Forty plus years ago, capturing anything on your computer screen was very difficult. Our sister company, Transvideo Studios, was one of the first agencies in Silicon Valley to offer that service to companies like Sun Microsystems who needed to demo their software products.
Of course, these days capturing anything on your screen or mobile device takes just a click or swipe, which means that anyone at any time can create a product demo video. But a lot of these homemade product demos are excruciatingly difficult to sit all the way through.
It’s no surprise that after all these years, our team here at Picturelab continue to produce product demo videos. Even though it’s very easy to capture products in action, there are creative elements that can elevate a demo’s production value, which means it’s more engaging and watchable.
Here are just a few elements to consider when creating a demo.
Add camera movements to your product demo video
Adding camera movement not only makes the video more cinematic, but it’s essential in guiding the viewer through the demo. Especially if your product has a lot of different functions and elements, a simple camera move such as a zoom or pan can focus on what you want the viewer to look at.
Even if your interface is simple and minimal, movement gives your product life and a dynamic quality to it, which makes it more watchable. It’s difficult to watch 3-plus minutes of a flat screen capture asking poor eyeballs to keep track of the cursor moving all around the screen.
Here’s an example of demo with effective camera moves.
Audio is more important than you think
Maybe I’m more sensitive because I work in video production, but subpar audio is a killer. It ruins even the best of videos. If you are self-recording, be aware of a few basic things, which may seem common sense, but surprisingly, often missed.
First of all, record in a quiet space. No further explanation needed.
Use some decent recording equipment. This will help with static or echo-y sounds.
Make sure it’s clear and easy to understand. Nothing against accents, but some accents are distracting and difficult to understand depending on the audience. Also, you may not have the budget to use a voice actor, but at least get someone with a good energy. There’s nothing worse than spending three-plus minutes listening to someone who sounds like he just woke up.
Also, adding music may make the ride more enjoyable as well.
Edit to be concise and economical
This process begins with the script. Cut out things you don’t need. If you have to consider whether or not to cut a line, cut it.
And then once you have the initial draft, go back and cut some more. Spare your viewer by cutting out loading screens or speeding things up.
This process may take some time but will result in a much more watchable video.
Add animation if you can
Similar to camera movements, animation will give your video life. Have sections pop up and move around. Highlight certain areas. Add in animated text to emphasize certain functions and concepts.
If possible, including original animation will also raise the production value of your videos.
Here’s a great example of a product demo with animated screens.
Product demos are easy to make these days, but it still takes some creativity and know-how to make them watchable and engaging.
Though anyone can do a simple screen-captured demo, if you need help to elevate it and better serve your product, contact us here at Picturelab.
We are a full-service video production company that can help with your product demo or any other type of video from start to finish.