How to Make a Video Essay (with 5 Inspiring Examples)
- Serra Ardem
In the world of digital media, video essays are a canvas where creativity meets critical thinking. From pre-production planning to post-production editing, these videos require a careful balance of visual elements, narrative structure, and technical skills to effectively communicate your ideas.
In this blog, we will:
- Explore different types of video essays
- Guide you on how to make a video essay step-by-step
- List 10 best practices for creating compelling video essays
- Share 5 great video essay examples for further inspiration
Let’s get started.
What is a video essay?
A video essay is essentially a written essay brought to life through the use of video footage, narration, music, and other multimedia elements. As a form of creative nonfiction, it blends the depth of written essays with the power of visual storytelling.
Best video essays are:
- Personal and reflective; often explore the author’s personal experiences, feelings, and thoughts.
- Multifaceted and creative; combine various forms of media to keep viewers engaged.
- Argumentative or analytical; present a thesis and support it with evidence, or break down and analyze a particular subject.
- Thought-provoking; aim to stimulate viewers’ critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
Before we delve into the steps on how to make a video essay, let’s take a look at its different types:
How to Make a Video Essay Step-by-Step
Whether you’re exploring a personal story or making a strong argument about a current issue, video essays offer a powerful format for self-expression and analysis. Here is how to make a video essay in 3 stages:
Pre-production
- Choose your topic and define your thesis statement. Select a topic that interests you and that you understand well. Then develop a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or claim of your essay. For example, if you’re creating a personal college application video, your thesis might focus on how a specific experience shaped your worldview or contributed to your personal growth.
- Gather research materials. Conduct thorough research to gather information that supports your thesis. Make sure to organize your sources so you can reference them accurately during the production and editing phases.
- Develop an outline and craft a script. Break down your outline into introduction, body, and conclusion. List the main points you will cover in each section. This will ensure that your essay flows logically and smoothly. Then write a script that expands on your outline.
- Create a storyboard. You don’t have to be a professional artist; just sketch out a basic visual plan of how your video will unfold. Map out the key scenes, shots, and visual elements that correspond to your outline. Include captions and notes to describe each shot.
- Prepare your equipment and software. Gather the video equipment for your video production, such as camera, microphone, tripod, and lighting. If you’re going to use AI tools, familiarize yourself with the software and test it with sample footage to ensure it works as expected.
- Set up your equipment. Position your camera, lighting, and microphone according to your script. Make sure that the camera is stable, the microphone is properly set up for clear audio, and the lighting is adjusted to enhance visibility and create the desired mood.
- Record or generate your video. Follow your script and storyboard to shoot the necessary footage. Pay specific attention to framing, focus, and audio quality during recording.
If you’re using an AI video generator, provide the tool with your script, and select the desired style or aesthetic for your video. The AI will then process your input and generate the video essay. You may need to provide additional details or make adjustments during the generation process.
10 AI Video Generators for Beginners (with Best Practices)
Post-production.
- Edit your footage. Import it into your chosen video editing software. (Popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro , Final Cut Pro , and DaVinci Resolve .) Arrange clips according to your script and storyboard, trim unnecessary parts, and correct any visual or audio errors for a polished final look. In case of AI video generators, review the generated content carefully and utilize the tool’s editing features as you need.
- Incorporate music, sound effects, and text overlays. Make sure that auditory elements complement the mood and do not overshadow narration. Integrate text overlays to introduce sections, highlight key points, or provide additional context. All these elements must be seamlessly integrated and add value to your video essay.
- Add subtitles and a transcript . Subtitles will make your video essay accessible to a broader audience and facilitate comprehension for those who prefer or require visual text. Always check if captions are synchronized with the audio and accurately represent the spoken content. Meanwhile, generate a transcript of the video to provide a textual version of the content, which can also aid in SEO and accessibility.
- Do a final review and make necessary adjustments. Watch your video essay in its entirety to ensure that all elements are cohesive and effective. Consider seeking feedback from others to confirm that your video conveys your message clearly.
- Export and upload your video essay. Choose the appropriate format and resolution for your intended platform. When uploading your video, write a compelling title and add an eye-catching thumbnail to attract viewers. Include relevant keywords and tags to increase discoverability.
10 Best Practices for Making Video Essays
In addition to the instructions mentioned above, these 10 best practices on how to make a video essay can make your content even more impactful:
- Rehearse your script. Practice makes perfect, so rehearse your timing, intonation, and pacing to reduce the likelihood of errors and improve overall presentation.
- Have a strong opening and closing. Start the video essay with an intriguing introduction to grab your audience’s attention, and end with a strong conclusion to reinforce your main points and leave a lasting impression.
- Avoid rambling or going off on targets. Stay focused on your main points and do not include unnecessary elaboration or unrelated anecdotes, as every segment must contribute to your thesis.
- Incorporate data or statistics. Present them in a clear and understandable way, utilizing visuals like charts or graphs to make it more relatable for viewers.
