Your ultimate guide to creating high-quality Reels, TikToks, and videos to boost your nonprofit’s digital strategy.

Recording social media videos is one of the best ways to engage your audience and boost visibility for your nonprofit or cause business.

Whether you’re sharing inspiring stories, showcasing your impact, or advocating for your cause, creating high-quality Reels, TikToks, or videos will capture attention and help your nonprofit stand out.

With a few simple tips, you can create compelling, professional-looking content and completely change your nonprofit’s social media reach.

How to Optimize Lighting for Social Media Videos

No matter what type of content you create, lighting can make all the difference in how your video is perceived. Poor lighting can detract from your message and make even the best content hard to engage with.

Here’s how to make sure you always shine: 

• Natural light is your best friend: Whenever possible, shoot your video in a well-lit space where you can take advantage of diffused natural light. A spot near a window works wonders for creating a soft, flattering glow.

• Use a ring light (optional): Consider using a ring light if natural light isn’t available. It mimics natural light, offering even lighting without harsh shadows. It’s an easy way to give your videos a professional finish.

Where to buy ring lights? Some great places to purchase ring lights include Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo. Look for features like adjustable brightness and color temperature to suit your needs.

Video Composition Tips for Framing Your Message

Strong visuals (like your face!) keep viewers engaged and convey professionalism. How you present yourself in your video can either hook your audience or keep them scrolling.

Here’s how to make sure you’re hitting the mark: 

• Eye-level perspective: Position your camera at eye level or slightly above to create a natural, friendly viewpoint that feels like a conversation. Viewers will see you as more approachable, and therefore watch for longer.

• Close the distance: Don’t be afraid to move closer to the camera. Getting up close and personal with your audience helps build a connection, making them feel like you’re speaking directly to them.

• Clean, compelling backdrop: A cluttered or distracting background can take the focus away from you. Choose a simple, aesthetically pleasing setting that complements your message and reflects your organization’s values.

Best Practices for Clear Audio in Social Media Videos

Audio quality is just as important as visual quality—sometimes even more so.

Here’s how to make sure your message comes through loud and clear: 

• Minimize background noise: Choose a quiet location to record your video or pause any background noise that could interfere with your message. If you’re in a noisy space, try using an external microphone to ensure your audio is crisp and clear.

• External microphone (optional): Investing in an external mic is a game-changer! These pick up audio more clearly and allow for a more professional sound, especially if you’re recording outdoors or in noisy environments.

Where to buy wireless microphones? Check out options on Amazon, Sweetwater, or B&H Photo. Popular brands include Rode, Shure, and Blue. Research the ones that suit your needs and budget—just make sure they adapt to your phone.

How to Stabilize Your Camera for Professional Videos

Shaky footage can be distracting and make your video look messy and unprofessional.

Here are a couple of simple ways to ensure smooth, stable footage: 

• Use stabilization tools: A selfie stick or smartphone tripod is your go-to tool for recording videos because it keeps the camera stable and helps you avoid unwanted shakes or jolts during recording.

• Improvise when needed: If you don’t have a tripod, get creative! Use any stable surface (a stack of books, a ledge, or a counter) to hold your phone steady while you record.

Building Confidence on Camera for Social Media Videos

When you’re on camera, your energy and confidence come through, making a huge difference in how your message is received.

Here’s how to look and feel your best on camera:

• Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel on camera. Record a few test videos to get familiar with your setup and delivery. Run through your script enough times so you can speak naturally without sounding like you’re reading off a teleprompter.

• Smile and make eye contact: Look directly at the camera to create a sense of connection with your audience. A simple smile goes a long way in making your message feel warm and authentic.

Tools and Resources for Better Video Creation

If you’re new to video content creation, investing time and money in the right tools can make a huge difference in the quality and efficiency of your production process. These tools empower you to create professional, polished videos that you’ll be proud to share with your audience.

Here are some of the top video creation tools we recommend:

• Teleprompter Apps: Improve accessibility and engagement with tools like the Teleprompter App, Otter.ai, and Rev.com. These apps allow you to quickly generate accurate captions and transcripts, making your videos more inclusive and user-friendly.

• Video Editing Software: Fine-tune your content with beginner-friendly editing tools. Canva offers customizable templates for quick edits, while Adobe Premiere Rush and iMovie provide advanced features.

Mastering Social Media Videos to Boost Engagement

Creating engaging social media videos can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be overly complicated.

The first step to getting over your stage fright is simply setting up your phone and pressing the record button. Little by little, you’ll quickly be able to find the best lighting, frame your shot, capture clear audio, and keep your camera stable.

With these tips, you will help elevate your nonprofit’s digital presence, attract new supporters, and boost engagement with your cause.

Get Your Free Downloadable Guide for Creating Impactful Videos

Ready to take your video strategy to the next level? Drop your email below and receive our FREE downloadable guide with expert tips for creating impactful videos. Perfect for bookmarking or printing, this handy resource will help you feel like a video pro in no time!

FAQs About Creating Video Content for Nonprofit Social Media

1. What type of videos work best for nonprofits on social media?

Story-driven videos perform well because they connect emotionally with viewers. Other effective types include behind-the-scenes clips, testimonials, event highlights, and calls to action that showcase your mission and impact.

2. How long should my social media videos be?

For platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, aim for videos under 60 seconds to maximize engagement. For YouTube, you can create slightly longer content, such as 3–5 minutes, to provide more in-depth information.

3. Do I need expensive equipment to create high-quality videos?

Not at all! Many nonprofits and content creators make compelling videos using just a smartphone. Investing in affordable tools like a ring light, external microphone, or smartphone tripod can help improve the quality without breaking the budget.

4. How do I make my videos more accessible to a wider audience?

Add captions to your videos to make them accessible for viewers who are hard of hearing or watching without sound. Use clear visuals and simple language to ensure your message resonates with diverse audiences. Want to go the extra mile? Include accurate translations to reach more members of your community.

5. How can I measure the success of my video content?

Social media platforms are making it easier and easier to track engagement metrics such as views, likes, shares, and comments. Use platform-specific analytics tools to understand how your audience interacts with your content and adjust your strategy accordingly. Metrics like click-through rates (CTRs) can also help gauge the effectiveness of your calls to action.

Sources: https://blog.hootsuite.com/social-media-video-tips/