Today, short videos have become an integral part of social media and internet culture in general. Due to their growing popularity, they have become a staple of content for users around the world. In this section, we’ll take a look at the main platforms for creating and watching short videos, such as YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Reels.
YouTube Shorts videos allow you to create a short video of up to 60 seconds. To create a video with YouTube Shorts, click the create button in the YouTube app, then select Shorts. You can add music, text, or effects to make your video more engaging. If you want to create more videos on YouTube, click the “upload” button and your short video will be available for viewing around the world.
Use YouTube Shorts to reach new audiences and get more views. Short-form videos on YouTube are a great tool for promoting your content and increasing brand awareness.
Basic requirements and features of each platform
To successfully promote short videos on different platforms, it’s important to take into account their features and requirements. Let’s take a look at the key aspects of each platform:
YouTube Shorts
- Video format: Vertical (9:16 aspect ratio recommended)
- Video duration: Up to 60 seconds
- Music and sound: You can’t add music in the editor, but you can find the right track in the YouTube library beforehand (please note copyright)
- Algorithm: Optimised for watching videos in the YouTube Shorts feed
TikTok
- Video format: Vertical (9:16 aspect ratio recommended)
- Video duration: Up to 3 minutes for editing and up to 10 minutes for video upload
- Music and sound: Access to a huge library of music to use in your video (please note copyright)
- Text and stickers: Possibility of initial editing, adding text, stickers and effects to the video
- Algorithm: Optimisation for video viewing in the TikTok feed (For You Page)
Reels
- Video format: Vertical (9:16 aspect ratio recommended)
- Video duration: Up to 90 seconds
- Music and sound: Access to Instagram’s music library to add soundtrack (please note copyright)
- Text and stickers: Ability to add text, stickers and effects to videos
- Algorithm: Optimised for video viewing in Reels and Explore Page on Instagram
Although each platform has its own peculiarities, there are general requirements for universal short videos: vertical format, short duration, bright and interesting content that attracts attention from the first seconds. Taking these aspects into account, you can create a video that will be effective on all three platforms.
Stages of creating a universal short video
To create a successful short video suitable for all platforms, there are several steps to follow that will help you organise the process and focus on the key aspects of your content.
Analyse trends and competitors
Before you start creating videos, it is recommended to analyse trends and competitors in your niche. This will help you understand what topics and video formats are currently popular and in demand. It’s important to track the popularity of your topic on different platforms (YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Reels), as users may react differently to different video formats. Studying the experience of competitors will also help you get useful ideas and insights for your content.
Choose a topic and define your target audience
First of all, determine the topic of your video and the target audience. This will help you understand what kind of content will be interesting to viewers and how best to present it. Consider the age, interests, and preferences of your audience, as well as the relevance and topicality of the topic.
If you are creating a video for YouTube Shorts, determine what topic you can cover in 60 seconds. You can use YouTube Shorts to share interesting facts, quick tips, or quick reviews.
If you want to create a short video, click the Create button in the YouTube app and choose Create a Short Video. Add music, text, and effects using the built-in tools. You can make your videos dynamic and engaging with YouTube Shorts.
Preparing a script and video plan
The next step is to prepare a script and video plan. Identify the main points you want to convey to your audience and break the video into scenes or segments. Consider the length of the video for each platform.
Shooting video and the specifics of the vertical format
Shoot videos in a vertical format (9:16), which is optimal for all platforms. Keep in mind that vertical video is usually viewed on mobile devices, so the content should be clear and bright, and the key elements of the video should be clearly visible on a small screen.
Video editing: what to look for
A tip is to record everything in one video, so that it’s easier to cut out unnecessary parts at the editing stage. When editing a video, pay attention to the following aspects:
- Remove unnecessary or bad footage to make the video more dynamic and attractive.
- Use transitions and animations to create momentum.
- Add appropriate music or soundtrack, taking into account copyright.
- Add subtitles.
- Insert text, stickers, and other elements if they are relevant and emphasise the meaning of the video.
- If it’s a complex video with different audio tracks, add them in advance in the edit
Adapt your video for each platform
After editing, adapt your video for each platform:
- Plan your music in advance:
- On TikTok, you can add music directly in the app after you’ve finished shooting.
