch gin produced on the Isle of Wight. The gins are distilled using a traditional copper still and are infused with botanicals that are locally sourced from the Cornish coast. The result is a refreshing gin with notes of citrus, juniper, and sea salt. Mermaid Gin has won numerous awards and is widely available in the United Kingdom. In addition to its flagship gin, the company also produces a small batch vodka and a range of liqueurs. In their video marketing, they really highlight their seaside roots. With beautifully shot collaborations with Surfers Against Sewage, videos of Mermaid Gin being enjoyed on the beach or recipe videos for their Seaside Seltzer, they always bring it back to the fact that their location is by the sea.

> See Mermaid Gin’s video marketing content here

ABOUT SMALL FILMS

Small Films is a video production company in London, specialising in food and drinks video content. Our films have helped big brands, from Aldi to Mackie’s ice cream, tell their story, sell more products and build brand awareness. If you’d like support with your video marketing strategy, then do get in touch – we’d love to help.

It’s that time of year again. The leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping, and everyone’s favourite Christmas commercials are coming on TV. From McDonald’s to M&S, these adverts get us all in the festive spirit. But which ones are the best? Here are our top picks for the best food and drink Christmas adverts in the UK this year.

M&S Christmas Advert

In this year’s Christmas advert, Dawn French makes friends with Duckie, a down-in-the-dumps soft toy that’s forever being chased around by the family dog. Voiced by Jennifer Saunders, the raggedy duck needs some Christmas cheer, and the Fairy Godmother is just the one to add that much-needed festive sparkle. Cherry and orange liqueur Christmas pudding wreath, award-winning mini steak crostinis, or sloe gin are just some of the delights showcased in the advert to cheer Duckie up. As expected with any M&S food advert, it’s appetite-whetting stuff and indulgent food videography.

Morrisons

In 2022’s Morrisons Christmas advert, we meet Farmer Christmas. With a tractor adorned with fairy lights, Farmer Christmas travels behind the scenes of a magical Morrisons store. Driving between departments, he meets employees showing off their mince pies, bourbon British gammon, or Scottish salmon with orange and cranberries. This Christmas advert beautifully highlights Morrisons’ passion for supporting British farmers and how they make a large number of their products in-store.

McDonald’s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoCYjPAZrCc

McDonald’s brings a heart warmer with their 2022 Christmas advert. A mother suggests to her son to write a Christmas list, and he takes that suggestion and runs with it. Writing a list metres long, he proudly takes it with him outside whilst asking his parents, ‘have you sent this to Father Christmas yet’, just before a gust of wind blows it away. To cheer him up, his family take him to McDonald’s, where, before long, he’s forgotten about his Father Christmas list. Packed with an emotional punch, the Christmas advert highlights that spending time with family is what matters most.

Asda

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnW1TWqAXYs

Asda has pulled out the big guns this year as they edit in Elf (the Will Ferrell character) into their Christmas advert. Done so well, it almost feels like these aren’t edits from the 2003 film, but in fact, these are newly created edits specifically for this 2022 Christmas advert. Full of humour, the ending doesn’t disappoint as Asda is turned overnight into a magical Christmas store.

Aldi

Taking parts of the Home Alone plot, Kevin the carrot features again in this year’s Aldi Christmas advert. Forgotten by his parents when they head to Paris, Kevin is left alone in the large family house, where he nervously worries about visitors to the house. Setting traps out of Christmas decorations, Kevin is seen dashing around a fully laid-up feast of a table before Santa arrives and puts his mind at rest. A sweet and humorous Christmas advert that still shows off the tasty treats available at Aldi this festive period.

Tesco

Understanding how gloomy things are in the UK right now, Tesco pledges to bring a bit more joy this Christmas. Playing on the fact that money is a bit tighter for everyone, they’re highlighting their great value, with award-winning wines on budget and more pigs in blankets for more people. This is a great advert to show that you can still enjoy Christmas, despite the gloomy financial outlook.

The Christmas ad season is one of the most important times of year for UK advertisers. This is a time when brands vie for attention with heart-warming stories, lavish production values and differentiating messages. We’ve rounded up what we think are the best Christmas adverts in the UK in 2022, featuring Asda, Tesco and McDonald’s. Contact the team at Small Films for your video production requirements to get started on your own project.

