If you want to build an authentic connection with an online audience, vlogging is a fun (and potentially lucrative) way to go about it. Posting regular video updates can take a lot of work, but it’s easy to get started: All you need is a phone camera and an idea. Ever been curious about how to set up a vlog and even one day make money from it as a content creator? Keep reading—we’ve got you covered.
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A vlog is a video blog that is an informal and more conversational way to create content and engage with your audience. Vlogging, or the act of blogging via video content, is a very personal medium in which people discuss subjects that mean something to them—whether via front-facing, talking head-style videos or a more day-in-the-life, “come with me” style.
Ali Abdaal, for example, posts regular productivity tips to his more than 6 million followers on YouTube.
Where to vlog
Wherever you can post videos, you can set up a vlog. Today, there are a great deal of options for sharing video content, including:
The right platform for your vlogs depends on your personal preference more than anything. Whichever platform you choose, make sure you’re well-versed in its features and comfortable using it.
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In the social media age, the barrier to entry for vlogging is extremely low. Just start posting! As for finding success as a video creator, here are some key things to consider:
1. What’s your niche? Figuring out what you want to vlog about and the style you prefer to do it in is step number one. Drill down into what sets you apart. The best place to start is with something you feel really passionate about. Share your genuine enthusiasm and a like-minded audience will find you.
2. The right equipment. Some people just use their phone or laptop cameras, but as you get more comfortable, you may want to invest in better microphones, cameras, lights, and even editing software.
3. Research. Watch videos from creators you admire. What do they do that keeps you invested? What parts of their content would you change? Don’t go too crazy; it’s easy to get stuck or feel limited if you take too much inspiration from others. At the end of the day, your unique voice and perspective is what will bring you viewers.
4. Just do it. Start recording—anything and everything! And then keep recording. As you rehearse, use trial and error or simply wing it with something more off-the-cuff. You’ll figure out your storytelling style and see ways to improve. Make your videos, publish them, and share them with the world. The only way to find success is to do it.
5. Analyze the data. The best part about actually having published content is learning what to do next. Pay close attention to the numbers on everything. Which videos gained more views than others? Which ones tanked? Is there anything about the bio, hashtags, setup, or length of the successful posts that stands out compared to the others? Become a student of your own work.
How to make money from a vlog
Once you’ve set up your vlog and started to build an audience, it’s time to monetize. Each platform has its own way to pay creators. For example, TikTok has its Creator Rewards Program, YouTube has the Partner Program, Instagram allows subscriptions, and Snapchat has Spotlight.
Your Next Influencer Collab Pitch: How to Reach Out to BrandsMore broadly, making money from vlogging looks a lot like monetizing any other piece of social content. Depending on the size of your audience (which definitely matters), some strategies include:
- Sponsored content
- Brand partnerships
- Affiliate marketing
- Subscriptions and merch
- Crowdfunding
Now get out there and vlog. Good luck!