Video podcasting has been around since the start of podcasting, however its popularity and use has grown exponentially with the evolution of more simple-to-use video production tools. Before you launch, it’s important to know how to create a video podcast and its benefits, compared to audio-only podcasts. Blubrry Podcasting, a pioneering podcasting platform, has supported video podcasts since day one, and is a valuable resource for video-based podcasters.
What is a video podcast?
Video podcasts are podcasts that incorporate visuals as the primary medium of content delivery. Content creators record and share episodes in a video podcast, similar to traditional television shows or YouTube videos, but with the podcast format includes distribution with an RSS feed. These episodes cover various topics, including discussions, interviews, tutorials, product reviews, storytelling and much more.
Video podcasts offer viewers a visual element beyond traditional podcasts’ audio-only format. This visual component can include the host’s expressions, gestures, on-screen graphics, images, demonstrations and other visuals that enhance the content. And while the popularity of video podcasting has grown dramatically over the past few years, Blubrry Podcasting has supported video podcasts since its inception in 2006. Video podcasts are also distributed through various apps like Apple Podcasts, Podcast Addict, Pocketcast and or apps and websites dedicated to this medium. The use of video in podcasting can allow for more engaging and interactive content, making it an attractive medium for content creators looking to connect with their audience on a deeper level.
Starting a video podcast
To initiate your video podcast, it is imperative to establish a sturdy foundation by delineating your content strategy and objectives. To steer your podcast creation process, ask yourself:
- Who is your target audience?
- What themes will you explore?
- At what frequency shall fresh episodes grace the auditory and visual realm?
Furthermore, is it worth considering whether you harbor any long-term objectives for your podcast. Is it for financial gain, or are you aiming to build an audience around a particular interest?
Once you outline these fundamental principles, you will be better equipped to craft engaging content. Also, try following the establishment of your core tenets and exploring how the video podcasts within your niche present their content. This can be invaluable in developing your distinctive style. Although there is no one-size-fits-all template for creating a successful video podcast, scrutinizing the precedents set by other podcasters can provide helpful insights into best practices and potential pitfalls.
Another critical facet of embarking on a successful video podcast venture is technical prowess. The instruments employed in producing your podcast significantly influence its quality and allure. Deliberating the acquisition of proper recording equipment, including microphones, cameras, lighting setups and editing software designed explicitly for podcasting, deserves consideration. Familiarity with this equipment enhances your production’s auditory and visual components.
Some popular video podcasting equipment can include:
-
Camera:
- A good quality DSLR or mirrorless camera for high-definition recording. Ensure it has a clean HDMI out if you want to live stream.
- Alternatively, a high-quality webcam can also suffice for beginners or for those on a budget.
-
Microphone:
- A condenser or dynamic microphone. USB mics are generally easier to set up for beginners, while XLR mics offer better quality and flexibility.
- A pop filter to reduce plosive sounds.
- Boom arm or mic stand for positioning.
-
Audio Interface:
- USB connection to your computer if you have a USB microphone.
- An audio mixer or interface to connect XLR microphones to your computer and control audio levels.
-
Headphones:
- A pair of closed-back (cover the ear completely) headphones for monitoring audio during recording.
-
Lighting:
- Softbox lights or LED panels to ensure even and flattering lighting.
- Ring lights can be useful for close-up shots or individual hosts.
-
Backdrop:
- A neutral-colored backdrop or green screen if you plan to use chroma key effects.
- Alternatively, a well-decorated set or room that aligns with your podcast’s theme.
-
Recording Software:
- Software like Streamyard, OBS Studio, Wirecast, or Ecamm Live for recording and live streaming.
- Audio editing software like Adobe Audition or Audacity.
-
Video Editing Software:
- Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve for post-production editing.
Live Streaming Platform (if you’re doing live podcasts):
- Platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook Live.
- Graphic Design Software:
- Software like Adobe Photoshop or Canva to design podcast thumbnails, banners, and promotional graphics.
- Acoustic Treatment:
- Soundproofing foam panels, bass traps, and diffusers to improve sound quality in your recording space.
- Teleprompter:
- If you plan to read scripts or notes during your podcast, a teleprompter can be invaluable.
- Tripods and Mounts:
- Sturdy tripods for cameras and mounts for additional equipment.
- Planning Tools:
- Apps or platforms for scheduling, scripting, and organizing episodes, such as Trello, Google Docs, or Evernote.
- Branding and Marketing:
- Design a memorable logo and theme for your podcast.
- Utilize social media platforms to promote episodes and engage with listeners.
By investing in the right equipment and software, and dedicating time to planning and promotion, you can produce a professional and engaging video podcast that stands out in the crowded podcasting landscape.
