Our guest blog is from our awesome Pro Team member, Emilie Talpin, who runs through her tips on creating and growing a YouTube Channel. Read on to find out more!
If someone had told me two years ago that I would start a YouTube channel with subscribers worldwide, I would not have believed it. When I entered photography, I often used YouTube as my primary source of information to set up my camera and learn various techniques. It was a fantastic resource available at my fingertips, and best of all, it was free. As I gained confidence in my photography skills, I challenged myself to make a video on YouTube weekly. The idea behind it was to share what I had learned in the field and keep me on my toes, as every video requires that I dive deep into the subject I want to present. If you plan on launching your own YouTube channel, here are five tips to help you succeed.
the middle of the COVID pandemic, I had to move from a house on the edge of a lush marsh facing the sea on the coast of southern New Hampshire to a small apartment in the state's capital city. Surprisingly, I found a pond within walking distance, bustling with a highly animated family of bea
I was amazed that such a vibrant ecosystem exists just beyond the roar of a state highway and thought it would make for a good documentary. For this project, I have spent hours every day (and some nights) on the trails and the pond's edge, tuning into the sounds and observing the movement of its inhabitants during the dramatic transition from colorful New England fall to the short and frigid days of December.
Tip # 1: Find your niche
A lot of planning takes place before you even publish a single video. First, you must find your niche and consider what your viewers can learn from you. Remember, there's an audience for everything on YouTube, so don't think your idea won't work. There are channels with millions of subscribers where people record themselves studying or chopping wood. If you create high-quality content, even the most simple and unorthodox material might attract followers and become popular. When I started my YouTube channel, I concentrated on macro photography because I felt the most knowledgeable about that subject. However, as my photography and life evolved, so did my channel.
I love photographing refraction. I can spend hours and hours creating new compositions.
Now, I also review gear as it is something photographers are interested in on YouTube. They want reviews, first impressions, unboxing, field testing, and more. For example, I often discuss why I am an OM SYSTEM photographer and the benefits of using their gear. I want a fun, flexible system that pushes me to be more creative without the burden of carrying heavy gear. OM SYSTEM really shines for me: it's light, portable, and packed with computational photography like Live ND, live composite, and focus stacking. All these tools are featured monthly on my channel.
Tip # 2: Get the right YouTube gear
Many YouTubers advise starting your channel with whatever gear you have: a cell phone and a small tripod, for example. However, having reliable and more high-end gear will make a difference in the long run. When I started, I made my videos with cheap microphones, lights, and tripods, but quickly regretted it. Having flexible, quality gear that won't let you down is essential and will avoid wasted time and frustration. I've experimented with different setups and am comfortable with these four tools:
- Cameras. I use an OM-5 or OM-1 mark II with the M.Zuiko 20mm or the M.Zuiko 12-40mm Pro.
- Tripods. I have two go-to tripods: Albert and Billy from 3 Legged Thing. These tripods are easy to set up, and I also use them for wildlife and macro photography. Pairing the Ultra Plates with them has been a game changer.
- A light. I tried a multitude of lights before finding the perfect fit: the NEEWER RGB62. This light is versatile and offers a wide range of functions. It is also powerful yet compact enough to take when travelling.
- A good wireless microphone. Sound can make or break your videos. That's why I use the Samaronic Blink 2-person system. It's simple, compact, and reliable and allows me to customize each mic to showcase my logo.
Tip # 3: Plan ahead
Before you launch your first video, ensure a plan is in place. Only post your first video once you've prerecorded at least five. Making videos in advance provides a sense of ease and a clear path forward. Coming up with a new video every week and rushing to post it on time is a recipe for burnout. Also, polling subscribers to find out what they want to learn is essential and will help you find more topics to cover.
One topic that my subscribers often ask me to review is the use of flash in macro photography. The use of focus stacking is also another popular subject.
Tip # 4: Consistency & presentation (thumbnail)
Consistency is vital to having a successful channel. I post every Sunday morning, which helps me retain returning subscribers. I also spend time designing catchy yet quality thumbnails. I use Canva Pro and prefer a minimalist design with basic writing so as not to overwhelm viewers. Thumbnails must clearly communicate what is expected from watching the video. You want to avoid misleading titles and confusing thumbnails.
Tip # 5: Create a sense of community
Creating and posting high-quality videos is important, but so is engaging with your community. I always ask viewers to post comments for each video and commit to answering them promptly. Building a YouTube community is a worthy goal and a rewarding and fulfilling part of this adventure. Making videos is fun and challenging, and sharing them with others is a treat. I've learned a lot from the community and met great photographers along the way. As my channel continues to grow, I can't wait to meet more like-minded photographers worldwide and share a common love for photography.
I feel very lucky to be able to photograph wildlife and share my tips and adventures with people around the world.
Subscribe to Emilie's YouTube Channel here.
You can also follow her on Instagram here.
