Less than two weeks ago Instagram launched IGTV, a vertical video app that allows Instagram users to upload long-form video content to the platform.
Many influencers are very excited about the new platform. Some have already started creating content, as they’re keen to be one of the first creators on IGTV.
While getting in early may boost your chances of success, it doesn’t guarantee you’ll thrive as a creator on the new video-sharing platform.
We’ve got five crucial tips for aspiring creators that want IGTV success and fame.
Be Sure To Upload Quality Content
Like any platform, if you’re looking to build an audience you need to ensure you’re uploading quality, original content on a regular basis.
This may require you to put more effort (and time, and money) into your IGTV videos than, say, your Instagram feed but if you’re serious about developing yourself as an IGTV superstar you need to invest in your content.
It’s also important to stick to a posting schedule. Consistency is key when building an audience, and you want your viewers to know when they can expect to see new content on your channel.
Instagram has released a free guide to support IGTV creators – so if you don’t know where to start, consider checking it out.
Remember, IGTV is Not YouTube
While IGTV may share certain similarities with YouTube (i.e. they’re both video-sharing platforms), it’s a completely different ball game.
This means that certain “formulas” that lead to YouTube success won’t work for IGTV.
Instagram’s new video-sharing platform prefers vertically-shot videos to horizontally-shot footage. Creators can still upload horizontal video content to the platform, but the experience isn’t as pleasing for the viewer.
The best thing you can do if you want your IGTV content to stand out is to create fresh video footage specifically for the platform.
Stick with dimensions similar to Instagram Stories (1,080 pixels by 1,920 pixels, or an aspect ratio of 9:16) and be sure to film your footage vertically.
Longer Doesn’t Mean Better
IGTV lets its creators upload one hour of footage, per video – but that doesn’t mean you should strive to hit the 60 minute. On the contrary, it’s better to keep your IGTV videos under five minutes.
According to AdWeek “. . . IGTV is clearly competing directly with YouTube, where videos generally find success under three minutes. Although videos on Instagram’s normal feed perform best when they’re under 30 seconds, the fast scrolling and quick double-tapping is minimized on IGTV, meaning that users are more likely to stick around for a slightly longer video.”
Know Your Audience . . .
This is an easy one for most IGTV creators. Their Instagram following is, essentially, their IGTV audience. Which means your IGTV content should complement your Instagram feed.
Before you start creating videos for IGTV, take a hard look at your Instagram account. Use it as a springboard when coming up with video ideas for IGTV. Chances are your followers will respond well to content that is similar or modelled after the theme of your Instagram feed.
. . . And Don’t Forget About Your Message
Before you start creating content for IGTV, you need to ask yourself what it is you want to achieve by sharing long-form videos with your audience. If the same results can be attained via Instagram posts and Stories, consider saving yourself the time and effort.
If you’re a brand looking to connect with potential customers, make sure your brand’s message is clearly conveyed within your IGTV videos. If you’re an influencer or blogger looking to grow your following, focus on building a sense of community.
Above all else, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with IGTV – and where it fits in with your social media strategy – if you want your channel and content to succeed.
Are you on IGTV? Let us know in the comments below.