Explainer videos are a great way to show off your product so your audience can quickly understand. These videos often speak directly toward your audience’s pain points and clearly show off how your product can solve them.
And they’re not limited to only marketing and sales videos. You can also use them to roll out a new internal system, explain a policy, or onboard employees.
If creating one sounds a little intimidating, don’t worry.
In this post, we’ll walk through what makes a high-quality explainer video, how to create your own explainer video and the best explainer video examples you can use for inspiration.
What is an explainer video?
An explainer video is a quick, engaging video often used as the modern-day elevator pitch for a company’s product or service.
Successful ones are concise, focused, and have a very specific purpose: to communicate the value of your product in the shortest amount of time.
The explainer video style is designed to grab people’s attention and ultimately convert them to try or buy your product or service.
They are often displayed on landing pages, in emails, and, more commonly, as ads on YouTube.
Top types of explainer videos
Explainer videos tend to leverage four common storytelling formats: animation, live action, screencast video, and whiteboard drawings.
Each one has pros and cons, and the best explainer videos know when to leverage each to best tell their story. To help you decide what’s best for your audience, I’ve laid out the common benefits for each:
1. Animation:
Animated explainers are great for communicating abstract or intangible ideas and are also great for creative storytelling. They’re the most versatile options for explainer videos, but they can also be expensive to outsource. But there are also plenty of animation tools available if you want to make one on your own at a reasonable cost.
Typically an animation video is used to explain software or services.
2. Live action:
Few things can beat a relatable person, communicating a relatable message.
That’s the benefit of creating live-action explainer videos.
Including people in your videos can build a connection between the viewer and the message you’re communicating, so any time there’s an opportunity to use live action, take it.
3. Screencast video:
Screencast video is ideal for showing software in action. This is a powerful method to use if your goal is to provide people with a clear look at a product before they try or /buy.
4. Whiteboard drawing:
A good explainer video keeps your attention throughout the video. And there’s a certain appeal to having content created right before your eyes through video animation.
Use whiteboard drawings when you need to communicate a bigger topic within the context of its smaller parts. The ability to zoom out at the end of a whiteboard drawing to show everything within context is a powerful tool.
Production techniques and tools
Before you roll up your sleeves or hand off your project to an external company, let’s take a step back and make sure the right people are making your video.
The biggest factor in this decision is often budget, but I suggest you start by considering the level of impact you want the video to have.
This will help gauge a rational size for your investment. Is this video going to lead your marketing efforts for a campaign? Will it live in a prominent place, such as on the landing page of your website? The greater the desired impact, the more you should consider higher investment levels.
On the flip side, if you’re simply looking to dip your toes into the explainer video world, then you might want to consider rolling those sleeves back up and making this yourself to save some money.
If you’re a little unsure how to proceed, I’ve laid out the pros and cons of the two most common options for creating an explainer video.
Option 1: Hire an outside company
Pros: Video production companies have the talent, skills, and experience to create the best explainer videos. Good companies work with you to make your video exactly how you want it.
Cons: It’s going to cost you. The average cost for a custom 60-second explainer video is roughly $8,000.
Summary: If there’s a lot depending on this video, you should hire an external company to produce a “knock their socks off” level explainer video. This will cost you, but the payoff will likely be worth it.
Option 2: Make it yourself
Pros: You have complete creative freedom and more control over the budget.
Cons: You’re limited by your own skills, time, software, and hardware. If you’re looking to get into video creation, I recommend trying out Camtasia. It’s designed for people new to video production and it’s free to try!
Summary: If the stakes are low or you’re willing to try your hand at video production, then build it in-house. You have more control over the budget and complete creative freedom.
How to create an effective explainer video
Step 1: Start with the end in mind
Let’s return to the elevator pitch analogy and imagine ourselves standing next to a potential customer with roughly one to two minutes to get across the value of our product.
That’s not long.
Given the time constraints, the best way to craft your message is to first take a step back and look at why you’re even saying it. The goal is to figure out what you want the customer to do when the conversation ends.
Should they sign up for your service?
Create an account?
Visit your webpage?
Make sure you first set a clear end goal before you go any further.
One way to help establish this goal is to write a purpose statement. For example, a purpose statement might be something like “to drive current users to upgrade” or “to increase the number of trial sign-ups from people in their 20s and 30s.”
The most helpful purpose statements include an actionable phrase and an audience.
Once you establish a purpose statement, the next step is to determine your audience.
Step 2: Determine your target audience
Explainer videos are short by nature, and if you don’t speak to a specific audience, your video is doomed to fail.
Think about the people that you most want to target with this video.
The goal here is to get the right people on the elevator, so you can tell them the right message.
Choose a specific subset of your total customers; a group that is strategically picked for the purpose of this video. You can’t target everyone and you shouldn’t try to.
A broad message is often a muddled message, which means fewer people taking action after your video.
Step 3: Craft your narrative
After establishing your audience, it’s time to craft the narrative. You have roughly ninety seconds to introduce your product or company, the problem your users are facing, and how your product can solve it.
This is a lot to cover in a short amount of time, and I recommend breaking it down into more manageable chunks.
Start by focusing on the problem. Take the time to dig into customer data, make customer calls and get to know the biggest problems facing your users. These problems are key to your message, as they’re the reason your potential customers are even looking for a solution.
Once you have a firm grasp on the problems, it’s time to focus on solutions. Here’s where you start crafting the narrative, and the key is to focus on solutions, not features.
Think of it less as a chance to show off your feature set and more of a chance to communicate how your product will make them better at what they do.
Focus on telling a relatable story about the problems they’re facing, then introduce your solution and show how it will improve their life.
Step 4: Record or shoot your explainer video
This step depends on the type of explainer video you want to create and which production method you choose. If you outsource the production and editing, your main job oversee the project to ensure that it meets all the requirements and guidelines you laid out above.
If you’re recording your own video, however, you’ve got a fair amount of work left to do. At a high-level here are the basic steps required to create an explainer video on your own.
Write a script:Creating your script will help you sound more professional and ensure you don’t miss any points you need to cover.
Create a storyboard: If your video will have multiple scenes and formats, it can help to sketch out a basic storyboard to visualize what will be on screen during your narration.
Gather your visual assets: If you’re simply doing a screencast explainer video, you can record your screen and your script at the same time. Otherwise now is the time to bring in any graphics or product videos you may need.
Edit your video: Whether you’re using a template or starting from scratch you can start building your video.
Add music and sound effects. Many explainers include a soundtrack in the background to keep the audience engaged throughout the video.
After your video is all set, now it’s time to share it with your audience. The best thing about an explainer video is that you can share it across multiple channels.
Here are a few places of the top places to promote your new video:
Paid ads: Put some money behind the video to guarantee it shows up in front of your audience on the channels that matter most
Organic social media: Every few months reshare your explainer video to your audience so new followers can learn more about what you do.
YouTube: If you write a solid title and description for your video, your explainer video can easily show up anytime someone types in your brand name.
Your product landing pages: There is some debateas to whether videos help or hurt your landing page conversions, but allowing your audience to choose how to consume the content is never a bad idea.
After you share your video, the real fun begins. You can track performance on each channel and use those insights to prepare for your next video project.
9 examples of successful explainer videos
Check out these examples to get some inspiration on style, scripting, and narrative flow for your own explainer videos as part of your sales, training, or marketing strategy.
1. OLIPOP
This quick overview video from OLIPOP proves you don’t need complexity to create a great explainer video. In less than a minute, you learn what the product is, how it’s different from other sodas, and what the main benefits are.
2. TheraBreath
TheraBreath does a great job of using quick scenes and movement to keep the audience engaged and tell the story. And they use a different persona to show off each benefit.
3. Chomps
Chomps does a great job of visualizing what the product does. This is more of a highly-produced video, but they clearly state the why behind the product in a way that’s easy to understand.
4. TidyCal
AppSumo (the makers of TidyCal) starts off by clearly stating what the app is and why it matters. Then they use simple screen videos to show off how it all works.
5. Glide
Glide doesn’t get too complicated with this explainer video, but it does a great job of using animation, stock videos, and simple narration to explain a complex topic.
6. Help Scout
Help Scout clearly understands the problem that their feature solves and does a great job leading off with what the customer actual cares about rather than focusing on themselves.
7. Sprout Social
This video from Sprout Social has a great mix of visual elements and tells a compelling story to try out the feature they’re explaining.
8. Airtable
At the core of the video Airtable is showing of screen recordings of their product. Nothing too fancy about that concept, but they do a great job of mixing in different visual elements and music to make you keep wanting to watch.
9. Blue Buffalo
This example proves you don’t need a voiceover to make an explainer video work. Blue Buffalo does a nice job of mixing music, on-screen text, and visuals to explain what their app is and how it works.
Matt Pierce is a Learning & Video Ambassador at TechSmith. In this role speaks and teaches about video creation and visual communication. A graduate of Indiana University he has ten years of experience working in learning and development with a focus on visual instruction. He has directly managed the training, user assistance, video, and other teams for TechSmith. Teach him something @piercemr
Screenshots are great, but sometimes they include information you don’t want shared.
Or maybe you frequently handle confidential information that you don’t want to accidentally share in your screenshots. Blurring the text and other private data in your screenshots will give you peace of mind sharing screen captures with your customers and colleagues.
In this post, I’ll show you how to blur an image or screenshot and give you 5 creative and practical ways you can use the blur tool to maintain privacy and clarity in your screenshots.
Annotate and edit screenshots with Snagit
Professional mark-up tools and powerful features make it easy to create helpful images.
First, take a screenshot or open an image with Snagit on your Windows or Mac computer.
Step 2: Select the Blur tool
With your image open, select the Blur tool from the drop-down menu.
Step 3: Move your mouse over the text you want to blur
Click and drag over the areas you want to blur.
Step 4: Adjust the blur intensity or style
To change the intensity or type of blur, select the blur, then change the option in the Properties panel.
Step 5: Save or share your image
When you’re done with the image, click the Share Link button, choose an app to share from the drop-down menu, or drag it directly from the tray.
Snagit is mistake-friendly, so if you blur the wrong thing, just select it and delete. But don’t worry, anyone you share the image with won’t be able to do that.
That’s it!
Snagit makes blurring sensitive information that easy.
“Another great feature that I frequently use is the ability to blur out sensitive information. As someone who deals with confidential data regularly, this feature has been a game-changer for me. I no longer have to worry about accidentally sharing sensitive information in my screenshots, as I can easily add a blur effect to any area I want to protect. This has given me peace of mind and saved me a lot of time and hassle.”
5 ways we use the blur tool to maintain privacy
As workplace norms keep changing, teams are learning how to effectively share information across multiple time zones and locations. And TechSmith is no different. Here are 5 ways we’re using the blur tool to enhance our remote commutation with team members and customers.
1. Remove personal information from a screenshot
Our tech support team does awesome work every day, providing chat, email, and phone help to our users. This work requires them to take a lot of screenshots. Often, the screen grabs include email and other account information.
Our agents use Snagit’s blur tool to hide the text and remove personal information, like their email address, from a screenshot.
In the screenshot above, one of our techs needed to show a user where to find their billing information on Screencast.com. He was able to blur out his name, email address and contact information without the capture losing any of its context or meaning. Pretty sweet.
One of the most important parts of our software-building process is listening to our users.
We run beta tests, communicate with user groups, and conduct surveys, among many other input-gathering strategies. While planning new features, we make sure everyone working on our software has heard the voice of our users.
To do this, we create resources and share them throughout the team. The names or information of individual users, often collected in surveys, is not necessary to include. So, we usually blur it out.
The screenshot below is from a spreadsheet containing user feedback with the ‘email address’ column blurred out.
3. Remove unnecessary information
Sometimes the reason for blurring isn’t about hiding identifying or sensitive information.
Instead, there is irrelevant or unnecessary content that you want to de-emphasize. This is a tactic one of our marketing team uses to direct the focus for example screenshots.
They can grab an image to include with feedback and then blur out the parts that could distract from the subject. In the screenshot below, he blurred text that was not pertinent to what he was explaining.
And it draws the attention directly where he needs it.
By blurring out the unimportant parts of any image, you can draw a viewer’s eye to a particular section of an image or video. This technique is useful when you still want to maintain context in your screenshot.
In this example, I’ve blurred the rest of the interface in order to draw attention to the menu in the upper left.
5. Progressive reveal
When explaining a complicated interface or diagram, some people like to use blur to do a progressive reveal of portions of an image. This is a great tactic in slide decks and presentations.
It also works well in step-by-step processes. By blurring parts of the image, you can be sure the people you’re presenting to know exactly what part of the interface or image you are talking about.
Below is a GIF I created to show how a progressive reveal can be done with a screenshot.
3 other creative ways to keep your screenshots secure and maintain viewer focus
While blurring an image can be useful, the process isn’t always your most secure option. To completely redact the information in your screenshot you’ll want to use a solid box to cover that text or data.
Here are three ways you can elevate your screenshots beyond the blur tool.
Tip #1: Use a shape
The Shape tool in Snagit lets you easily block elements of an image or screenshot. You can control the size, shape and color. And the Shape tool gives you more options to add your own branding and styling to your screenshots.
Tip #2: Simplify
The Simplify tool is great if you want to cover up information or focus a viewer’s attention without losing any of the original look and feel of the interface.
Like the Shape tool, you can also adjust the color to maintain a professional look for your screenshots. You can manually adjust where to simplify or the Auto-Simplify feature can simplify everything with a single click.
Tip #3: Delete
Sometimes you simply need to remove the information completely. In this case, Snagit makes it easy to select and delete any part of a screenshot. You can fill the deleted area with transparency or automatically fill the area based on the content surrounding the selection.
In the example below, the deleted area automatically matched the white background color.