Creating a recipe video can be a fun and engaging way to share your brand’s recipes with your audience. Here are ten tips to help you create a recipe video that is both informative and visually appealing.

Choose your ingredients carefully

The first step to creating a great recipe video is to choose your ingredients carefully. Make sure to select fresh, high-quality ingredients that will look good on camera. Avoid using any ingredients that are past their expiration date.

Prep your ingredients before filming

Once you’ve selected your ingredients, it’s important to prep them before filming. This means chopping, slicing, or measuring all of your ingredients so that they’re ready to be used in the recipe. Having everything prepped ahead of time will make the actual filming process much smoother and quicker.

Find your angle

What makes your recipe video unique? Whether it’s the way you tell a story, your quirky humour, or stunning visuals, find what will set your video apart from the millions of others out there.

Film in a well-lit area

When it comes to filming your recipe video, it’s important to make sure you’re doing it in a well-lit area. Natural light is always best, but if you’re filming indoors, try to find a spot near a window where there’s plenty of light coming in. Avoid filming in dark or dimly lit areas, as this will make it difficult for viewers to see what you’re doing.

Watch the recipe video we created for Plenish

Use a tripod

Using a tripod is another important tip for filming a great recipe video. A tripod will help keep your camera steady and prevent any unwanted shaking or movement. This is especially important if you’ll be zooming in and out during the video, as any movement will be magnified and could make the video difficult to watch.

Keep it short and sweet

People have short attention spans, so make sure your video is under 3 minutes. Get to the point and show them what they need to see without dragging on.

See our recipe video for Gressingham Duck

Make it visually appealing

Use attractive props, film in an interesting location, and make sure the food looks good. People are more likely to watch a video that is pleasing to the eye.

Use helpful tips and tricks

Your viewers will appreciate it if you share some helpful tips and tricks that make cooking easier. For example, if you’re making a dish that requires chopping onions, show them a hack for not crying while doing it.

Add a personal touch

Your recipe video should be a reflection of you and your personality. Let your viewers get to know you by sharing a little bit about yourself at the beginning or end of the video.

Edit your video carefully

Once you’ve filmed your recipe video, it’s important to take some time to edit it carefully before posting it online. Watch the video all the way through and trim out any parts that are unnecessary or boring. You may also want to add music or other sound effects, as well as titles or captions, to make the video more engaging and enjoyable to watch

If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to filming a great recipe video that will capture your audience’s attention and make them want to try the dish for themselves and buy your product. And if you need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to get in contact with a professional video production company, such as Small Films, that can assist you in making your vision come to life.

Founded in 2007, BrewDog has been one of those brands that just exploded from the offset. A beer company that’s not afraid to try and test its marketing strategies, they’re frequently in the press for their bold marketing campaigns. Whilst sometimes they’ve been known to miss the mark, what they do well is innovative video content. Creating a mix of UGC, brand films, Reels and product videos, they’ve created that perfect blend of engaging and impactful films. In this article, we look at how they’ve strengthened their brand with a creative video marketing strategy.

Marketing their sustainable values

BrewDog has always been very vocal about how sustainability is front and centre for their business. They communicate this in a variety of ways, from PR to advertising campaigns and through video content. Take their video content on their Planet Pale beer. Mixing video footage from Scotland with motion graphics, it’s a snappy but effective film showcasing their mission for a greener future.

Position themselves as global

BrewDog cleverly creates Reels content to highlight the best things to do in cities across the globe. They do this by capturing their employees on camera chatting about their favourite things to do in their home city. Cut in with footage of their bar in that location, it’s also a fantastic way to build awareness of the fact they’re a beer brand serving multiple global locations.

Seasonal video marketing

This year BrewDog are going big on Christmas. By September, spoilers were going out about their advent calendars. To market their calendars, they’ve mixed up their video content, producing the more ‘rustic’ style Reels content through to more cinematic style video marketing pieces. We can’t wait to see what they’ve got up their sleeve as we get closer to Christmas.

Engaging competitions

BrewDog is the king of creating content that has its audience engaging with them. A great example of this is their #MakeMyBeer challenge, where they ask their followers to create ideas for their next beer. They bring this to life with behind-the-scenes content and interviews with their brewers.

