Vlog for beginners: 12 skills that benefit

How do you start a vlog for beginners?  It could sound complicated.  However, it doesn’t have to be if you use my tips.

Why start a vlog?

There are many reasons why vlog is popular.  While I’m mainly a blogger, I also make reels on Instagram.  Videos are visual, and you can add sound.  It’s a great way to learn and share your knowledge!

12 valuable skills to hone:

1. Storytelling is mesmerizing

Storytelling is a great approach!  Be it as a content creator or a brand and business, it’s helpful.  People love to connect with other people.  A personal touch is more relatable.

2. Monetization generates income

You can monetize your videos in various ways.  Work with brands by recommending their products.  Sell your products or services.  Even use platform in-built monetization tools.

A side hustle is fun and generates some income. If you’d like to see the benefits of having such a gig, read my other article. Although I’m mostly a blogger, I also relish making videos.

3. Plan what and when to post

Plan your content using a content calendar.  You may also make a list of topics and pick from there.  Create content buckets to organize your topics. 

4. Scripting is helpful

A script is a well-organized approach.  You know in advance what you’ll say.  However, avoid reading out what you write.  I prefer bullet points.

I’ve done voice-overs before.  In my reels, I mostly use Instagram music.  Therefore, I don’t currently have any published speaking videos.

5. Use your genuine voice

Always be yourself.  Your viewers should know the real you.  It’s often easy to fake life on Instagram.

Genuineness attracts and brings longer-term results.  Your naturalness and sincerity show.  On the other hand, imitating others doesn’t. 

6. Branding is unique

Create your logo, and choose your fonts and color palette.  You may find a professional graphic designer.  However, at a basic level, if you’re a non-designer, you can even use free tools.

I use a professional headshot as my photo.  On my blog, I use a simple basic text logo that I created in Canva for free.  On social media, I show my profile photo, which suits my personal brand as a blogger.

7. Be spontaneous and natural

Let your true voice shine through.  As beginners, many content creators get inspired by bigger accounts.  There are indeed things that tend to work best.  However, your viewers should see the real you.

Some creators fake it, just by copying others.  This is a short-term view.  Sooner or later, it shows and viewers move away.

8. Tips on vlogging for beginners

To start vlogging, there are some important steps.  Start at a basic level, if need be.  Use it and improve.

Basic needs for vlogging:

• Select your niche
• Select your platform
• Choose your equipment
• Intro video
• Channel intro 
• Use CTAs
• Capture leads
• Cross-promote
• Be consistent
• Engage with community
• Ask for feedback
• Reply to leads
• Repurpose

9. Select your niche and platform

Have a niche to talk to the right leads.  If you’re too generic, you might end up with no or few sales.  Carefully research and plan before launching your channel.

Choose your platform carefully, finding where your target audience is.  You may prefer YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram.  There are also more options.  I vlog through Instagram reels.

10. Choose equipment and publish the first video

Your equipment is important.  A camera, lighting, tripod stands, and a microphone can be expensive.  Luckily, you can get started with your smartphone and natural daylight.

I use my phone, free editing software, and a phone stand.  Before buying a stand, I used a pile of heavy books to hold my phone safely.  Be creative, and you can use the basics on a budget.

Introduce yourself in a video, so that viewers can get to know you.  Introduce your channel as well, so that you attract and retain the right type of leads.  Keep in mind what you want to promote and offer.

Use the right CTAs to capture leads.  Cross-promote on other platforms.  Let a wider audience know about your newly-published video.  

11. Be consistent, repurpose, and gather feedback

Publishing more is indeed likely to get more reach.  If you have to balance quality and quantity, be reasonable.  Avoid burnout at all costs, and find a sweet spot, being consistent.

Engage with your community.  Find other creators to network with.  Support each other.

Ask for feedback and reply to leads.  You’ll learn lots about them.  Use the information to better serve them, improving your products, service, or other types of offers.

12. Repurpose to work smart

Repurpose content that already performs well.  You may do so by using a new format and platform.  Save time and reach a new and wider audience.  Read my article on repurposing for more. 

For example, I take ideas from a well-performing article and turn them into a carousel for Instagram.  Alternatively, I use a concept that has worked, creating a reel video. 

Ongoing skill improvements

It’s a journey to relish.  Don’t shy out.  Your first video doesn’t have to be perfect.  Everyone improves over time.

Relax, and say no to imposter syndrome.  Once your first post goes out, you’ll realize it’s rather simple.  Test, learn from relevant feedback, and find better ideas.

Conclusion

Vlog for beginners is an interesting start that you can polish over time. Making videos is fun, as you grow personally and improve. 

Editor’s Note: This blog article was last updated on 29 September 2025 for better accuracy and comprehensiveness.