I’ve started producing short vertical videos — and this is already my second reel.
The main reason: vertical shorts get dramatically higher reach than most other formats right now (at least in my early experiments). I’ve filmed three quick tests so far, and the difference is hard to ignore.
One of the simplest experiments worked better than I expected:
- take a single anime-style image (as a visual base)
- add a short voiceover
- add subtitles
- publish as a YouTube Short
Result: 550 views on YouTube Shorts from a tiny, low-effort test.
Not viral — but a strong signal for a second attempt.
The formula that seems to work
So far my key takeaway is simple:
Short vertical + voice + subtitles = more shareable content.
Why it works:
- vertical fits the feed (no friction)
- voice adds personality + clarity
- subtitles capture attention even with sound off
- the combo feels “complete” in 10–30 seconds
How I’m trying to make shorts “work” (practical checklist)
This is my current workflow — lightweight and repeatable:
-
Start with a hook in the first 1–2 seconds
A question, a surprising statement, or a strong claim. -
Keep it tight (10–35 seconds)
One idea per short. No introductions. No context dumps. -
Voiceover = human layer
Even if the visuals are minimal, voice gives it energy and trust. -
Subtitles are non-negotiable
Big, readable, and synced. People scroll fast. -
Fast pacing, clean structure
Hook → point → micro-proof → takeaway. Done. -
Repeatable templates beat “perfect art”
The goal is volume + learning, not a masterpiece every time.
Tool tip: CapCut
My current editing tool is CapCut (free).
I’ve found:
- PC version is the best experience (fast + comfortable for subtitles)
- the browser version works too if you need something quick
What’s next
I’m going to keep running small tests and then publish deeper analytics:
- retention curves
- which hooks perform best
- what length gets the highest completion rate
- how subtitles impact watch time
If you’re also experimenting with shorts, I’d love to compare notes.
#BuildInPublic #ContentMarketing #Shorts #CapCut #CreatorGrowth 🎯🎬