Video is where it’s at! If you’ve been hesitant to jump into business video production for your company because you’re afraid it might be too expensive, we have some great news! High-quality business videos can be created on a budget.
It’s true! Keep reading to learn more about affordable video marketing.
Business video drives results
Video marketing is very powerful, especially with today’s customers. Want proof? Check out these stats:
- 83% of consumers want to see more videos from brands this year
- 87% of people have been convinced to purchase after watching a video
- 98% of people have watched an explainer video to learn more about a product of service
- 84% of video marketers noted video increased sales
- 91% of people say video quality impacts trust
Those are high percentages, and they all point to the effectiveness of business videos. That last stat is particularly important because it shows that consumers notice the quality of video and speaks to how this medium can shape perception. Don’t worry, though, you can create high-quality video without breaking your budget. More on that in a bit.
Business video types you can use
So, if you’re going to start investing in a video marketing strategy, what types of videos should you make? Here are just a few different types of business videos that might benefit your brand:
Explainer videos – As shared above, 98% of people have watched an explainer video to learn more about a product. This could be how-tos about product usage, repair, troubleshooting or any other number of topics where explaining something to your target audience will come in handy.
Product demos – How does your product or service work? A product demo will show your customer vs. just telling them. These are also great and provide social proof when coming from a third party such as an influencer, brand partner or even user generated content (UGC) if well done.
Testimonials – How has your product or service helped others address a pain point? Building trust and credibility with testimonials is an excellent business video tactic. Also, another great source of social proof.
Brand storytelling – Helping customers connect to your brand through storytelling is vital and can boost sales. In fact, Influencer Marketing Hub found that if people love a brand’s story, they are 55% more likely to purchase in the future. Since business videos are so popular, this strategy is a fantastic way to share your brand’s story.
Tips for affordable video marketing
This isn’t the next summer blockbuster, so you don’t need to spring for movie-quality production. Viewers appreciate authenticity, especially on platforms like TikTok. Here are some helpful tips for cost-effective video marketing:
Cut it up – If you’ve filmed a long piece or lots of little snips, you can splice it up to reutilize the footage or put it together to stretch smaller bits. This type of editing can help you get the most mileage out of what you’ve filmed.
B-roll – B-roll footage can set the scene without you having to be in it. You’ve seen it in movies and on TV. City or countryside views, location shots, establishing shots and other non-action can be b-roll footage. This could just be video that you take, or some online providers offer b-roll for usage at a free or affordable rate.
Storyboarding – Time is money. If you effectively plan or storyboard your business video prior to heading out to record, it can help narrow down the costs and ensure that you get what you need so you don’t have to go back to film multiple times. Try to think about the goal of the video first, and then plan out the shots, scene order and information you want to include.
Free stuff – Take advantage of free or low-cost tools such as royalty-free music, images and online video editors.
Common misconceptions about the cost of business video production
There are many misconceptions about business video production … mainly that it’s out of reach for small- and mid-sized brands. But that’s just what they are—misconceptions. Here are some things you might be thinking and why they aren’t true.
You need a professional studio – Nope! There are lots of great online tools to help you create a quality business marketing video. If you can take advantage of the tips above you likely won’t need a professional studio.
You need expensive equipment – You probably already have this expensive equipment in the form of your smartphone. The cameras on those things are incredible! (Apple has a whole campaign called “Shot on iPhone” to prove it.)
The key is to practice so that the video taken with your phone comes out well. Test different lighting, settings, etc., to help you learn how to use this powerful tool in the best way possible. A little tripod might help to keep the camera steady if you want.
Only big brands can afford video marketing – Only big brands can afford a Super Bowl commercial. Your brand can likely afford quality video marketing, especially if it comes from an authentic place with the desire to provide value to your customer.
Give it a shot
Business video can deliver the results your brand needs. It’s a fantastic way to connect with your target audience, and the data proves it. If you’ve been hesitant to test it out, know that cost-effective video marketing is possible. You just have to make the best use of what is available to you!
Connect with the experts at Beyond Fifteen to learn how we can develop affordable video marketing for your business.