Experiencing Low Quality When Posting Videos Online?

Top tips from a professional videographer about posting videos to social media so they won't look like they've been uploaded from 2007.

We've all been there, you're excited about a new TikTok or Instagram Reel, you've chosen your music, you've made your caption, compiled your hashtags and pressed 'post'.

When you check on said video, the quality of what you see resembles something filmed 10 years ago.

So how can we avoid this?

Tip #1 - Format & Export

Platforms apply compression, so ensure your content is properly formatted for your chosen outlet.

Experiment with exporting your video using different compression settings to find a balance between file size and quality. You might want to experiment with different bitrates* for your exports.

4K footage is beautiful and crisp, but we don’t want to export and upload 4k edits on platforms like TikTok/Instagram.

Tip #2 - Platform Specific Optimisation

Following on from the above, familiarise yourself with the recommended video specifications for each platform and adjust your content accordingly

Videographers/editors are usually clued up on what kind of exports you’ll need depending on your purpose BUT it’s good for anyone dealing with social media to understand what’s involved so you can get the best out of your content.

Tip #3 - Slow Internet Connection

Seems obvious right? When you’re uploading a new video online, it’s best to upload it in times of good internet / low internet traffic.

Similarly, if you’re watching a video back and wonder why it’s lower quality than before, check your internet connection and watch it again later.

Tip #4 - Excessive Use Of Filters / Effects

Applying filters in app, on your phone and not properly / professionally colour grading and exporting can hinder the quality of your content online. If using them, use them sparingly.

Tip #5 - Incorrect Aspect Ratio

Uploading videos with the wrong aspect ratio can lead to cropping or stretching, resulting in poor visual quality. Check the recommended aspect ratios for videos on the platform you're using and ensure that your video is formatted accordingly. Common aspect ratios include 16:9, 9:16, and 1:1.

PS. Cropping into 16:9 footage to create a 9:16 video isn’t going to translate into a top-quality image! 4K does allow for cropping room, of course, but don’t rely on this if you’re aiming for the best quality output.

So, how do you go forward?

If the above seems complicated, contact videographers like myself to help you. We understand all things video and have to be knowledgeable about how content performs on social media in the modern world where video rules!