A Step-by-Step Guide | How to Start a Vlog Like a Pro

Welcome to the exciting world of video blogging! 

If you've been dreaming of sharing your passions, creativity, and ideas through engaging new videos, you're in the right place. 

In this blog, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to start a vlog like a pro. Whether you're into education, gaming, beauty, or any other niche, we've got you covered. 

So grab your camera, buckle up, and let's embark on this thrilling vlogging journey together!

How to Start a Vlog 

So, you have made up your mind to start vlogging.

Starting a vlogging journey is an exciting decision! To kickstart your vlogging adventure, follow these essential steps:

Now let’s not waste more time and move to each step in detail to help you launch your vlogging career successfully!

Step 1: Find Your Vlog Niche

Did you select your vlog niche already? What is it? Is it in demand nowadays?

If not, I suggest abandoning that niche here. 

Brainstorm popular vlogging niches that people are actively searching for and engaging with. Additionally, try to identify the prevalent problems people face nowadays and select a niche that offers valuable solutions to address those challenges.

You might see many video bloggers work with various niches on their YouTube channel. While that is an excellent way to go, it's better to stick with only one particular niche at the beginner level. 

Here are some trending video ideas for niche selection you may check and choose-

Just like Louise Pentland, a mom and a lifestyle vlogger, you can find your unique niche that resonates with your passions and life experiences.

Remember, starting with a well-defined niche can be the key to success in your vlogging journey! 

So, set your niche wisely. 

Step 2: Research and Get Inspiration From Others

After selecting the vlog niche, the next task is watching videos and researching successful vlogs to get some vlogging tips. Research the unpopular vloggers in the same niche at the same time. 

Now identify what distinguishes popular and unpopular vloggers. Why are popular vloggers getting more interaction than others? and Why unpopular vloggers aren't getting subscribers? 

Analyze how frequently they share content, video quality, etc., and jot down the dos and don'ts—and maintain it while you prepare your YouTube videos. 

Step 3: Choose a Platform

Apart from youtube, there are many other video content platforms where you can publish your vlog. However, Youtube is the most popular platform for video, and most of the target audience gathers here to search for popular videos. 

Here I’ve listed the most popular video platforms for you to choose from,

Whatever platform you choose, get familiar with that platform first because most vloggers can't be successful due to a lack of familiarity with the platform. 

So, before jumping to the platform with your unique content, check the algorithm the platform follows. Once familiar with the platform, you can create and optimize your personal channel and post videos for better performance art. 

Step 4: Invest in Vlogging Equipment

Now it is time to start investing in your vlogging career. However, if you have a smartphone with a 4K resolution and an internet connection, you can start immediately. 

Nevertheless, you should have some extensive equipment to enrich your new video content quality according to your vlogging niche. 

For example, if you want to start a tutorial vlog, you will need a vlogging camera, a tripod, lighting, and a mic. Whereas, for a travel vlogger, in addition to basic vlogging equipment, a remote shutter, durable backpack, Drone, etc, are also required. 

Now let’s have a quick look at some basic vlogging equipment that you will need in any niche. 

Smartphone 

Consider these configurations before choosing a smartphone for vlogging–

Camera

If you think you need more professional-quality videos for your channel, you may purchase a camera. Consider these configs before choosing a camera for vlogging–

Lens

Check the image below and find out the differences between taking a picture or video with and without a lens. 

I guess now you are convinced enough to purchase a lens. But which lens is going to be the best fit for your videos? 

Well, it depends on the content. Here I have listed 4 types of lenses with their uses. I am sure you will find your best match from here

These are the basics; follow this blog for extensive knowledge about lenses. 

Tripod

Things to consider before buying a tripod are, 

Microphone

If your niche requires voice or sounds, you will need a microphone. You can consider these things before buying a microphone.

Lighting Setup

No matter what you do, a professional lighting Setup is a must. You will need lighting (it can be natural light as well) to record your content, from painting tutorials to travel videos. So, let’s find out what kind of lights are best for vlogging,

Video Editing Software

Last but not least, you have to pay attention to the video editing process. You will need good video editing tool to add music, voice, color contrasting, crop, trim, etc. to edit your videos. 

You might get some free software online, but purchasing a plan is better because you will need more extensive functions to edit your video for professional vlogging. 

So, let’s check some considerations before investing in video editing software,

Some popular video editing softwares are, Movavi Video Editor, HitFilm Express, Lightworks, iMovie, etc. 

Step 5: Film Your Content 

Before starting, outline what you will film, what the purpose is, and who will watch it. 

Once you are sorted with the outline, write a script of what you will deliver while filming.  

Set your studio, camera, and content. Now tap on the record button and begin the film.

Make sure your objects are getting much light and focus. If you are the object, look straight at the camera, talk like you are conversing with your dedicated audience, and be confident.

Nowadays, people have very short attention spans. So It is better to keep your videos short. In recent video trends, people watch short videos and reels more than longer ones. So go with the trend.  

Step 6: Edit Your Video

Open the software you purchased to edit your own vlog and bring all the video footage chronologically. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your footage and software so that you can have a deeper understanding of what needs to be edited.  

Cut the shaky footage and dud video clips that is unnecessary. Find the hook room of your vlog and set a starting part with it to create suspension for the audience to watch the video completely. 