The best snipping tool for Windows and Mac
Don’t let clumsy built-in tools hold you back. Take and edit screenshots with Snagit!
The ability to screen record on a Windows PC can be a real lifesaver if you are trying to create a tutorial or video presentation. After all, showing is better than telling! But how do you get started? We got you!
The good news is screen recording has become easier than ever, thanks to built-in tools and powerful third-party options. Whether you’re looking to record quick how-to videos or need more advanced editing, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
How to screen record on Windows using built-in tools
When it comes to recording your screen on a Windows machine, you have a couple of built-in options to start with.
Xbox Game Bar: Best for quick and simple gameplay recordings
The Xbox Game Bar is readily available on Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers. Initially designed for gamers wanting to capture their gameplay, it can be used to record anything!
Here’s how to make a Windows screen recording using the Game Bar:
Step 1: Open the Game Bar
Starting up the Game Bar is super easy. All you need to do is press the keyboard shortcut Windows logo key + G at the same time. This will open a control panel near the top of your screen.
Step 2: Choose your audio inputs
If you want to narrate or add live commentary to your screen recording, click on the Record Mic option. But remember, you can also record your audio separately and add it later if you prefer.
You might want to think about the equipment you’re using and whether you’ve got the best microphone for recording videos. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it can make a difference.
Step 3: Start recording
Next, start your screen recording by clicking on the bright red recording icon. Then, when you want to stop recording, click on the red recording panel that appears in the top right corner of your screen.
All screen recordings are automatically saved on your laptop as MP4 files and can be found in the videos folder.
While the Xbox Game Bar is enough for quick recordings, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:
You can’t trim, cut, or add effects to your recordings without using separate software
You can record the full screen or a specific window, but it lacks the flexibility to easily select a specific region of the screen
Some users report performance slowdowns during recording
Snipping Tool: Best for the most basic screen recordings
Did you know that the Snipping Tool on Windows isn’t just for screenshots anymore? The new Snipping Tool, available only on Windows 11, now offers limited screen recording capabilities.
Step 1: Open the Snipping Tool
Simply search for Snipping Tool in the Start menu search box.
Step 2: Select what you want to record
Press the Record button, then click to draw a rectangle over the area of your screen you want to record.
Step 3: Press start
Once the area of your screen is selected, press Start. You will see a 3-second countdown begin for your recording. Once you’re done, click the Stop button. Your recording will be saved in the Videos folder by default.
This route will be ok for some basic recordings, but Snipping Tool has some screen recording limitations you should know about:
No ability to edit video without using separate software
The only supported file format is MP4
There is no keyboard shortcut for recording
How to screen record on Windows using third-party software
While built-in tools can get the job done for quick capture, they often fall short when you need more control, higher quality, or advanced editing options.
If you’re creating professional tutorials, presentations, or online courses, upgrading to a third-party app is going to save you a lot of time and headaches.
Snagit: Best for quick tutorials and video presentations
When you need more than just basic screen capture and editing capabilities all in one tool, Snagit is your BFF. It’s ideal for everything from walking your co-worker through a process to more detailed tutorials and how-to videos.
Unlike built-in tools, Snagit lets you record your screen, camera, microphone, and system audio simultaneously. In this section, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of video recording your screen using Snagit.
Record your screen with Snagit
Snagit makes it easy to share quick updates and how-to’s by capturing exactly what’s happening on your screen.
To start, open Snagit and select the video tab from the start menu. Make sure that Region is selected from the drop-down menu, as this will make it easy to record part or all of your screen.
When you’re ready, hit the Capture button—you can’t miss it! The crosshairs will then appear, allowing you to select the area you want to record.
You’ll notice that the selection will automatically snap to the windows you have open. However, to manually select a portion of your screen, just click and drag the crosshairs accordingly.
Step 2: Select the elements you want to record
Unlike built-in tools, Snagit makes it easy to create more engaging screen capture recordings. Before you start recording, you can adjust the following settings to fit your needs:
Cursor: Add a custom highlight to your cursor or an eye-catching animation to your clicks
System audio: Include sounds that come from your computer
Webcam: Include a webcam overlay on your screen recording
Microphone: Record your voice while you record
Pro tip: You can create custom keyboard shortcuts in Snagit for common captures, so you don’t have to make these adjustments every time.
Step 3: Start your screen recording
Click Record. Snagit will then give you a three-second countdown, and anything that appears in the recording area will be captured in your video.
If you want to highlight a specific area of your screen, you can use the screen draw tool to add elements like arrows and step numbers while you record.
Once you’ve recorded everything that you want to be included in your video, click the Stop button in the toolbar. Your video will automatically open in the Snagit Editor.
Step 4: Trim your video
Of course, once you’re finished with your screen recording, you’ll probably want to edit it a little. Even the most carefully planned recordings will likely have something you want to cut, and with Snagit, you can easily trim your recording to remove unwanted clips.
On the other hand, to combine multiple clips or snippets and produce a longer video, you can use Snagit’s Combine Videos feature. This allows you to merge several clips together to create one cohesive video.
Step 5: Save or share
To save your video, go to File and click Save as. Then, decide where you want to save your file and click Save.
However, you can click on the Share Link button in the top-right corner of the Snagit Editor too. This will automatically upload your video to Screencast.
The link to your video will be automatically copied to your clipboard so that you can share it instantly with anyone. Simply paste the link into an email, a direct message, a Slack channel, or any other form of communication and send it!
Camtasia: Best for professional-quality training and how-to videos
Camtasia is the go-to screen recording tool for creating polished training videos, software demos, and other professional content. It uses Screentelligence to capture not only your screen but also layers of information that allow you to edit your cursor movements, remove distractions, and more.
Camtasia also offers full non-linear editing functionality with an intuitive interface, making it easy to produce high-quality videos with animations, transitions, and effects.
Take control of your screen recordings
With Camtasia you can adjust your cursor, edit your webcam footage or tweak your screen content without worrying about them being burned into the recording.
First, open Camtasia and click the New Recording button to open the recorder window. From there, you can make the selections for what you want to include in your recording:
Recording area: Choose the full screen, a specific window, or a custom region.
Camera: Include video from your computer’s built-in camera or select an external one.
Microphone audio: Include audio from your computer’s built-in microphone or select an external one.
System audio: Include the sounds of your computer.
Camtasia Rev: Speed up your editing process with a selection of customizable screen and camera layouts.
Step 2: Start recording
Once you’ve configured your settings, click the Record button. You’ll see a quick countdown before your recording starts.
Step 3: Edit your video
Once you’re done recording, hit the stop button on the recorder window and drag your recording from the media bin onto the timeline.
What sets Camtasia apart from other screen recorders we’ve covered is that all of the elements you include in your recording will be put on separate tracks. This means you can edit each element individually. For example, you can trim and move your webcam footage independently of the main screen recording.
You can trim unnecessary sections, add transitions, and make your video look more polished with text callouts, annotations, and animations. You can also adjust the audio levels and add background music.
Additionally, Camtasia’s screen recorder captures an impressive amount of metadata, like cursor movements. After you record, you can resize and even change the path of your cursor within your video. These cursor effects can save you a lot of time since you won’t have to re-record when you make a mistake.
Step 4: Export and share
Once you’re satisfied with your video, it’s time to export. Click Export to export your video as a file or send it directly to platforms like YouTube, Google Drive, and Screencast.
Conclusion: The best way to screen record on Windows
Built-in tools like the Xbox Game Bar and Snipping tool are great for basic tasks, but when you need more power and flexibility, opting for a third-party tool like Snagit or Camtasia is the right move.
No matter your project, choosing the right screen recording software can make all the difference in the quality of your final product. So explore these tools and start capturing your screen like a pro!
Have you ever needed to show someone how to use an app, create a quick tutorial, or capture a bug on your iPhone? Screen recording helps content creators and teachers by letting them easily capture everything on their iPhone screens.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to record the screen on an iPhone and edit your recording.
What is screen recording?
Screen recording is an iPhone feature that allows you to capture video of everything happening on your screen.
Recording your iPhone screen is great for creating:
App tutorials or step-by-step guides demonstrating how to use specific apps.
Software demos that showcase app features and functionalities for potential users.
Recording and sharing glitches or issues with developers.
Before you start capturing your screen, make sure your iPhone is ready for screen recording. If you haven’t already, you may need to enable the screen recording feature.
Check your iOS version
First, make sure your iPhone is running iOS11 or later. You can check this by going to Settings > General > About.
Enable screen recording in Control Center
To enable screen recording on your iPhone, follow these simple steps:
Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
Access Control Center: Scroll down and tap on “Control Center.”
Included Controls: Make sure to add “Screen Recording” to the “Included Controls” section if it is not already there. You can do this by tapping the green plus sign.
How to start screen recording
Now that screen recording is enabled on your iPhone, you’re ready to start recording!
To open the Control Center, swipe down from the top right corner of your screen and tap the screen recording button. (For some iPhone models, you will swipe up to access the Control Center.)
You can record your microphone audio as well. Simply long-press the Screen Recording button and tap the microphone icon.
Stopping and saving your recording
When you’re ready to stop your recording, simply open the Control Center and tap the Screen Recording button again. You can also tap the red status bar at the top of your screen and select “Stop.”
The Photos app will automatically save your screen recording, where you can make some basic edits and share them. To find your screen recordings in the app, tap Albums, then Screen Recordings below Media Types.
Editing your iPhone screen recordings
Once you’ve captured your screen recording, it’s time to polish it up. There are a few ways you can get started with some basic editing built-in on your iPhone:
Trim your video: Open the recording in the Photos app and tap “Edit.” Then use the sliders to trim the beginning or end of your video to remove any unwanted parts.
Adjust colors: Use the adjustment tools to change the brightness, contrast, and color balance.
For a more professional result, consider a video editing app like Camtasia. It’s an all-in-one screen recorder and video editor that offers more advanced features like:
Professional annotations: Easily add callouts, arrows, and text to highlight important parts of your recording. Create screen-first content effortlessly with Camtasia. Easily add annotations and gestures to show users exactly where to tap on their screen.
Transitions and effects: Smoothly transition between scenes and add visual effects or animations to make your videos more engaging.
Device frames: With Camtasia Assets you can frame your iPhone screen recordings in the device for additional context.
Now that you’ve learned the ins and outs of screen recording on an iPhone, it’s time to put your skills to the test. So go ahead—hit that record button and start capturing and editing your screen like a pro!
Create professional videos with Camtasia
Easily add annotations, effects, and more to create tutorials and demos that stand out.
Yes, the screen recording feature on iPhone captures the sound from the app or video you are recording. If you want external sounds (like your voice or background noise), you need to enable the microphone. To do this, long-press the Screen Recording button in the Control Center and tap the microphone icon to turn it on.
Can you screen-record iPhone calls?
Apple blocks audio recording during phone or VoIP calls due to privacy and legal issues. The same rule applies to apps like FaceTime and WhatsApp. This restriction is in place due to concerns related to privacy and legal issues.
When you screen record during a call, the video captures the screen, but it doesn’t record the audio.
Why can’t I screen record on iPhone?
Some apps, like banking or streaming apps, may block screen recording on an iPhone. This prevents the recording of sensitive or copyrighted information. If you try to screen record these apps, you might find that the recording either stops or results in a blank screen.
It’s also not possible to screen record while using the iPhone’s screen mirroring functionality.
Danielle Ezell is a Marketing Content Strategist at TechSmith, where she writes about effective workplace communication, offering tips and strategies for using images and videos to collaborate more effectively in hybrid and remote environments.
tl;dr: A training manual is a set of instructions that improve the quality with which a job, process, or task is performed. Companies use training manuals with in-person, remote, on-demand, and just-in-time training. Training manuals are easy to create with the right tools and plans, and they especially benefit from visual communication techniques.
Sooner or later, every company or organization needs to create a training manual. Often, they need to create multiple manuals to cover both internal and external training needs.
Internally, training manuals help all employees remain efficient and productive in the course of doing their jobs. Whereas externally, training manuals are critical content pieces for customer education, training, and, most importantly, satisfaction. Simply, training manuals are help content!
In this post, we’ll take a close look at how to write a training manual, as well as some of the best ways to make your own using visual communication practices.
Stop repeat questions
Create clear videos and guides with Snagit so you only have to explain tasks once.
While the packaging of the traditional training manual has changed, its purpose remains the same.
A training manual is a set of instructions that improve the quality with which a job, process, or task is performed. Companies use training manuals with in-person, remote, on-demand, and just-in-time training. A few common applications include:
Onboarding new employees
Rolling out new software and systems
New protocol or process documentation
Sharing standard operating procedures
Customer training and education
Product instructions and information
Companies create employee training manuals to increase organizational productivity and ensure everyone has the tools and information they need to excel at their jobs. On the flip side, organizations create training manuals that support their customers, too. They can be used to teach how to use their products, when certain features come in handy, and demonstrate key workflows.
Training manuals for customer education help users get the most out of their purchases, making them a critical resource.
The best training manuals are easy-to-follow, informational guides. They lay out concepts in clear language, using relevant examples and imagery to reduce errors. Done right, a good training manual becomes a trusted resource for employees and managers or customers and clients.
Micro and macro learning, what’s the difference?
Training manuals and help content fall into either micro or macro learning categories. They represent the depth of knowledge and sped at which the user can learn the content and apply it to their situation.
Microlearning content is great for when users need fast, effective help. An example would be using a YouTube video to teach you how to do something in less than 10 minutes or a step-by-step visual teaching you how to use a new piece of equipment. Microlearning is quick to consume, and the information is easy to put into practice.
Macro-learning, on the other hand, is something that requires far more attention. An example of macro-learning would be taking a course or training. This is where you have to step away from the tasks at hand and dedicate time and attention to understanding a process or concept on a deeper level.
