If you're active on platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, you've already seen countless selfie videos. With the new generation moving away from image-based content and preferring the interactive format of videos, it might be time to jump on board.
We're going to discuss why you should consider taking selfie videos, and give you some tips on how to shoot them.
What Is a Selfie Video?
A selfie video is a video that you take of yourself (usually with a smartphone) and post to social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.
The duration of a selfie video is shorter than a vlog, and may even be as short as a few seconds. The content can vary greatly, and so can the editing style, if there is any.
Why Do People Take Selfie Videos?
If you've been online since the explosion of social media, you've probably noticed how viral content has changed over the years. Selfie photos and meme images are still popular, but videos are now dominating the sphere of digital content.
Videos are more interactive and engaging to users—kind of like watching a movie versus reading a book. And not just any type of video, but short-form content. Studies show that younger generations have a shorter attention span, so they're more likely to digest a 15-second video clip than a 20-minute long vlog.
How to Take a Good Selfie Video
Want to try taking a selfie video? Here are some pointers to keep in mind.
1. Outline the Content
Selfie videos can be spontaneous, and those are often the funniest ones. However, if you intend on relaying information or talking about something more serious, jot down the points you want to make and revise them before you start shooting.
2. Choose Your Device
The majority of selfie videos are filmed on smartphones, but tablets, cameras, and even computers with webcams can be used too.
When using your phone or tablet, we recommend getting a PopSocket to reduce the risk of it slipping out of your hand. Monopods or tripods are ideal for stabilizing a camera. And if you're using a computer webcam, keep in mind that you won't have as much flexibility with movement and angles.
3. Have Good Lighting
Lighting is always one of the most important elements of a visually appealing photo or video. If you're into taking selfie photos, you probably know of the wonders of golden hour and how it acts as a natural filter. Well, it's the same for selfie videos—try to find a good spot with natural light that comes in at a parallel angle.
This doesn't mean that artificial lighting is inferior. You can use a lampshade, and for more sophisticated selfie videos, a ring light will never let you down.
4. Mind Your Angles
This tip is for any handheld device; you need to be conscious of the angle at which you hold it. This can make a world of difference in how the content translates to your audience. There isn't one right way—you'll have to play around with it.
Holding it at a lower angle will make you appear laxer, while higher angles tend to work better with comedic content. Do you have an attractive side profile? Show it off!
And if you're uncertain about which angle works best for you, stick to holding the device farther away and parallel to your face. You may want to consider using a selfie stick for this, as it will make it a lot easier.
5. Choose the Right Layout
Consider what would be the best layout for the platform you're going to post your video to. For Instagram Stories and TikTok, portrait mode is ideal, while landscape might work better for YouTube and Facebook.
Keep in mind which way to turn the device while you're figuring out your best angles. This will save you from having to spend time cropping your video.
6. Don't Forget the Background
The relevance of your background will vary depending on the type of content you're making. For example, if you're coming online to tell a quick joke, nobody's going to expect an aesthetic background. But if you're showing off an outfit, an appealing background will help cement your brand.
7. Keep It Short
Short-form content is only a few minutes long at maximum. Anything longer than that is technically still considered a selfie video, but it will most likely fall under the "vlog" category, which has a different set of rules.
Try to be as engaging as possible in the first few seconds to prevent people from scrolling away. Then, keep it short and to the point so that they'll remain for the rest of the video. A good tip to remember is to look at the camera shutter instead of the screen—this will make your audience feel more present.
8. Audio Quality Is Important
If you intend on speaking in the video, be clear and concise with your words and pronunciation—few people are going to be willing to watch the video again if they've missed something. And make sure you're not blocking your device's mic while holding it. Better yet, it might be worth investing in a lavalier microphone.
Also, be conscious of any background noises and sounds. Similar to the visual background, the relevancy of background noise will vary depending on the type of content you're producing.
9. Use Real-Time Filters
Most content needs some degree of editing, but you can get away with skipping this step with selfie videos. Because of the lighthearted nature of most selfie videos, viewers aren't expecting polished quality. However, anything that has to do with visual aesthetics will need some touch-ups, such as a makeup tutorial.
If you don't have the patience to perform any post-edits, you can always employ a real-time filter. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, will give you a selection of filters to choose from if you're shooting the video in the app. You can also use third-party apps, such as BeautyPlus (for Android and iOS), that offer a wide range of filters and beautifying effects.
10. Do Multiple Takes
Don't put pressure on yourself to get it perfect in the first take. Shoot your video multiple times while making small adjustments to angles, lighting, your words, expressions, and so on. This way, you'll have more options to choose from for your final upload.
If your video is on the longer side, don't hesitate to cut it into shorter clips. Film yourself for 10-second intervals and edit those clips together later on. You're less likely to stumble or forget anything, and can easily refer back to your outline.
Selfie Videos Are Here to Stay
Short-form selfie videos are meant to sum up a wealth of information and make it quick and easy for viewers to digest. It's not that serious—just stick to these tips and you'll eventually find your groove.