Setting Up Your Video Podcast
Embarking on setting up your video podcast is an exciting venture that enables you to forge deeper connections with your audience. To ensure the success of your video podcast, it is imperative to concentrate on several essential elements, including:
- Podcast editing
- Suitable podcasting equipment
- Podcast recording programs
- Optimal video podcast host, such as Blubrry
Podcast editing ensures your content exudes professionalism and engagement for your viewers. This entails trimming superfluous segments such as lengthy pauses or verbal stumbles, adjusting audio levels for clarity, incorporating sound effects and background music when warranted, and integrating visual elements such as images or textual overlays. Properly edited content not only enhances the overall viewing experience but also sustains the attention of your target audience throughout each episode. Blubrry customers have the opportunity to use Blubrry partner Auphonic to help clean and balance their audio. Blubrry Pro Production is also available as a one-stop solution for creating a professional quality audio/video podcast.
Beyond the cameras, microphones, headphones and lighting systems, other items deserving consideration include boom arms or stands for positioning microphones at the ideal distance from speakers. Pop filters to mitigate plosive sounds that could distort audio quality, audio mixers for managing multiple microphone inputs, and sound level adjustments. Durable memory cards or external hard drives for storage purposes, tripods or mounts for stabilizing cameras during shoots, and teleprompter software if scripts are being used. And green screens if background effects are part of your plan.
Selecting the most suitable video podcast host, as in Blubrry Podcast Hosting which offers plans for every podcasters’ needs, can significantly influence the accessibility and reach of your content.
Publishing and Promoting Your Video Podcast
Publishing and promoting your video podcast stand as essential steps for creators to maximize their reach, elevate engagement and generate revenue from their content. Since video podcasts are a powerful medium for communication, selecting the right hosting solution is essential for your video podcast success. Embracing Blubrry, the best platform for video podcast hosting, unfolds a myriad of attributes capable of transcending your podcasting experience.
Blubrry is the favored choice for numerous content, and here is why:
- With a user-friendly interface, Blubrry becomes a hospitable haven for novices venturing into the realm of video podcasting.
- It unfolds a seamless sanctuary for content upload and management, thus guaranteeing a seamless experience.
- Blubrry takes pride in its robust hosting prowess, ensuring the continuous accessibility of your video podcast to your eager audience around the clock.
- With minimal disruptions, you can perpetuate a steadfast online presence.
To best understand your audience and fine-tune your content, Blubrry offers an exhaustive array of analytics with its podcasting statistics dashboard. These invaluable insights empower you to craft content that resonates with and captivates your audience. In monetization, Blubrry opens a myriad of opportunities from programmatic advertising to an affiliate program, enabling you to monetize your video podcast. Venture into sponsorship collaborations, advertise your craft, and proffer premium content to augment your earnings.
Blubrry also streamlines the distribution process by autonomously disseminating your video podcast across all platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify. This widening reach simplifies the quest for potential viewers, making your content’s discovery seamless.
Here are steps to publish, distribute and promote your video podcast effectively:
- Your video podcast’s foundation is exceptional content. Ensure your videos are well-produced, your audio is clear, and your message is engaging. Quality is the first step to capturing and retaining your audience’s attention.
- Optimizing your video podcast for search engines is crucial. Use relevant keywords in your video titles, descriptions and tags to increase discoverability. This will help you rank higher in search results and attract organic traffic.
- Promote your video podcast on various social media platforms. Share teaser clips, engage with your audience, and encourage them to subscribe. Social media is a powerful tool for building a loyal following.
- Maintain a consistent publishing schedule. Stick to your plan, whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Consistency helps build anticipation and keeps your audience engaged.
- Interact with your viewers through comments, messages, and live Q&A sessions. This fosters a sense of community and encourages audience retention.
- Collaborate with other content creators in your niche. Cross-promotion can introduce your podcast to new audiences and boost your subscribers.
- Collect viewers’ emails and create a mailing list. Send out newsletters with updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive offers to keep your audience engaged.
- Regularly analyze your video podcast’s performance through Blubrry’s analytics and adapt your content strategy accordingly. Knowing what works and what doesn’t is crucial for growth.
Connecting to the Podcast Space
Collaboration with fellow content creators can be advantageous, especially for newcomers to podcasting. Networking with peers not only enhances your skills but may also open doors to opportunities that foster the growth and expansion of your audience. For instance, joining a video podcast network could provide valuable resources, including professional advice and promotional assistance.
For those unfamiliar with the video podcast network concept, this is a platform that assembles an array of podcasts under one umbrella. These networks often offer incentives like sponsorship deals, revenue sharing from advertising and increased exposure to attract talented creators. By joining a community of content producers with similar themes, you enhance your chances of reaching a broader viewership and achieving long-term success.
Comprehending a video podcast and how to craft one entails patience, perseverance, and a commitment to ongoing improvement. Extensive research on the tools required for creating high-quality videos, all while staying true to your vision and objectives, is key. By doing so, you are well on your way to creating engaging content that resonates with audiences, propelling you and your video podcast toward success.
Read more on What You Should Know About Video Podcasting in Blubrry’s podcast and blog, Podcast Insider.