How to Create Your First IGTV Video
IGTV (Instagram TV) is an excellent platform for sharing long-form video content with your audience. While Instagram’s regular posts and Stories cater to shorter content, IGTV allows creators to dive deeper into topics, share tutorials, or create a series. This guide will walk you through the process of creating your first IGTV video, from planning to publishing, with tips to ensure your content shines.
What is IGTV?
IGTV is Instagram’s long-form video feature, designed for vertical or horizontal videos that go beyond the time limits of regular posts.
- Length: Videos can range from 15 seconds to 60 minutes.
- Format: Supports vertical (9:16) or horizontal (16:9) videos.
- Audience: IGTV content is discoverable in the Explore tab, on your profile, and in followers’ feeds.
Step 1: Understand Your Goals
Before creating an IGTV video, clarify your objectives.
- Educate: Share tutorials, how-tos, or informative content.
- Entertain: Create engaging stories, challenges, or series.
- Promote: Highlight products, services, or events.
- Engage: Share personal insights or behind-the-scenes content.
Step 2: Plan Your Content
Define Your Audience
Who are you speaking to? Tailor your content to their interests and preferences.
Choose a Topic
Select a topic that aligns with your brand and resonates with your audience. Examples:
- A beauty brand could share a makeup tutorial.
- A fitness coach might offer a home workout routine.
- A business owner could discuss tips for entrepreneurs.
Write a Script or Outline
Plan your video’s flow to stay organized and on-point. Include:
- An engaging introduction.
- Key talking points or visuals.
- A call-to-action (CTA), such as “Follow for more,” “Visit our website,” or “Comment your thoughts.”
Step 3: Prepare to Record
Gather Equipment
- Camera: A smartphone with a good camera is sufficient for IGTV.
- Tripod: Stabilize your shots for a professional look.
- Lighting: Use natural light or invest in a ring light for well-lit videos.
- Microphone: If audio clarity is essential, consider an external mic.
Choose a Location
Pick a clean, quiet, and well-lit space that complements your content.
Test the Setup
Before recording, test your camera, lighting, and sound to ensure quality.
Step 4: Record Your Video
Use the Right Format
IGTV supports:
- Vertical Videos (Preferred): 1080 x 1920 pixels, aspect ratio 9:16.
- Horizontal Videos: 1920 x 1080 pixels, aspect ratio 16:9.
Capture Attention Immediately
Start with a hook to grab viewers’ interest in the first few seconds. For example:
- “Want to know how to boost your Instagram growth? Keep watching!”
Keep It Engaging
- Use dynamic visuals and clear audio.
- Speak naturally and maintain eye contact with the camera.
- Incorporate storytelling or humor to keep viewers interested.
Respect Time Limits
- Aim for 3-10 minutes for most content.
- For tutorials or series, longer videos (up to 15 minutes) may be appropriate.
Step 5: Edit Your Video
Editing polishes your content and ensures it’s viewer-ready.
Editing Tools
- Mobile Apps: InShot, CapCut, or Adobe Premiere Rush.
- Desktop Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or iMovie.
Key Edits to Make
- Trim unnecessary footage.
- Add captions for accessibility.
- Include transitions, music, or effects to enhance visual appeal.
- Overlay text for emphasis on important points.
Step 6: Create an Eye-Catching Cover Photo
Your cover photo is the first thing viewers see, so make it compelling.
- Use tools like Canva to design a custom cover.
- Include the video title or a catchy phrase.
- Ensure the photo aligns with your brand aesthetic.
Step 7: Upload Your Video to IGTV
You can upload IGTV videos via the Instagram app or desktop.
Using the Instagram App
- Open Instagram and tap the + icon or swipe right to create a new post.
- Select the video you want to upload.
- Choose Long Video when prompted.
- Add a title and description.
- Use relevant keywords to improve discoverability.
- Include hashtags to reach a broader audience.
- Upload your custom cover photo or choose a frame from the video.
- Tap Post to IGTV to publish.
Using Desktop
- Go to Instagram.com and log in.
- Click on your profile and select the IGTV tab.
- Tap Upload Video and follow the prompts.
Step 8: Promote Your IGTV Video
Share to Your Feed
When uploading, toggle the option to share a preview in your feed. This snippet will appear in your followers’ feeds and link to the full video.
Use Stories
Promote your IGTV video in Stories by adding a direct link with the “Swipe Up” feature (for accounts with 10k+ followers) or using a sticker.
Leverage Reels
Create a short teaser Reel directing viewers to the IGTV video.
Engage Your Audience
Encourage viewers to comment, like, or share your video. Respond to comments to build connections.
Step 9: Analyze Performance
Track your IGTV video’s success using Instagram Insights.
Metrics to Monitor
- Views: Number of people who watched your video.
- Engagement: Likes, comments, and shares.
- Retention Rate: Percentage of viewers who watched the entire video.
Refine Future Videos
Use these insights to improve your content strategy. For example, if viewers drop off early, try making your intros more engaging.
Tips for IGTV Success
- Be Consistent: Regularly post IGTV videos to keep your audience engaged.
- Experiment with Content: Test different video formats, lengths, and topics to see what resonates.
- Collaborate with Others: Partner with influencers or brands for co-branded content.
- Optimize for SEO: Use keywords and hashtags in your title and description.
- Stay Authentic: Viewers appreciate genuine and relatable content.
Conclusion
Creating your first IGTV video can feel daunting, but with proper planning, execution, and promotion, you can produce engaging content that resonates with your audience. IGTV is a versatile platform that offers endless opportunities to showcase your creativity, share valuable information, and connect with your followers. Follow this guide, and you’ll be on your way to IGTV success in no time!
