Everyone relates to the saying, “a picture is worth 1,000 words,” but now with video being king, many are saying video is worth1.8 million words!  To increase engagement, one needs to be original and creative, offer value to the audience and have the best possible images and video to portray that value very quickly.

“The most successful social posts are due to the content versus the equipment, so create the best quality images and video you can with the resources you have,” says Teresa Romero, Creative Director forSam Villa and Artistic/Education Director forJose Luis Salon@_teresa_romero.

Whether just starting out or an old pro at sharing, Romero offers these tips for creating better social assets to set a brand/stylist apart from the crowd.

Tips for Capturing Better Images and Video

Orientation

Film vertically for social reels and stories.

Stabilize

Nobody wants to watch a jumpy video or look at a blurry image, so a tripod can really save the day. Lens & Test Run: Avoid fuzzy captures. Clean camera lens with a microfiber cloth and do a test video run to check visual and sound quality. 

Sound

Ensure the phone's microphone isn't covered or use an external mic. Close doors and windows to reduce background noise. If the audience can't hear clearly, they are much more likely to skip right on to the next thing in their feed. 

Background

Make videos stand out by choosing a clean, non-distracting, solid background that doesn’t divert from the content—either white or black. Opt for the color that contrasts best with the hair being showcased. Light hair stands out better against a black background, while dark hair is more visible against a white one.

Lighting

Proper lighting (ring lights or bright lamps) is needed for clarity. Avoid relying solely on overhead lighting.  Even if just using iPhone lighting, especially with an added light like this one from SmallRing, it will add that extra pop without breaking the bank.

Eyeline

Look directly at the camera lens, not at the screen, to maintain proper eye contact.

Education

Speak to the target audience and include a pro tip or technique to showcase expertise.

Intro/Outro

Speak directly to the camera for the intro and outro. Example: “Hi, I’m [name] with [social handle]; today I’m showing you how to create this look.”

Models

Use a real person when possible, and if using a mannequin, ensure it’s upright and fully in view.

Copy Overlays

Add text overlays to help viewers understand the content immediately. 

Show & Tell

Hold tools and product up to the camera when first mentioning them.

Video Length

Keep social videos under 1 minute. Summarize repeated techniques instead of detailing them again.

Video Editing Apps 

There are several good ones. Temply, InShot, VidoeLeap are a few to consider to create impactful and clear content.

“Elevating your work to a more professional level is easier now than ever…the goal is to develop a point of difference from thousands of others by creating engaging useful content, that encourages your audience to interact with your social platforms in a positive manner,” adds Romero.

About Sam Villa: Sam Villa is Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of the Sam Villa Company (Allvus, LLC), a leading education and styling tool company. He is also Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5th Avenue, a L’Oréal brand. Villa is the recipient of the 2023 INKD Icon Leadership Award, 2021 NAHA Educator of the Year, Hair Awards USA Hall of Fame Inductee, 2021 AHP Icon Stylist Influencer of the Year, 2020 International Hairdressing Awards ‘International Hair Influencer of the Year,’ the 2017 NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, Intercoiffure America/Canada Member, Behind the Chair Stylist Choice Award Winner for Favorite Platform Artist and Educator (2012, 2011 and 2007) and Favorite Overall Educator of the Year (2015). His inspiring education and innovative ergonomic cutting and styling tools can be experienced on samvilla.com.