Shine online - Volunteer Gippsland

Making Videos for Social Media

Why make videos? Facebook users spend 50% OF THEIR TIME WATCHING VIDEOS, and REMEMBER 95% of a message when they watch it (versus only 10% when reading text).

Ready to get started on your vox-pop style videos? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What you need:

Optional: Lapel microphones, ring light and tripod (available from Myli library)

Tips For Success

LIGHTING

Film near windows for soft, natural light
Avoid direct sunlight (creates harsh shadows)
Best times: Early morning or late afternoon for warm, flattering light

PHONE SETUP

Hold vertically – we’re making Facebook ‘Reels’ for maximum views
Clean your lens first – small step, big difference in clarity
Leave space around the person for text and graphics later

KEEP IT STEADY

Use both hands or lean against a wall
Don’t zoom in – move closer instead (phone zoom is digital and only reduces quality)

SOUND CHECK

Find a quiet spot away from wind and traffic
Borrow our wireless mic & tripod kit from Myli Library if needed

Part One: Film your Video Question Prompts

Pick your 2-3 questions from the three key themes and jot down 1-2 word prompts beside your chosen questions
Film each question separately – easier to edit later
Keep it short – aim for one breath per answer
The first take is usually best – don’t overthink it!

Target: 15 seconds or less per video (quicker to edit, more likely to be watched completely)

Question Prompts

😎 1. About Our Group Help people understand who you are and what you’re about

If your group was an emoji, it would be
What happens in your first 10 minutes as a newcomer?
Complete this sentence:
“People are surprised to learn we…”
What is one thing your group brings to the community?
If your group was a movie genre, it would be…
What personality traits do people in your group have?
What experience do people need to join your group?

👋 2. Getting Involved Inspire people to join or volunteer

What’s one simple job volunteers do?
What’s your favorite moment from this year?
What do newcomers always say after their first meeting?
What skills do people think they need – but really don’t?
You should join us if you love…
What kind of volunteer support would make your day right now?
What would you say to someone thinking about helping out?

📅 3. Events & Programs Get people excited about what’s coming up

This event is perfect for someone who…
What’s got you most excited about this event?
What will people be talking about afterwards?
If this event was a song genre, it would be…
Your event in three words?
What should people bring? (or definitely NOT bring!)
Dress code: fancy or casual?
How do people find out more?

Part 2: EDIT YOUR VIDEOS (On your phone)

Find Your Video

Open Photos (iPhone) or Gallery (Android)
Check Recent, Albums, or Videos folders

Tip: Create a “Community Group Videos” album for easy access later

Target: 15 seconds or less per video (quicker to edit, more likely to be watched completely)

Trim Your Video

iPhone:

Open Photos app → tap your video
Tap Edit (top right)
Slide the white arrows on the yellow timeline to trim
Tap Play to preview
Tap Done → Save Video as New Clip

Android:

Open Gallery/Google Photos → find your video
Tap Edit (pencil icon)
Move the trim handles on timeline
Tap Play to preview

Tap Save Copy

Always save as new/copy to keep your original safe!
Repeat for all videos.

Part 3: UPLOADING TO FACEBOOK

Getting Started

Log into your group’s Facebook account (so you post from the right account)
Open Facebook app → tap ‘Reel’ button
Choose Photo/Video → select from photo gallery
Tap Next or Done (usually in top right of your screen)

Before You Post add a few extras!

Caption: A short sentence that explains what the video is about. (Eg. “See what we’re up to at the …!”
Stickers: Animated text, fun shapes, dates, emojis
Music: Tap the icon to add background music. Keep it light and friendly.
Location: Where your group is located (helps locals find you!)
Hashtags: This helps your content be ‘discovered’ by others who have similar interests, you can add fairly niche hashtags to your post, including one that references your group specifically. It’s a good idea to include your group’s name (#groupname) plus any relevant keywords

Ready to Go?