Do you want your videos to stand out on social media? Follow these best practices for video success:
- Proper Size Ratio
- Use Closed Captions
- Ideal Video Length
- Make a Good First Impression
Size Matters
While you can use the same video ratio on all platforms, hey we're guilty of this ourselves, it is best if you size your video for the platform you are posting on.
YouTube: 16:9 is ideal, most will upload a 1920 x 1080 video. While you can upload a square or other size, you'll end up with black sides on your video which may not be the look you are going for.
Facebook: 1:1 square is recommended, but they do allow for other options like 4:5, 2:3, 9:16 and 16:9.
TikTok: 9:16 is ideal, most will upload a 1080 x 1920 video.
LinkedIn: 16:9 is most popular, but for best viewing on desktop or mobile a square 1:1 is also acceptable.
Instagram: Here's where things get fun ... the size ratio you use depends on how you are posting it. Videos that are 60 seconds and under can be posted as Reels, these are best when sized to 9:16. Additionally, videos under 60 seconds can be posted as standard feed videos and should be sized to 4:5. If your video is over 60 seconds, it can be posted on your feed to show the first 60 seconds, then users will be taken to a full screen view to complete the video - because of this, your video should be a 9:16 ratio. You can use a 16:9, but you will have space at the top and bottom of your video which may not be the aesthetic you are going for.
Say It Louder
People are watching videos at all times of day, so they can't always watch with the sound on. For this reason, captions are key! Depending on the study you read, it is estimated that up to 92% of viewers watch videos without the sound and 50% rely on captions to make it through a video. So for the people trying to watch videos instead of working, please use captions.
How Long is Too Long?
How long should your videos be? It's not always the length that matters, but the content. If you have an engaging video, people will stick around longer. According to Wistia, videos under 2 minutes tend to get the most engagement and view-throughs. After 2 minutes, this typically drops off significantly. However, we aren't throwing out longer format videos. If people make it past 6 minutes, they will watch until the end.
According to Facebook, videos that are at least 3 minutes in length perform the best and are encouraged when uploading. Let's face it, the longer your video, the longer a viewer stays on Facebook which is what they really want.
Here's a Quick Tip
Videos that engage viewers within the first three seconds are more likely to hold a viewer's attention longer. Movement and seeing a face look at the camera can do the trick. Also make sure your video cover image is attention grabbing, as this is the first look someone will have at your video. First impressions matter!
Let's Go Deeper ...
Want more information on video content? Check out these links for additional reading:
135 Video Marketing Statistics You Can’t Ignore in 2022 from InVideo