Now that we have these distinctions sorted, let’s dive into the different types of training manuals.
What are the different types of training manuals?
While all training manuals share a similar goal, they’re not all the same. From onboarding new employees, to advancing learning and development, each manual serves a unique purpose.
Understanding the variety and function of different training manuals can help you determine which will be best for you. So, before we cover how to create a training manual, let’s explore some of the most common types of manuals and what they can help you achieve.
Employee training manuals
Arguably the most common type of training documentation in the corporate world, employee handbooks, training videos, and manuals are often designed to bring new hires up to speed in their roles. They cover everything from company policies and procedures to role-specific tasks and responsibilities. Instead of wasting time going through extensive training programs, onboarding can be made easy with manuals.
While employee training manuals may also be used to train existing staff on new processes and systems, the ultimate goal remains the same: To ensure that every employee has a clear understanding of their role, what’s expected of them, and how they fit into the company’s framework.
By having a well-structured employee training manual, organizations can ensure consistency in training while reducing the learning curve for employee onboarding and increasing overall productivity for team members. It’s a win-win!
Project manuals
A dedicated project manual can be an incredibly useful tool for specific projects, especially complex ones. These manuals are crafted to provide a clear roadmap for a project’s lifecycle, from start to finish.
Project manuals will often outline objectives, milestones, roles, and responsibilities. In doing so, the best project manuals will keep teams on track, ensuring that everyone works toward the same goal with a clear direction and purpose.
Task manuals
Task manuals delve deep into the nitty-gritty details of specific tasks and operations. Instead of giving a broad overview, they provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform a particular task, to help ensure it’s done correctly and efficiently every time.
These manuals are particularly useful where precision and consistency are important. Whether its purpose is to help staff deal with customer complaints or upload a blog post, companies can ensure consistent quality by standardizing the approach to particular tasks.
What’s more, task manuals can serve as a valuable resource should a staff member need reminding on how to complete a task, without the need to interrupt colleagues. This not only saves time but also fosters a more productive and autonomous work environment.
Vendor training manuals
When external contractors work with a company, it’s important that they align with the company’s values, procedures, and expectations. Enter the vendor training manual.
These manuals provide vendors with insights into the company’s policies, codes of conduct, and any specific processes or systems they need to be familiar with. They help streamline communication, set clear expectations, and ensure that vendors can work seamlessly with the internal team.
You might also have training guides that work in the opposite too, by outlining how company staff should interact with its vendors.
How to write a training manual
Learning the creation process for a training manual may be a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be. With the right tools and approach, you can quickly go from planning to production, and provide your colleagues or customers with a helpful, easy-to-use resource.
Here’s how:
Step 1: Find your software
The first thing you need to do is find the right software. There are a lot of options out there, and your decision will likely hinge on the kind of training manual you’re putting together. For example, if you’re going to be making a training document with text and imagery, TechSmith’s Snagit may be the best way to guide users and employees through a computer-based process.
With Snagit, you can easily capture screenshots, edit them, and add annotations and Callouts to outline steps and make features stand out. You can even help readers focus on only key information with the Simplify tool.
If you’re planning on creating a training video, then you’ll need a way to screen record and edit your footage. Snagit is a powerful screen recorder and features like Screen Draw take recording to a whole other level.
Step 2: Define your audience
Now, with the right software at your disposal, it’s time to get planning.
When you start working on your training manual, the first thing is understanding who it is you’re writing for. To do this, try picturing when, where, and how people will access your training materials.
Another great way to decide what type of content to create is to talk to the users. Find out what types of content they’d prefer to use or which content types would help them solve their problems. After all, customer education content is only helpful if the customers are utilizing it.
“If your reader can’t find it, it might as well not exist”
With an understanding of things like your audience’s skill level, their context, and their content preferences, you can create content that caters to their needs and expectations.
It’s easy to skip this step and tell yourself you have an implicit understanding of your audience. And, while you probably do, spending some time to flesh it out and bring the picture into clear focus will help you craft training content that truly solves your audience’s problems.
Step 3: Plan your content
A great training manual is easy to navigate. Someone encountering it for the first time should feel comfortable discovering the information they need, and a returning user should be able to quickly find specific information.
You can make sure this is the case for your training manual by strategically planning your content. Simply put, this means laying out all of your training material and organizing it logically. This can be a quick process for short, one-off training content, or it might take some more time if you’re creating a comprehensive guide.
If you do have a lot of topics to get through, consider grouping them and using headings and sub-sections to create a logical flow and organization within your manual. You can then use this structure to make a table of contents in the final version of your manual.
Step 4: Determine the presentation format
You know your audience, and you know what you want to cover, so now you need to decide how you’ll present the content.
There is almost always a ‘best way’ to deliver your content, and figuring this out will mean taking some time to think about both your audience and your content. There are, for example, several different ways to deliver your training content, including:
Knowledge base articles
Video tutorials
Online courses
PDF guides
Printed guide books and/or pamphlets
Questions like these will tell you whether things like video, interactivity, and assessment strategies would work well in your training material.
At the same time, some topics are more suitable for video, while others are better for text and imagery. If you’re showing complex processes that need to be seen in action, you may consider using video. Meanwhile, if you’re working with simple sequences, then a written format — supported by images — might be the way to go.
“Everybody thinks in pictures. If you show somebody an image, the chances are pretty high that they’re going to understand it pretty quickly.”
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of creating training manuals today is that they’re often delivered (or at least made available) online. This means you can combine different formats to provide rich, media-supported content.
Step 5: Develop your content
Now that you’ve thought long and hard about your audience, your content, and delivery method, you can start putting the training materials together — finally!
For video-based training manuals
If you’re creating videos for your training manual, this is when you can start storyboarding, scripting, recording, and editing videos with Snagit.
Don’t worry if you’ve never created a video before, Snagit is easy to use and learn even if you’re never recorded your screen before!
The recorder helps you record your screen, camera, system audio, and microphone at the same time! Or, choose the appropriate combination that’s right for your project. Use Screen Draw to show off details with arrows and other attention-grabbing features.
Record your screen with Snagit
Snagit makes it easy to share quick updates and how-to’s by capturing exactly what’s happening on your screen.
In many cases, the traditional text and image format will be the best fit for your audience.
If your manual outlines a computer-based process, you can capture screenshots of each step. Alternatively, photos and illustrations are ideal for outlining processes that take place in real life.
While it might take a few tweaks for images and screenshots to really get a point across, this usually means adding annotations such as arrows, shapes, and other Callouts.
However, you’ll want to simplify your design to create a clean look. Simplified User Interface (SUI) designs also serve practical purposes. You’ll be tasked with fewer image updates, be able to use one image for all languages, and gain increased customer comprehension. Companies, like Google, use SUI to bring users results quickly. No matter the release time, language, or company changes, SUI tones down the visual noise and allows important information to stand out and stay up-to-date easily.
This may seem daunting, but simplified graphics are easy to create and understand with Snagit’s Simplify feature.
Step 6: Assemble and deliver your manual
Now, this is when creating a training manual can become a little tedious. The process of adding images to a training manual template, document, or other source can present several issues with things like formatting, image sizing, and file types — to name a few.
Fortunately, however, Snagit provides a hassle-free way to create a training manual with the magic of templates. These templates allow you to choose the images, add text, arrange the order, and make aesthetic decisions in one swift process.
There’s a whole bunch of professional-quality templates already in Snagit, but you can also find more free and premium templates in the TechSmith Asset Library.
This is great because you can cover each process or task individually to create separate sections of the manual. Then you can save each one as a PDF or an image for sharing, and compile them into a complete guide!
Now, if making individual stand-alone documents doesn’t feel like the best approach for you (trust your gut) then you might consider tools like Zendesk or MadCap Flare to create a knowledge base support center or a help file document.
If you are creating an online knowledge base, you should be able to use video, image, and written content all at the same time. So, get creative and make content that covers everything your audience will need.
Annotate and edit screenshots with Snagit
Professional mark-up tools and powerful features make it easy to create helpful images.
Step 7: Track feedback and keep your content updated
The final step to creating a training manual is to welcome feedback on your manuals to measure their effectiveness and update them accordingly.
Start with a baseline and track how it changes. Are processes and outcomes improving? Your training manual most likely had a positive impact then! Is one area still lacking? Try to rework that section in your next update for extra clarity.
Get feedback from participants. Quantitative data and hard numbers may be helpful, but gathering human responses from your team is super important to figure out patterns and details that need to be ironed out. Listen to the participants and adjust as you see fit.
Remember though that it’s okay to be wrong, as long as you continue to adapt your work. Figuring out what works and what doesn’t is a process and often requires making mistakes and fixing them along the way.
Training manuals are convenient for plenty of situations and come in different shapes and sizes. The most important thing to keep in mind as you create is to focus on your audience’s expectations and deliver informative content that is easily understood by them.
Ever wonder why some videos are stretched or have black bars on the sides? Of course, that’s not how we want videos to look unless it’s intended. The problem might be the aspect ratio, which is a concept that plays a role in video production.
Let’s explore how it works and how to avoid common issues.
Understanding aspect ratio
An aspect ratio refers to a proportional relationship between an image’s width and height, typically written as multiplier numbers separated by a colon (for example, 16:9). It dictates the frame size and, ultimately, how your video appears to viewers.
Common aspect ratios
There exists several common aspect ratios, each with its own history and purpose. Some of the most common include:
16:9 Aspect ratio (Widescreen)
The 16:9 displays a widescreen aspect ratio, the current industry standard, and is perfect for high-definition (HD) televisions and YouTube videos. Its wide frame offers a landscape view and is often used for presentations, gameplay recordings, and tutorials.
Square format (1:1)
This format has gained popularity on social media platforms like Instagram. It focuses on a central subject, and it’s often used for showcasing products, portraits, and quick snippets.
9:16 Aspect ratio (Vertical)
The 9:16 aspect ratio, commonly used for vertical video, is perfect for social media platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and Snapchat. This format is optimized for mobile viewing, filling most of the screen when held upright, providing an immersive and engaging experience for viewers.
4:3 Aspect ratio (Fullscreen)
This format, often used as a Standard Definition or Fullscreen format, dominated television screens before the digital television revolution that converted the standard to a widescreen format in 2009.
2.35:1 Aspect ratio
Often associated with cinematic movies, this film aspect ratio offers a wider, panoramic viewing experience commonly used as the feature film format.
Choosing the right ratio
Selecting the best aspect ratio depends on your content’s destination and message.
Let’s consider your target audience. Are you creating a video for a professional setting (16:9) or a social media platform (1:1 or 9:16)? If you’re considering the cinematic impact, a wider format (2.35:1) can create a more impressive experience for films.
Or maybe you’re creating videos that will be viewed on mobile devices. With the popularity of mobile viewership, consider formats optimized for smaller screens (9:16, or 16:9).
You can choose the aspect ratio before you start recording. When you’re selecting your screen to record, three’s a dropdown that offers most of the default standards mentioned in this article, but also the ability to choose whatever region or aspect ratio you need.
This way, your recording will perfectly fit it’s intended destination, no matter if it’s a widescreen presentation (16:9), an Instagram story (1:1), or other formats like TikTok or YouTube Shorts.
You can also adjust the aspect ratio of your video after you’ve finished recording inside of the editor. It’s easy – just right-click the canvas, then select Project Settings, and from the “Dimensions” drop-down you can change the aspect ratio.
You can even select “Fit to Visible” and your Camtasia project will automatically be the same size as your recorded content (though you may still want to choose a standard aspect ratio, before exporting to your final destination).
The best method for you depends on your video content and preferred outcome.
The easiest way to edit videos
Stop wasting time and discover how Camtasia makes creating incredible videos easier than ever.
When you’re watching a movie at home and see black bars on the top and bottom of the screen, it’s intended to fit a cinematic film (2.35:1 for example) onto a widescreen TV (16:9). To fill that additional space, they add what’s known as ‘letterboxing’ to it.
To avoid letterboxing on your videos, here are three methods within Camtasia that you can use to change from one aspect ratio to another.
Method 1: Re-Position
Cropping a video removes unwanted areas. If you’re creating a square video (1:1) from a vertical video (9:16) you will need to reposition the top and bottom, because something has to get cut off to fit.
In Camtasia’s editor, select your media on the timeline or canvas, and drag it up or down depending on what’s happening on the video.
If the footage is a person speaking, you want to make sure the majority of their face fits in the frame as looking at that person is how viewers will engage with your content. Having the top of their head cut off will look strange.
If the video cuts to text on screen that starts up high, you may want to use the split tool to cut your footage, then realign the new clip so that the text is now fully on-screen. And so on throughout your formerly vertical footage, until all of it is aligned to fit your new, square video.
Method 2: Crop
If your video was created with the black letterboxing already and you’re trying to remove those boxes, you can use the crop tool in Camtasia’s Canvas Toolbar to remove just the portion you want.
It’s worth noting, in Camtasia, anything that is outside the viewable area on the canvas, will not appear on your final exported video. You as the editor will still be able to see it, but your audience will not. So if those black bars are removed by changing the Dimensions (or aspect ratio) in the Project Settings, you don’t need to do any cropping.
However, with the crop tool selected, drag the center points of the canvas (either top/bottom or left/right, whichever is needed to be cropped) in until it meets the edge of your content.
Method 3: Add a background
If you followed Method 2 and cropped your video but it didn’t fill the canvas space, and you don’t want to scale it up, then adding a Dynamic Background is a great option for avoiding empty black space.
In the media bin, select the Assets tab (center) up top. You’ll see a category labeled “Dynamic Backgrounds. Click “See All” and choose the one you like.
Dynamic Backgrounds can easily be shortened or extended without copying/pasting because they loop infinitely. Simply drag the background on the timeline to be the same length as your video.
