By: Deedee El bego
YouTubers have been around for a bit, yet the appreciation for content creation is still here today. It’s becoming clear that YouTubers have the ability to gain a ridiculous number of subscribers and in turn make a lot of money. While many people might view them as lazy or uneducated, YouTubers are actually masters of their craft. This was made clear to me when I decided that I wanted to make a video and then upload it to YouTube. I have always watched many YouTubers on the application and admired their editing skills, humor, and ability to share their unique self to the world. While the number of creators seems ever growing, this doesn’t mean that you can’t join in on the party. I decided that I wanted to see just how long it would take me to make one video. I began by planning out everything. As I started going through my list of tasks and preparations I didn’t realize how much time, money, and effort it would actually end up taking. I first began by purchasing my equipment. I was able to find microphones that clip on easily to clothing on Amazon for a reasonable price.
Easy to use clip on microphones.
Next, I knew I wasn’t going to buy an expensive camera, so I decided to opt for my iPhone instead. Lastly, I headed over to my local BestBuy so I could purchase some kind of phone stand. I ended up buying something similar to a tripod that I found on clearance for $20, originally priced at $40. After gathering my equipment, I was able to then start brainstorming for my video. I decided that I wanted to interview the owners of a local new restaurant in my area. Luckily, they were more than willing to be interviewed for my video. Soon enough I realized that I needed to prepare some kind of script and filming strategy. I knew that I didn’t want my video to be boring or low in quality, so I had to plan everything out. After creating a list of questions for the interview and filming some basic shots of the restaurant for my video it became a lot easier. I ended up spending 3 hours at the restaurant recording shots for my video. I had no idea how long it would take to set up, or how long shooting multiple clips would take me. What I did know was that I was passionate and willing to make my video as great as it can be.
CapCut editing screen.
That being said, I had a lot on my plate when I began editing. Since I’m a beginner at editing as well I decided to use an application called CapCut. CapCut was relatively easy to use with clear tools for editing and the use of multicolor so that there is less confusion. The layout of the app allows for visibility of all editing options by simply swiping from left to right on your screen. I was able to stitch multiple clips together, add music, and trim clips that were too long. The application is free as well and allows you to save your videos without a watermark. After I was done editing my video, I was easily able to download it to my phone before uploading it to my account on YouTube. While my video was under 10 minutes, the work to get it uploaded took me a couple days. This is the behind the scenes of content creation that I didn’t think too much about as a viewer. Through my experience I learned that it’s okay to mess up if you’re doing something for the first time. I also learned that being a perfectionist is great but it’s okay to just do the best you can.
While my video didn’t end up exactly how I envisioned it in my head I’m still proud of myself for creating something from scratch. I encourage you to do the same with whatever project you’ve been wanting to try doing, especially if it’s your first time. While it might be daunting at first, seeing your finished product will definitely show you how your hard work paid off.