- When editing a video for YouTube, you have to add music in the editing stage.
- Reels may not always have the music you need. You should check and, if necessary, add music in advance.
- Make sure the video length meets the requirements of each platform (up to 60 seconds for YouTube Shorts, up to 90 seconds for Reels, up to 10 minutes for TikTok).
- Consider the specifics of each platform and analyse the video formats.
- Reels – short mood videos.
- TikTok – informative, entertaining.
- YouTube Shorts – more informative.
- Save different versions of your video for each platform to simplify the process of uploading and publishing.
- Take care of your covers:
- TikTok – freeze frame.
- Reels – prepare the cover in advance.
- Shorts – cannot be selected, so you need to have an interesting video.
- Consider the specifics of CTAs for each platform:
- TikTok/Instagram – direct to the link in the profile bio.
- YouTube Shorts – emphasise the links in the video description or channel.
Now your video is ready to be published on YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Reels. Follow these steps and take into account the specifics of each platform to create versatile short videos that will grab viewers’ attention and help you expand your audience across platforms.
Conclusion
As an editor, I believe that creating short videos for YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Reels opens up endless possibilities for creative content creators. These platforms offer unique tools for expressing ideas and engaging audiences. It is important to use these opportunities to the fullest by following simple but effective tips.
The key to success lies in preparation and quality filming. A well-thought-out script, good lighting, and a steady image will greatly increase your chances of success. Video editing is equally important – using convenient applications to add effects, music, and text helps to create a professional look for your content.
Proper video publishing and promotion is another important aspect. Choosing the right time to publish and using relevant hashtags help maximise your audience reach. It is also important to constantly analyse the results, track statistics and optimise the strategy.
Personally, I believe that success in creating short videos comes through constant improvement and adaptation to new trends. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new approaches. Your creativity and perseverance will help you achieve significant results and gain a loyal audience. We wish you successful filming and growth on YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Reels!
FAQ
1. How do I determine the best time to post a video on different platforms?
To determine the best time to post, analyse the activity of your audience and study the platform’s analytics. For Instagram and TikTok, the best time is usually weekday evenings, while for YouTube, activity may depend on the region and audience specifics.
2. What are the main trends in short videos that should be considered when creating content?
Follow popular hashtags and viral challenges. Effective use of trending music and themes, the relevance of interactive and edutainment videos, as well as humour are key to success.
3. What are the effective methods for engaging the audience in the first seconds of the video?
Use engaging clues at the beginning of the video, such as asking an intriguing question or showing a shocking moment that will happen later in the video.
4. How can I use music and sound effects to increase the appeal of my video?
Choose sounds and melodies that are popular on the platform, as well as sounds that help emphasise the emotion and rhythm of your video. Using relevant soundtracks can help increase audience engagement.
5. How can I create a video that is easy to understand and perceive without sound?
Include subtitles or use visual cues and gestures to explain the content. Vivid and clear visuals also help to convey the message without the need for sound.
6. How do I choose the right hashtags to improve video visibility?
Use a combination of general hashtags that are popular on the platform and specific hashtags that accurately describe your video. Also, keep an eye on current trends and adapt your hashtags to them.
7. What mistakes should you avoid when creating short videos for social media?
Avoid videos that are too long and unclear, insufficient lighting, and overloading the video with information or elements. It’s also important to keep in mind the rules and regulations of the community on each platform.
8. How to measure the effectiveness of short videos and their impact on channel growth?
Analyse metrics such as the number of views, likes, comments, reposts, and subscriber growth. Use the platforms’ analytics tools to track this data and optimise your content.
9. What are the best tools or apps to use for editing short videos?
Apps such as Adobe Premiere Rush, InShot, and CapCut offer easy-to-use editing tools that include trimming, adding effects, text, and music. They are very popular with social media users.
10. How do I adapt long-form video content for short formats like Shorts, TikTok, or Reels?
Choose the key points or the most impressive parts of a long video to create short clips. It’s important to retain the main idea and appeal by focusing on the brightest and most emotional moments.
