Buzz
Many aspire to become YouTubers, but Doug DeMuro unveils the arduous path to becoming a distinguished automotive reviewer on YouTube.
With a staggering 4.45 million subscribers (roughly double the population of New Mexico, USA), Doug DeMuro reflects on his six-year journey and the stark reality behind the glitz and glamour: Speak your mind, but speak it right.
The Art of Impromptu Filming
Reviewing cars on video is more than just capturing footage or asking someone to film while driving and then scripting the experience. If it were that simple, anyone could do it.
What may read humorously in text could fall flat on screen, akin to the disparity between phone conversations and email correspondence.
Getting accustomed to the job takes time. However, diving into the realm of becoming a YouTuber demands even more time and effort in the initial stages of exploration.
Finding a review-worthy car isn't a walk in the park
Doug mentioned his stroke of luck in getting a loaner from the company in the early days. Yet, it took a considerable struggle before he could film his first video (featuring the loaner car) as a car reviewer on YouTube.
He suggested starting with one's own car or those of close friends. Building a fundamental follower base is crucial before approaching manufacturers/dealerships or unfamiliar car owners (who have no clue who you are).
Filming hazards
One aspect Doug failed to address openly in his video is the hazards associated with filming, such as self-injury, causing harm to others, or damaging the vehicle itself...
Risks are ever-present, lurking at any given moment. Hence, being a car reviewing YouTuber isn't a venture for the faint-hearted.
Certainly, financial capability or borrowing capacity is a must to cover damages in unforeseen circumstances.
A money-draining endeavor
Another noteworthy issue is that, while Doug can now earn a living through YouTube ads, in the beginning, it's essentially all investment with no returns. Meaning, one has to shell out money for the initial videos.
Even when successful, one must produce both free and sponsored content (with clear disclosures as per regulations).
That's why most YouTubers need to master filming and video editing before launching their channels.
Some cynics claim: being a YouTuber could turn you into a millionaire if you start as a... billionaire. It's akin to other money-draining professions like racing or golfing.
Doug is fortunate with a relatively high starting point, allowing him to cover hotel expenses during extended car reviews, fuel costs, repair bills if any. But most other YouTubers won't have such privileges.
Sturdy mindset
Another crucial aspect aspiring car reviewing YouTubers need to brace themselves for is the psychological aspect. Once a video is posted, there will be plenty of conflicting opinions, even mockery, provocation, especially if you happen to say something deemed 'inexpert'.
People might criticize your car reviews, having driven a particular car for over a decade while you've only interacted with it for a few days.
It's not about right or wrong. The internet is a debating arena. Being a YouTuber is a tough and delicate profession to navigate through online communities sensibly, avoiding meaningless arguments that could potentially decrease viewer engagement.