Behind-the-scenes content

With over 100 bars across the globe, BrewDog is always expanding into new territories. They’ve created impactful, tongue-in-cheek video content showing behind-the-scenes at their bars. A great way to show how their bars aren’t just standard spaces for a drink, but they go that extra mile. They haven’t gone down the route of shooting on an iPhone; instead, these are high-production pieces that get great engagement.

YouTube Shorts

On their YouTube channel, they’ve curated some great content, from tasting sessions to the BrewDog Show. Tapping into company culture, they’ve also created a ‘Meet the Team’ series – a great way to understand different job roles in the beer business. For those looking for a more ‘try before you buy’ experience, their tasting notes content is a great view – guiding viewers on what to expect from their beers before they make a purchase. It’s not all serious stuff on there either, with content like ‘brewing beer on a bike in cognac’ or ‘are you smarter than a drunk person’.

Curated brand collaborations

One of the areas BrewDog go big on is brand collaborations. One of these is their Candy Kittens collab, where they created a bright pink beer with notes of guava and raspberry. Marketing this collaboration, they used a variety of types of videos, from interviews with Candy Kittens Founder Jamie Laing to funny Reels and outtakes.

Small Films is a video production company in London. Our team of videographers, editors and animators create all sorts of videos, including awesome product videos, testimonial videos, explainer videos and animations that can help bring your brand to life. Do get in touch; we’d love to hear from you!

While you might not necessarily associate education and instruction with compelling entertainment, it has never been easier for information to be relayed in an engaging manner. By making effective use of the medium of video, with its killer combo of audio and visual, content creators can communicate a vast amount of info to their audience – and do so in a way that is fun and easy to follow. It’s not surprising that 86% of US viewers frequently use YouTube to learn new things!

Instructional videos, then, are a brilliant choice for brands looking to teach customers about their products. They’re also the perfect remote-learning solution for businesses in a world in which the next lockdown might be right around the corner.

What is an instructional video?

The term instructional video refers to video content that teaches people how to do something. Instructional videos are similar to explainer videos, which are used by businesses to illustrate how their products work. They are often longer, however, as they usually provide viewers with a step-by-step process and a greater level of detail.

What makes a good instructional video?

Let’s take a closer look at how to make instructional videos that convey the key information, entertain your audience and inspire action.

Entice your viewers with a pitch-perfect intro

As with all video content that aspires to entertain and educate, it’s vitally important that you capture your audience’s attention from the outset.

Use the introduction of your video to succinctly outline your learning objectives to your viewers. What can they expect to accomplish by following your instructions? We recommend that you choose a picture of the end result as the thumbnail of your video, as this will motivate people to engage with your video in the first place.

If you are instructing your viewers with regard to a practical task, give them a list of the things that they will need in order to undertake it successfully. The recipe videos that we created for Plenish should give you some idea as to how to go about this.

At the start of our videos, we combined attractive shots of the ingredients that were required for each of the vegan recipes with clear labels:

It’s enough to make anyone want to start their day with some Plenish Pumpkin Porridge – or even start the new year by giving Veganuary a try!

Find out more about food videography and our food and drink video work today.

Provide clear instructions

Once your viewers know what they will need and what they can hope to accomplish, it’s time to start talking them through the various steps that they will need to follow.

As you may have guessed, instructional videos are all about instructions. Your job is to make those instructions as easy to follow as possible. Take the time to explain everything clearly and with an appropriate level of detail: bear in mind that, whilst you may have changed a tyre or used that software editing tool several times, the vast majority of your viewers will be unfamiliar with the processes that you are discussing.

It is of critical importance, therefore, that you avoid rushing. Opt instead for a slow, steady delivery, including pauses where appropriate. And don’t just tell. Show!

This cake frosting tutorial is an excellent example of a how-to video that resists the temptation to hit fast-forward. With its close-up shots of the cake and use of different angles, it’s the perfect primer for aspiring bakers in need of a helping hand.

[Cake Decorating for Beginners | How to Frost a Cake]

The best way to educate is to entertain

As every good teacher knows, dull lessons achieve little, whereas classes that stimulate and entertain are far more effective in encouraging students to learn.

There are a number of things that you can do to make your videos more engaging. Be your authentic self by allowing your personality to come through in your videos. Adopting a conversational tone and varying your cadence and tone can make a huge improvement to your vocal delivery.

