Getting back into video content like it’s 2017
Back in 2017 I was getting into vlogging both as a subscriber and a filmmaker. I’d subscribed to the likes of Kraig Adams and Sara Dietschy who were NYC vloggers inspired by the likes of Casey Niestat and Gary Vaynerchuk. Back then, the idea of doing a daily vlog hadn’t gained massive popularity, but it was definitely something that was really quite achievable for many small creators on YouTube.
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Uploading vlogs lets people see your personality. It reveals to the world your offline activities by bringing them online. It’s also a really great way to grow a personal brand online, putting out regular, sometimes more raw and unpolished content is a proven method to get more subscribers and ultimately more eyes on you and your personal brand.
I had never sought a huge YouTube following, but I have always loved the culture that was unfolding online. I’ve always been really into video content, and although I haven't daily vlogged, during 2017, I regularly uploaded vlog content from my life filmed on weekends, highlighting and capturing cool moments of the year.
Check out the videos above to see some content I filmed and uploaded to YouTube in 2017. Most of these vlogs were edited fairly fast, but with each one, I learned to develop my own laid-back style. Part of that style was influenced by those NYC vloggers mentioned above, and I can definitely say I have been influenced by well-known names in the content world like Neistat and Vaynerchuk.
Don’t go fancy, document, verses create.
It was Gary Vaynerchuk who pushed the message, “Don’t go fancy; document versus create.” This means showing up to work and pumping out content quickly, caring less about the camera, not using a script, and focusing on documenting what you're doing rather than planning what you want to tell people. It's more effective to guide people through the process you're experiencing, rather than advising them based on what you think you should be sharing
When it comes to business and work, I have been actively engaging in #workinpublic, and I always encourage customers and clients to do the same. I’m particularly keen to document my personal journey through blogs and vlogs, both as a way to hold myself accountable, ensuring I show up every day, and to showcase my journey in my unique style.
Film what you love, chances are other people will love it too.
Last year I uploaded two Instagram reels on my personal Instagram account for a Northern Irish band called And so I watch you from afar. One of these videos has over 7,682 views and the other has over 10,600 views. These were filmed from the crowd, in the moment footage. But they captured the real energy in the room.
Another example is when I filmed the Moira Community Santa Run. There was magic in the air that night, and snow started falling unplanned halfway through our journey. I was in vlog mode that night and captured it all on camera.
The video, now with over 11,000 views on my personal YouTube channel, not only showcases the event for future Santa runs in Moira but also has helped put the small town on the map and contributed to advertising for Tourism NI.
Serendipity in the moment
I guess what I’m saying that there is serendipity in the moment and you never know what will happen when you upload. So just keep smiling, share as you learn and follow the vibes. You never know, Santa might arrive and it’ll snow in your local town.
If you’re interested in following me on this journey, you’re in the right place right now. But also remember to check back whenever you see my content online. Or if you're watching on YouTube, don't forget to smash that like button and hit subscribe.. :)
