If you’ve been tracking content trends, you’ve probably noticed that video blogging, or vlogging, has exploded in popularity. Whether it’s beauty tutorials, travel diaries or personal day-in-the-life vlogs, it’s clear that video content is taking over the internet — and fast. But here’s the real question: Should you add video to your content strategy? Spoiler alert: The answer is probably yes.
Making videos for my recipes and travel articles has transformed how I connect with my audience. It brings instructions and experiences to life, making content more engaging and personal, while adding a dynamic layer that words and photos can’t achieve alone.
Why vlogs are the next big thing
Let’s face it — people love watching videos. It’s easy to consume, engages multiple senses and feels more personal. Vidico suggests that by 2025, over 80% of all internet traffic will be video based. That’s not a number you can ignore if you’re serious about growing your online presence.
The beauty of vlogging is that it lets your audience see the real you. There’s something incredibly authentic about being on camera, showing your face and sharing your thoughts directly with your viewers. This personal connection can help build trust faster than written content alone. Plus, with attention spans shrinking, video is a great way to grab — and keep — people’s focus.
Where to start: Equipment and tools
You don’t need to break the bank to get started with vlogging. The truth is, your smartphone is likely all you need for now. Most modern phones have amazing cameras, and you can always upgrade your setup as you get more comfortable with the camera.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the essentials you’ll need to kick off your vlogging journey:
- Camera: Start with your smartphone or a basic DSLR camera. The goal is to have decent image quality, but don’t stress about perfection at this stage.
- Tripod: Keeping your camera steady is key. Even a basic tripod will work wonders.
- Microphone: Audio quality can make or break a video. If your viewers can’t hear you clearly, they’ll quickly click away. Consider an affordable clip-on mic that plugs right into your phone or camera.
- Lighting: Natural light works wonders, so try to film near a window during the day. If that’s not possible, ring lights are a popular and budget-friendly option.
Planning your vlog content
Now that you have your gear, it’s time to think about what you will film. Just like with blog posts, the key to a good vlog is planning. Ask yourself:
- What does my audience care about?
- How can I provide value through video?
- What tone do I want to set? Fun, informative, personal?
Once you’ve answered these questions, jot down some ideas. Whether it’s a tutorial, a product review or a behind-the-scenes peek into your life, it’s always a good idea to outline your video beforehand.
Pro tip: Don’t worry about being perfect. The magic of vlogs is that they feel real. Mess-ups, bloopers and natural moments make your content more relatable. So don’t overthink it — just start recording!
Video editing 101
So, you’ve filmed your first vlog. Now what? It’s time for editing. This can be as simple or as complex as you want. For beginners, there’s no need to dive into heavy-duty software like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere just yet. Start small.
Here are some beginner-friendly video editing tools:
- iMovie (for Mac users): This is free and intuitive. You can cut your clips, add transitions and even include background music.
- Windows Movie Maker (for PC users): Another free option that’s super easy to use. It’s basic but perfect for trimming and editing your first vlogs.
- CapCut (for mobile editing): If you’re filming and editing on your phone, CapCut is a popular app that’s free and packed with features.
When editing, aim to keep your video engaging by cutting out any long pauses, filler words or irrelevant content. The goal is to maintain your viewer’s interest, so don’t be afraid to chop it down if necessary.
Pro tip: Start with short videos — two to five minutes is plenty for beginners. You can always scale up as you get more comfortable with filming and editing.
Choosing the right platform
Now that your video is ready, it’s time to share it with the world! The platform you choose will depend on your audience, but here’s a quick breakdown of the top players in the vlogging game:
- YouTube: The OG of video content. If you want to build a long-term video presence, YouTube is a great option. It’s searchable, can lead to monetization and has a huge audience.
- Instagram: For shorter videos, Instagram Stories, Reels and IGTV are ideal. If your audience already hangs out here, this can be a more casual way to introduce video content.
- TikTok: TikTok is all about short, snappy videos. If you’re comfortable being a bit more casual and creative, this platform can help you reach a younger, more engaged audience.
- Your blog: Don’t forget about embedding your videos directly into your blog! This is a great way to combine the power of both written and video content.
Maximizing engagement
Vlogging is only half the battle. Once your video is live, you’ll need to engage with your audience. Respond to comments, ask for feedback and make your viewers feel heard. This interaction is what turns casual viewers into loyal followers.
You can also boost engagement by asking viewers to subscribe to your channel, leave a comment, or hit the like button. It’s classic, but it works. People sometimes need that little reminder to take action.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to cross-promote your vlogs on different platforms. Share clips on Instagram, link to the full video in your blog posts and even email your subscribers when you release a new video.
Why vlogging is worth it
Yes, vlogging might seem intimidating at first, especially if you’ve been blogging for a while. But the payoff can be huge. Not only does it help you connect with your audience on a more personal level, but it can also open up new opportunities for growth, partnerships and even income streams.
The key is to start small, be consistent and, most importantly, have fun with it. Vlogging should feel like an extension of your blog — not a chore. Grab your camera, hit record and prepare to take your content strategy to the next level!
Zuzana is a co-founder of Brilliant Bloggers and Food Drink Life. She is also the visionary behind five inspiring websites, including Low Carb No Carb. Her work has been featured in prominent outlets such as The Washington Times, The Mon Valley Independent, GV Wire, NY Times News Today, Wish TV and others. Zuzana’s expertise also took center stage on WGN Radio Chicago’s Bob Sirott Morning Show, where she captivated listeners with her valuable insights. As a content creator, recipe developer, blogger and photographer, Zuzana shares her diverse skills through breathtaking travel adventures, healthy recipes and eco-friendly living tips. Her work inspires readers to live their best, healthiest and most sustainable lives.