Big news: podcasting is no longer an exclusively auditory experience! Some of the most successful podcasts out there have developed and cultivated their following by providing a video component to accompany their already engaging podcast in its traditional format.
Visuals Matter…
Most experts agree that 70 to 93 percent of communication is non verbal, and as a studio engineer, who has recorded and hosted podcasts at one of our studio sites, I can attest to this deeply human phenomenon. It always struck me how much communication, how many cues, how many subtleties were not carried over through the captured audio. Introducing a video camera will take your podcast content to a whole new place, and give a much deeper level of connection for those emotional creatures who just so happen to consume your content (ah, humans…they tend to be wired that way!).
It’s clear to see that video podcasts are a worthwhile investment, and the goal of expanding your current audio-only experience into an immersive video experience will do wonders for your listeners’.
Related read: 7 Steps To Launch A Video Podcast
Right about now you’re probably asking questions along these lines…
“So do I need to buy new camera gear? How could I possibly make this work if I can’t meet with my guests in person!?”
Superstar Podcaster, do not fear! We hear you. Video gear can be pricey and sharing your content across a new medium comes with a whole new set of learning curves. And we’re totally aware of the changing landscape of social interaction!
Restrictions and safety protocols have been implemented across communities, and an unprecedented shift toward learning and working remotely has redefined the meaning of “business as usual”. But this shift has also provided us with new and improved technology, and new opportunities!
Enter today’s article! We have you covered with 5 Ways Video Podcasting Apps Make it Possible to Host a Great Video Podcast in 2021.
Tech Talk
But before we go any further, let’s talk a little tech. There are a number of video conferencing apps you can use for your video podcast. There’s Zoom, which has become one of the leading players in the space, but there are many other platforms and apps available such as Skype, Iris, Riverside, Squadcast, and Camflare. Though these platforms differ in name and basic user experience, they all offer the same core video conferencing features.
These companies certainly rose to the occasion during all the challenges 2020 presented. When the world was searching for conferencing solutions that mitigated the need for in-person meetings, this crew of Internet “Avengers” assembled and answered the call!
Once you’ve picked your app of choice, let us show you 5 ways you can use your video conferencing app to create a knock-out video podcast in 2021.
1. Capture Your Virtual Interviews
Whether you’re rocking the interviewer-interviewee format, have a couple of trusty co-hosts, or will be going solo, the above-mentioned video conferencing platforms will give you the ability to record and capture your awesome content. This type of feature is usually only available to users with a paid package or subscription, but you should find this to be a competitive and affordable investment. And investment is definitely the right word in this case; by purchasing access to the recording feature on your platform of choice you will unlock a whole new form of engagement with your viewer. Ta-daa! With one simple click you’ve now got the beginnings of your video podcast – just like that.
Related read: How To Improve Your Podcast Interview Skills – From Your Guest’s Perspective
2. Provide Additional Visual Content via Screen Sharing
Sharing is caring, right? “Screen sharing” is when a host displays the contents of their screen for all participants and viewers to see. This is great for inserting your podcast graphics and cover art, social media handles, sponsor advertisements, visual info represented in graphs and charts, pictures to clarify topics of discussion, or even that hilarious meme that you just have to see to appreciate!
This allows for a level of production value to be achieved in a live setting – without the need for increased editing in post. This is a potentially new frontier for you as a podcaster! Go ahead and include visual components to your podcast content – this is the kind of creativity that makes for a truly great viewing experience.
3. High Quality Video and Audio
Video conferencing apps make it possible to host a professional looking, quality show that you can be proud of. Are you afraid of being limited to the built-in inputs and outputs on your laptop? We get it. Default hardware is typically underwhelming and can be rather low-fi. We know that bad audio translates to a bad listening experience, and ultimately a bad podcast. The same goes for the viewing experience; we raise the stakes when we introduce the video variable to the podcasting equation.
But don’t even stress it – many of these applications allow you to connect your own external microphone and camera. Do you have a Shure SM7B that you can’t afford not to use? No problem! Grab your audio interface and cloud lifter and let’s hook it up! Squadcast even records you and your guests over separate audio tracks for streamlined production. Are you a 4k, 1080p, HD kinda guy or gal? No problem! Use your desired lens, add the right amount of bokeh, design your set and really deliver on quality. And good quality is what good video podcasts are made of. Video podcasting apps have just the tools you need to achieve this!
Related read: How To Create A Video Podcast From Home
4. Small Learning Curve
These video conferencing teams have done a great job at making your job easier, and have developed clear, easy-to-use, user friendly platforms. The barrier to entry is low, so you can get to the business of hosting a great video podcast right away! Skype has been serving people through their own unique brand of telecommunications for just under two decades, and Zoom has been around for just under a decade! Each platform has invested years of improvements, innovation, and upgrades to create pleasant UI and UX experiences.
So you’ll be in great hands no matter where you decide to go for your video podcasting needs. And if you’re still struggling to get your head around things, there is a library of how-to videos, live courses, and round-the-clock customer care available to users. Zoom features a help centre that gives advice tailored to both Windows and macOS users. Because of their streamlined invite process, which leverages the simplicity of email, Squadcast boasts that “guests don’t have to download software, create an account, or spend time figuring out the tech. So they can spend their time doing what you invited them to do: share their stories and engage your audience.”
5. Interactive Features
One of the main drawbacks of not being able to be in the same room as your amazing guest is missing out on subtle social interactions. Many fellow podcasters are bemoaning the nuances of a co-host’s idiosyncratic chuckle, and mourning the furrowing of a guests brow as they contemplate the easiest way to answer that most difficult of questions. But all is not lost! There is still a beautiful degree of interaction, and, thereby, humanness to be found in your virtual podcast conversation!
Participants can take advantage of built in chat features to signal those cues and changes, or field those questions and opinions that you may not want to be included in your actual show, for whatever reason. There are features that allow participants to “raise a hand” as a means of cueing a polite interjection. You will also have access to emojis which allow you to communicate that quirky emotion that can’t be put into words! It’s pretty cool to experience the nifty functions that can be found in these video conferencing apps. It turns out there are some unique pros to being a video podcasting pro!
Some Closing Thoughts
Did video kill the podcasting star? Never! Podcasting as its own unique medium is amazingly powerful, and the industry is only continuing to grow and develop. But there’s no reason why video can’t help your podcasting star rise even further – even in the midst of global uncertainty, or whilst relying on a shoestring budget. Tap into the aforementioned video conferencing platforms, close the distance between you and your guests, turn isolation into collaboration, and let the 5 points in today’s article be your inspiration to take the leap into the world of video podcasting in 2021.
Sources:
1. Nonverbal Communication: How body Language & Nonverbal Cues are Key https://www.lifesize.com/en/blog/speaking-without-words/
