How to Start a Video Podcast in 2024

Introduction

Video podcasting has been on the rise for years, and recently, its significance has grown even more. Understanding how to start a video podcast in 2024 is now essential for anyone looking to create compelling content. We’ll guide you through the crucial video podcast equipment and strategies needed for a successful launch.

Ref: https://levitatemedia.com/learn/video-podcast

What is a Video Podcast?

A video podcast (Vodcast) is exactly what it sounds like: a podcast that includes video. While some argue it’s not a true podcast because it’s often distributed on platforms like YouTube and Vimeo rather than through an RSS feed, video podcasts blend audio and visual elements. This could range from a simple static image to a fully-produced documentary-style interview.

Video podcasts offer a dynamic way for creators to share insights, opinions, and stories with a broader audience, providing a richer, more interactive experience than traditional audio-only formats. Plus, you don’t have to choose between audio and video; many creators produce both versions to reach different audiences effectively.

Why You Should Launch a Video Podcast?

Video podcasts are perfect for educational content, interviews, and storytelling, thanks to visuals that make complex ideas clearer. Although they require more editing, the result is often superior content. So, why consider creating a video podcast?

Video Podcast Growth

Video podcasts offer a significant advantage, as YouTube now attracts a larger podcast audience than any other platform. In fact, 16 of the top 30 podcasts in the final quarter of 2023—more than half—were available as filmed videos. Adding a visual element to your podcast can greatly enhance its visibility and appeal, helping your show gain traction and grow more effectively.

Ref: https://www.kapwing.com/resources/video-podcast/

Broader Reach

Podcasts are popular for their audio convenience, allowing listeners to multitask. Adding video might seem counterintuitive, but it actually enhances engagement. Visual content captures more attention, as people are naturally drawn to images and expressions. By incorporating video, you cater to those who prefer watching over listening, thereby expanding your audience.

Enhanced Branding

Incorporating video into your podcast can greatly enhance your branding.. For instance, "The Joe Rogan Experience" uses video to highlight its distinctive studio setup and guest interactions, boosting brand visibility and audience connection.

Video also personalizes the experience, creating a stronger bond with viewers and increasing shareability on social media, which broadens your reach and elevates your brand’s presence.

What Equipment Do You Need for a Video Podcast?

Video podcasts are a fantastic way to engage your audience and attract new viewers. To get started, you’ll need the right video podcast equipment.

Camera

A high-quality camera is essential for any video podcast, as it ensures your footage is crisp and professional. It not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes your content more engaging for viewers.

Ref: https://incite.video/blog/create-a-video-podcast/

For this, we recommend the NearStream VM33. You can easily stream on various platforms such as Youtube with clear image and sound quality With the VM33. It features Full-HD 1080P streaming and QHD 1440P recording, along with AI Noise-Canceling, making it a great choice for your podcast studio.

Lighting Equipment

When your subject is properly illuminated, the video appears clearer, sharper, and more engaging. Softboxes or LED panels are great options for achieving this effect, as they provide even, diffused lighting that reduces harsh shadows and creates a flattering look for your subject.

For those who prefer a simpler setup, ring lights are another excellent choice, offering a balanced, soft light that enhances facial features and ensures your video podcast looks polished and high-quality.

Microphone

A high-quality microphone is essential for a video podcast as it ensures clear and professional audio. Good microphones capture every nuance of your voice, which enhances the overall experience for your viewers.

An XLR microphone, like the AM10X, is particularly effective in this setting. It offers superior sound quality and features Automatic Gain Control (AGC) to manage varying audio levels, which is a solid choice for video podcasts with multiple speakers.

Headphones

A good pair of headphones is crucial for real-time audio monitoring. They help you detect any unwanted sounds or issues and keep your voice levels steady during recording. We recommend the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for its outstanding sound quality and comfort.

Tripod

Stability is crucial when recording, as a steady camera keeps your footage smooth and professional. A tripod is an essential tool to prevent any distracting shakes or wobbles. You may also want to consider using stands for your lighting and microphone to ensure everything stays in place during your recording session.

Editing Software

Post-production is where your podcast truly comes to life. Using software such as Audacity, Descript, or Adobe Premiere Pro, you can refine your footage by cutting and trimming unwanted parts, adding effects, and polishing both audio and video. These tools offer a range of features to enhance your content, ensuring it reaches its highest quality.

Ref: https://riverside.fm/blog/podcast-editing-software

How to Create a Video Podcast?

Now that you have a solid understanding of podcasts, you might be curious about how to start creating a video podcast from scratch. Here are some practical tips to guide you through the process of producing your own video podcast.

Plan Your Production and Choose a Format

Planning your podcast production becomes easier as you define your identity and style. Start by choosing a topic that excites you, knowing you can always evolve later. Begin with simple visuals like static images and gradually experiment with more complex elements.

Key Steps to Get Started:

Choose a Topic: Select a subject you're passionate about that will engage your target audience.
Define Your Audience: Identify your ideal listeners and tailor content to their interests.
Decide on a Format: Opt for solo, co-hosted, or interview formats based on your preference.
Create a Content Plan: Outline episodes, including topics, guests, and key points.

Decide on Your Setup and Acquire Equipment

Deciding on your setup and acquiring the right equipment are crucial steps in launching a successful video podcast. Start by determining the type of podcast you want to produce and the level of production quality you aim for. This will guide your equipment choices, such as cameras, microphones, and lighting.

Ref: https://www.slrlounge.com/video-lighting-for-youtube-or-podcast-sets/

For a professional setup, you’ll need a high-quality camera to ensure clear visuals, a reliable microphone for crisp audio, and proper lighting to enhance video quality. Invest in equipment that fits your budget and meets your needs, whether you’re going for a basic setup or a more advanced production.

Record and Build Your Episode Catalog

Begin by setting up a quiet, well-lit space with minimal distractions. Testing your equipment is crucial to ensure the best audio and video quality, particularly for live streaming.

When recording, follow your content plan closely. Speak clearly, maintain eye contact with the camera, and focus on creating a professional and engaging experience. This methodical approach will help you build a strong catalog of episodes that resonate with your audience.

Edit Your Recordings to a Professional Standard

Sync your audio with the visuals, making sure everything lines up perfectly—especially in interviews. Add some flair with fun edits like zooms, cuts, and transitions to give your podcast that extra polish and boost its production value.

Here are some steps you can follow:

Import Your Footage: Transfer your recorded files to your editing software.
Trim and Arrange: Cut out any mistakes or unnecessary parts, and organize clips in the desired sequence.
Enhance with Effects: Add intros, outros, music, and sound effects to give your podcast a polished, professional feel.
Export Your Video: Save your final video in a format suitable for your platform.

Ref: https://restream.io/blog/best-podcast-recording-and-editing-software/

Publish and Promote Your Video Podcast

You’ve recorded, synced, and polished your video podcast, and now it’s time to share it with the world. Upload your episode to platforms like YouTube, which offers the biggest audience and powerful search tools, but don’t stop there. Promote it across all your social media channels to maximize your reach and engagement.

Conclusion

Stay patient and consistent with your video podcast. Building an audience takes time, but with dedication and quality content, you'll see growth. Focus on using the right video podcast equipment and strategies, and your video podcast will develop steadily.

NearStream VM33 - 2K HD Wireless Streaming Camera is an all-in-one wireless live streaming multicam with an optical lens, perfect for streamers seeking a second camera or for recording entire church, wedding, sports, conference, online meetings, or any live events. If you want higher quality, you can choose NearStream VM46 with a 4K resolution.