- Use B-roll footage, graphics, and animations to enrich your main content. These elements can help you illustrate complex ideas, reinforce your arguments, and make your video essay more memorable.
- Provide high-quality audio. Minimize background noise during recording, and adjust audio levels and eliminate any distracting sounds during post-production.
- Prioritize accessibility. Include subtitles and closed captions to aid deaf and hard of hearing viewers while maintaining high contrast between text and background for better readability.
- Encourage audience interaction. Add calls-to-action (CTAs) for viewers to comment, like, share, or subscribe, and ask them to share their opinions and experiences related to the topic.
- Track and optimize. Regularly check view counts, watch times, and engagement rates to understand how well your content is performing and analyze the data to refine your approach.
- Experiment and have fun. Try different approaches, such as using various editing styles or narrative techniques, and stay open-minded along your creative journey.
Add AI Subtitles to Your Video Essay
This will not only improve the accessibility of your video essay but also boost its SEO performance and multiply your viewership.
5 Powerful Video Essay Examples
Featuring an example from each category, these 5 videos can inspire you with various approaches on how to make a video essay.
Personal Video Essay
This college application video is a great example of a personal video essay. With a clear structure, it demonstrates why the person is a good candidate and utilizes editing features smoothly. The effective use of graphics, background music, subtitles, and transitions all contribute to the success of the video.
Argumentative Video Essay
This argumentative video essay named “How Discounts Keep You Poor” shows the importance of well-done research for this kind of content. The main argument is supported by solid reasons and examples, which are highlighted with eye-catching text overlays. The call to action at the end of the video invites viewers to share their own thoughts on the subject and subscribe to the channel.
Analysis Video Essay
Titled “Why Do Movies Feel So Different Now?” , this analysis video essay focuses on how movies have evolved since modernism. Based on movements like postmodernism and metamodernism, the content is organized into chapters to create a logical flow. A professional voiceover accompanies high-quality footage from movies, all creating a final harmonious piece.
How to Add Chapters to Youtube Videos
Experimental video essay.
Going beyond traditional video game reviews, this experimental video essay explores gaming as a perfectionist . It adopts unique audiovisual techniques to blend in-depth analysis with unconventional storytelling. The clever use of humor and game footage also adds an experimental flair to the typical video essay format.
Hybrid Video Essay
This hybrid video essay titled “drowning in entertainment: the age of distraction” combines personal, argumentative, analysis, and even experimental formats to delve deep into how we interact with information today. It uses attention-grabbing B-roll footage, still images, and text overlays to enhance the narrative. The talking head sections further personalize the content, allowing the creator to build a direct and engaging connection with the audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a video essay, how do you get ideas for a video essay, what to wear for a video essay, how to make a video essay for youtube, how to make a video essay for class.
Featuring actionable tips, this blog covered the steps on how to make a video essay and listed 10 best practices for making this kind of content even more polished and memorable. It also shared 5 inspiring video essay examples in different types.
Here are our 3 golden rules for creating an impactful video essay:
- Define and stick to your thesis statement. This will be the core of your video essay and help you stay focused during the production phase.
- Have a strong beginning and end. Both should be carefully crafted to hook your audience from the start and provide a satisfying conclusion that ties everything together.
- Utilize various multimedia elements. Incorporate video footage, images, text overlays, and music to express complex ideas and maintain viewer interest.
Follow the tips in this blog to refine your video essay creation process, and feel free to experiment with different formats along the way.
About Serra Ardem
Serra Ardem is a freelance writer and editor based in Istanbul. For the last 8 years, she has been collaborating with brands and businesses to tell their unique story and develop their verbal identity.
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Kicking things off, let’s define what a video essay actually is . Just like a regular essay, you need to develop a clear argument, support it with evidence, and present your ideas logically. But instead of just using text, you combine visuals, narration, and sometimes music to help get your point across.
So, how does a video essay stand out from other types of visual content? Unlike a regular YouTube vlog or a documentary, video essays are structured around a central thesis or argument. The creator needs to put together footage, graphics, and voice-overs not just to entertain but mostly to inform or persuade their audience. Usually, this type of work goes well for analyzing a film, discussing a social issue, or exploring a personal topic.
One great example of this format is the YouTube channel Every Frame a Painting . Though, some might say they are more of a documentary-type channel. Still, if you look into them, you’ll that they analyze elements of the film like camera work or sound design and use clips from movies to illustrate their points, creating something that’s not only informative but a treat to watch too.
Video Essay Definition: Structure
Now that you know what a video essay is, let’s break down how to structure one. The structure of a video essay is similar to a traditional essay in many ways. You still need an introduction, body, and conclusion. However, since video essays combine different media, there are some extra elements to keep in mind.
📌 Introduction → Set the Scene
Just like any good essay, your video essay should start with an introduction that grabs the viewer’s attention. This is where you lay out your thesis, explain what your video will cover, and maybe even show a sneak peek of the visuals or ideas you’ll dive into later. Keep it short but compelling.
