If you shoot video for the internet, and you really should, here's some essential video production tips to creating that professional touch in your video marketing productions, to increase subscribers and sales.

Using video for getting your marketing message across has long been a well used and effective medium for connecting with people whatever the subject, getting your marketing video right in a sales message can be very effective, but get it wrong and you'll just end up annoying people.

So Here's My Top 10 Tips For Creating Better Marketing Videos! :

1. Remember the basics

Tripod: You don't need expensive equipment but a steady shot is a must so use a tripod, and remember to frame yourself in the correct way either central frame or using the rule of 9ths.

Lighting: Get your lighting right by experimenting with different lights, and colour gels, a dark shadow can be a distraction to your message, as can a shiny head!

Audio: Getting clear audio isn't expensive a small lapel mic will cost you less than $30 such as the Audio Technica ATR-3350 Lavalier Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone which one I often use, and make the world of difference, don't forget to test the audio levels with a pair of headphones. 

2. Your Message

There's nothing worse as a viewer than than seeing that a video is too long to be bothered with, or your sat wondering when the person on the video will get to the point, so keep your video presentations short and to the point.

If you have lots to say, then split your message into sections if that's appropriate. I always find segments of no longer than 6 minutes effective for a warm audience and 2-3 minutes for a cold audience.

3. Your Surroundings

Where you shoot your video can have an impact, the background to your message. In the past people have talked to their cameras while walking on the beach, some in their offices, others have small studio type backgrounds and green screens, whatever you choose, make it fit in with the person that you are, and your target audience.

Just remember to avoid filming outside the nearest mansion house or blagging your friends oval office, as you might come off as cheesy to others.

4. Talk in Simple Language

Keep your message simple, if you use academic language in your day to day life avoid using it in your videos chances are you will confuse people and your audience could lose the thread of the message altogether

5. Keep the Video Clean

I'm not refering to bad language or your housekeeping habits, but ther look and feel of your video, many people opt for flashy graphics, music and lots of editing, much of which detracts from your message, so remember the basics and keep your video clean.

6. Simple Instructions

At some point in your video presentation you will give instructions, whether it's sign up here or instructing your viewer on how to order an item, the process HAS to be simple otherwise they won't bother.

7. Be Truthful

There's nothing worse in my mind that an 'untruth' or an overexaggeration, it will turn many savvy people off to an otherwise sound offer.

Statements such as 'This is the best marketing tool developed in the past 55 years' and similar statements should be avoided.

8. Your Talent

Most of the time your talent will be you, so how do you come across on camera? Do you look scared stiff, or feel awkward, do you forget what you're talking about, or do you have to keep glancing off camera to that set of bullet points?

All these little traits can be disasterous to a video presentation, so practise, think about what you're going to say, relax and come across as yourself. Believe me when I say that with time you will improve with your presentation skills.

9. The Use of Music

Music can add an additional layer to your productions so music selection has to be an important one. Imagine presenting yourself as a marketing professional over the Benny Hill theme tune!

Fact is that more people are opting not to have music in their marketing productions and messages.

10. Graphics

In point 5 I mentioned about the use of flashy graphics and to keep things clean, but there are two essential graphics that should be used.

The first one is the name of your talent, so your audience can identify with the person that is speaking, the second graphic should be the watermark of your website. When adding website addresses I prefer to have then fade in and out at pertinent times drawing the viewers attention to it.

Always remember to use a graphic for any phone numbers or to further illustrate any instructions.

Making marketing videos is simple effective and fun to do, and by carrying out these simple 10 points, you'll made your videos profitable too.