Is shortform storytelling actually fun? | Issue 22  August 2nd 2024

Tiny tales, big impact: learning to master bite-sized narratives

Hey there,

Let's talk about something that's been on my mind lately: storytelling in short-form video. I remember, before YouTube even existed, thinking about shortform video in the form of commercials. How do you tell a story in 30 seconds? Little did I know, in commercials you also have to tell stories in 15 and sometimes even 6 seconds... YIKES.

I used to shy away from it, but now, I love it. Short form storytelling is super fun and rewarding. The brief nature of it allows you to take big creative leaps. It also gives you an opportunity to try many things over a span of time that would only allow for one longer form video or film.

And, here's the thing: mastering this skill can be a total game-changer for your content. I've been experimenting with it lately, and I've got to say, it's both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

I look at is as a bit of a puzzle. We've got to hook viewers instantly within the first 3 seconds. How do we do that? And how to cram in enough of a middle section to build to a payoff at the end? Once you dive into it, things become pretty fun.

But, something I struggle with sometimes - simplicity is key. We're not making Lord of the Rings here (though how cool would a TikTok version be?). Focusing on one core message or emotion makes it easier for these videos to be digested by the masses. What's the one thing you want your viewer to feel or remember? And, another interesting tip I've picked up - the language in your videos should read at a 6th grade reading level. Not because your audience isn't intelligent, but making information digestible in that amount of time requires simple explanations and words. Simplify, simplify, simplify.

Oh, and don't forget about visual storytelling. In this game, every frame counts. I've been playing around with transitions, text overlays, and even simple props to help move the story along without eating up precious seconds.

Lastly, and this might sound cheesy, but practice makes perfect. I've lost count of how many attempts it took me to nail my first truly satisfying short-form story. But when it clicked? Man, it felt good.

So, what about you? Have you been dabbling in short-form storytelling? Got any cool tricks up your sleeve? Hit reply and let me know - I'm always looking to learn from fellow creators.

Until next time, keep those stories short and those creative juices flowing!

P.S. If you found this helpful, why not share it with a creator friend? We're all in this together!

Alex Darke