Snack content: you need to know these formats for this

Use snackable content! This is the latest commandment when it comes to social media. At the same time, however, you should avoid simply cutting long videos into shorter ones. In short: videos that can be consumed quickly are the ultimate in social networks and classic moving image content cannot simply be adopted for Facebook, Instagram and the like.

So far, so incomprehensible? Exactly. Many content managers are confused (despite the admittedly clear request) – what should the content ultimately look like? To get started, we recommend a handful of formats that perfectly fulfill the snack content character. We provide an overview.

Stop-Motion-Video

What it’s all about: Basically, you simply take a large number of pictures for this format. The trick: one thing is moved in each shot – fast playback creates the impression of a moving image. This brings back a little nostalgia, because: Cartoons used to be produced according to a similar pattern.

What you need: A tripod is essential for stop-motion videos. Any change in the scene section causes the viewer to break out of the moving image illusion. In the best case scenario, the clips in a video are only rarely changed so that the viewer has enough time to understand the video’s main attraction. Of course, the camera is also a must. The produced material is then edited in an editing program (alternatively, you can also use the “Vine” app).

Timelapse and Co.

What it’s about: Don’t be intimidated by the expression. It’s just an example of how to play with time in a video. Choose a short segment that you want to film. Be it a close-up of the dog’s face or something similar. Important: There must be (as much as possible) action in the picture. Then simply play around with the editing program: Do I want to play it faster, slower? Backwards? Just make sure that the facial expressions of the person being filmed are not completely unfavorable in slow motion (slowed-down video).

What you need: Just a camera (iPhone will do!) with which you record the action. Then an editing program (optionally on the PC, it is also possible on an app like “Cute Cut”). Then you can do a little digital spinning.

Cinemagraph

What it’s about: The app of the same name offers a banal but ultimately amazing gimmick. You record a scene and save it. You then upload the video to the app and the fun begins: you select the area that is to move from a certain moment onwards. Everything else is frozen. The app creates the greatest possible effect, especially in scenes where the actors are in the middle of the movement.

What you need for this: The easiest way is to take a smartphone and download the appropriate apps. We recommend “MaskArt” as it is cheaper than “Cinemagraph” but offers the same end result.

Find out more in our whitepaperhow to produce successful videos for social networks.