Video-making always seems interesting, but many people don't start because they think it's too difficult. However, everyone knows that videos perform the best on social media platforms and keep your audience engaged.
If this sounds like your experience, you've come to the right place because we are sharing a beginner's guide to making videos. We will share how to make your first video. We will help you plan, film, edit, and share your videos.
Before you start recording the video, remember that you've got to be completely prepared. A proper plan helps save time and ensures that your videos look good and professional. This is important if you want good results on the first try after learning how to make your first video.
Define Your Video Goal
Ask yourself: Why am I making this video? Do you want to teach, entertain, or inspire? Goals help guide your tone, length, and format. For example:
If you want to educate, a tutorial format works best.
If you want to share your day, a vlog is more natural.
If you want fast engagement, a short-form reel might be ideal.
Write down your main goal in one sentence before moving forward.
Create a Simple Script or Outline
Even the most natural-looking videos usually follow a plan. A script doesn't need to be word-for-word, but at least create a bullet-point outline:
Introduction (who you are and what the video is about).
Main points (key steps, tips, or story elements).
Ending (call-to-action, like subscribing or following).
This keeps you focused and reduces unnecessary takes.
Choose a Video Style
When you start focusing on how to do your first YouTube video, you also have to pick one style that fits your goal:
Tutorial: Step-by-step instructions.
Vlog: Personal and casual.
Cinematic: High-quality visuals with storytelling.
Short-form: Quick, entertaining clips for TikTok/Instagram.
Gather Basic Equipment
You don't need to buy professional gear right away. A smartphone can produce excellent results, especially with good lighting. However, three key tools make a huge difference:
Microphone: Even a budget lavalier mic improves sound dramatically.
Lighting: A simple ring light or window light works.
Making your first video in doesn't have to be complicated. Beginners often have worries regarding shaky shots, poor lighting and confusing settings, but smartphones alone rarely solve all these issues. This is where OBSBOT Tail 2 comes in. Its design with features like AI tracking and simple gesture control, it helps first-time creators record videos that look polished without taking any technical stress. Whether you're filming indoors or outside, the Tail 2 ensures your very first video looks professional, stable and feels confident from day one.
Supports up to 4K@60fps: Even if it is your first time shooting a video, you can directly record clear and high-quality video to make your work more professional.
90° lens rotation: It allows beginners to switch seamlessly between landscape and portrait modes, making it easy to create videos for platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
AI Tracking 2.0: Few video cameras combine 4K ultra-high-definition quality with both gesture control and AI tracking. With just a simple double-click, the camera automatically follows you, ensuring that even beginners don't have to worry about missing themselves in their very first recording.
3-Axis Stabilization: It delivers smooth and steady footage. This will help beginners avoid shaky-looking first videos.
Large 1/1.5'' CMOS sensor: It improves clarity and color accuracy, so even a beginner's first video feels cinematic.
Part 2: Record Your First Video
Now it's time to film for everyone who has been wondering how to make your first video. Recording is often the scariest step, but with a few practical tips, you'll feel more confident.
Framing & Composition Basics
Rule of Thirds: Imagine a grid of nine squares. Place your face or subject along the lines for a balanced look.
Headroom: Leave a little space above your head; don't crop too tight.
Stable Shots: Use a tripod or rest your phone on a surface to avoid shaky footage.
Use Natural Light or Budget-Friendly Lighting
Lighting can make or break your video.
Record near a window during the day for soft, even light.
If filming at night, a $20 ring light is often enough.
Avoid strong backlighting unless intentional, as it makes faces look dark.
Capture Good Audio
Viewers will forgive average video quality, but not poor audio.
Record in a quiet room.
Use an external mic if possible.
Do a quick test recording to check for background noise.
Shooting Tips
Record multiple takes; you can choose the best one later.
Keep camera movements simple (slow pan, zoom, or just stay still).
Smile and speak clearly; energy translates on camera.
Part 3: Edit and Share Your First Video
Editing transforms raw clips into something polished and engaging. Luckily, editing tools are easier than ever in this modern era.
Basic Editing Steps
Trim: Cut out mistakes or long pauses.
Transitions: Use simple fades or cuts to keep it smooth.
Text: Add captions or highlights for clarity.
Music: Background tracks can add mood, and use royalty-free sources.
AI Editing Tools
AI-powered editors (like CapCut, Descript, or Adobe Premiere's AI assist) speed up workflows:
Auto-cut silences.
Auto-generate subtitles.
Suggest music that matches your pacing.
Final Touches
Color correction: Adjust brightness and contrast for consistency.
Sound balance: Lower the background music so your voice is clear.
Intro/outro: Add a simple branded opening and closing for professionalism.
Export Settings for Different Platforms
Each platform prefers different video formats:
YouTube: Horizontal, 1080p or 4K, longer content (5–15 minutes).
TikTok/Instagram Reels: Vertical, under 60 seconds, fast-paced.
Instagram/FB Feed: Square or vertical, 1–3 minutes.
Uploading Tips
Title: Be clear and searchable (e.g., "How to Cook Pasta in 10 Minutes").
Thumbnail: Use bold text + a clear image of your face.
Description: Add keywords, links, and a short summary.
Social Sharing: Share clips or highlights on multiple platforms for more reach.
Part 4: FAQs About How to Make Your First Video
1. What should my first video be?
Pick something simple you're comfortable talking about. For example, an introduction video, a quick tutorial, or a "day in my life."
2. Which content is most attractive on YouTube?
Tutorials, product reviews, and entertainment (like storytelling or challenges) perform well. Choose something you enjoy so you stay consistent.
3. How many views on YouTube do you need to make $1000?
This depends on your niche and audience location. On average, channels earn $3–$5 per 1000 views from ads. So, reaching around 250,000–350,000 views could bring in $1000.
4. How do I viralize my first video?
There's no guaranteed formula, but improving your odds includes:
Hook viewers in the first 5 seconds.
Post at the right time (when your target audience is active).
Use trending sounds or topics.
Share across platforms for wider reach.
Conclusion
Making videos may feel overwhelming at first, but once you take it step by step, it becomes a fun and creative process. In this guide, we covered how to plan, film, edit, and share your very first video, along with tools like the OBSBOT Tail 2 to make your experience smoother. The most important thing is to start small, stay consistent, and learn with each upload. Remember, there's no perfect first video; progress comes with practice. If you've been waiting to create, now you know exactly how to make your first video. Grab your phone or camera, follow these steps, and hit record. Your journey as a creator starts today.