Why DIY Videos Are Hurting Your Brand (And What to Do Instead)
- Angela Wolf Video
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
With more apps and websites pushing video posts, making DIY videos for your brand may seem like a viable alternative to hiring a professional videography team. Don't be fooled--these zero-budget video marketing projects can do more bad than good. Keep reading for the ins-and-outs of what's better: DIY video or pro video for your brand.
1) DIY Lacks Strategy and Quality
One of our favorite things about videography is the magic that ensues when the sum of your efforts is greater than its parts. Not only does a video provide visuals, it can also tell a story, evoke emotions, and compel the audience to action. Without knowing how that magic works, however, your videos will fall flat. Video marketing is much more than pressing record on your phone and posting to your website. Like other aspects of your small business branding, videos need careful planning and expert execution from start to finish. Even with a high-res camera, DIY corporate videos are noticeably lacking in quality and cohesion, which turns off your audience. If someone’s first exposure to a brand is a low-quality video, they’re likely to think it’s either a scam or not worth their time. Video marketing needs to instill confidence in your brand, and DIY just can't compete.
2) DIY Works for Specific Situations
Don't get us wrong--we know It’s not practical (or affordable) to do professional videos for every piece of content you create. That’s okay! There are times that DIY video is the right choice. TikTok and Instagram are two sites we would recommend posting DIY videos. These platforms have a more “personal” touch to them, along with expectation that the content will be created within the app on your phone. That's definitely not to say that all of your TikTok and Instagram content should be only DIY, but behind-the-scenes, a day in the life, and "get ready with me" videos are perfect for this content. Order packing videos are a great use of DIY. They provide an intimate look at a specific behind-the-scenes process. Viewers get to feel like they are PART of that process, so the video doesn’t have to be super polished. Most importantly, DIY videos should be short--less than 60 seconds long. If the video needs to be longer than that, the content is important enough to need a professional (plus, it’s a lot harder to ignore poor quality in a longer video).
3) Professional Video is a Must for Websites and Information
Your website is your digital storefront, so it's crucial to put your best foot forward with your corporate video. If you walked into a waiting room that had rusty old lawn chairs and a handwritten sign that says “Pay here!” you'd be pretty skeptical at how legitimate that business is. Unfortunately, DIY videos on your website can give the same vibe. Make sure your branded videos accurately reflect your level of skill and professionalism. Additionally, professional production is a must for any classes or coaching videos. Pre-recorded coaching sessions are a great way for service providers to make passive income. However, because it’s something you're selling, the packaging is just as important as the information you’re teaching. DIY videos are often harder to follow, due to noticeable deficits in visual, audio, and editing quality. Not only will your content be harder to retain, it may also frustrate customers who feel like they're not getting what they paid for. It's almost like going to a fine dining restaurant and being served a gourmet meal on a styrofoam plate. Not only does it immediately seem less worth the cost, but also makes the consumer question its quality if such little attention is paid to the details and delivery.
Angela Wolf Video offers corporate video production services near Philadelphia, PA. Do you have a specific video question? Schedule a free video analysis call at bit.ly/callawv
