Product Video
As the name suggests, product videos are videos that feature a product. They show how the product functions and the benefits it provides. They may focus on one particular function of the product or they may focus on the product as a whole.
Product videos are a good way to boost conversions. They show viewers exactly what the product does and lets them know how they can use it in a variety of applications. They also show how the product can solve a problem in the viewer’s life.
What are Product Videos?
An animated product video will show how the product works without any obstructions. It can also speed up processes. So instead of waiting 30 seconds (which seems interminable in video) for a can opener to open a can, it can simulate the process in just seconds. It can also be used to show functionalities that would be difficult to illustrate in a live format.
A product video should not be confused with a branded video. A branded video explains what a brand is about while a product video shows what a product is about.
It should also not be confused with a screencast which shows an individual’s actions as they scroll the web or use a certain piece of software. While screencasts can be informative and show a person how to use a service, they tend not to be as engaging as product videos.
A product video is beneficial for several reasons including the following:
- It can be used to show any product in any industry.
- It provides video and audio elements bringing the viewer as close as possible to experiencing the product without actually using it.
- It shows how the product can be used in various applications and its ability to solve problems so it boosts conversions.
- It is an engaging medium to bring into a sales presentation.
Product videos can take many forms. For example, you may do a live product video that shows a person using the product. But animation is preferable.
Types of Product Videos
Product videos come in many forms including the following:
Real Videos: Here we are referring to videos that feature a person using the product. While these can be effective, they come with their share of drawbacks. Examples include their inability to shorten the time it takes to complete a certain function as well as their tendency to obscure actions.
They can also be difficult for companies to deal with. If a business wishes to film a live product video, they must hire actors who may not work out, rent locations or go outdoors and possibly deal with wind and rain, and then get the video edited.
3D Animated Videos: 3D Animated videos are preferable to real videos as they do not involve possible obstructions. They do not need to be shot on location and they do not require the hiring of actors. All you need is an animator and an editor and you are good to go.
The 3D capabilities can show the product in a variety of locations including interior shots and underground. They show the inner workings of a product and how it’s built.
Demos and Tutorials: A demo or tutorial shows the product in more detail. They explain how the item functions from a to Z. While they can be animated, they often have a person demonstrating how the product works and talking about the product as they go. If animation is used, narration will be necessary.
Casual Videos: Some businesses produce very simple videos with their iPhones that are just a few seconds or minutes long. They have a grass roots appeal and they can be stylized to cater to the target audience. They are often posted to Instagram and other social media sites.
Screen Capture Videos: Screen capture videos work best for websites, e-commerce stores and software programs. They are valuable when you want to show someone how to do something step by step. They are often used for training and tutorials.
B2B Product Videos
B2B product videos are videos used to sell a product from one business to another. They tend to be more detailed than other types of product videos because they are likely to include technical aspects of the product that need to be explained in detail.
They differ from B2C videos which have more of a lifestyle vibe and are generally shorter. They appeal to an audience that is knowledgeable in the industry.
The videos can be used in a variety of applications including the following:
- A Sales Presentation: A sales presentation is likely to be the most common use for a product video. The company that’s selling the item will sit down with their prospective clients to explain how the product works and what problems it could solve. They fully educate the clients in hopes it leads to a conversion.
- An Email: A B2B video can also be embedded into an email letting the client know about a new or existing product that is suited to the company’s needs.
- On a Website or Social Media: A product video may be included on the company’s website or social media to work as marketing material. When included in this type of media, the company may consider cutting the video down as a person coming across it on the internet may not have a lot of time to invest in watching it.
B2B product videos offer a variety of benefits including the following:
- They Make Sales Presentations More Engaging: Although a product video tends to be longer and more involved, they make sales presentations more engaging.
- They Boost Conversions: Product videos are a good way to fully communicate how the product works and the solutions and benefits it can provide. Once a business learns what the product offers, they will be more likely to invest.
- They Allow You to Go Back and Forth Between Slides: A 3D animated video will be particularly effective as most have markers that you can access to start the video at a certain point and clearly explain details that may have been missed.
3D Animation Product Videos that Can Boost Sales
3D animated product videos offer many benefits, but the best thing about them is their ability to boost sales. Here are some of the ways they can increase your company’s revenue.
Saves Time: Animation can time lapse activities that happen in real life. It allows you to get the message across to the viewer faster, before they get bored and walk away. When you deliver the intended communication quickly, the user will be more likely to invest.
They Show How Problems are Solved: Product videos show how a product can be used in various applications to solve the viewers’ problems. Illustrating how it can make their life easier increases the likelihood of a conversion.
They Show Products in Various Applications: The 3D capabilities show the inner workings of a product and how it functions underground and in interiors. It paints a complete and transparent picture of the product’s purpose. This increases trust and makes the viewer feel more confident about their purchasing decision.
They’re Engaging: Want to spice up a potentially dull sales presentation? 3D animation is the way to do it. It provides viewers with an interactive experience that comes as close as possible to having them actually use the product. Clients will leave with a positive attitude that will make them want to work with your company again.
They’re Memorable: Statistics show that seeing a video is 95% more memorable than reading text. When viewers are able to retain the information, they will understand it better. The video will also help your company and product stand out in their minds making you the first one they call when they need your products and services.
It Differentiates Your Company: 3D animation is becoming a more popular video marketing trend, but it is not as commonly used as other types of video marketing strategies. The fact that you are using a medium not many other companies are using will make you stand out from the competitors.
The Importance of Product Videos for your Business
They Boost Conversions: Product videos are engaging and provide the complete story when it comes to showing how products work. They make your brand look good and boost confidence in making buying decisions. They will increase conversions helping your company grow.
They Save Money and Time: Animated product videos are relatively easy to make. You don’t have to rely on actors or a location that may fall through. All you need is an idea, an animator, and an editor. This makes for a simple process that saves time and could be more cost-effective.
They’re Sharable: Product videos are sharable across a variety of platforms. You can share them on various social media platforms, you can add them to your website, you can embed them in emails… and the list goes on. The fact that you can share them on so many sites means they are great for ROI. Keep in mind that the various platforms may require you to tweak them a bit in terms of length and format, but they will still be worth it.
They’re Engaging: Videos provide audio and visual elements that make them more engaging than other forms of media. They increase understanding and stay in the viewer’s memory longer so they are more likely to choose your product and company first.
They Boost SEO: Product videos show that your page has content relevant to search requests. They can also create additional backlinks to your site. And the more clicks and shares they generate, the better your SEO will be. You can also share them on YouTube to get more visitors coming to your site.
In this day and age, you really can’t launch a marketing campaign without product videos. They are engaging, they boost sales and they help you stay on top of the competition. Will you be adding them to your marketing artillery in the coming year?