How to Optimise and Create Content That Grabs Attention
These are editing and content tricks that I've learned (through lots of trial and error) over my years of being a content creator.
They’ve absolutely helped me create content that’s easier to watch and in turn, in my opinion, attracts more brands to work with me.
1. Cut Out Breathing in Voiceovers or When You’re Speaking to Camera
Now that I've said this, you probably will not be able to un-hear it when people leave it in. You'll typically hear a loud gasp in or out, and it can break the flow of voice, or add length to the video that isn’t needed.
2. Every Shot Should Be There for a Reason
Don’t leave in shots that are fumbled, slow, or not necessary. Be completely deliberate with the visuals that you include.
Think:
Is this something that I want to see in a video?
Is this going to be helpful for the person seeing it in the video?
3. Be Intentional with Your Script
Same goes for the script. If you're someone who likes to sit down in front of a camera and chat, I totally get you—that's my style too.
But we need to think: How can we say what we need to say in the least amount of words?
This is not a dumbing down of content—it’s actually making content more respectful of a viewer's time and giving them information as quickly and as palatably as possible.
This can feel a bit eerie, but in reality, it helps you be more succinct and clear in what you're sharing.
4. A Good Hook is Extremely Important
Find a hook style that feels like it resonates with your audience, and make the first three seconds something that someone else would want to listen to.
I recently listened to a podcast with Davey from @skincaredavey, and he explained how he constantly seeks feedback on scripts and hooks to make things as engaging as possible for his audience— and making them relevant to the audience.
He gave an example I thought was wonderful.
Rather than having a self-centred focus like "I tried this," it could be "If you try this…", or focus on you (the audience) rather than I (the creator).
5. Niche Down
Embrace the fact that you are not typical.
I embrace the scarring, the acne, the fact I have a bit of pigment in my skin, which means I scar dark.
Often, women come to me and lament that they’re older, they have deeper skin, or they feel like they’re not the beauty standard.
I’m not going to pretend that isn’t the case, because we are in a weird space that definitely rewards a “look”.
But—the more you niche down and the more you lean into what makes you unique, you will find your people.
It doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s actually essential.
An example of this: Instead of saying “Skincare products I love for my skin type”, I’ll say “Products under $30 that work on acne-prone, scarred skin.”
Now, we’re really leaning into a niche:
We’re targeting people who want something affordable.
We’re targeting people who have acne and scarring.
I’d really encourage you to brainstorm this for yourself.
6. Be More Intentional with Scripting
I'm definitely someone who usually sits in front of a camera and chats, then cuts down the footage to make it more succinct.
I'm actually turning over a new leaf and looking at more intentionally scripting videos, so I can say what I need to share in a more succinct and palatable way for people watching.
The more you do this, the better it gets.
One major benefit: If you're in the short-form space, there is an expectation that you explain things succinctly.
If you prefer long-form content, I would definitely encourage you to look into live streaming or YouTube, where longer attention spans and personality-driven content are encouraged.
That doesn't mean you can’t show personality in short-form, but different formats have different focuses.
7. Follow Instagram’s Best Practices
I also highly encourage you to look into what Instagram is actually telling creators to do, because they have it down to a fine art.
The first three seconds are extremely important. I’ll link some other resources that Instagram has shared, which you can locate in your app as well.
8. Improve Your Filming Setup
More light is always the answer.
More light means a clearer picture, higher quality, and an easier-to-watch video.
Ditch the filters.
Clean, high-quality footage will always perform better than an over-processed, filtered look.
Reduce echo.
Put a carpet in the room.
Close doors to prevent sound bouncing.
Invest in a microphone and/or sit closer to the camera.
Filming best practices:
Use natural light whenever possible.
If you can’t get good natural light, supplement with a small LED panel from Amazon.
If you’re taking product shots, make sure the phone isn’t in your hand, it’s best to be on a tripod to avoid shaky shots.
Final Thoughts
Just as an overview:
Reduce echo.
Make sure your audio is clear.
Cut out ums, ahs, and unnecessary audio.
Get to the point quickly.
Niche down and make your content relevant.
More light is essential. Always.
I can go into a deeper dive on filming techniques later, and I’d love to. But for now, these are my best editing and filming tricks that have never failed me.
Hope this helps!
Minnie xx
