Video essay tips

1. Brainstorm:
1.i. Content: Open a google doc and jot down somewhat unknown information you have on a topic you are passionate about or a new way of seeing old information that other people aren't thinking of.
1.ii. Style: Decide on a consistent speaking style & way of delivering information to viewers that is enjoyable to you and also doesn't require intensive B-Roll collection for the entire video. Talking directly to the camera with occasional B-Roll swooping in is my new go-to.

2. Your title, thumbnail, and first 30 seconds of the video can be extremely powerful if they are working in unison with one another. In this step #2, come up with the title/thumbnail first. Make sure they are compelling. They don't have to be 100% finished, but have a working title at this stage, and at least have the thumbnail concept written down in your document. Pro-tip: If your title/thumbnail have an "information gap", something that makes the viewer ask a specific question in their mind when they see them, this can really motivate them to watch your video.

3. Begin the scriptwriting process, clarifying within the first 30 seconds that you will resolve the information gap by the end of the video. This doesn't need to be explicitly stated, but bring some reassurance to the viewer that their click was worthwhile because you are definitely going to resolve the curiosity that prompted their click. Throughout the scriptwriting process, make sure to stay focused on the topic at hand. Keep your mind on the title and ask yourself, "Does this paragraph really relate to the information gap within the title and thumbnail?"

4. You got this, good luck!