How to Create an Outstanding First Vlog

Prepare the right equipment. While you don’t necessarily need a DSLR camera or an expensive microphone, you do need a camera capable of recording at least 720p video quality. You’ll also need an external microphone that can connect to your camera.

• If you have a smartphone (or even a tablet), you won’t need to purchase any additional equipment.
• Sound is just as important as visuals, so if you decide to buy a dedicated microphone, make sure to choose carefully.

Outline the day’s events in advance. Although vlogs often appear spontaneous, the truth is that everyone plans extensively before filming. By jotting down an outline of what you’ll record during the day, you’ll at least have a basic idea of the vlog’s structure.

• Having an outline doesn’t mean you have to stick to it rigidly. If you come across something more interesting during the day, feel free to include it in your vlog.

Choose a signature gimmick. Every successful vlogger has a unique personality trait or habit that sets them apart from other content creators (for example, a vlogger might abruptly end all vlogs without warning). The video doesn’t need to revolve entirely around this gimmick, nor should it be used throughout the entire duration—it should simply be a part of the content.

• Not using gimmicks, such as addressing serious or tragic situations in the video, can also be a powerful way to make an impact.

Consider your background. When not filming in public or around your home, you’ll need a consistent setting to use regularly. This backdrop will become as important as you are, so make sure you’re satisfied with it before hitting record.

• For example, if your vlog focuses on cooking, the primary background will be your kitchen; you might even change the backdrop slightly with the seasons.

Vary your vlog content. Simply talking for 15 minutes straight won’t be enough to engage your audience, so incorporate different styles into your video. For instance, you could start with slow-motion footage, transition to a walk-and-talk segment, switch to cinematic shots, and end with a sit-down "chat" in front of the camera.

• Another way to diversify your content is by speeding up certain parts of the video or adding attention-grabbing effects during editing.

Find something unique in your day to focus on. If your daily activities are similar to most people’s, your content might end up feeling dull. You can include snippets of these routines throughout the video, but the highlight of your vlog should be a standout moment.

• Of course, what’s "unique" will vary each day. You might not even realize what the most interesting moment of the day is until you start editing the video.

Be yourself. The quickest way to feel natural on camera is to act like your everyday self. Remember, you’re creating footage that documents your own life, so you’re the star of the vlog!

• If you decide to portray a specific character from the start, maintain this persona consistently throughout the vlog to avoid creating contradictions.

Pay attention to lighting. Especially when filming outdoors, ensure the camera always has light behind it. If you move into darker areas (or film at night), you’ll need lighting equipment (such as a flashlight, external light, etc.).

• Filming yourself backlit can sometimes create an artistic and interesting effect, but avoid overusing this technique in your videos.

Use jump cuts during editing. Jump cuts are created by removing content between two points in time; for example, if your recorded dialogue has awkward pauses, you can cut those sections out.

• Jump cuts add energy by ensuring there are no lulls in your content. This technique works well for high-energy vlogs.

Promote your vlog. With over 300 hours of video uploaded to YouTube every minute, take every opportunity to increase your vlog’s viewership. Consider the following tips:

• Use eye-catching thumbnails.
• Fill in the video description with contact information, keywords, and tags.
• Share your vlog on social media platforms like YouTube.
• Explore other video platforms (such as Vimeo).