To truly make an impact with your story, you need more than just words. Electronic media has made it necessary to become a content creator fluent in both text and visuals.
This idea isn’t new. From ancient cave drawings to photojournalism and broadcast TV, people have enjoyed visual stories for the speed at which people can consume the content and the emotion it elicits.
But how can you get started?
“A Roadmap to Multimedia Storytelling,” a free e-book by Martin Waxman, provides today’s communicators with tips, best practices and strategies for creating content that excels in today’s visual and textual world.
Want to become a multimedia master? Get your e-book for free!
Here are some highlights.
Photography
“Poor images destroy credibility as quickly as good images earn it—often faster.” — Paul M. Bowers
Reflect benefits
When creating text, writers learn that they should focus on benefits and not features. The same goes for using images in your copy. A custom visual that complements the text will create more of an impact than a stock photo.
Understand negative space
A rule of thumb with business cards is you should be able to place a nickel on it without it touching any type. The same is true when creating graphics or taking pictures. Include open areas to emphasize the subject.
Create your own
You don’t need a top-of-the-line camera to create stunning and inspiring images. The photo you create will fit the context of your text and be more powerful than what someone else creates.
Podcasts
“What a lot of people like about podcasts is the intimacy of the earbuds. You can feel like you’re having a real conversation with that person.” – Donna Papacosta
Reach audiences wherever
Where do podcasts fit in content consumption? Everywhere thanks to mobile tech and the proliferation of free WiFi and Bluetooth. Now you can reach your audience as they work out, commute and just about anywhere else.
How to create them?
Creators of podcasts and author audio elements need to follow the 4 Ps: planning, producing, publishing and promoting. This should be a format that producers of written content should know all too well.
Podcasts and the written word are also married. Before publishing the content, make sure to write a description that will attract searchers and let them see at a glance what the content is about.
Video
“If you want people to share your video, ask them.” – Jay Baer
Bigger is not better
Everyone wants to go viral, but it’s nearly impossible. Focus on the needs of niche audiences and try creating content that resonates with them.
Bigger is not better: Part 2
By definition, people using mobile devices are on the go. If your viewers don’t have much time, give them something that doesn’t take too long. Don’t forget to share your video across your channels and cut them up to post on Vine and Instagram.
Want even more tips, tactics and best practices? Get the free e-book now!