Some of the best instructional videos in recent years have gone a step further by using storytelling, popular culture references and absurdist humour in order to turn the mundane into the utterly magnificent. This safety video from Air New Zealand is a testament to the difference that arresting visuals and good storytelling can make in encouraging viewers to pay attention. It’s fair to say that it earns the title ‘Most Epic’ several times over: it succeeds in turning otherwise dry-as-dust subject matter into a rollicking ride through Middle Earth.

[The Most Epic Safety Video Ever Made #AirNZSafetyVideo]

Encourage your viewers to take action

Having guided your viewers through the steps that they need to follow, it’s time to display the finished article in all its glory and offer a few warm words of encouragement.

If the purpose of your instructional video is to market your business, use an end screen that features your logo and relevant links to your website via a distinctive call-to-action (CTA). This will help inspire your viewers to follow in your footsteps and interact further with your brand.

Promote your instructional video

It’s now time to ensure that your instructional video reaches as many eyeballs as possible.

One way to do this is to create a blog post on the topic covered in your video. We would recommend either writing a summary of the content covered or expanding on the material in your video by providing further detail.

Use a compelling video title that is optimised for SEO purposes, and write a video description that includes relevant keywords.

It’s time to get instructing!

We hope that this will help you on your way to creating stellar instructional videos.

Find out more about how to create effective e-learning video courses, and learn all about animated explainer videos and product demo videos with Small Films.

Amazon video requirements can be confusing, but in this blog post, we will break it down so you know exactly what you need to create a successful Amazon video. We will cover what kinds of videos are successful on Amazon, the specifications for Amazon videos, and how to make sure your video is optimised for prime placement. With these tips, you will be on your way to creating a top-selling Amazon product.

Selling on Amazon can be a great way to make money, but you need to make sure that your listings comply with Amazon’s requirements. One thing that you may not realise is that Amazon has specific requirements for videos accompanying your product listings. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what those requirements are, and we’ll also provide some tips on how to create engaging product videos.

As an Amazon seller, you know that staying up to date on the latest requirements is essential for maintaining your account and avoiding suspensions. Recently, Amazon released updated video requirements that sellers need to be aware of. In this blog post, we’ll go over what the new requirements are, and how you can make sure your videos comply.

What are Amazon video ads?

Amazon Video Ads are a way for brands to reach consumers on Amazon.com, the world’s largest online retailer. Advertisers can place video ads on Amazon.com pages and across Amazon-owned and operated properties, as well as on select third-party websites. Amazon Video Ads are cost-effective, rate card-based advertising solutions that offer reach, frequency and flexibility to advertisers. Advertisers only pay when their ad is first played or clicked on, making it a very efficient way to reach Amazon customers. And because video ads are skippable, viewers have the option to watch them or not, giving them control over the ads they see. This type of ad also provides brands with an opportunity to tell their story in a more engaging and intimate way than traditional display ads.

What type of companies benefit from amazon video ads

One of the most popular platforms for video ads is Amazon. Why? Well, Amazon is one of the largest e-commerce platforms in the world, with millions of users. And that means that there are a lot of potential customers for businesses to reach. In addition, Amazon offers businesses a lot of flexibility when it comes to ad placements. Businesses can choose to have their ads appear on Amazon.com, as well as on other websites and apps that are part of the Amazon network. Plus, businesses can target their ads to specific demographics, such as age, gender, and interests. All of this makes Amazon a very attractive option for companies who are looking to reach a large audience with their video ads.

Tips for creating successful Amazon Video Ads

Amazon video ads are a great way to reach potential customers, but they can also be tricky to create. Here are a few tips to help you get started. First, think about your target audience and what would appeal to them. What kind of messaging will resonate? Second, keep your ad short and – you only have a few seconds to grab attention, so make them count. Third, make

sure your visuals are clean and eye-catching-remember, you’re competing with a lot of other content. Finally, don’t forget to include a call to action, so viewers know what you want them to do next.