You can customize the colors, and other sliders like speed, size, etc., all from within the Properties panel.
Bonus: we mentioned earlier that adding a background works if you don’t wish to scale up your media. Which is true.
If your content is already at a Scale of 100% this is a great solution. However, if your video is smaller on the canvas, but only at 50% scale (or any number less than 100%), you can use the Scale slider in the Properties panel to make it larger without sacrificing high resolution quality. Once you go over 100% however, it will start to blur or pixelate.
Now, you have no problem getting rid of awkward sizes with Camtasia.
Storytelling with aspect ratio: guiding the viewer
Aspect ratios can influence more than just the image size. Different ratios can affect the story your video is telling.
For instance, use the wider, immersive feel of 2.35:1 for cinematic, almost epic-inspired videos. Or use the intimate focus of a square format to demo products on your social media channels.
Examples of 2.35:1 include action films like “Baby Driver” or musicals like “West Side Story” Use a smaller frame (1:1 or even 4:3) to garner a more intimate focus similar to movies like “A Ghost Story” or “The Grand Budapest Hotel” (since the scenes film to show the 1930’s and imitate the look of old film).
Whether you’re producing social media content, a feature film, or a slideshow transformed into a movie, you should be aware of the variety of aspect ratios available to you, and what each one means for your story, and might imply to your audience.
The easiest way to edit videos
Stop wasting time and discover how Camtasia makes creating incredible videos easier than ever.
Andy Owen is the Video Production Specialist at TechSmith.
Most Proud of: being a husband to Chandra, father to Elle & Kai Favorites: The Muppets, Hanna-Barbera, Friends & Firefly Dislikes: Writing in the third person...
Have you ever struggled to understand a complicated manual or wished a set of instructions were clearer? That’s where the magic of technical writing comes in. Technical writing is the art of translating complex information into easy-to-understand documentation.
In this post, we’ll explore what technical writing is, why it’s important, and the skills required to do it well. Whether you’re considering a career in technical writing or simply curious about the process, this guide is for you.
Why technical writing matters
Technical writing plays a pivotal role in many aspects of our lives and different industries. Here’s why good technical writing is so important:
It helps users understand and use products more effectively
It saves time by providing precise instructions
Reduces the need for customer support
Ensures procedures are followed correctly
Improves the overall user experience
Differentiating technical writing from other forms
Technical writing is different from other forms of writing.
While other forms of writing may aim to entertain, inspire, or express opinions to readers, technical writing focuses on instructing. It targets specific audiences with varying levels of technical knowledge and uses clear, concise, and objective language.
Technical writing is highly structured and often includes visual aids to help with understanding, while other forms of writing are free-flowing and use visuals for aesthetic purposes.
Skills for technical writers
While strong writing skills are a given, other qualities that good technical writers employ include clarity, accuracy, conciseness, and usability.
Writing and Communication
Technical writers need to focus on straightforward language and avoid opinion, jargon, and complex wording. Writers can take courses designed for technical writing to learn strategies. Technical writers need to express information efficiently, eliminating unnecessary words and phrases. Writers can edit their work, removing redundancies and wordiness.
It does take time to simplify. A lot of times, I’ll write out what I think, and then I go back to it later, and it’s like I can take this out, and I can take this out, and this goes over here, and this goes over here, it’s a process.
Accuracy and attention to detail
Technical writers need to research and test their text since errors can negatively affect the readers. They can learn how to evaluate sources and identify credible information, as well as work with reviewers to catch errors.
Organizational skills
Technical writing involves thoughtful organization, clear instructions, and a user-centric approach.
Choosing the right tools for your technical writing projects
Selecting the right tools for your technical writing projects depends on several factors, like your project requirements, budget, collaboration goals, and integration with what you’re already using. Technical writers use a variety of tools, including version control systems and content management systems. However, two tools from TechSmith stand out:
Camtasia is an all-in-onescreen recording and video editing software that lets technical writers create professional-quality video tutorials and demonstrations. With drag-and-drop transitions, callouts, and more, you don’t have to be a professional video editor to get impressive results.
Technical writing processes and techniques
Creating useful technical documentation is a process that involves careful planning.
First, you’ll need to plan by defining your audience, establishing the purpose of the document, and deciding the scope of the project.
Next is research, where you gather information and organize it into an outline or flowchart that works for you.
For the writing portion, you’ll have to draft your content, following the outline and using the research findings.
You’ll also want to incorporatevisuals like diagrams and annotated screenshots to make your content easier to understand.
After that, there’s the review and revision process.
The importance of visual elements
Visual elements are helpful for creating effective technical documentation. They can help to:
Clarify complex information: Annotated visuals can illustrate complex concepts in a way that is easier to understand than text alone.
Break up long blocks of text: Visuals can make your document more visually appealing and less intimidating.
Improve engagement: Engaging visuals can help to keep readers interested in your content.
By following these steps, you can create clear, concise, and informative technical documents.
Types of technical documents
Technical writers create many different kinds of documents, each serving a specific purpose and tailored to a particular audience. Let’s explore some of the most common types of technical documents and look at tips for writing them.
User manuals
User manuals are guides designed to help users understand and use a product or service. Tailor your language and level of detail to the user’s technical expertise. Avoid technical terms whenever possible, and use screenshots, diagrams, and other visuals to illustrate instructions and clarify complex concepts.
Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
SOPs are detailed, step-by-step instructions for performing specific tasks or processes. They are designed to help with consistency, quality, and safety in workplace operations. In writing these, it helps to be specific and detailed, so there’s no room for interpretation. Use flowcharts, diagrams, or photos to illustrate the process and keep them up-to-date.
White papers
White papers are reports that explore a specific topic or problem in depth. They are used to educate readers, present research findings, or promote a particular product or service. Gather information from credible sources, cite your references, and focus on presenting information and insights, not selling a product or service.
Case studies
Case studies examine real-world scenarios or projects. A good strategy is to highlight the solution’s measurable benefits and create a narrative that highlights key statistics.
Working with SMEs
Technical writers typically work with subject matter experts, also known as SMEs, who have invaluable technical expertise about the product. Collaboration between SMEs and technical writers is critical for producing the best quality documentation.
Before meeting with an SME, research the topic and prepare a list of questions that focus on the information you need for your document. You can also ask questions during the interview.
It’s important to establish a relationship with your SMEs since you will be working with them on a regular basis. Don’t hesitate to ask SMEs to explain technical terms or concepts in simpler language. This will help you translate their knowledge into clear writing your target audience can understand.
To capture accurate information, take detailed notes as well as record interviews for future reference. It’s also helpful to check the information you receive from SMEs with other sources.
Handling technical reviews and feedback
Technical reviews are part of the writing process, as they let SMEs check documents for accuracy. Approach feedback with an open mind since SMEs are experts in their field, and their changes can help you improve the quality of your documentation. Consider all changes and incorporate them as appropriate. Be sure to track changes so you can easily identify revisions and share the revised document with your SME.
By following these strategies for effective collaboration and feedback management, you can build relationships with SMEs and produce high-quality technical documentation that meets your audience’s needs.
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Technical editing is another quality control checkpoint for your documentation. Technical editors, often experienced writers themselves, review your content for accuracy, clarity, consistency, and usability. Technical editors also catch grammatical errors, typos, and formatting errors, making sure the final product is polished and professional.
While a professional technical editor is invaluable, self-editing and peer reviews are also important steps. After checking your own work with fresh eyes, find someone with technical knowledge or experience in your field to look it over. Let the reviewer know what type of feedback you’re looking for, such as clarity, accuracy, and usability.
Career paths in technical writing
Technical writing offers many career paths with opportunities for specialization in different industries and types of documents. Types of specialization include API, medical, scientific, and UX. After gaining experience and expertise, technical writers can advance to roles such as technical writing manager, content strategist, or technical communication consultant.
Gaining relevant experience as a technical writer
Gaining experience in your chosen profession takes some work. You can start with internships and freelance work to build your exposure and reputation in the industry. Networking with other technical writers and potential employers also helps – go to industry events and conferences to connect. Professional development opportunities like online courses will also help you learn more about – and keep up with – changes in technical writing.
Translating technical knowledge into words and visuals
Technical writers are skilled at simplifying technical jargon, creating engaging content, and using tools to help them reach their audiences. By following a structured writing process, collaborating with subject matter experts, and continuing to learn, technical writers can work in a wide range of industries. Translating technical knowledge into easily understood content is a talent that will always be in demand.
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Senior Marketing Communications Consultant, where I work with all kinds of interesting industries on their content needs. I live on a dairy farm where we’re also raising crops and boys.
Are you ready to turn your passion into profit? If you’re wondering how to make money on YouTube, read on. Whether you’re a budding vlogger, or gamer, or showing off some DIY projects, YouTube offers many opportunities to monetize your creativity.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of building a profitable YouTube channel, from growing your subscriber base to leveraging different revenue streams. Let’s dive in!
Stardom awaits!
Camtasia is the perfect way to create exciting content for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and more!
To monetize your content, one of the first milestones is reaching 1,000 subscribers and gaining 4,000 valid public watching hours within a year. This lets users join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) and activate an AdSense account to earn revenue from ads on videos.
As your channel grows, opportunities like influencer marketing with media companies and creating sponsored content can provide significant income, while chats and highlighted messages during live streams offer additional revenue. YouTubers can also earn money by licensing content or exploring YouTube Premium revenue.
Along with earning revenue, the YPP gives YouTubers copyright protection, assistance from YouTube, and a full range of YouTube earning options.
For many YouTubers, ad revenue generates the most income. Creators can earn money when viewers watch or click on ads. Creating longer videos or allowing display ads throughout can help you make more ad revenue. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of videos to see what resonates most with your audience. After all, the more views and engagement, the more opportunities you have to display ads on your videos.
How to activate an AdSense account
Setting up your AdSense account is super simple. From the YouTube Studio go to the Monetization section. From there, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program. Once your application is approved, you’ll be able to connect to an Adsense account.
Provide the necessary information, and link your YouTube channel to your new AdSense account. AdSense will review your application, and once you’re approved, you can start earning money from ads on your YouTube videos.
#2 – Make recurring revenue with channel memberships and subscriptions
You can also earn money on YouTube by offering channel memberships. With these memberships, you can build a dedicated fan base while generating reliable monthly income. Basically, YouTubers offer select perks and content to viewers who join the channel as paying members.
For example, YouTuber Andru Edwards offers members of his channel priority Q&A access, behind-the-scenes footage, shout-outs, and exclusive tech deals.
#3 – Use affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is another approach for viewers and creators to interact in a way that benefits both, as the viewer learns about a product or service, and the creator earns a commission. Once a YouTuber joins an affiliate program, the creator is issued a unique link for each product.
YouTubers can then include links onscreen, in the comments, or in the description. When viewers click on it and buy from it, creators can make a percentage of the sale.
Make sure to get to know your audience. Learn their preferences and promote products that they are likely to use and appreciate. Staying true to your niche helps ensure authenticity. If you’re watching a YouTube video about a woodworking project, it would be weird if the host suddenly encouraged you to buy a trampoline.
“Camtasia really for me is the easiest, most efficient way for me to do reaction videos. Without Camtasia, I don’t think I would be doing reactions at this level… Camtasia tools were very easy to get acclimated to, screen record, camera hookup is all in one…Camtasia is the little-known secret for creating reaction videos. A lot of people make it harder than it needs to be. It really is very efficient. Camtasia for the win.“
#4 – Sell merchandise from your YouTube channel
Offering merchandise associated with a YouTube channel, is another way to monetize your channel by selling directly to your viewers.
First, YouTube requires users to choose an approved merchandise platform. In the YouTube Studio, you can connect a merchandise partner’s store with your YouTube channel. Creators can then select which items they want to display on their merchandise shelf. Then – sell away! Creators can easily make showcasing products part of their videos.
Create designs that resonate with your channel’s theme. For example, YouTuber and plumber Roger Wakefield offers hats and T-shirts with phrases like “Tradesman Built America” that his viewers will resonate with.
You can even use polls or Q&A sessions to gather feedback on what types of merchandise your viewers would like to see.
#5 – Partner with other brands
YouTubers don’t have to go it alone – companies love working with creators on sponsorships and brand deals to promote their products. Once you have a following, companies might even come to you!
For example, in this video YouTuber Nick Nimmin partners with SkillShare, presenting a little bit about the brand before diving into the topic of his video.
If you are interested in a particular brand, just reach out to them directly. Showcase yourchannel’s statistics of subscribers, views, and demographics to convince them why they would be a good fit.
For instance, here’s a list of information to include in your pitch email:
Your subscriber count, average views, and audience demographics
Any relevant accomplishments or collaborations
Specific ideas for collaboration that benefit both parties
How this collaboration will benefit the brand
A call to action. Clearly state what you’re hoping to achieve, likea product review, sponsored video, joint giveaway, etc.
An invitation to schedule a call or meeting to discuss
The easiest way to edit videos
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For an even more direct route, crowdfunding and fan funding help YouTubers raise funds from viewers. For instance, the Patreon platform connects fans and creators. The fans become patrons and pay a monthly subscription fee in exchange for exclusive rewards.
Another platform, Kickstarter, raises funds for specific projects like a new video series or equipment. Creators set a funding goal and ask people to support the project. If the goal is reached, backers receive rewards based on their donation level.
To get people excited about donating, tell a compelling story and explain the impact it will have on your viewers. Offering rewards viewers really want—like experiences, exclusive content, or personalized shoutouts—is commonly used to attract funding.
#7 – Create YouTube Shorts
YouTube offers other incentive programs designed to reward creators for producing engaging content.
For instance, the YouTube Shorts Fund is a fund of $100 million distributed to creators who produce high-quality Shorts, which are short-form videos that are 60 seconds or less. At the end of each month, YouTube notifies channels and gives them a bonus based on their performance.
