Remember when status updates and memes were pretty much the gold standard of social media? Nowadays it feels like it’s all about video. And many of them are so well-filmed and edited you’d think there were pros behind the camera, not everyday people with nothing but a smartphone and a ring light or two.

For those of us new to social media marketing—or even seasoned old-comers who haven’t yet taken the video leap—this type of content can feel intimidating to create. It requires planning, editing skills, comfort behind the camera and even a bit more creativity than more traditional post types tend to require.

But fear not! Anyone can learn to create high quality social media videos with a little patience, bravery and willingness to learn. Let’s talk about five tips for dipping your toes in the water with social video marketing, so you can start creating fun, engaging videos in no time.

1. Know your audience and become a content consumer.

Understanding your audience is the first step toward creating engaging social media videos. Spend time exploring popular platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. This will help you understand what kind of content resonates with audiences and give you ideas. Learn from successful content and use this knowledge to guide your video creation.

2. Start small and embrace imperfection.

Your first videos won't be perfect, and that's okay! Start with simple projects, like enhancing existing footage with voice overs or royalty-free music. Platforms like Instagram have user-friendly tools, and YouTube is a goldmine for tutorials on the basics. As you dip your toes into video creation, these resources will be invaluable. Remember, progress over perfection.

3. Consider investing in basic equipment.

While it's true that many popular social media videos are shot on smartphones, investing in good quality equipment can make a significant difference. A ring light, a tripod and a good quality microphone can help you create professional-looking videos that stand out.

4. Feature people and trending themes.

Videos featuring individuals tend to perform best. Incorporate trending themes into your content to make it more engaging. For example, if there's a popular meme or video trend circulating on social media, consider how you can put your own spin on it.

5. Experiment and learn.

Don't be afraid to try new things. Experiment with different video formats, styles and content. Monitor your videos' performance and learn from it. Which videos get the most engagement? What kind of content does your audience respond to? Use this information to refine your video marketing strategy.

Finally, remember that creating high-quality social media videos takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if your first few videos aren't perfect. Every video you create is a learning opportunity. Keep improving, keep experimenting and most importantly, keep having fun.

In the world of social media, authenticity shines brighter than perfection. So, let your personality shine through your videos. Show your audience that there are real, passionate people behind your brand. This will make your videos more engaging and help you build a stronger, more personal connection with your audience.

Diving into social media video marketing may seem daunting at first. But with a little patience, bravery and willingness to learn, you can create engaging, high-quality videos that resonate with your audience. So go ahead, take the leap and start your video marketing journey today. You've got this!