Let’s face it, we’ve all been there – excited to create a video, hit record, and then, boom, the final product just doesn’t meet our expectations. Creating videos can be an intricate dance of creativity, technical skills, and a pinch of luck. But more often than not, it’s the little mistakes that trip us up. In this article, we’re diving into the most common video mistakes you should avoid to take your videos from meh to mesmerising.
When it comes to creating videos, there are several common mistakes that should be avoided in order to ensure a high-quality end result. One of the most prevalent mistakes is poor lighting. Insufficient lighting can make your video appear dull and unprofessional. It is important to ensure that the subject is well-lit and that the lighting is evenly distributed to avoid any distracting shadows or harsh contrasts.
Another common mistake to avoid is shaky footage. Unsteady camera movements can be distracting and make your video appear amateurish. To prevent this, it is recommended to use a tripod or stabilise the camera with a gimbal or other stabilising equipment. This will help to create smooth and professional-looking footage.
Pre-Production Mistakes
The groundwork for a fantastic video starts long before you hit the record button. Here are some pitfalls to dodge in the pre-production phase.
- Lack of Planning
Picture this: you’re setting off on a road trip without a map. That’s what creating a video without a plan feels like. Without a clear plan, your video can end up disorganised and directionless. Always start with a detailed outline of your video’s purpose, the key points you want to cover, and the visuals you need.
- Ignoring the Target Audience
Who are you making this video for? If you can’t answer that, you’re in trouble. Tailor your content to your audience’s interests and needs. Skipping this step can result in a video that fails to resonate, leaving viewers confused or disinterested.
- Skimping on Scriptwriting
Going in without a script is like trying to bake a cake without a recipe. A well-written script serves as a blueprint, guiding you through the scenes, ensuring you don’t miss out on crucial points, and keeping the content tight and engaging. Spend time crafting a script that flows naturally and keeps the audience hooked.
Production Mistakes
Lights, camera, action – sounds easy, right? Not quite. The production phase is rife with opportunities for mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for.
- Poor Lighting
Lighting can make or break your video. Insufficient or inappropriate lighting can cast unflattering shadows and create a gloomy atmosphere. Invest in good lighting equipment and learn the basics of lighting techniques to ensure your subject is always shown in the best light, literally.
- Bad Audio Quality
Ever watched a video with terrible audio? It’s painful. Bad audio can be more distracting than poor video quality. Use a good microphone, test the audio levels before recording, and minimise background noise. Crisp, clear audio can significantly elevate your video’s professionalism.
- Unstable Footage
Shaky footage is a surefire way to make viewers click away. Invest in a tripod or a stabiliser to keep your shots steady. If you’re moving around, practise smooth, controlled movements or consider post-production stabilisation software.
Post-Production Mistakes
The magic really happens in post-production, but it’s also where many videos fall flat. Avoid these common errors to polish your final product.
- Overlooking Editing
Editing isn’t just about cutting and trimming footage. It’s an art form that brings your story to life. Overlooking editing can result in a choppy, incoherent video. Take your time with editing, use cuts wisely, and ensure the narrative flows smoothly.
- Misusing Transitions and Effects
Less is more when it comes to transitions and effects. Overloading your video with flashy transitions can be jarring and unprofessional. Stick to simple transitions that enhance, rather than distract from, your content.
- Ignoring Colour Correction
Colours set the mood and tone of your video. Ignoring colour correction can lead to inconsistent visuals. Use colour grading tools to balance and enhance the colours, giving your video a polished, cinematic look.
Content-Related Mistakes
What you say and how you say it matters. Content is king, but it’s easy to make mistakes that undermine your message.
- Overly Long Videos
Attention spans are short, and long-winded videos can lose viewers quickly. Keep your videos concise and to the point. If you have a lot to say, consider breaking it into a series of shorter videos.
- Lack of Clear Message
If your video’s message is muddled, viewers won’t know what to take away from it. Be clear about what you want to convey. Stick to one main message per video and support it with relevant points.
- Not Including a Call to Action (CTA)
What do you want viewers to do after watching your video? Without a clear CTA, your audience might just move on without engaging further. Whether it’s subscribing to your channel, visiting your website, or making a purchase, a strong CTA can drive the desired action.
Technical Mistakes
Tech issues can turn a great video into a frustrating experience. Here are some common technical blunders to steer clear of.
- Wrong Video Format
Uploading in the wrong format can affect playback quality and compatibility. Always check the platform’s recommended formats and use them to ensure your video plays smoothly for everyone.
- Large File Sizes
Huge file sizes can make uploading and streaming a nightmare. Compress your videos without sacrificing quality to make them more accessible to viewers with slower internet connections.
Distribution Mistakes
Even the best videos won’t get views if nobody sees them. Distribution errors can severely limit your video’s reach. Here’s what to avoid.
- Poor Thumbnail Design
Thumbnails are the first impression of your video. A bland or confusing thumbnail can result in low click-through rates. Design eye-catching thumbnails that give a clear idea of your video’s content.
- Ineffective Titles and Descriptions
Titles and descriptions are crucial for SEO and viewer interest. An uninteresting title or vague description can lead to your video being overlooked. Use clear, compelling titles and detailed descriptions to improve discoverability and engagement.
Conclusion
Creating great videos is a blend of art and science. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly enhance the quality of your videos and keep your audience engaged. Remember, the devil is in the details, so pay attention to each phase of your video production process. Happy filming!