As we edge into the second year of this long-form content era and dive deeper into User-Generated Content (UGC), I hope you’ve been giving this a go. I’ve been talking about UGC for a while now, encouraging you all to take part, experiment, and put out your own creative mark. Gone are the days when 3-second reels ruled our feeds! Platforms like Instagram are looking for creators to hold attention for at least 30-90 seconds, giving us the space to share something meaningful.
Truthfully, I think this is a good shift. It takes me back to when I was young, and commercials on TV ran for sixty seconds. I’d actually count them down! Funny how that captured my attention even then. Fast forward to today, and I’m in a career that lets me create and shape those same kinds of stories—but on my terms. And here’s the thing: creating content is now a job, just like any other, whether you’re sponsored, independent, or working under a brand. It’s work if you’re doing it to make a living. But that’s a good thing! Just like with any job, the more you put into it, the more you grow and gain from it. The trick is to approach it with a mindset that embraces growth, experimentation, and a genuine commitment to improving your craft.
So, let’s break down some essentials to keep you on track:
1. Quality Over Quantity: Set Yourself Apart with Purpose
- It’s tempting to churn out content every day, but focus on quality. Think about what value you’re offering, how you’re engaging, and why someone would watch you.
- It’s not about having the latest gear or chasing trends; it’s about creating something that resonates. Don’t get held back by what you don’t have. Just focus on what you can deliver with the resources you do have.
2. Develop Your Idea: Don’t Rush the Process
- Before diving into content creation, spend time writing down ideas or sketching out concepts. Try to paint a picture in your mind of what you want to create.
- If inspiration isn’t flowing, then it’s time for a mental reset. Put down your phone, grab your keys, and head outside with no set agenda other than to walk for about an hour. Bring a notebook to capture any sudden sparks of inspiration.
- Don’t overthink it; sometimes just being out and observing the world around you can lead to fresh ideas. Take in the scenes, sounds, and subtle details that catch your eye.
3. From Idea to Execution: Plan, Record, Practice
- Once you’ve got that spark, jot down the details, script it out, and time yourself. Press record and practice! You might not get it perfect on the first take, but practice makes progress.
- Remember, don’t get stuck in “practice” mode. Eventually, you’ve got to hit publish. Posting imperfectly is better than never posting at all. You’ll improve with every piece of content you create.
4. Stay Authentic and Own Your Niche
- It’s tempting to chase what’s trending, but the best creators are those who bring their unique voice to the table. Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing—find what lights you up and let that be your guide.
- Authenticity is what truly connects with audiences. People can spot a trend-chaser a mile away, but when you’re genuinely sharing what you love, your audience will feel it.
For platforms like YouTube and TikTok, 5-10 minute videos are great for more in-depth storytelling or tutorials. Let’s say you want to create a video on how to develop a photography style. Here’s how you might approach it:
- Start with a Story – Begin your video with a personal story or experience. For instance, you could talk about a recent photoshoot where you tried something new. Share the excitement, the struggle, or even the unexpected results.
- Break Down the Steps – Take viewers step-by-step through your process. Show them the tools you used, the techniques you applied, and what you were trying to achieve. Be specific but keep it approachable so beginners can follow along.
- Add Personal Insights – This is where you set yourself apart. Share why certain techniques matter to you or how you developed your style over time. This is where audiences get a glimpse of your unique perspective.
- End with a Takeaway – Summarize your main points and encourage viewers to try things out for themselves. Remind them that finding a style is about exploration, not perfection, and that they’re on a journey just like you are.
This approach keeps viewers engaged by blending storytelling, practical advice, and relatable experiences. It’s what keeps people coming back because you’re giving them more than just instructions—you’re sharing a piece of yourself.
Remember, your journey as a creator is yours alone. Stay in your lane, be authentic, and keep creating content that you love. Embrace this new long-form trend, put your spin on it, and make it work for you. The beauty of this creator world is that there’s room for everyone—just make sure to own your space in it!
Hope this helps,
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