>> Read our article: Why your Amazon listing needs video

Placements available on Amazon.co.uk

Home page – Desktop – 300 x 250
Home page – Smartphones (below the fold) – 300 x 250
Home page – Tablet shopping app – 300 x 250
Detail page – Smartphones – 414 x 125
Detail page – Desktop – 970 x 250

* Measurements in px

Amazon Video asset requirements

Video dimensions: 1920 x 1080 px (16:9)
Recommended Frame rate: At least 15 FPS
Audio: 128 kbps/44 kHz
Recommended bit rate: 2 Mbps
Preferred codec: Video: H.264, MPEG-2 or MPEG-4; Audio: MP3 or AAC
File size: less than 500 MB
Video duration: Desktop and Mobile: up to 3 minutes (15 seconds or less highly recommended). Fire tablet: Up to 15 seconds
Letterboxing: Videos should not have black bars on any side of the video content

>> Read our guide: Product videos on Amazon – the ultimate guide

Creative requirements

Required logo image (JPG, PNG and GIF files accepted).
Minimum width of 600 px, minimum height of 100 px, maximum file size of 100 KB. Note: the logo is not used in 414 x 125 mobile ads.*
Required Headline: up to 50 characters of text describing your campaign messaging.*
Supported call to action options: “Shop now”, “Learn more”, “See details”, “Pre-order now”, “Buy tickets”, “Rent now”, “Rent or buy now”, “Get a quote”

>> Read on Amazon Ads Page

If you’d like to create a video ad for Amazon and would like support from a video production company in London, then do get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.

What is a talking head video, and why should you use one

A talking head video is a type of video where the on-camera subject talks directly to the viewer. The camera is positioned so that the subject’s face is visible and their body language can be easily seen. Talking head videos are often used to deliver information or instructions, but they can also be used to create a more personal connection with the viewer.

Talking head videos can be an effective way to connect with your audience and deliver information in a concise and engaging way. When used correctly, they can help you build trust and credibility with your viewers.

The benefits of using a talking head video

If you’re thinking of making a video for your business or website, you may be wondering whether to use a talking head. Here are some of the benefits of using a talking head video:

They help you build trust with your audience. When people see someone speaking on camera, they tend to feel as though they know that person and can trust them. This is especially important if you’re selling something, as it can help increase conversion rates.

They’re usually easy to understand. Unlike some other types of videos, talking head videos are usually easy for viewers to follow and understand. This is because there’s only one person speaking, and viewers don’t have to try to keep track of multiple people or elements at the same time.

They can be highly engaging. If you choose the right person to be your talking head, they can really help to engage your audience and keep them watching until the end. A good talking head will be articulate and enthusiastic and will know how to deliver their message in an engaging way.

How to create a talking head video

Creating a talking head video can be simple and straightforward as long as you follow a few basic guidelines. First, make sure that the person speaking is well-lit and in focus. The background should be relatively simple, so that viewers can focus on the speaker. Second, avoid using too much jargon or technical language. Keep your sentences clear and concise, and try to use language that your audience will understand. Finally, be sure to rehearse your script before filming. This will help ensure that the finished video is polished and professional. Following these tips will help you create a talking head video that is engaging and informative.

At Small Films, we’re experts in filming talking head videos. If you’d like to discuss your next project with us, do drop us a line.

Tips for creating an effective talking head video

As more and more businesses move online, the need for high-quality video content has never been greater. Talking head videos are a great way to introduce viewers to your products or services. Here are a few tips to help you create an effective talking head video:

-Choose a quiet, well-lit location with minimal distractions. This will help viewers focus on what you’re saying.

-Be aware of your body language and facial expressions. smiling and maintaining eye contact will help create a rapport with viewers.

-Keep your script short and to the point. Viewers’ attention spans are limited, so make sure you get your key points across quickly and clearly.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an engaging and effective talking head video.

How to create a talking head video script

In order to create a talking head video script, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, think about what you want to say and who your audience is. Then, consider the visuals that you’ll use to support your message. Finally, write out your script and practice it until you’re comfortable with it. You want to ensure that you don’t look wooden reading the content. Keep in mind that a talking head video doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to be genuine and engaging. With a little effort, you can create a powerful tool for communicating with your audience.

How to make talking head videos more interesting

Let’s face it: most talking head videos are pretty dry. You’ve probably seen your fair share of footage of someone standing in front of a blank wall, talking to the camera in a monotone voice. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Encourage your subject to gesture and move around a bit; this will help to add visual interest to the video. Finally, try to inject some personality into the footage by adding music, sound effects and animation. By following these tips, you can take your talking head videos from dull to exciting!