Two words: Content batching. What is it, you ask? Content batching is a productivity technique where you create lots of content at one time that you’ll schedule to post later. Content batching gets you into a flow state so you can crank out the creativity and make the most of your time.
Batch shooting—or, filming a bunch of content at once—is a key part of content batching for any brand’s social media. At Media À La Carte, we recommend creating batch content a week to a month ahead of time to ensure consistency, efficiency, and reduced stress. Batch shooting content can save time and help you maintain consistency across your social media platforms. Additionally, batch shooting alleviates stress by eliminating the pressure to come up with new content ideas on the spot. Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you plan and execute your batch shoot efficiently:
Plan your content in advance
- Set goals: Identify the purpose of your content (i.e. What content pillar does it fall under? Educate, entertain, inspire, or promote)
- Content calendar: Map out topics, themes, and key dates for the month. Consider seasons, holidays, events, product launches, and promotions.
- Trending ideas: Research current trends, hashtags, and audio relevant to your niche.
- Content types: Decide on the format for each piece - videos, photos, carousels, reels, etc.
Script and storyboard
- Write scripts: Prepare scripts or outlines for talking points. Use bullet points for natural delivery. Make sure to rehearse scripts or talking points in advance.
- Storyboard visuals: Plan how each piece will look, including what profits, outfits, and locations will be involved.
- Group similar shots: Cluster content by theme, style, or setup to minimize transitions.
Prepare and organize
- Outfits: Select multiple outfits for variety (we recommend 4-6). Steam and lay them out in order for easy changes.
- Locations: Choose and secure your shooting locations and/or studio rentals. Ensure good lighting and minimal noise (for video). Arrange your locations in order to minimize travel time.
- Props and equipment: Gather everything you need including tripods, lights, microphones, and backdrops.
- Templates: Pre-create any graphics or text overlays you’ll use. These could be branded overlays, text templates, or end cards.
Schedule a full-day shoot
- Block time: Dedicate a full or half day for shooting to stay focused.
- Optimize setup: Shoot all content requiring the same setup (i.e. lighting or location) together.
- Efficient outfit changes: Use simple, quick changes for variety while maintaining momentum.
Create content variations
- Angles and framing: Capture wide, medium, and close-up shots for versatility.
- Short clips: Record a mix of 5-10 second clips for reels or TikToks.
- Repurpose: Film content that can be repurposed (i.e. turn a long-form video into multiple short clips).
- Extra shots: Film behind-the-scenes, clips, bloopers, and reaction shots.
- Use timers: For solo creators, use a remote shutter or timer for hands-free filming.
Editing workflow
- Batch edit: Use editing software to process similar videos together for consistency. Use consistent filters, fonts, and transitions.
- Repurpose content: Cut long videos into short clips or adapt content for different platforms.
- Add captions: Include subtitles to improve accessibility and engagement.
- Pre-schedule posts: Upload and schedule content on your platform or social media management tool like Later, Planoly, or Hootsuite.
- Optimize for each platform: Resize and format content for Tiktok, Instagram, YouTube, etc.
- Captions: Write engaging captions with hooks, emojis, and calls to action.
- Hashtags: Research and include relevant hashtags to boost reach.
Analyze and adjust
- Track performance: Review analytics to see which content performs best. Track engagement, reach, and saves to identify what works.
- Adjust strategy: Use insights to refine your future content shoots.
*Take a look back at one of our brand photoshoots for a better idea of how we created a YEAR’s worth of content in a single day of shooting!
Pro tips:
Delegate or hire help: If possible, hire a photographer, videographer, editor, or assistant to streamline the process.
Use templates: Save time with templates for captions, thumbnails, or graphics.
Stay flexible: Be prepared to shoot additional content mid-month if trends or opportunities arise.
Another pro tip? Print out this blog and use it as a checklist for your upcoming batch shoot! And as you work through your first shoot, record how much time each task takes you to complete from start to finish. It’s not a race! But noting the time-per-task will help you block time in your schedule for next month’s content batching.
Still not satisfied? Reach out to Media À La Carte so we can help you plan your brand’s best shoot yet. Schedule a discovery call today.
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