How to create behind-the-scenes travel vlogs

Why Create Behind-the-Scenes Travel Vlogs?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of creating behind-the-scenes travel vlogs, let’s talk about why you should bother. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Builds trust with your audience: By showing your audience the behind-the-scenes process, you’re building trust with them. They get to see that you’re not just a polished, perfect version of yourself, but a real person who faces challenges and makes mistakes just like everyone else.
2. Adds authenticity: Behind-the-scenes content adds an extra layer of authenticity to your travel vlogs. Your audience gets to see the unfiltered, unedited moments that don’t always make it into your final videos.
3. Provides value: By sharing your behind-the-scenes process, you’re providing value to your audience. They get to learn new things, see new places, and get inspired by your experiences.
4. Increases engagement: Behind-the-scenes content tends to resonate with audiences and can increase engagement on your social media channels.

Planning Your Behind-the-Scenes Travel Vlog

Before you start filming, it’s essential to plan your behind-the-scenes travel vlog. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Define your goals: What do you want to achieve with your behind-the-scenes travel vlog? Do you want to show off your planning process, highlight your favorite moments from a trip, or share tips and tricks for traveling?
2. Identify your target audience: Who is your target audience for this behind-the-scenes content? Are they fellow travelers, aspiring travel creators, or just people who love exploring new places?
3. Decide on the format: Will you create a series of short videos, a single longer video, or even a blog post? Choose the format that best fits your goals and target audience.
4. Plan your content: Think about what moments from your trip you want to capture for your behind-the-scenes vlog. Consider filming:
   • Your planning process: Researching destinations, booking flights and accommodations, planning activities
   • Your packing process: Showing off what’s in your bag, how you prepare for trips
   • Your arrival and settling-in process: Checking into hotels, getting familiar with new places
   • Challenges and mishaps: Dealing with flight delays, lost luggage, or other unexpected issues
   • Your favorite moments: Exploring new places, trying new foods, meeting locals

Equipment and Software

To create high-quality behind-the-scenes travel vlogs, you’ll need some essential equipment and software:

1. Camera: You can use a smartphone camera or a dedicated camera like a GoPro or DSLR.
2. Lenses: If you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, consider investing in a good prime lens or zoom lens.
3. Microphone: A good external microphone like a lavalier or shotgun mic can improve audio quality.
4. Lighting: Natural light is always best, but if you’re filming indoors or at night, consider investing in some portable lighting options like LED lights or softboxes.
5. Editing software: Choose an editing software that you’re comfortable with and that can handle 4K footage if needed (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X).
6. Stabilization equipment: Consider investing in a handheld gimbal or tripod stabilizer to reduce camera shake.

Filming Tips

Here are some filming tips to help you capture great behind-the-scenes footage:

1. Be authentic: Don’t try to fake it – be yourself on camera.
2. Keep it casual: You don’t need to dress up for behind-the-scenes footage – keep it relaxed and comfortable.
3. Use natural light: Whenever possible, film near windows or outside during the golden hour for soft, flattering light.
4. Capture details: Don’t just focus on big moments – capture details like packing lists, itinerary plans, and daily routines.
5. Get creative with shots: Experiment with different angles and compositions to add visual interest to your footage.

Editing Tips

Once you’ve captured all your footage, it’s time to edit! Here are some editing tips to help you create engaging behind-the-scenes travel vlogs:

1. Keep it concise: Try to keep each video under 10-15 minutes long – attention spans are short!
2. Use transitions wisely: Transitions can help guide the viewer through your footage – use them sparingly but effectively.
3. Add context: Provide context for each scene – tell viewers what’s happening and why it’s important.
4. Incorporate B-roll: Add some B-roll footage (i.e., secondary footage that supports the main action) to add visual interest and break up talking head shots.
5. Experiment with music: Choose music that fits the mood and tone of your video – it can help set the atmosphere.

Post-Production Tips

Once you’ve edited your video, it’s time for post-production! Here are some post-production tips to help you refine your final product:

1. Color grade consistently: Use consistent color grading throughout all your videos – this will help create a cohesive brand aesthetic.
2. Add captions and subtitles: Make it easy for viewers to follow along by adding captions and subtitles to your video.
3. Optimize for social media: If you’re planning to share your video on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok, optimize it for vertical video format (9:16) and include relevant hashtags.
4. Publish regularly: To keep your audience engaged, try publishing regular behind-the-scenes content – whether it’s weekly or monthly depends on your schedule and goals.

Creating behind-the-scenes travel vlogs requires planning, creativity, and attention to detail. By following these tips and guidelines, you can create engaging content that showcases the real-life experiences of traveling creators like yourself. Remember to keep it authentic, concise, and visually appealing – with practice and patience, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning behind-the-scenes travel vlogs that resonate with audiences around the world