LIFE

So many girls dream of starting their own YouTube channel. But, when it comes down to it, it's hard to find time to pursue a passion amid a busy day-to-day schedule. That's why, for Alyshia Hull, quarantine was the perfect time to go for her goals.

I always wondered what it would be like to be a YouTuber. So, when the COVID-19 pandemic started and my schedule slowed down, I decided it was *finally* time to grab a camera and hit the "record" button. However, before launching my first video, I needed to do my research on how to be successful on the platform. After reading books, listening to podcasts and of course watching YouTubers do their thing, I finally felt confident enough to launch my first video into the world. I've learned a lot since then, so here are my behind-the-scenes secrets...

Let's pick a niche

When launching a channel, it's important to narrow down topics you can speak a lot about. I personally chose personal development, but other YouTubers have lifestyle, cooking or DIY craft channels, to name a few. When choosing your niche, there are a couple of questions to ask yourself before jumping in: What do I have enough information to speak on? What can I provide my audience with that no one else can? 

Although some YouTubers are successful in jumping from one topic to another, as a beginner you want to consider what your audience would like to hear. While you might have a lot of information about both cooking *and* Harry Potter, these topics attract different viewers. To increase your chances for success, try narrowing it down to one topic—or connecting multiple topics together (for example, making Hogwarts-appropriate recipes). 

Lights, camera, action

Once you've chosen a topic, it's time to film your first video. When filming, there are a few things to consider before hitting the record button. First thing is first, you will want a nice, clean background. You can do this by sitting in front of a wall, door or other cleaned-up space. When choosing your spot for filming, make sure you have good lighting. If you're just starting out, you may not have access to a ring light, but natural lighting also works.

Once you have a setting chosen, choose a camera that will provide a nice, clear image. You can use your phone or laptop or splurge on a camera. Make sure you are sitting centered to the camera, and don't go so close that people can't see the top of your head.

Next, let's talk about sound. Having a microphone is your best bet for good sound quality, but if you don't have access to one be sure to test the sound on your camera, making sure it's clear and audible. Make sure there aren't any background noises that might be distracting to your viewers!

Know that all of this will improve over time if you stick with it. Growth won't happen overnight, but one of the joys of YouTube is that if you put in the effort, each video will get better and better. 

Edit like a pro

Editing is your last step before you upload. While there are many editing softwares out there, choose the one that you can operate the best. I personally use Filmora, but iMovie on a Mac works, too. Pro tip: When editing, make sure you put all your clips into one spot. If you have them saved in various places, they become harder to find later. Most importantly, always back up your files.

Give it a title

When you are ready to upload, make sure you come up with a title that people will be searching for. While it's great to be catchy and clever, remember that YouTube is a search engine—and keywords are super important. Before choosing a title, go to YouTube and search for videos that are similar to yours so you can see the most-viewed vids and what types of titles they're using.

Share it with the world

Finally, it's time to hit publish. Before doing so, ask yourself how you hope to promote your video—will you share on social media? Personally, I recommend it. You worked hard on your video and it deserves to be seen. 

Good luck with your YouTube channel—You got this!

by Alyshia Hull | 11/27/2020