Have you ever opened the TikTok app only to get sucked into scrolling video after video for hours? We have! And we’re definitely not the only ones. In fact, there are 1.1 billion active users monthly as of 2023 on TikTok, with over 1 billion videos being viewed daily.
But what makes these short videos so addictive? It’s the power of visual storytelling, creativity, and engagement. And now, with the recent launch of TikTok Shop into Malaysia’s e-commerce market, online shop owners looking to sell on TikTok will need to sharpen their videography skills to stand out in this exciting new landscape.
So here are some product listing videography tips and tricks that we’ve curated after our hours of scrolling through TikTok. These tactics will show you how you can create amazing product videos for your TikTok Shop, even with a phone camera.
#1. Start with a Clear Concept
The first step in creating captivating TikTok Shop listing videos is to have a clear concept in mind. Decide what message you want to convey and what emotions you want to evoke in your viewers. Whether it’s showcasing a new product, telling a story about your brand, or highlighting a limited-time offer, a well-defined concept will guide your video creation process.
For example, if you’re introducing a new clothing line, think about the style, mood, and theme you want to convey. Create a shot list or storyboard to plan your video’s sequence, ensuring it aligns with your concept.
#2. Optimise Lighting
Good lighting is crucial for any form of videography, and TikTok Shop product listing videography is no exception. Natural light is your best friend when it comes to shooting high-quality videos. Find a well-lit area in your home or workspace, preferably near a window, to ensure your products are well-illuminated.
Avoid harsh shadows by diffusing direct sunlight with curtains or white sheets. If natural light is not accessible, invest in affordable smartphone ring lights or LED panels to enhance your videos’ lighting quality, especially when shooting in low-light conditions.
Keep in mind that the right placement of your lighting is pivotal when it comes to enhancing your video’s lighting quality significantly.
#3. Steady Your Shots
Shaky footage can be distracting and unprofessional. To maintain steady shots, consider using a tripod or a stabiliser for your smartphone. There are various smartphone-compatible tripods and gimbals available that can help you achieve smooth camera movements and steady shots, making your TikTok Shop listings more appealing to potential buyers.
Ensure steady shots aren’t solely about eliminating motion; it’s about enhancing your storytelling capabilities. While tripods are a well-known solution for achieving still shots, you can also use them to achieve dynamic shots and add impact to your visual storytelling.
#4. Optimise Sound Quality
While visuals are essential, don’t neglect sound quality. Crisp and clear audio is crucial for engaging your audience. Ensure that your recording environment is as quiet as possible to minimise background noise.
If you’re speaking in your video, use an external microphone or a clip-on lapel microphone for better audio capture. You can find various options that work seamlessly with smartphones.
#5. Perfect Your Framing and Composition
Good videography is more than just pointing your camera at your subject. It involves organising visual elements to convey a narrative through well-composed framing.
To achieve this, consider fundamental techniques like the Rule of Thirds (which the above image actually follows), which involves positioning your product near intersecting points on a grid to strike a balance and infuse intrigue into your shots.
You can also explore a repertoire of other techniques, such as Leading Lines, Negative Space, Movement Within the Frame, and more. These techniques inject dynamism into your product showcases, guiding your viewer’s focus towards the products themselves and enhancing the overall appeal of your TikTok Shop listings.
#6. Master the Art of Storytelling
One of the reasons TikTok videos are so addictive is their storytelling element. Use your listing videos to tell a compelling story about your products or brand. Begin with a hook that grabs viewers’ attention in the first few seconds. Showcase the product’s features, benefits, and how it can improve the viewer’s life.
Consider adding a narrative arc or showcasing user testimonials to create an emotional connection with your audience.
Keep your videos concise, as TikTok has a maximum video length of one minute.
#7. Use Creative Editing
Editing is where you can truly make your TikTok Shop listing videos shine. There are many user-friendly mobile video editing apps available that allow you to trim, add transitions, apply filters, and insert text or captions.
Experiment with different editing techniques to make your videos more engaging. For instance, use jump cuts for quick transitions between shots, add music to set the mood, and use text overlays to highlight key information or call-to-action messages.
If you’re completely new to editing, CapCut templates offer a valuable shortcut. These pre-designed templates provide a convenient means to streamline your editing process while infusing a professional touch into your TikTok Shop listing videos.
#8. Leverage TikTok’s Built-in Features
TikTok offers several built-in features and effects that can enhance your listing videos. Explore features like filters, effects, and stickers to add a creative touch to your videos. You can also use TikTok’s built-in timers and speed controls to achieve unique visual effects via TikTok’s integrated video editing tool.
Experiment with trending challenges, hashtags, and music to increase your video’s discoverability and engagement. TikTok’s algorithm rewards creativity and participation in trends, so keep an eye on the latest trends relevant to your products or niche.
Psst… You’ll also need this.
When it comes to running a successful TikTok Shop in 2023, choosing the right e-commerce delivery partner is crucial. That is why, you can count on Ninja Van, TikTok Shop’s preferred logistics partner, for all your shipping needs. With an extensive network, reliable delivery services, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Ninja Van will help ensure that your products reach your customers swiftly and safely, enhancing your TikTok Shop’s reputation and credibility.
All in all, nailing your TikTok Shop product listing videos in 2023 boils down to mastering the art of visual storytelling, creativity, and engagement. With the above tips and tricks on how to take amazing product videos with your phone camera, you can now enhance your videography skills and stand out in the competitive world of TikTok. So gear up to dazzle your audience and watch your TikTok Shop thrive in 2023!
