Explainer videos are exactly what the name implies: videos that explain something – usually a product or service. For startup companies or entrepreneurs that need to get the word out about their product or service, an explainer video is basically a virtual salesperson that can visit people anywhere at any time to explain their value proposition. Creating an explainer video can be tough because you have to cover all aspects of the product/service, and make it appeal to people all within a couple of minutes or less.

Explainer videos are short, typically around 60-90 seconds long, so some companies utilize a series of explainer videos in order to spread more information about the company.
From the production side of creating an explainer video, the process is basically the same as typical video production, with only a few differences. Today, we will show you a few tips to help you mastermind the next great explainer video.

Preparation

The script is the main focal point of an explainer video (or any video for that matter). Everything starts here. If the script is no good, your video is no good. If the script is created without a budget in mind, the video may end up costing way more than the revenue it brings in.

Many explainer videos are animated, which makes it pretty simple to read the script and get an idea of about how much it will cost. If your video includes real people, and scenes shot at different locations, it will take some planning and research before you can determine costs and time involved.

Reviewing the script multiple times is the only way to determine how the explainer video production process will go. Depending on how many different types of graphics and animation the script is comprised of, you may need to hire multiple graphics designers and animation professionals to help.

Audio Tips

Audio is one of the important factors to an explainer video. If your audio is distorted or out of sync, the client, as well as the viewers, may not see you as a serious video production professional.

• Record clear voice over: The voice over should be recorded in an area with no background noise, no echo, and no feedback. Additionally, a professional microphone is critical. Microphones on cameras or webcams are not high quality enough for a professional video, as they tend to pick up background noise and vibrations. It doesn't matter how great the voice over professional speaker is that you hire for the video, if the audio isn't great, it can ruin the video completely.
• Acquire royalty-free music: Royalty-free music means that you simply pay a one-time fee for the music, and never have to pay any additional fees again. It may take a bit of searching in order to find the right music for the explainer video, but in reality, your music selection can make or break the video as well. Depending on your target demographic, your music should reflect those interests. If you target viewers are teenagers or young people, a popular top 40 hit may be the way to go. Older viewers may lean more toward rock, classic rock, or even oldies. The music should reflect the mood of the video as well. If your client wants to take a humorous approach, then using audio will be the key to success. Humorous videos often use upbeat music to keep the mood happy.

Video Tips

• Lighting: Lighting is essential to any explainer video. If the video is too dark or throws distracting shadows, it can detract from the real message the video is trying to convey. If possible, using natural lighting is best as you can control the shadows, and it's free. If you must use artificial lighting, be sure to use three-point lighting to eliminate all shadows from the video.
• Location: Explainer videos are typically promoting a company, so if the video is to be shot using actors, then the location is important. Some explainer videos use the company headquarters as a background, while others show specific products or services in use. If possible, show people having fun on the beach or enjoying the outdoors. The background location can keep the video from becoming boring.

The Final Cut

Once the video has been shot, and the graphics and animation have been added, the explainer video is ready for the final editing. All audio must be synced properly, on-screen text and animations must be tweaked to appear at the right times, and the call-to-action may need to be revised based on viewer feedback. Don’t forget the true importance of video editing! Now you’re ready to release your masterpiece to your client, and the world!

If you’re ready to learn the art of video production, enroll in the Sheffield Institute of Recording Arts courses today!