Let’s Talk Startup Videos: The Good, The Bad, and The Automated

Full disclosure. I’m an animator myself. Yea I make money making videos for companies. And of course I’d argue in my favor. But I think something has seriously got to stop with the typical, very clearly automated, launch/product videos people are coming out with. In the same way that I want people to stop recording 19 minute Loom demo videos using a quick lapel mic they dusted off from the garage. (Which I have seen a decrease in, thank you lol) Alright, let’s get into it. Videos are everywhere. We all know we need them to stand out, and tell our startups story, and get people excited. But there’s this huge wave of automated video tools that promise quick and cheap solutions. Sure, they’re fast and easy on the company wallet, but let’s be real, they often miss the mark on making something that actually sticks with you. Main points: 1. The Deal with Automation Video Tools: These tools are tempting. They say “Hey, make a video in no time, and boom, you’re done!” And look, I get it, if it works don’t fix it right? I’m not saying automated videos don’t serve as a quick win or haven’t worked before. But it’s kinda like opting for instant noodles when you could have had a killer gourmet meal. Yes, it’s food, but does it really satisfy? Most of these automated solutions end up feeling a bit soulless and forgettable. 2. Why Settle for Less? Imagine if a top chef decided to microwave their meals. [I think I’m just hungry why writing this] Sounds ridiculous, right? That’s what it’s like when startups don’t put effort into their videos. Your product is your masterpiece, crafted with blood sweat and copious amounts of coffee. Shouldn’t the way you talk about it reflect that same energy? 3. Storytelling is Everything Authentic storytelling isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s the secret sauce. A video that genuinely reflects who and your team are and connects with people is worth it’s weight in gold, the cherry on top is are the badass custom visuals automation tools can’t offer. 4. Think Long-Term with Video Production Dropping some cash on a pro to make your video might sting at first, but it’s an investment that keeps on giving. If your startup does take off eventually is it going to be because you saved time and money on making a meh video. No, it’s going to be because of the parts of your startup that you took the time and passion out of your day to make perfect for your users. When your startup does take off are you going to stick with automation for video production? No. Because then it will seriously be time to put the big boy pants on production wise. Having someone that knows their stuff can take your vision and turn it into something epic - something that actually gets people excited and talking. It’s not just about a video, it’s about making a statement. Discussion time: What’s your take? Is saving time and money now worth it or does going the extra mile with a pro make more sense? I am definitely aware of counter arguments to my take. Obviously, if it works out for you then it works. I just wanted to bring this up because I want startups to have the best fighting chance messaging/marketing wise…and because I’ve been seeing way…way too many of the same typographic automated videos. Cheers