Video editing for social networks: 10 mistakes to avoid

Video is a format that is increasingly present on social networks. Content that integrates media generates more interactions. In addition, the arrival of TikTok, a social network solely focused on video, has shaken up uses and led other platforms – Instagram in the lead – to evolve. But social networks require a particular editing that you have to learn to master. In this article, we list 10 mistakes to avoid when editing your videos for social networks!

1. Propose a video format unsuitable for the platform

Today, social networks (almost) all allow you to post videos. If you want to grow your community on different platforms, then it can be tempting to post the same video on all of them. On the other hand, there is a trap to avoid: not all platforms favor the same format. For example, if you want to publish a video on YouTube, the 16:9 aspect ratio will be the most suitable. On the other hand, on TikTok, Reels or YouTube Shorts, you will have to opt for a vertical format. Fortunately, many editing software offer automatic configurations for each social network format.

2. Make a video too long

On social media, attention is limited. It is therefore preferable to avoid long content, which could bore users. Again, the length of your video will need to be appropriate for the social network. On Facebook, you can consider videos of a few minutes. On the contrary, you will have to favor the snack-content (very short and impactful videos) on Instagram and TikTok.

YouTube is, to a lesser extent, the only exception to this rule. Videos can be longer if you manage to produce catchy content. The host can also be used to post long versions of videos published on other platforms.

3. Make a slow edit

Even on a short video, it can be difficult to keep the user’s attention. If he is not hooked in the first seconds, he will turn to other content. Thus, the editing will have an essential role: it must be fluid and dynamic. The shots will have to follow each other naturally, and the moments of hesitation will have to be eliminated. In general, contemplative, slow-paced videos struggle to find a place on social networks, where content is linked at a frantic pace.

4. Forgetting to include subtitles

Many users use social networks without activating the sound. This allows them to access the content without disturbing the people around them. In order to make your video accessible to everyone, be sure to include subtitles. For this, all editing software offers a subtitle option, and some even offer an automatic subtitling feature, saving you a lot of time.

5. Not using appropriate music

The sound design of your videos is also crucial, as it will set the mood of your content. This is why we recommend being attentive to these few pitfalls, often present on social networks:

• Use inappropriate music: the music should reflect the tone of your video. It will therefore be necessary to ensure that the atmosphere is consistent with the message conveyed.
• Using music that is too impersonal: royalty-free music is a good option, but some lack uniqueness, or are already present in a multitude of videos on the web. So avoid music seen and reviewed, and opt instead for an original sound in tune with your universe.
• Desynchronize the assembly: many videos do not seek to adapt their editing to the sound used. However, by synchronizing your cuts to the rhythm of the music, you will bring an additional touch of dynamism to your video.

6. Overload your video with effects

If dynamism is essential, be careful not to overdo it. Editing software all offers a multitude of effects to bring uniqueness to your video, but it is best to use them sparingly. Indeed, if your video has too much clutter, the user may become discouraged. Thus, for your editing, fluidity must remain the key word: favor simple transition effects, and be careful not to overload your video with text.

7. Not having visual consistency between the different videos

Social networks are an ideal place to develop your brand image or your personal branding. Thus, the different videos that you broadcast must be part of a coherent whole. To harmonize them, you can design a common visual design, which you can integrate in the introduction or conclusion of the videos. If you communicate for a brand, it is advisable to use the graphic charter, but you can also create one specifically for your videos. In addition, the rhythm of the editing and the music used can also contribute to the homogeneity of your content.

8. Not respecting copyrights

Due to the informal nature of social networks, it can be tempting to post videos made up of various excerpts, without verifying the source. However, these platforms are subject to intellectual property rules, just like other media. To feed your videos, a multitude of royalty-free content exists online, available via image banks or music banks, allowing you to edit without fear. If you have more important needs, you can also subscribe to a paid image or sound bank, or call on professionals who can create tailor-made content for you.

9. Forgetting to include a clear CTA

Social networks are designed to generate interactions. If your video gives rise to shares, reactions or comments, it will be highlighted by the platform, which will then consider it as quality content. This is why it is advisable to include a call to action within your video, suggesting that your audience subscribe to your account or post a comment. In order to facilitate editing, and to guarantee harmony between your content (see error n°7), you can create a common end skin for all your videos, integrating the CTA.

10. Neglecting colorimetry

A video that is underexposed or uses too cold a tint will not be pleasant to watch and may be skippered by the Internet user from the very first seconds. Thus, before moving on to editing, you will need to take care of the capture of your video: it is always better to have a sound basis to work with in the editing software. However, in the heat of the moment, and depending on your hardware, it is very likely that it will require some editing to be done during editing. To do this, you can use the adjustment tools offered: contrast, saturation, brightness, temperature, etc. A video offering a neat colorimetry will bring a more professional rendering, and will prove to be more attractive for the Internet user.