How to create high-quality content for Hello Student socials

Creating content that catches attention and gets featured is all about standing out with clear, engaging visuals and a strong story. Here are the top tips to ensure your videos grab attention so you get a chance to get featured on Hello Student socials and get rewarded!

• Video dimensions: Make sure your videos are in 1920px by 1080px (16:9 aspect ratio) for optimal quality on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
• Camera quality: Use the best camera you have available—your phone camera can do wonders if you use it right. Set your phone’s camera to the highest resolution (1080p or 4K if available).
• Stabilisation: Hold your camera steady or use a tripod for a smooth, non-shaky video. Avoid moving too fast or erratically with the camera, unless it’s a trend you’re trying to achieve!

• Natural light: The best lighting is natural light, so shoot near windows or outdoors during the day. The brighter, the better!
• Ring light/LED light: If you’re filming indoors, be mindful that your camera quality may lower if you’re in a bad spot of light. If it’s affecting the camera quality, a ring light or a soft LED light will help create a clean and professional look. Position it in front of you for balanced, flattering lighting.

• No blur: Make sure the camera is focused on you and don’t use filters that blur the quality of the video. Blurry videos can be hard to engage with and don’t look as polished.
• Clean lens: Always wipe your lens before filming! Even a tiny smudge can make the video look foggy or hazy.

The first few seconds of your video should instantly grab the viewer’s attention. Start with a question, a bold statement, or something that immediately sparks curiosity that will make them want to stick around for the rest of the video For example:

“Ever wondered what it’s like to be a second-year biology student with exams coming up? Let me show you!”

“Come with me as I prepare for my toughest exams yet in my second year of university!”

Frame your vlog as a mini-narrative or a day-in-the-life. (Timestamps in vlogs do really well too!) 

For example: “Follow me through a typical day as a second-year biology student. Let’s tackle exam prep, grab some lunch with friends, and maybe even survive the stress together!” 

• Be yourself: Students want to see real, authentic moments. Don’t be afraid to show your personality, whether you’re funny, quirky, or relatable.
• Involve friends: Show yourself hanging out with friends in the social spaces, sharing laughs, or studying together. It’s all about showcasing real student life—the ups, the downs, and everything in between!
• Interactive elements: Encourage other students to comment on something they could relate to as well by asking questions in your comments.

•  Keep it snappy: Edit your video to keep it dynamic and fast-paced. Remove unnecessary bits so the video stays engaging from start to finish.

• Use subtitles / captions: Consider adding subtitles to your videos so viewers can follow along without sound. This is especially important for platforms like Instagram Stories and TikTok where people scroll quickly and may watch without sound.

•  Add music or effects: Use trendy music or sound effects to make your video more fun. But remember, don’t overdo it—balance is key!

Creating a sense of community is key to growing your presence and making connections!

Take the time to engage with other students’ content by liking, commenting, or sharing their posts. Engaging with others not only helps you get noticed but also fosters a supportive community where everyone can thrive.

You never know, you could make some amazing friends along the way! By supporting one another, you’ll create a network of like-minded students who are all in it together.

The best content is always authentic, share your student experiences, your thoughts, and don’t be afraid to show the ups and downs of student life. The more relatable and engaging your content is, the better!

Be creative, be you, and have fun with it! 🎉