Other YouTube programs include challenges, when YouTube runs programs that ask creators to participate in themed challenges, with the chance to win prizes or gain exposure. YouTubeNextUp is a program that selects creators and provides them with resources, training, and opportunities to help them monetize their videos.
One of the most critical factors in making money on YouTube is creating high-quality content. Viewers are more likely to subscribe, share, and engage with videos that are polished and professional. The good news? Making your videos look top-notch is not as hard as you think!
Whether you’re making tutorials, product reviews, or reaction videos, Camtasia’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface means you don’t have to be a professional video editor to create stunning videos. Give Camtasia a try, and watch your content–and your channel–reach new heights.
Senior Marketing Communications Consultant, where I work with all kinds of interesting industries on their content needs. I live on a dairy farm where we’re also raising crops and boys.
Have you ever wished you could magically remove the background from your video and replace it with something more appealing? Whether you’re looking to create more professional-looking presentations or more interesting social media posts, removing the background from a video is easier than you think!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of removing backgrounds from your videos step-by-step with different tools and techniques.
Why remove backgrounds from videos?
A cluttered or distracting background can detract from your message and make your video look a little unprofessional. By removing the background, you create a clean, visually appealing aesthetic that focuses attention on the subject matter. Editing software also lets you remove the background and keep the same quality and aesthetic.
When the background is removed, the focus is naturally drawn to the subject, whether it’s a person, a product, or making a specific point. This can be particularly effective in instructional videos, where viewers need to focus to learn. (Studies even support this point!)
Removing the background can create a sense of closeness, which draws in viewers. Different backgrounds can also be used creatively to transport to different locations, add visual effects, or create imaginative scenes.
Ways to remove background from videos
You can work with backgrounds in several ways. First, you can use video editing software. Many video editors offer built-in background removal tools to separate the subject from the background.
Or, you can use green screens and chroma keying. Filming your subject in front of a green screen allows you to isolate them using video editing software, replacing the green with transparency or a new background. You can even make a DIY green screen at home.No matter if you’re a veteran video editor or new to it, there are a variety of tools to simplify removing backgrounds from videos. Your options include:
Online video background removers: Several popular online tools use AI to automatically remove backgrounds from videos, making it a quick option for simple projects.While the basic features are free, higher resolutions and longer videos usually need a subscription.
Camtasia makes removing your background simple!
Download Camtasia to seamlessly remove your backgrounds on pre-existing or newly recored footage. Start with our free trial to see if it’s right for you.
How to remove backgrounds from videos: step-by-step using desktop software
Step 1: Choose the right software
The first step in removing the background from your video is selecting the right software. Look for a tool that has the editing functionality you’re looking for, while still being user-friendly.
For this post, we’ll use Camtasia, which makes it super easy to remove and replace your video’s background, even if you’re new to video editing.
Step 2: Import your video
First, import your video into the editor by selecting File from the Camtasia menu, then Import.
Step 3: Remove the background
There are two ways to do this in Camtasia, and we’ll cover both of them.
Option 1: Remove a background in Camtasia Editor
In Camtasia Editor, select the Visual Effects tab.
Drag the Background Removal effect onto media on the timeline.
In the Properties panel, edit the settings to customize the effect.
It is really that easy! You can even replace your background with customizable looping animations called Dynamic Backgrounds.
Option 2: Removing a background with other software (chroma key/masking):
Use chroma key effects or masking tools to isolate the subject and remove the background. Directions will be specific to each software platform. See how it works in Camtasia.
Step 4: Refine edges
After removing the background, you might notice some rough edges around your subject. To refine these edges and make the subject stand out clearly:
Camtasia (remove a color):
Experiment with the “Edge Feather” slider to smooth out the edges.
Use the “Spill Suppression” slider to remove any color spill from the background onto the subject.
Step 5: Export Your Video
Once you’re satisfied with the background removal and edge refinement, it’s time to export your video.
Camtasia: Click the “Share” button and choose your desired format and resolution. Customize any additional settings, such as frame rate or bitrate. Click “Export” to save your video.
Camtasia makes removing your background simple!
Download Camtasia to seamlessly remove your backgrounds on pre-existing or newly recored footage. Start with our free trial to see if it’s right for you.
How to remove background from video using an online service
For really basic video projects, an online tool might do the trick. While they may not provide the same level of control as professional editing software, they are a workable option for simple projects.
Step 1: Choose a service.
Several reliable online services (like Unscreen, CapCut, and OpenShot) can help you remove backgrounds from videos.
Step 2: Upload your video
Once you’ve chosen a service, locate the “Upload Video” button or drag-and-drop your video file onto the designated area. Most platforms accept common video formats like MP4, MOV, or AVI.
Step 3: Automated background removal
These online tools typically use AI to detect and isolate the subject in your video, automatically removing the background.
Step 4: Make adjustments
After the background is removed, most platforms allow you to fine-tune the results. You might be able to adjust the cropping, refine the edges, or add a new background. Often you canchoose from a variety of background colors or images provided, or even upload your own. For instance, Unscreen focuses on a specific background removal, and OpenShot is comprehensive video editing software with a variety of features. If you simply need to remove the background from a video, Unscreen is a great option. However, if you need to do more extensive video editing, OpenShot is a better choice.
Step 5: Download the final video
Once you’re happy with the results, simply click the “Download” button to save the video to your device. The platform may offer various quality and format options, depending on your needs and the platform’s capabilities.
What are some background removal recording tips?
Follow these tips during recording to achieve the best results for the background removal effect:
Use good lighting
Be well-lit with even lighting to minimize shadows. If possible, use a three-point lighting setup (key light, fill light, and backlight) to create a clear separation between the person and the background.
Choose the right clothes
When your clothes blend in with your background, it can confuse background removal tools, making it difficult to separate. Try to choose a clothing color that stands out.
“During your recording, use good lighting, especially on the person being recorded. Choose clothing that doesn’t blend in with your background, and avoid fast movements during your recording. Use a chair with a lower back if possible. Have fun creating!”
Avoid fast movements
Rapid movements can blur your edges, making it difficult for background removal tools to tell where you begin and the background ends. While recording, try to move less or slower to remain in focus.
Use a chair with a lower back
High-backed chairs can blend into the background, making it harder to isolate the person. Use a chair with a lower back or no back at all to create a visual separation.
Common pitfalls when removing a background and how to avoid them:
Blurry edges
This often occurs when the subject’s edges are not well-defined due to poor lighting or low-resolution footage. To fix this, try adjusting the edge feathering or tolerance settings in your background removal tool, or use masking techniques for more control.
Leftover shadows
Shadows cast by the subject can be difficult to completely remove. Experiment with lighting to minimize shadows during filming, or use masking tools to remove them in post-production.
Color spill
This happens when the background color reflects onto the subject, creating a halo effect. Adjust the color correction settings in your video editor to neutralize it, or use chroma key tools to refine the selection.
Hair and fine details
Fine details like hair can be difficult to separate from the background. Consider using specialized tools like the ‘refine edge’ feature or similar options in your video editor.
Practice and experimentation aren’t only fun…they’re educational! You’ll get the results you want after trying a few adjustments.
That’s it! Backgrounds don’t have to be virtually shoved behind the scenes anymore…you’re ready to get started working on making your backgrounds more professional, more visually appealing, and better than ever before.
Senior Marketing Communications Consultant, where I work with all kinds of interesting industries on their content needs. I live on a dairy farm where we’re also raising crops and boys.
Creating video content can be tricky. Beyond filming your video footage or capturing your screen recording, there are seemingly millions of details like audio and lights that need to be perfected before you hit record. Plus, prep work and post-production editing can add even more complications.
It may seem like a lot, so that’s why we’ve compiled a list of 50 tips that will help your video process be smoother, look more polished, and sound better!
Before you hit record
There are a lot of steps you can take before you hit the record button. Mise-en-scene, details, and planning workflows are imperative to a successful video shoot.
1. Plan your video
Any project requires some level of planning, and that includes filming a video. Take the time to develop a clear plan, and we promise you’ll save time, money, and prevent a myriad of issues. Even a short outline can be a life saver.
“Every minute that we spend in pre-production saves us four minutes in post-production and in our production. So planning your video well, having a process that you go through every time to do so, including defining that audience, the objectives for the video, and understanding the channel that your video is going to be distributed through.”
2. Find the right workflow
What works for you? Everyone’s experience is different, so write down whatever it is you need as a checklist. It’ll help you stay on track. However, don’t be afraid to break up your workflow if you’re in a rut. After all, experimenting with new ideas and workflows could help you uncover new processes that work for you.
3. Know your intent
What is the purpose of the video you are creating? Are you entertaining, informing, instructing, etc? Whether your goal is to increase brand awareness, educate viewers about services, or share who you are as an organization, plan your content accordingly.
“It’s about knowing what to spend your time on… It’s in the work that you do before you hit record. The biggest difference between success and non-success isn’t in the things that happen after you hit record. It’s in the work that you do before you hit record.”
4. Get to know your audience
That includes their wants, needs, and expectations of you. Are you sharing your video externally or internally? Contemplate all facets of your audience before you start to plan anything. Consider the platform you’ll deliver the video on as that can make a difference to how it is received.
“It’s about what does the viewer or the audience want. And you have to really think about their basic emotional desires because sometimes, or more often than not, they don’t know what they actually need.”
5. Platforms make a difference
Internal videos in your company LMS tend to be 1920 x 1080 and long-form, while social media videos on Instagram or TikTok are 1080 x 1920 and short-form. It’s important not only to factor in your audience, but the platform on which you’ll be delivering your video content.
6. Write a script
Winging it may seem like a good idea, especially when you’re in a hurry, but sometimes getting the wording down trial-and-error ends up taking more time than writing a script would have. The act of writing your video idea down encourages your mind to think about the specific structure of your video. Plus, you may even think of details you would’ve forgotten about otherwise. Finally, a script helps you stay on track and on topic when you record. Once you try a rough script, you might be surprised by how much clarity and consistency you get out of the process.
7. Leverage AI for scriptwriting
Speaking of scripts, it’s time to work smarter, not harder. Leverage AI for script writing or an outline to help you get started with your video production process. AI script generation tools like Camtasia Audiate make it easy. Simply write down your idea, and a script will be written for you! You may not use the whole script word-for-word (or maybe you will), but it is a great outline to use while developing your video.
8. Make a storyboard
Paired with a script, a storyboard helps you plan the visual aspects of your video, instead of guessing which types of shots you need at the moment of shooting. Just sketch out your vision ahead of time. Look for angles and which people or props should be in each shot. Think of it as visual scriptwriting that will save you countless hours of recording and editing time.
“It’s all about storyboards, and that’s if you’re an instructional designer, if you spend any time in that world, everything is about the storyboard very much like it is for video. You know, you’re setting out your scenes ahead of time, that type of thing.”
9. Gather your assets before you film
There is nothing more annoying and time-consuming than digging through folders for a logo image while you’re in the editing zone. Your editing process will be much easier if you collect assets now.
Or, create custom assets using Camtasia’s Asset library. Use an AI Generator to create the perfect image for your video.
Clean, crisp audio recordings
Audio is just as important as video. Clean, crisp audio is a must-have for a professional-sounding video.
10. Use your voice (or don’t)
If the idea of hearing your voice is just too awful or you want to get creative, there are AI alternatives for you. Audiate’s AI voice generation lets you input a script and a personalized voice will read it out loud for you. Choose the voices, pitches, tones, and even languages.
“The last two or three years, [AI Voices] are finally genuinely as human, if not more human than human narration. It’s exceptionally cheap, exceptionally powerful in the L&D space, creating courses like me. You have your script, you choose the right voice, you hit go all of your audio files generated for you.”
11. Drink water
Yes, hydration is important and we care about your health, but drinking water also gets rid of those pesky mouth noises. You know the ones. So drink your water between takes!
12. Pause, then clap twice after mistakes
This one is silly, but it will save you hours of editing time! Instead of JKLing your way through a video in the hopes of picking up on every mistake, you’ll be able to find error spots in your videos by audio only. See those spikes? That’s where you clapped!
13. Get a good microphone
And by that, we don’t mean one of those expensive, fancy ones (unless that’s what you want). Good mics come in any price range and ensure that your audio gets picked up at high quality.
Shotgun mics work well when you can stay still since they pick up a very narrow-focused area and nothing from the sides. Headsets are also a great choice as are wireless lapels. There is no one-size-fits-all answer here, just choose which mic works best for you.
14. Eliminate that pop
Eliminate the popping noises with a pop filter or edit it out post-production. The choice is yours. Pop filters are cheap and easy to DIY if needed, but sometimes we simply can’t be bothered. Edit out the pop noises post-production using an audio editor. Camtasia Audiate’s pop removal feature would be a great choice for this issue.
15. Check the mic & test audio input levels
After the check, make sure to adjust them in your system properties. Ensure your audio doesn’t “peak out,” which clips off the top of your sound and waveform. This makes your audio sound distorted and warped and can be impossibleto fix after recording. If levels are too low, then the audio will be hard to hear. So fix it before you get far into recording, and you’ll thank yourself later.
“Having a good mic, doing a test, nothing’s more frustrating than reading through a full script or recording and then playing it back and finding out that there’s some sort of noise or interference or you didn’t turn on to record with the correct microphone all those things that can happen. So, yeah, it’s definitely important to get that test run and make sure your audio sounds good.”
16. Record a short clip and test playback
It should sound consistent across all devices. Does it sound distorted through headphones? What about your desktop speakers? Know your audience and how they will typically listen to your video and optimize for that experience. It’s crucial that your audio sounds at least understandable and enjoyable on all platforms though. Audio quality is the video characteristic people feel is most important, according to a TechSmith study.
