The real winners in the video-making world are those who shoot their videos on their smartphones instead of using a studio.
Video marketing and filmmaking are changing due to the rise of low-fi content. Viewers are looking for something more authentic now that brands are putting out high-production, glossy videos on social media. Lo-fi content is a great option, as it has a more natural look and feel.
What is low-fi content (Lo-Fi)?
Lo-fi stands for low fidelity, and it is deliberately unpolished and scaled down. Lo-fi videos are usually unscripted and feel quite raw. The quality of the video is not low, but it’s more about creating something that looks natural and authentic than glossy and polished.
We’re talking about videos where the presenter is speaking directly into a camera in a casual room (like their kitchen or bedroom), behind-the-scenes video recorded on a mobile phone, and a vlog of a typical day with lots of choppy cut-outs and background noise.
Why do low-fi videos work?
This video style feels very human and real. Due to the high price of technology and our online media-saturated generation, we’re bombarded with highly produced videos. Sometimes, we want something more friendly and relatable. The advent of AI Video will only make low-fi content look more appealing.
Be yourself and build trust.
High-production videos can appear staged and make people suspicious, making it difficult for them to connect. Lo-fi videos are more authentic. If someone is speaking to the camera, and there isn’t much editing involved, they can appear more honest and trustworthy.
Lo-fi videos show that nothing is perfect. When something is imperfect and raw, it reflects our own experience and makes it easier to relate. You’ll also get more credibility from your audience if you convey an authentic message. It’s signalling:
- We don’t hide anything.
- We’re not trying too hard.
It is a part of the algorithm.
TikTok (Instagram), Reels, and YouTube Shorts are platforms that allow for quick, engaging vertical videos. Lo-fi video content is more likely to be successful because:
- You can produce more content faster and at a lower cost.
- A video that is “authentic” tends to receive more comments, likes and shares.
- The point is made quickly! Your message will be clear and concise without the need for a long introduction. This is what platforms like.
How to create lo-fi content for your website that actually works
1. The script is no longer necessary
You’ll sound more natural if you speak as if you were talking to someone rather than reading. Try:
- You can also speak to the camera as if you were video-calling someone.
- Roll your words with a few pauses, ums, and ahs.
- Keep your message short and straight to the point – no waffle!
2. What you have is enough
Who needs fancy gear these days? You’ll likely only need your phone camera to get started. Here are some tips:
- You can record during the day to take advantage of natural lighting.
- Do not stress out about getting the perfect angle.
- Discover native features of your equipment. You may find useful features like slow-mo and video filters.
3. Trends to lean on
If you want to make your content viral, don’t worry about trying too hard. Lo-fi content will thrive when it’s aligned with the latest video.
- Use hashtags and popular challenges.
- Mix and match popular formats to suit your brand.
- TikTok or Instagram will show you what’s new and hot.
4. Personality is more important than perfection
Show the faces and personalities behind your content. People are more likely to connect with real people than brands.
- Introduce yourself to your team.
- Share behind-the-scenes stuff to make people feel as if they are getting a sneak peek behind the curtain.
- Do not be afraid to show your humour or self-awareness, but don’t appear too desperate!
