Since I’ve started vlogging once a week, I’ve gotten a fair amount of question bones tossed my way. Like what is it? Why do it? Isn’t it scary to have your face out there for all to see?
Here’s a quick tutorial and reasons why you should give vlogging a whirl.
What Vlogging Is
Video + Blog = Vlog. It’s that simple. Instead of typing out a blog entry, you simply speak it into a camera. Doesn’t have to be fancy. In fact, I wouldn’t know how to edit if you paid me. I use photo booth and do a vlog entry in one shot. If you want to get fancier, though, you can use things like Microsoft Movie Maker or Apple iMovie to add all kinds of fun effects to your video.
Why You Should Vlog
It’s a great way to spice up your usual blog posts. It adds a little variety. Personally, I choose to post humorous vlogs, but you could make them “how to’s” or even use them for interviews.
The other benefit I’ve noticed is that it bumps up the hits on my blog. If you’re looking for a way to increase your blog traffic, vlogging is an easy way to jack up your numbers.
Vlogging is a great way to show your readers the human side of you. Your facial expressions, your inflections and intonations, are seen instead of imagined.
And don’t forget, by vlogging, you’ll stand out from the everyday Joe-Schmo blogger who uses text only.
It’s Not As Scary As It Seems
I'm not going to lie. The first time...let's just say your knees will knock a fair amount, but after that, it's a piece of cake. If it creeps you out to see your mug up on the screen, then here’s a little tip. Just post it. Don’t watch it.
So give it a try. It’s worth the experience even if you decide not to continue with the vlogging adventure. If you’d like to see my latest vlog entry, check out Writer Off the Leash.
Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas…professionally, however, for the past 10 years. Her latest release, UNDERCURRENT, is a tale of honor and sacrifice.
Michelle... watched them all. Don't stop. These are going to take you somewhere. I even went through many of the blogs in between, and came away wishing you lived next door because you are such a brave, fun, person (yes, I meant to link those two words together). Impossible, of course, so I did the next best thing and bookmarked your page.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the vlogging tips and encouragement, as I have just lately been considering a leap into those waters myself, to share some of my unusual summer travels. Meanwhile, it's very nice to meet you, and I will be looking forward to reading UNDERCURRENT, and GALLIMORE. Have to admit, though A CUP OF COMFORT looked like one I won't be able to pass up, either. Blessings!
Thanks Lilly! I look forward to checking out your vlogs one day soon!
ReplyDeleteSo do you write everything you're going to say, like a newscast, or just chat from the heart? Sounds pretty scary. Yep. But interesting.
ReplyDeleteHi Adam ~ Generally I write down a rough outline with the high points of what I want to say. It never turns out how I write it, though. And yeah, it is scary the first time. After that, not so muh. Give it a whirl, then give me a holler and I'll visit!
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