A perfect recording
Okay, it’s finally time to record. Let’s ensure this goes smoothly.
17. Remove the shine from faces
We all get oily sometimes, especially in a hot studio. So blot your forehead, cheeks, and any place on your face that is reflecting light. Not only does it look better, but it makes it easier to adjust lighting to be just perfect.
18. Hide wires and microphones under your clothes
Mise-en-scene is important and loose wires and exposed mics take production value away from the final product. This applies to lighting wires too. The less cluttered your shot looks, the more polished your video will turn out.
19. Use good video lights
Good lights will bring out the best in your talent. And yes, that means no old-school fluorescents allowed (unless you really want to!) Three-point soft lighting is usually the most flattering. Lighting is one of those video details that can completely change the mood or feeling of the short, so set the tone with lighting that fits your story best.
20. Invest in and get to know the gear that works best for you
At first, it may make sense to rent gear and learn which cameras, brands, lenses, and other equipment are right for you. Once you know, you should become a pro at handling your gear to optimize its performance. After all, new gear isn’t cheap, and learning the ins and outs of your equipment will always pay off.
21. The best camera for the job is the one you have
However, investing in gear isn’t always feasible, so don’t let that hold you back. And, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to sacrifice quality. Most modern mobile phones shoot video at 4K, which should be more than enough for your video. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, great. If you’ve got an iPhone or Android, perfect. Don’t wait until you have a top-of-the-line setup to get started, just get started.
“First, start with the phone you already have, because you already have it. Punch perfectionism in the face and press record.”
22. Use the rule of thirds
Imagine a three-section, vertical grid on your frame and position subjects in the outer third of your shot. Don’t just place them in the center. It looks more aesthetically pleasing to have your subjects in the outer thirds, or at least to have a variety of placements within your video. Mix it up a little!
23. Use B-roll
Yes, you will need it. It’s easy to overlook, but extra B-roll footage goes a long way toward telling your story. Get some shots that help set the scene, and use screen recording tools to show off demos when needed. Screen recordings are an easy way to show off step-by-step tutorials, quick demos, and examples of whatever your video may be about. Plus, it’s super easy to do yourself.
However, a b-roll does not mean shooting hours of extra footage. Instead of wasting time, use an asset library, like Camtasia’s to grab some extra scenes. When you need unique images, Camtasia’s AI Generator will generate them for you. Keep those images on hand to use in your videos later.
24. Get your camera closer than you think
Focus on your talent’s face for a more visually interesting interview, or move in on other elements in your shot. It may feel uncomfortably close at first, but in the end you’ll be glad to have a variety of shots to choose from that capture your subject matter.
25. Avoid the digital zoom
It looks pixelated, and the results won’t be as clear as the rest of your footage. Just get closer (see 24).
“One of the pet peeves that I have is if you’re recording your screen of some type of software, typically the user interface is very small. It’s like very difficult to read. And so when you record your screen that way and you create a video, it can make it very challenging for somebody to actually learn from it because they can’t see what each piece of it says. So something really simple that we try to do is just zoom in. If it’s like a browser-based tool, just zoom in on your browser to 150% or something like that before you even record any of your screens.”
26. Keep clips short
You won’t want to scroll through a 45-minute-long clip, we promise.
The one exception to this rule is interviews. You never know when your interviewee will say that amazing quip, so keep the cameras rolling.
“One tip for video creators. I would say make it short. A lot of people, because of YouTube algorithms and other purposes, they feel like they have a lot to say. I would say keep it short and sweet. Attention spans are really dwindling, especially in 2024. So I would say keep it short. Keep whatever you’re doing short.”
27. Mix things up
Shoot a variety of different angles and scenes, close and far shots, and b-roll so that you can tell your story. Videos need to be visually interesting and changing elements are a crucial part of it.
28. Picture-in-picture is a useful medium
Especially when it comes to instructional or otherwise informational videos, think of a lecture or presentation during which seeing the speaker adds value to the video.
This tool is especially useful for videos in which you want to convey emotion since seeing the speaker of the presentation adds a level of intimacy a blank screen lacks. So show your face when you want to build that connection in your screen recordings and hide it away when it isn’t needed.
When I do turn my webcam on in the intro, I feel like people connect with me a little bit better and I get better feedback from viewers. So I do think it is a nice element to add, especially like, hey, today we’re going to learn x, y, and z.”
29. Color correct before you start filming
This way, you’re not stuck in an endless color-correction editing loop. Unless you’re shooting a sci-fi movie, you’ll probably want your footage to look as natural as possible. For example, white balancing can help offset a yellow light while recording.
30. Use color intentionally
Play with different background colors, clothing, fonts, and props to help convey your brand and tell your story.
31. Record at the right size
Where is your video hosted? What size and aspect ratio will it be when it’s viewed? Check the dimensions of platform requirements ahead of time and optimize for that size. Try to stay away from padding on the edges of your video – you know those black bars that turn a horizontal video into vertical one. It looks clunky and unpolished.
Try to record at the recommended dimension or larger, so you record high-quality, professional content.
32. Start with “Hey Mom”
It may sound silly, but addressing your video to someone familiar can take away the robotic edge to your speaking cadence. Usually, you don’t want to sound like you’re giving a speech to a large audience, but rather a tip to a person close to you. You won’t include it in the final video, but it’ll help ensure a more conversational tone.
33. Smile!
Yes, even if you’re filming a voiceover. You can tell the difference between a monotone voice and a bright cheery voice even if you can’t see the speaker’s face. So smile every time you shoot a video.
“Just trying to just find a little bit of joy in what you’re saying actually makes it come across a little bit more engaging and helps to communicate that information even more clearly.”
34. Record in 4k
Not only will that allow for a high-quality recording, but it will give you space to scale your video down without losing quality. It is always better to record big and then scale down than record small and try to scale it up. Scaling up a smaller file can lead to blurry footage in your final product, and that is never ideal. And if you’re using screen recordings, Camtasia records at 4k and 60 frames per second to ensure that your content is always high-quality.
35. Create a clean desktop profile for polished screen recordings
Using your everyday laptop to screen record a process means you have to clean up your desktop from distracting background images, browser tabs, and unfiled icons. Rather than spending time rearranging your whole desktop, make a new desktop profile that’s only used for recording, without personal information. You’ll save time, especially for last-minute ad-hoc recordings.
36. Hide the junk
If you are disregarding the above tip (sigh), try to hide toolbars, unnecessary browser tabs, bookmarks, & other clutter for screen recordings. This goes for anything within your recording window.
37. Only show necessary programs
Even if an extra browser tab won’t be distracting to your audience, try to truly rid your desktop of everything besides what is relevant to your content. Slip-ups are easy to make and you never want sensitive information to be accidentally leaked in your screen recordings. Privacy is above everything.
38. Turn off notifications before recording
As we mentioned above, privacy is incredibly important. Notifications, at worst, are a privacy issue, and at best, are an annoying distraction. Nothing ruins a screen recording quicker than an alert interrupting your flow.
39. Plug in your laptop
It may die, and you don’t want it to die mid-presentation. Unless you’re desperately looking for a way out, then leave that charger in the other room.
The final steps & edits
You’re almost there! Small edits and final touches make a huge difference in your final product.
40. Caption your videos!
Captions are crucial for Search Engine Optimization (SEO), since search engines like Google rely on the searchable text associated with videos. Not only do captions help your video get found by potential viewers, but they also improve accessibility so people of all hearing abilities can access your video.
Don’t forget that people enjoy watching videos without sound. With the rise of social media short-form videos, it’s become increasingly common for people to enjoy video content on mute, so captions are crucial to give them the most your video has to offer.
41. Add annotations and text on the screen
These will provide important context or draw attention to details. But stay away when text is superfluous and distracting from your shots. Viewers can only process so many streams of information at once and trying to read text while listening to separate audio can be tricky.
42. Use simple transitions
Like cut, dissolve, and fade to black. Most other transitions usually end up looking a little tacky. If you do use stand-out transitions, make sure they serve a clear visual purpose so they don’t detract from your story.
43. Speed up or slow down clips
Match your clips to the pace of your story by slowing them down or speeding them up. This technique can be used to exaggerate time, bring clarity, or to show long processes quickly. Used wisely, clip speeds can dramatically change the dynamic of your video.
44. Make your cursor stand out
Screen recordings are easy to follow unless your viewers lose track of your cursor and lose the thread of your video. Video editors like Camtasia can be defaulted to start your cursor at 225% larger than normal and it can be scaled even higher.
If that doesn’t make your cursor stand out enough, then highlight your cursor with a glowing aura or a click effect. Camtasia will scale your cursor down and up every time you click to indicate the path your cursor took during your recording. With these tools, your cursor will never be lost again!
45. Backgrounds need to add value
If it is distracting (or ugly), consider removing it in favor of a better-suited image. However, if you’re removing your background, don’t just leave it blank. You don’t want your subject to be a floating body in front of a blank screen.
Dynamic backgrounds are easier to work with than looping 10-second backgrounds because dynamic backgrounds can be stretched endlessly to fit your timeline. Say goodbye to copy-and-pasting your backgrounds over and over again, and stretch them out instead.
46. Create a compelling thumbnail
Thumbnails are the first look your viewers will have of your content on most platforms. Think of YouTube videos. You scroll through an endless sea of options and click on the video maybe because of the title or maybe because of the thumbnail.
Your thumbnail must stand out against the rest to draw in extra viewership. In short, keep the image bright, attractive, and free of overbearing lines of text. Stick to a few words that explain the content of your video. Remember that your thumbnail is usually displayed next to the title so think of the thumbnail as the pretty accessory to your title.
“The idea of your thumbnail is to grab the attention of the people that you’re trying to reach and help them identify that that content might be something that they’re interested in. So you can do that with just one photograph with no words or arrows or circles or anything like that on the screen. You can do that with one photograph. Sometimes you can illustrate that graphically. Sometimes you can have a photo with some text supporting it or whatever.”
47. Remove mouth noises and deep breaths between lines
People tend to take a deep breath before they start recording. It’s natural, but it can be distracting to constantly hear deep breathing before a line.
As you edit, watch out for loud mouth noises and deep breathing that can detract from your video’s message. Cut them out!
48. Delete hesitations (ummm what?)
As hard as we try um’s and ah’s will always sneak their way into our audio. Luckily, it’s possible to delete hesitations with your video editor of choice. Just listen carefully through your audio and cut them out.
For an easier experience, Camtasia Audiate’s text-based editing feature comes in handy. Audiate automatically translates your audio to text and highlights hesitations so you can get rid of them with a simple click. It’ll automatically sync your text-based edits with your video so you don’t have to listen to your audio all the way through just to find those hesitations.
Pro tip: Using a script can help eliminate hesitations before they happen see tip 6).
49. Ask your peers for feedback
We know, feedback is daunting and scary but it is also a vital part of the video creation process. A pair of fresh eyes can do wonders for your videos especially when they come from someone who is critical and constructive about your video. Maybe you forgot to edit out one of those mouth noises we were JUST telling you about.
It’s important to get feedback on your work before, during, and after. Remember that feedback, when coming from the right person, is meant to empower you and your videos, not tear them down.
“When you publish a video, you have people in the comment sections that are letting you know maybe something that you missed or letting you know another idea that they would like you to make or letting you know a very specific problem that they have. And using that type of information and putting it aside ahead of time is very valuable.”
50. Have fun!
Videos are an expressive, creative medium that can be used for anything from entertainment, tutorials, onboarding, and more! Although all of these tips will help your video production be more professional and stand out, the personality you infuse in your shots is just as important. Show your audience who you are.
“If you are making learning content, making videos, the one thing to remember is that this is supposed to be fun. We are helping people improve their lives, improve their careers, and that’s just like, an inspiring thing. And so I get that there’s lots of ways that you can worry that it can go wrong, or there’s so many things to think about of how do we edit this? How do we make it better quality? At the end of the day, have a good time. Realize that we’re working to change people’s lives. We have this massive privilege in what we do. And I always just try to remember that and remember to inject a little bit more fun into it.”
And here we are, we hope these 50 video editing tips will help you successfully shoot your next video. Video editing software Camtasia is a perfect tool to execute better, engaging videos. Easily edit footage, screen record, and spruce up your videos with annotations and assets.
Create your perfect video with Camtasia
Record your screen, edit footage, and share your video with Camtasia today!
Matt Pierce is a Learning & Video Ambassador at TechSmith. In this role speaks and teaches about video creation and visual communication. A graduate of Indiana University he has ten years of experience working in learning and development with a focus on visual instruction. He has directly managed the training, user assistance, video, and other teams for TechSmith. Teach him something @piercemr
Video gaming has evolved way beyond personal enjoyment these days. Now, it’s a social and creative experience for more than just one person to enjoy. Video gamers have morphed into content creators, sharing thrilling gameplay highlights, crafting in-depth tutorials, and participating in the vibrant video game livestreaming ecosystem. Today, recording and sharing your gaming experiences has become almost essential for any modern gamer venturing into the content creator space.
As a prominent leader in the video game screen recording space, we’re here to help you succeed! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to record, edit, and share your gameplay like a pro. We’ll also discuss the top video editors on the market and the best methods for boosting your visibility and enhancing your gaming experience.
Camtasia Makes Video Game Recording Simple!
Download Camtasia to seamlessly record, edit, and upload your gameplay videos. Start with our free version to see if it’s right for you.
The foundation of any solid recording setup begins with the equipment you choose. From camera to microphone to console, here are our recommendations.