📌 Body → Dive Into Your Argument
In the body of your video essay, you’ll present your argument in depth, supporting it with visuals (images, graphs, parts of other videos), interviews, or other footage. You can organize the body into sections, each one focusing on a different aspect of your topic.
If you’re analyzing a movie, for example, you could have one section on the cinematography, another on the soundtrack, and a third on character development. Use only relevant cases—like movie clips, screenshots, or quotes—to support each point.
📌 Visuals → Make it Pop
Visual storytelling is key here. While you write your script, think about what visuals will work best with each point you’re making. This could be film clips, images, charts, or even animations. Make sure your visuals match what you’re talking about so your audience can follow along easily.
📌 Conclusion → Wrap It Up
End your video essay with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and restates your thesis. Just like in a traditional essay, you want to leave your audience with something to think about. This is the part where you can reflect on your argument and tie everything together.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Video Essay
As you understand the structure, let’s walk through the steps of actually creating a video essay. You don’t need a fancy camera or editing software to get started—all you need is a solid plan and some creativity (and, of course, your phone).
Step 1: Choose a Topic
Pick a topic that excites you. Your video essay could be about anything from a movie analysis to a dissection of a historical event. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you can discuss passionately and support with plenty of evidence. Remember, the more interested you are in the topic, the easier the process will be (both for you and later on – for your viewers).
Step 2: Research Like a Pro
A well-crafted video essay relies on representative research. Look for clips from documentaries, read articles, or watch other videos on your topic. In general, try to gather all the information you need to back up your argument. Be sure to keep track of your sources and take notes so you can refer back to them later. Don’t just rely on your memory—bookmark those important moments or quotes that will help bring everything together.
Step 3: Write the Script
Once you have your research, it’s time to start scripting your video. Outline your main argument and decide how to present it. Keep your script clear and concise—remember, viewers are watching, not reading. You’ll also want to think about how the visuals will align with your words. While writing, imagine what will be happening on the screen. Are you showing a movie clip? Adding text to emphasize a point? Write down those notes in your script.
Step 4: Create an Outline for the Video
Before jumping into editing, create a rough outline of your video. You can map it out as a storyboard where you plan what visuals will go where. This will help you stay organized and make sure everything flows smoothly from start to finish.
Step 5: Editing is Key
Editing your video essay allows you to put together visuals and audio so that they form a cohesive whole. Use editing software like Adobe Premiere or even free tools like iMovie to start piecing together the clips, narration, and other content (like images). Make sure your visuals complement your narration and help support your argument rather than distract from it.
Step 6: Narration & Sound
Good audio is just as important as what happens on your screen. Record your voice-over using a decent microphone and make sure the audio is clear and well-paced. You don’t have to sound like a professional voice actor—just be yourself and keep it natural. Consider adding background music to set the tone, but don’t let it overpower your narration.
Step 7: Review and Revise
Once your video essay is fully edited, give it a review. Watch it all the way through to make sure everything is clear and coherent. Ask yourself these questions:
- Does the video flow well?
- Are your points backed up by strong visuals?
- Are there any awkward transitions?
Make adjustments as needed, and don’t be afraid to cut things that aren’t working.
And there you have it—your ultimate guide to writing a video essay! It may seem like a lot at first, but, with time, you’ll find it’s actually a fun and creative process. Just remember, the key to a great video essay is combining strong research, thoughtful writing, and engaging visuals. So, grab your camera, open up your editing software, and get started—your audience is waiting!
What is in a video essay?
A video essay is basically an essay brought to life with visuals. It’s a mix of a traditional essay’s argument or idea, combined with things like video clips, images, and sound to make it more engaging. Instead of just reading words, you get to see and hear the points being made. It can cover all sorts of topics—movies, social issues, personal reflections—while using visuals to back up the arguments.
How long is a typical video essay?
There’s no strict rule for how long a video essay should be, but most tend to fall between 5 and 20 minutes. It really depends on your topic and how deep you want to dive into it. Some quick analysis might only need a few minutes, while more detailed or complex arguments could take longer. Just keep in mind that the longer it is, the more important it is to keep things interesting for your viewers—no one likes boring, drawn-out narratives.
Why is video essay important?
A video essay is important because it lets you communicate ideas more dynamically. By combining visuals, audio, and text, you can make your points clearer and more engaging than a traditional essay. This is especially helpful for topics where showing is better than telling, like analyzing a film scene or explaining a historical event. Plus, in the age of YouTube and TikTok, it’s a great way to reach a wider audience and share your ideas in a format that’s both informative and easy to digest.
What are the elements of a good video essay?
A good video essay has a few key ingredients:
- Clear Thesis – You need a central argument or point that drives the entire video.
- Strong Visuals – Whether it’s film clips, images, or animations, your visuals should support and drive your argument.
- Good Narration – Your voice-over should be clear, engaging, and match the tone of your topic.
- Seamless Editing – Smooth transitions, well-timed visuals, and good pacing keep viewers hooked.
- Research – Like any type of writing, a good video essay is built on solid research to back up your points.
Combine all of these, and you’ve got a recipe for a video essay that’s keeps people watching.
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