For extra add-ons, try music or sound quality, texts, slow motion, or time-lapse to some specific rooms.

And lastly, export your video in MP4 format if your target platform is YouTube.  

Step 7: Upload Your Vlog

Now upload videos with engaging copy and keywords. Depending on the resolution and file size, uploading videos might take a few minutes. 

Just tapping on the upload button will not make your YouTube vlog stand out. Here you need to focus on some other steps of uploading a video. Such as,

These help your vlog to be visible and actionable to attract viewers. 

Step 8: Optimize Your Vlog

Once your video is live on the internet, it is high time to optimize it to occur on the first page while people are searching similar to your content. For this instance, SEO works best. 

Many of us have the misconception that SEO is bounded by website content. Whereas video SEO is also getting popular and working seamlessly. 

Proper use of keywords and metadata in a video increases SEO ranking. Some basic information for video SEOs are as follows–

Step 9: Promote Your Vlog to Get Audience

Vlogging is all about slow growth and consistency. You won't get millions of views overnight. But optimizing well may drive a good amount of traffic. 

However, promoting videos has its own allure. By boosting your vlog, you will get audiences from other online platforms. 

Create a vlogging website and social media accounts to post your YouTube videos simultaneously. It will help your social media platforms followers and website visitors find your vlog to watch. You also can turn your youtube video into blog post to get more organic audiences. 

Let people subscribe to your channel to be notified whenever you post other videos. 

Step 10: Track the Progress of Your Vlog

It is time to track how your vlog is progressing. Identify the reason for the result, whether it is progressing or not. Find out why it is reacting this way. And update your vlog. 

Some platforms themselves have basic channel analytics features. However, you can use other video analytics tools to track progress and discover flaws. 

The video analytics tools will also suggest optimizing and improving your vlog to rank on Google search.  

Some popular video analytics tools are Tubebuddy, Vidyard, Vidooly, etc. 

Step 11: Collaborate and Affiliate 

Collaborating in vlogging means 2 or more vloggers boosting one another's channel in their own network. Collaboration opens up new opportunities for building new audiences and subscribers. 

However, on the other hand, affiliate in vlogging means promoting third-party products or services in your videos in return for a commission. Becoming someone's affiliate partner will help you financially, along with a better audience. 

So, this was the step-by-step guide and best practices for starting a vlog.

Examples of Successful Vloggers in 2023

For inspiration, here I have collected 5 successful vlog channel lists for 2023. Give them a shot and gather inspiration. 

1. Niana Guerrero

Niana Guerrero is a Filipino dancer by profession. She is one of the most successful vloggers with 15.3M Subscribers.

Niana shares her lifestyle and dance steps through her vlog. She has focused on other social media channels as well along with youtube vlogs to promote her vlogging channel. 

You can follow her for better inspiration. 

2. Like Nastya

According to Forbes, Nastya is one of the top 10 highest-paid YouTube stars of 2021. She is earning $28 million through YT vlogging. It's huge, right? 

You can see she is doing affiliates with Amazon in her vlogs. Affiliates are a great way for financial support. 

👉 You can go with the Dorik affiliate program if you also want to affiliate with SaaS niche vlogging. 

3. Jake Paul

Meet Jake Paul, the epitome of a multi-talented content creator on YouTube. At just 26 years old, he has not only made a name for himself as a skilled boxer but has also carved a niche in the music industry.

With a captivating mix of charisma and dedication, Jake has amassed a massive online following, making him one of the 10 highest-paid YouTubers. 

His journey from a viral sensation to a successful entrepreneur continues to inspire aspiring creators worldwide. 

4. PewDiePie

Discover the brilliance of PewDiePie, a Swedish YouTube icon who captivates audiences worldwide. With infectious humor and an unyielding passion for gaming, he's reached unrivaled success. 

PewDiePie's journey from beginner to global sensation inspires all aspiring vloggers.

Unleash your creativity, connect with your audience, and embark on your remarkable path in the vlogging universe!

5. Dude Perfect 

Join the incredible journey of Dude Perfect, the YouTube sensation that never fails to amaze you! This talented group of friends redefines sports entertainment and inspires millions worldwide. 

Let Dude Perfect's passion and teamwork be your guide as you embark on your vlogging voyage.

Embrace fun, push boundaries, and make a splash in the dynamic world of YouTube!

These examples are some of the successful YouTubers who can inspire you in your vlogging career. 

FAQs on How to start a vlog, Answered

What is a Vlog?

Vlog is a form of blog also known as a video blog or video log. Its medium is video. Vlog contains a combination of text, photos, video, music, voice, etc. 

Can I make money as a vlogger?

Yes, you can make money as a vlogger.

With a vast number of followers, vloggers can create revenue streams through sponsorships, advertising, and merchandise sales. 

How much money can I make vlogging?

On average, a vlogger can earn between $750 and $1,500 a month from his/her vlog.

Light! Camera! Action!

And there you have it– a comprehensive guide on how to start a vlog like a pro!

Now it's time to unleash your creativity and let your personality shine as you embrace the thrilling adventure of the vlogging universe.

So go ahead, dazzle the world with your creativity, and let your passion and unique voice shine through in every vlog you create. Go ahead, embrace your passion, and drop your first vlog online!

Lights, camera, action! 🎥🌟