High-quality cameras
For vlog-style, face-cam integration videos, investing in a good-quality webcam or DSLR is crucial. It ensures human reactions and interactions don’t detract from your full-screen game. Camera models from brands like Logitech, Razer, and Elgato can offer superior video resolution and frame rates for your videos, ensuring the clarity of your expressions and reactions. Don’t have the ability to purchase a standalone camera just yet? Your iPhone or Android will work wonders in a pinch.
Microphones
Sound quality is often neglected in video game recording but is equally essential to the viewing experience. Whether narrating the game, interacting with an audience, or simply capturing in-game audio, a solid microphone can make a huge difference in how your content is received and heard.
Condenser microphones are great for capturing a wide range of frequencies and making your voice sound richer and more full-bodied. However, they can be sensitive to background noise. Dynamic microphones are more rugged and less sensitive to noise, which means they’re ideal for environments that aren’t fully soundproofed.
The industry’s most recommended products (like Blue Yeti and Audio-Technica microphones) are known for their exceptional quality in capturing voice and other audio effects. Check them out if you’re in the market for a new mic!
Capture cards
If you play on consoles like Xbox and PlayStation, you need an excellent capture card to record video game footage correctly. A capture card is a device that plugs into your console and computer, allowing you to record gameplay directly from the source without compromising video quality or computer performance.
When choosing a capture card, first consider the resolution and frame rate it supports. If you’re aiming for 4K UHD resolution at 60 frames per second (FPS), your chosen capture card needs to be able to handle this output. Next, consider its compatibility with your console’s central processing unit (CPU) and whether the video capture card offers additional features, such as pass-through capabilities (allowing the video stream to display on a monitor) or built-in streaming functions.
Industry-recommended brands like Elgato and AVerMedia provide robust options that capture gameplay in near-perfect quality and then seamlessly transfer that data to your recording device. Do your research to find the best fit for your situation.
Setting up video game recording software
Once your hardware is sorted, it’s time to focus on the software you’ll use to screen record, edit, and upload. Here are some popular game capture software tools of the trade, along with their pros and cons.
Camtasia
An industry leader, and for a good reason, Camtasia allows you to record gameplay and then adjust your recordings with a suite of powerful video editing tools. Its user interface (UI) is straightforward, and its extensive features make it a top choice for beginners and seasoned content creators searching for a one-stop-shop screen recording software solution.
Camtasia Makes Video Game Recording Simple!
Download Camtasia to seamlessly record, edit, and upload your gameplay videos. Start with our free version to see if it’s right for you.
If you’re familiar with the video game streaming and recording space, you have ultimately heard of OBS. This open-source software offers a range of features, including live streaming, video recording, and more. It is highly configurable and an excellent choice for a versatile, free game recording solution. On the flip side, OBS can be pretty challenging to master and extremely time-consuming to use. Unlike other recording software, OBS does not have built-in video editing tools.
EaseUS RecExperts
EaseUS RecExperts is a newcomer to the screen recording software space. Its user-friendly interface is great for gamers looking for high-quality recordings without the overwhelming features of some other apps in the market. While EaseUS RecExperts is excellent for general use, professionals might find it lacking in advanced features compared to other software. Users with older or less powerful PCs might also experience performance issues when recording high-quality 60FPS video games due to the software’s system resource demands.
Xbox Game Bar
For an integrated Windows 10 gameplay recording experience, the Xbox Game Bar has various widgets for capturing gameplay, monitoring system performance, and even social features. To activate the Xbox Game Bar, press the Windows key + G on your keyboard while in your game. While convenient, it doesn’t offer the depth of functionality of dedicated screen recording and editing software.
Optimizing settings
It’s important to configure your settings correctly—it can mean the difference between a professional-looking video and a grainy, pixelated mess.
Resolution and frame rate
Resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed on the screen, which influences the clarity and detail of your video. Common resolutions include 1080p (Full HD), 1440p (Quad HD), and 2160p (4K). Higher settings can lead to better-looking videos but require more from your computer.
Frame rate, measured in FPS, indicates how smoothly your game plays and is captured in your screen recordings. A higher frame rate (such as 60 fps or more) provides a more fluid motion, vital for fast-paced games where precision and clarity are everything. But, the balance between frame rate and game performance must be carefully managed, especially on less powerful systems.
You also need to consider the final output medium. Streaming platforms like Twitch have specific recommendations for stream quality, while YouTube favors videos with higher resolutions.
Encoding options
Choosing the right encoding options can reduce your video files without sacrificing video quality. It’s all about finding the right balance between file size and video clarity. Encoding is the process of compressing video files, making them easier to store, stream, and share.
Modern encoding standards, such as H.264 (AVC) and H.265 (HEVC), offer advanced compression techniques that maintain high video quality at lower bitrates.
H.264 is widely supported and delivers excellent quality at small file sizes.
H.265 offers even more efficient compression, reducing file sizes further without losing video quality, but it demands more from your hardware during encoding.
YouTube can handle high-resolution videos well and even recommends higher bitrates for uploading while streaming platforms like Twitch might have limitations on bitrate and resolution to ensure smooth live streams for viewers across different internet speeds. Luckily, recording software tools can help automate this balance! Look for features like “dynamic bitrate” that adjust the bitrate based on the complexity of the scene being recorded to optimize file size and quality. Some software also offer presets for recording scenarios (e.g., “High Quality, Small File”).
Whether you’re recording cinematic gameplay, narrated walkthroughs, or raw live streams, the technique behind the recording plays a pivotal role. We’ve got some expert advice on recording techniques that will change the game—literally.
Gameplay capture
When you’re capturing gameplay footage with your recording software, think strategically. You need to plan your recordings, consider the narrative of your video, and ensure your content is meaningful and engaging. To help in the process, use Camtasia’s real-time recording, which allows you to pause and resume the video gameplay as needed, ensuring you record only the top-tier moments. Some video game recording software also allows you to take high-quality screenshots with the click of a hotkey, which can be necessary for thumbnails, gifs, and adding something extra to slow points in your video.
Voice overs
You might need to add a few moments of off-screen narration or character voices to your video game footage. Our advice? Practice your scripts, adjust the tone of your voice to match the gameplay elements, and use Audiatе, an excellent audio recording and editing tool from TechSmith, to fine-tune the audio and eliminate any background noise.
Facecam integration
Facecam is a live recording of your face, or multiple faces, that can be added to a corner of your online video. It adds a personal touch to your videos, hopefully enhancing your viewer’s connection with the content. Camtasia and many recording software platforms can easily integrate Facecam footage into your gameplay recordings, aligning your off-screen reactions with the on-screen action.
Editing and enhancements
Editing can turn a good video into a great one. Here are a few easy ways to enhance your recordings.
Adding overlays and effects
Brand your content! Include an overlay or watermark of your logo to add a professional touch to your gameplay videos, making your channel unique. But make sure to use these effects sparingly to avoid overwhelming your viewers with visual noise. Camtasia’s wide range of built-in assets, as well as stock photos and custom assets available for purchase, can help you create an impactful visual narrative to complement your recorded footage.
Transitions
Clean, well-timed transitions make your video flow seamlessly from one segment to another. With Camtasia, you can choose from various transitions to build anticipation, soften scene changes, or signify the passage of time within your video.
Sound design
No video is complete without audio. Incorporate music, sound effects, and a balanced audio mix to hit the right emotional notes with your audience. Audiate’s sound design capabilities can help you create an audio experience that enhances the story of your video, and Camtasia’s library of royalty-free music and sound effects makes it a comprehensive solution for gamers.
SEO for video game content
You’ve recorded and edited. Now, it’s time to get noticed. If you want your content to be seen online, people will need to find it. Increase the visibility of your content with the search engine optimization (SEO) tactics below.
Tagging your videos
All video platforms have a categorization function, mostly called “tags.” Think about which tags are relevant to your video and use them wisely. Consistently using the same tag in the videos you publish can significantly boost the visibility of your recordings as you continue to create and upload content in your specific lane. For video gaming, a few popular tags could be “let’s play,” “tutorial,” or “PC gaming.”
Metadata matters
Video metadata is the collection of information that describes a video’s content, quality, format, and other attributes. Think of it as the “who, what, when, where, and how” of a video. Metadata includes your video descriptions and titles, which you can optimize with relevant keywords and a compelling call to action to increase your rankings and click-through rates. For assistance, use Camtasia’s search-engine-friendly metadata presets.
Sharing and distribution
The world needs to see your content! Here are some tips on where and how to promote your new video creation.
Uploading to platforms
Many platforms, such as YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook Gaming, now cater to the gaming community. When you upload videos, use hashtags, join relevant communities for your niche, and engage with your audience to foster a loyal following. Even better, Camtasia has direct sharing functions that simplify uploading to platforms like YouTube straight from the software.
Social media
Don’t just upload your video and expect it to go viral. Use social media to engage with your audience, create a community, and promote your content strategically. Share video clips on TikTok and Instagram, create YouTube Shorts to promote your content to a new audience and hype your next video on Twitter (X).
Live streaming
Live streaming your gameplay can be an exciting way to interact with your audience in real-time. Tools like OBS Studio and Twitch’s built-in broadcasting feature make it easy to go live and share your gaming adventures as they happen. But don’t forget to record! With a little bit of editing magic, you can turn excellent livestream content into a completely new video.
FAQs
Video game recording involves many intricacies that can make your head spin. Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers from our team of experts.
How do I record gameplay on my PC with audio?
Using software like Camtasia, set the desired recording area to capture your game window. Ensure the audio input is configured to record from the correct device (e.g., headset or desktop speakers) and the microphone if needed. Test the audio levels and start recording your gameplay. Camtasia’s intuitive interface and real-time adjustments make the recording process straightforward.
Can I record high-quality gameplay on my PC?
Absolutely! With high-quality hardware such as a solid-state drive (SSD), a strong graphics card (GPU)—we recommend the AMD Radeon, Intel, and NVIDIA GeForce graphic cards—and sufficient RAM, you can record PC games in exceptional quality. Combine this hardware with software like Camtasia, and you’ll be able to capture your gaming moments in impressive detail.
Can I record high-quality gameplay on my Mac?
Yes, you can record high-quality gameplay on your Mac using various software options. Recording tools like QuickTime Player, pre-installed on macOS, allow for straightforward screen recording, including audio. For more advanced options, applications such as OBS Studio and ScreenFlow offer settings that can be tweaked for higher-quality recordings, including adjusting the FPS and resolution. To achieve the best results, ensure your Mac is updated to the latest OS version, and consider upgrading your hardware, like the RAM and SSD, for optimal performance during game recording sessions.
What apps do gamers use to record?
Numerous apps are available for gamers to record their gameplay. Popular choices include Camtasia, OBS Studio, Bandicam, and ShadowPlay, all offering unique features tailored to gamers’ recording and live-streaming needs. These platforms allow you to capture videos in MP4 and AVI formats.
Hopefully, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to feel comfortable and confident enough to start recording, editing, and sharing gameplay. Optimize your recording toolkit for the most successful gaming endeavors, and remember that fantastic game recording software (like Camtasia!) can give you a serious edge. Try it out to discover how effective and fun it is to level up your content creation and gaming experience!
Camtasia Makes Video Game Recording Simple!
Download Camtasia to seamlessly record, edit, and upload your gameplay videos. Start with our free version to see if it’s right for you.
Ryan Knott is a Marketing Content Strategist at TechSmith, where he creates content about easy, effective, and efficient video creation, editing, and tips and tricks, as well as audio editing for creators of all kinds. He/him.
Do you need to copy text, but it’s in an image? Whether it’s a scanned document, a PDF, or a photo, manually transcribing the text in an image is tedious work. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to copy text from any image so you can edit it as needed.
Why extract text from an image?
Here are a few scenarios where extracting the text from images can save you a lot of time and effort:
Data entry: Skip the hassle of typing and quickly convert printed notes into digital text.
Error correction: Easily correct typos.
Content repurposing: Reuse text from images or PDFs for other documents or presentations.
The best snipping tool for Windows and Mac
Don’t let clumsy built-in tools hold you back. Take and edit screenshots with Snagit!
If you don’t know already, Snagit is a tool that captures and records your screen to make your work easier. From capturing screenshots to creating tutorials and step-by-step instructions, Snagit helps you communicate your ideas clearly and effectively. And yes, it can also extract text from images! To get started, you’ll need to install Snagit on your device and set it up according to your preferences.
Using Snagit to extract text from images is as straightforward as it gets. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Capture your image
Use Snagit to capture the part of your screen that contains the text you need. This could be anything from a portion of a webpage to a scanned document. It’s ok if all of the information doesn’t fit within your screen; Snagit can take scrolling screenshots, too!
Pro Tip: If you already have an image file, simply open it in the Snagit Editor instead of taking a screenshot. Snagit supports multiple file formats, including .jpg, .png, and .webp.
Step 2: Grab the text
Snagit’s OCR (Optical Character Recognition) feature processes the image and extracts the text, making it available for you to edit and use as needed. This feature works by analyzing the shapes and patterns of the characters in the image and converting them into editable text.
Just right-click on the image and select “Grab Text” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Edit and share
Once the text is extracted, you can edit it directly in Snagit or copy the extracted text to paste it into another document or application.
Tips for optimal text extraction
Use high-quality images: If the image is too blurry, it may result in less accurate text extraction.
Ensure consistent lighting: If you’re capturing printed text using your camera, make sure the lighting is even to avoid shadows and reflections that can interfere with text recognition.
Proofread the extracted text: Always double-check for errors, especially if the original text includes special characters or formatting.
How to edit text within an image
Sometimes, you find a typo or want to mock up changes on a website or presentation. With Snagit, you can also edit the text within an image. Here’s how!
Step 1: Capture or upload your image
Just like when you’re grabbing text, you can take a screenshot of the image you need or upload it directly to the Snagit editor.
Step 2: Select the text you want to edit
Once your image is in the Snagit editor, use the selection tool to select the area you want to edit. Then right-click and select “edit text.”
