Instagram recently launched a vertical video app called IGTV enabling users to upload long-form video content to the platform. Influencers around the world are excited about IGTV’s rollout and many have already started to create content for the platform – vying to be one of the first creators on IGTV.
Being an early bird on IGTV could boost your chances of gaining good traction but it may not guarantee you success or translate to you being a thriving creator on the video-sharing app. Here’s 5 crucial tips for aspiring creators looking to gain fame and success on IGTV.
Quality content
Much like any other platform, the first and foremost requirement to build an audience and gain traction is ensuring original, quality content on a regular basis. This would require you to invest more effort, time and (possibly) money than your regular Instagram feed but, you reap what you sow.
As a beginner, it may not be imperative to stick to a hard and fast posting schedule but consistency goes a long way. Your audience shouldn’t have to wait to see fresh, interesting content.
Formats for IGTV and Youtube differ
IGTV and Youtube are undoubtedly similar – they’re both video-sharing platforms – but they’re not the same. It would be wise not to consider applying the same ‘formulas’ on both platforms – what works for Youtube may not bring success on IGTV.
Vertically-shot videos are more suitable for Instagram’s video-sharing platform, as opposed to horizontally-shot footage for Youtube and the like. While you can upload the latter format, technically, it just makes for a less pleasing experience than the former. While this may require more work, again, the best thing to do is create fresh, IGTV-specific content for your audience. Work with dimensions similar to Instagram stories – 1080 pixels by 1920 pixels or a 9:16 ratio.
Define the duration required
While IGTV allows creators to upload footage of an hour’s length, it doesn’t mean you need to hit the 60-minute mark unnecessarily. Keeping with the evolution of digital content, it would be better to aim for videos under 5 minutes.
Know your audience
Being that your Instagram followers are, essentially, your IGTV audience as well, it is easier for creators to maintain complementing content two. Go through your followers on Instagram to get an understanding of the type of video ideas that would suit your IGTV content. In all probability, your followers will respond well to content that is modeled after similar content on your Instagram feed.
What is your IGTV objective?
Before you start creating IGTV content define your objective in doing so – what are your looking to achieve, what are you looking to share? If these objectives can be met with through Instagram posts and stories, save yourself the time and effort.
While brands should make sure that their messaging is conveyed clearly in their IGTV videos, influencers and bloggers should focus on building a sense of community. Overall, in order for your IGTV channel’s content to succeed, be clear with what it is you’re looking to achieve and how IGTV fits into your overall social media strategy.
