- HIGH END TIMES
- Posts
- 68 Short-Form Videos Later...
I was losing followers at the end of 2023.
My account was hovering around 12k followers when I started to take content seriously again.
Keep in mind it took me YEARS to get to that many followers to begin with.
Fast forward about 7 months…
And I’m now over 20k followers.
Now I’ll admit, this isn’t an insane jump.
I know people who have gotten over 50k followers in 1 month.
But none the less, we are moving in the right direction.
Remember, creating content is not linear, it’s exponential.
As your impact, trust, and influence continues to grow and expand…
Things seemingly begin to take off “out of nowhere.”
Creating content is an attractor and amplifier.
There is very little else like it and the game is wide open for anyone willing to show up, put in the work, and add value.
Let’s jump right in!
The Truth After 68 Videos:
1. Production Quality vs. Content Idea:
• Production quality and execution matter less than a unique and interesting idea.
• More time spent making a video does not equal more virality. Sometimes those raw, underproduced videos deliver the best results.
• Your videos don’t need to be Hollywood productions to succeed, but aim for the best video quality and lighting possible. If your video looks low budget, blurry, or grainy, you better have an amazing story or insight to go along with it.
2. Consistency and Format:
• Solve for consistency of posting, and most questions you have about your niche, imposter syndrome, etc., will answer themselves.
• When you find a format that works, rinse and repeat. People love things they are familiar with.
• I aim for 3 videos a week. Sometimes I do more, occasionally I do less. The important part is giving yourself a quota and sticking to it. What doesn’t get measured doesn’t improve.
3. Engagement and Algorithms:
• Followers matter less than they used to because algorithms are now interest-based. This is great for small accounts. Focus on niche topics, and the algorithm will find the right people.
• Videos that deliver value via education, entertainment, or inspiration tend to perform the best. Always consider how your content benefits your audience.
• A video with a lot of shares naturally tends to lead to more views and virality. Think about whether your video is something people would share with their friends or family.
4. Technical Tips:
• Always add captions to your videos. Most people scroll with the sound off, so it helps retention.
• A great hook at the beginning of the video is important, but the rest of the pacing and information matter, or viewers won’t stick around.
• With short-form video, it’s hard to go really deep on a topic. People like videos that give them small insights and new ideas, but on Instagram and TikTok, you gotta keep it digestible.
5. Mindset and Approach:
• Always post videos you can stand behind. If you think it could go viral but it’s kinda cringe to you, don’t post it. It’s not worth it.
• Don’t worry about having a “unique voice” in the beginning. You probably won’t have one, and that’s okay. It can be developed.
• Trolls are going to troll. Don’t mind them. You will usually find their accounts anonymous or private.
6. Real-World Feedback and Influence:
• My videos about my bootleg remixes average more plays than the tracks themselves on SoundCloud or Bandcamp. This has been good for growing the email list. Time will tell how good it is for my music career although I’m optimistic.
• I’ve had Derrick Carter, Kascade, Moodyman, LaidbackLuke, and many other popular artists comment, follow, and engage with my content in the last 7 months. Don’t underestimate the power of who’s on these social platforms.
• Having a support system really helps. I’m blessed in this regard since my wife is also taking content very seriously right now. We talk strategy and give each other tips and ways to improve our videos. It’s important to have a support network of other creators to learn from and bounce ideas.
Remember: consistency, authenticity, and value are key.
And don’t be afraid to try new things.
Your unique voice is what makes your content pop.
Keep creating, keep innovating, and most importantly, keep having fun with it.
Appreciate you!
Chat next Thursday!
If I can help in anyway, hit me up.
I respond to every email.
Brenmar
Sound Bites 🔉
Potential sampling goldmine. Found via this Insta Reel.
Wonderfully deep write up on Sade’s classic album ‘Diamond Life.’
Tools & Misc ⚒️
My favorite Tik Tok account right now. These videos are ART. You aren’t ready lol.
Pretty cool search discovery engine leveraging AI.
How to make it as a DJ/Producer w/ Mark Knight from Toolroom.
FREE REMIXES 🎶
ALL REMIXES ON BANDCAMP
ALL REMIXES ON SOUNDCLOUD