Step 3: Edit your text
Snagit will work its magic and turn the words within your screen capture into text you can edit. Adjust the font and sizing as needed, make your edits, and share your image anywhere.
And there you have it! You now know how to easily grab text from any image using Snagit. Why not give it a try and see how it can simplify your work?
Snagit is more than an image-to-text extractor. It’s about enhancing your productivity and communication. With features like annotations, video recording, and various sharing options, Snagit will make your life easier. Its text extraction feature is just one of the many ways it can help you work more efficiently.
Annotate and edit screenshots with Snagit
Professional mark-up tools and powerful features make it easy to create helpful images.
First, use Snagit to take a screenshot of your image or upload it into the Snagit Editor. Snagit can use Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software to detect and extract text from an image on your Windows computers.
How can I extract text from a scanned PDF?
First, open the PDF file and take a screenshot of it using Snagit. Then, in the Snagit Editor, right-click on the image, and select Grab Text. The text from your scanned PDF can then be copied and pasted into other programs and applications.
How can I copy text from an image?
To start, open Snagit’s image capture window. Then, in the selection dropdown, choose Grab Text. Once you’ve taken your screenshot, a box will pop up with all the text from your screenshot, ready to be copied and pasted elsewhere.
Danielle Ezell is a Marketing Content Strategist at TechSmith, where she writes about effective workplace communication, offering tips and strategies for using images and videos to collaborate more effectively in hybrid and remote environments.
Taking a screenshot is a handy skill for everyone, whether for work or personal use, but how do you use the Print Screen key on your machine?
In this guide, we’ll cover how to screenshot on Windows, the Mac equivalent, and alternatives to take your screenshots further!
Understanding Print Screen functionality
This key is a quick way to capture what’s currently displayed on your screen.
This Windows function is controlled by the built-in “Print Screen” keyboard shortcut. Depending on your keyboard layout, it might be labeled as “PrtScn”, “PrntScrn”, “Print Scr”, or something similar.
Once you press this key your computer takes a capture of the entire screen, including any active window. This screenshot is then stored in your clipboard, ready to be pasted and used as needed.
How to print screen on Windows
There are a few ways to screenshot on your Windows machine.
Using the keyboard
Depending on your computer, your key may look different. Look for an abbreviation of Print Screen, like the PrtSc button, somewhere near your space bar.
Then, press the key and you’ll capture your full screen. Your screenshot will be automatically copied to your clipboard, which you can then paste anywhere you need.
Window’s built-in Snipping tool
To open Snipping Tool, look it up in your search bar. This will bypass the need to press the print screen button. Then, press the Windows logo key + Shift + S to screen snip.
From there, you can take a snapshot of your screen or screen record. Under the camera option, choose between a Rectangle, Window, Full screen, or Freeform option.
To take a screenshot of your entire screen on Mac, press COMMAND SHIFT 3.
To take a screenshot of part of your screen, press COMMAND SHIFT 4, then drag your cursor from the corner of your screen to capture a specific area.
Lastly, the key combination COMMAND SHIFT 5 opens the Screenshot menu, which will allow you to capture a screenshot or screen record.
Automatically, it will save your screenshot on your desktop. To make retrieval less confusing, we recommend you set up a screenshots folder that you can store them all in.
Take better screenshots with Snagit
Although the built-in screenshot options on Windows and Mac provide the basics, you can easily elevate your screenshots with Snagit. Snagit is a powerful screenshot and screen recording tool that lets you edit and share captures easily.
The best snipping tool for Windows and Mac
Don’t let clumsy built-in tools hold you back. Take and edit screenshots with Snagit!
With Snagit, you can capture more than just a region or your full screen.
For example, capture beyond what’s on your screen with scrolling capture. Screenshot entire web pages and comment threads in one. Simply press capture and start scrolling until you’ve captured everything you need.
With Snagit on Windows, you can also capture multiple areas of your screen in one snapshot. Want to avoid a specific part of your screen? Just draw around it and Snagit will automatically turn the unwanted area into a transparent background. It’s super convenient to keep unwanted distractions hidden!
Quick and easy professional edits
Now that you’ve captured a better screen capture, it’s time to edit it. Snagit makes it easy to edit screenshots while keeping up a polished, professional look.
No more worrying about downloading images to your computer, with Snagit you can upload your capture to Screencast with just one click. Click on the Share Link button, watch as your link is copied directly to your clipboard, and paste anywhere.
You can share your screenshot with anyone, even if they don’t use Snagit!
The best snipping tool for Windows and Mac
Don’t let clumsy built-in tools hold you back. Take and edit screenshots with Snagit!
Even the best YouTube video is unfinished without a quality outro.
A YouTube video outro increases watch time on your channel and can even help you get more more subscribers, extend your reach, or drive more traffic to your website.
If you’ve never made an outro for your videos, it can be hard to know where to start. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know to create effective YouTube video outros that will keep viewers engaged with your content and coming back for more!
A YouTube outro — sometimes called the end screen or end card — is the last part of your video after the main content is done.
It’s the perfect spot for a call to action. Whether you want to point viewers to similar videos from your channel, prompt them to like the video or subscribe to your channel, post a link to your website, or all of the above, an outro gives you one last chance to engage your audience and drive action that can help grow your channel.
You make videos, so obviously you want people to see them. That’s the first step. But make your secondary goal to leverage a YouTube outro to tell your viewers what to do next.
Creating a YouTube outro or end card designed to leverage YouTube’s end screen capabilities lets viewers easily click through to a strategic, relevant next destination of your choice.
There are four types of content you can use in your end screens on YouTube, called elements. They are:
Video or playlist: Link to a different individual video or a YouTube playlist of multiple videos.
Subscribe: Link to your own channel where a viewer can click to subscribe.
Channel: Link to a different YouTube channel.
Link to approved website: Link to a website outside of YouTube.
Note: for that last one, your site must be part of the YouTube partner program and can’t contain any content that might be considered offensive or dangerous, such as pornography or malware.
Examples of YouTube outros
There are a number of ways to leverage and combine the available elements for YouTube end screens. Below are some examples.
In this example, YouTube marketing expert Sunny Lenarduzzi uses two different video elements in her outro to point viewers to related content, and also a subscribe element. Like the first example, she also shares her handle for Instagram and Twitter in her outro, though that box is not clickable. Watch this outro on her YouTube channel.
Easily Create Your Own YouTube Video Outros
Camtasia makes it fast and easy to create custom YouTube outros — no pro skills required! Download a free trial and get started today!
We covered the different types of elements available on YouTube, but what are the rules and requirements for YouTube end screens?
First, your video must be at least 25 seconds long to add elements to an end screen.
As for the length of your outro, you can have your end screen elements visible for five to 20 seconds. Remember, the longer they’re visible, the more time your audience has to react and actually take the action you want them to. This is especially true if you’re using more than one kind of element.
As you think through creating your own custom outro, be mindful of the sizes of the different elements as well. Below you can view the sizing, measured in pixels. This is assuming you use a 1920 x 1080 canvas.
Refer to these sizes as you build your outro to your video so that everything comes together smoothly when you overlay these elements within YouTube.
Best practices for YouTube outros
Don’t be afraid to be creative with your YouTube outro! It should reflect your brand, style, and tone of voice. But, as with anything, there are still a few best practices you should follow to ensure your end screen is as effective as possible..
1. Have a goal in mind
You should create an end screen that is relevant not only to the video, but also supports a specific goal — whether that’s a goal for the particular video, a series of videos, or your channel as a whole.
Goals may include increasing watch time for your channel, getting more subscribers, or driving traffic to an external site. Whatever your goal, make sure there’s a “why” behind your approach.
2. Keep it clean and simple
Don’t throw so many elements at your viewers that they can’t focus! Keep your end screen clean and simple to prevent unnecessary distractions and to make it easy for your viewers to focus on what’s important.
3. Use consistency to help build your brand
This is true not only for your YouTube outros, but for all of your YouTube content. Use consistent colors, logos, editing styles, etc. to help your audience recognize your brand and build trust.
4. Consider your channel holistically
Even if you’re just getting started on YouTube, you can begin thinking about what kind of channel you want to build. What do you want to be known for? What story are you trying to tell?
Think about your channel holistically rather than focusing solely on individual videos to strengthen your message and your brand.
You’ll also have more relevant, related content to point your viewer to after they’ve watched your video.
How to create a YouTube outro
Now you know what outros are, the essential elements, and the rules, and best practices — let’s get you creating your own!
You don’t need a fancy animating software or professional video skills to create outro templates. TechSmith Camtasia makes it incredibly easy to create all kinds of videos and video elements, and it’s the perfect solution for creating YouTube outros.
Follow these steps to create a 20-second video that you can save as a template for your YouTube outros. The steps will also work to create any length outro — simply adjust as necessary.
Step 1: Create a new video project and select your background
First, open Camtasia and select New Project. The default size of your new project will be 1920 x 1080. If you wish to add this outro to a video that’s a different size, so be sure to resize your new project as appropriate.
Then, you can select a color for your background. If you’d prefer a motion backdrop to a static, solid colored backdrop, go to Library>Motion Backgrounds. There are additional options available through a subscription to TechSmith Assets for Camtasia as well.
Step 2: Add placeholder shapes and annotations to your template
Now that the backdrop is in place, simply add a few element placeholders. This will allow you to perfect the placement now, which will save time on YouTube and keep your outros consistent. I mocked mine up in Snagit, then dragged them onto the canvas.
Note that when a viewer hovers over the subscribe element, there is a rectangle that will pop out. Keep that in mind if it will bother you when something near your subscribe button gets covered up, even momentarily.
See an example below.
Step 3: Save it as a template
Once you’ve created your outro template, produce your YouTube outro as its own MP4 video and be sure to save it. Now, you can reuse it time and again by simply importing it into Camtasia and dragging it to the end of your current video project.
Step 4: Upload your video to YouTube and add the end screen elements
Now that you have your outro built out and added to the end of one of your videos, upload it to YouTube and add your end screen elements in just a few simple steps.
Step 5: Publish your YouTube video and analyze the results
Publish your video! Be sure to schedule regular check-ins to monitor your video and channel analytics. Then, make any necessary tweaks to your strategy based on your data, and continue to watch the views roll in.
A YouTube outro — sometimes called the end screen or end card — is the last part of your video after the main content is done. It’s the perfect spot for a call to action. Whether you want to point viewers to similar videos from your channel, prompt them to like the video or subscribe to your channel, post a link to your website, or all of the above, an outro gives you one last chance to engage your audience and drive action that can help grow your channel.
Why should I use a YouTube outro on my video?
A YouTube outro (or end screen) allows you to better engage viewers by adding a call to action. You can point them to other videos you’ve made, prompt them to subscribe to your channel, drive traffic to your website, and more.
Is it hard to make a YouTube end screen?
Nope! You can start creating YouTube outros or end cards right now with Camtasia.
What are the requirements for a YouTube outro?
Your video must be at least 25 seconds long to add a YouTube outro. You can have your outro elements visible for up to 20 seconds.
What types of things can I add to my YouTube outro?
There are four element types you can add. They are: 1. Video or playlist: Link to a different individual video or a YouTube playlist of multiple videos. 2. Subscribe: Link to your own channel where a viewer can click to subscribe. 3. Channel: Link to a different YouTube channel. 4. Link to approved website: Link to a website outside of YouTube.
What are the best practices for YouTube end screens?
1. Have a goal. 2. Keep it clean and simple. 3. Use consistency to help your brand. 4. Consider your channel hollistically.
Ryan Knott is a Marketing Content Strategist at TechSmith, where he creates content about easy, effective, and efficient video creation, editing, and tips and tricks, as well as audio editing for creators of all kinds. He/him.
When working with visuals, you often need to make text, a shape, or another graphic perfectly match a specific color.
If, for example, you’re creating imagery for a marketing campaign, an important presentation, or user documentation, you’ll probably need to follow brand guidelines that include a particular set of brand colors.
Of course, you can memorize the color values for all of your brand’s colors and enter them every time you need to pick a color, but that can be a bit difficult. Instead, you’re better off using a color picker.
How to match colors with a color picker
A color picker is a feature of virtually all software or online image and text editing tools. It allows you to choose the colors of visual elements like text or shapes in a document or graphic.
In this image, you can see the HEX color picker with the exact value in the field.
Color pickers in most image and video editing software include a feature that will identify a color in an image based on its RGB or hexadecimal (HEX) values.
When you are using a HEX or RGB color picker, you can click a space that contains a color in question and the color picker will display it. After identifying the color, you can apply it to shapes, text, or other elements on the canvas.
This allows you to perfectly match brand guidelines or maintain a consistent theme without the hassle of memorizing.
The color matching feature in most color pickers is indicated by an eyedropper icon. We’ll use Snagit’s color picker for this example. Snagit is the perfect tool for taking screenshots and recording your screen. The wide array of features allows users to edit their captures to fit their needs perfectly.
Annotate and edit screenshots with Snagit
Professional mark-up tools and powerful features make it easy to create helpful images.
Step 1: Open the image with the color you need to match
For this example, I want the callouts to match the graph colors for easy comprehension.
Step 2: Select the shape, text, callout, or another element to be colored
Now, I’ll select the callouts one at a time to choose the specific colors.
Step 3: Select the eyedropper tool and click the desired color
To match the selected items to a particular color in the image, I’ll open the color picker and click the eyedropper icon.
The cursor changes to an eyedropper. As I drag it across the image, the eyedropper displays the color it is currently hovering above, along with the associated hexadecimal (HEX) color value.
Once the desired color is displayed, I click, and the selected objects change to that color.
With those three quick steps you can identify and match any color in any image at any time. Your graphics will now look cleaner and more put together than ever before.
