What are YouTube Shorts? [Explained]

YouTube Shorts

What are YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts are a form of short-form, vertical video content created specifically for mobile viewing. Launched initially in India in 2020 and then globally in 2021, they represent YouTube's venture into the burgeoning field of bite-sized video entertainment, akin to TikTok and Instagram Reels.

Shorts are videos of 60 seconds or less, designed for quick, engaging storytelling and entertainment. They offer a variety of creative tools such as the ability to add music, text, and filters, and they can be easily created, edited, and uploaded directly from a smartphone using the YouTube app.

This format has quickly become popular for its ease of use and accessibility, allowing creators to reach new audiences with concise, captivating content. It's a versatile tool for creators and brands alike, offering a new avenue to grow their presence and engagement on YouTube.

How do I Create YouTube Shorts?

Creating YouTube Shorts involves a simple yet creative process, designed to be accessible for anyone with a smartphone and the YouTube app. Here's how you can make your own YouTube Shorts:

Requirements and Setup: To start creating YouTube Shorts, you need to have the YouTube app installed on your smartphone. This app provides access to the Shorts camera, which is the built-in tool for creating these videos.

Recording Process: Once you're in the app, you can start recording your Short by tapping the '+' icon and selecting 'Create a Short'. You can record up to 60 seconds in one go or in multiple 15-second segments. The app allows you to either hold the record button for continuous recording or tap it to start and stop for segmented recording.

Editing and Enhancements: After recording, you can edit your Short within the app. This includes adding music, voiceovers, text overlays, and various visual effects. You also have the option to adjust the playback speed, use filters, and set the timing for text appearance. These editing tools are intuitive and designed to enhance the creativity and quality of your Shorts.

YouTube Shorts Best Practices

For creators aiming to maximize the impact of their YouTube Shorts, here are some best practices:

Engaging Viewers and Maximizing Impact: The first few seconds of your Short should be captivating to immediately grab the viewer's attention. Utilize quick edits, engaging visuals, and compelling audio to keep the content snappy and absorbing. Shorts are not typically suited for long, uninterrupted sequences, so experimenting with different cuts and edits can help maintain viewer engagement.
Content Ideas and Examples: Your Shorts should reflect content that resonates with your audience. This can include how-to videos, quick reviews, behind-the-scenes glimpses, product teasers, fun facts, or even participation in trending challenges. The content should be relevant and offer value to the viewer, fostering a deeper connection with your channel and brand.
Authenticity and Brand Voice: Maintaining your unique brand voice in your Shorts is crucial. Your content should align with your overall messaging and mission, presenting an authentic and consistent image to your audience. This authenticity is key in engaging viewers and building a loyal following.

YouTube Shorts Frequently Asked Questions

Are YouTube Shorts just like TikTok?

While YouTube Shorts and TikTok both focus on short-form vertical video content, they are distinct platforms. Shorts leverage YouTube's existing ecosystem and broader audience base, while TikTok is a standalone app with a more extensive array of AR effects and filters, and a younger demographic appeal.

How to monetize YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts can be monetized through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Creators in the YPP can earn revenue from ads displayed in the Shorts feed, with creators receiving 45% of the designated revenue after covering music licensing costs.

How can I move the audience from Shorts to additional content on YouTube?

Pinning playlists or links to other content in the comments of your Shorts can guide viewers to more of your content. Effective calls to action at the end of your Shorts, like "Subscribe for more!", can also help in converting viewers to subscribers.

Why don't I get as many subscribers now compared to when I initially used Shorts?

YouTube has updated its Shorts player to focus more on views rather than gaining subscribers. However, using the bold red subscribe button effectively and incorporating calls to action can still help in gaining subscribers.

Who can make YouTube Shorts?

Anyone with a smartphone and the YouTube app can create and publish YouTube Shorts. To monetize them, however, creators need to be part of the YouTube Partner Program.

How long can YouTube Shorts captions be?

Captions for YouTube Shorts can be up to 100 characters long, while descriptions can accommodate up to 5,000 characters.

How many hashtags can be added to YouTube Shorts?

While there is no strict limit, it is recommended to use hashtags judiciously, ideally not more than 15 per Short, to ensure optimal discoverability and relevance.