In this day and age where people constantly “Do it for the Vine“, watch YouTube and several other video versions of social media, it’s important for authors to tap into this resource for marketing our books and ourselves as well.
Now if you’re an indie author like myself, your money is not as long as some publishing companies, so you may be working with limited resources.
Furthermore, let me be honest with you…I’m nobody’s computer guru. I have to google almost everything technical in order to figure out how to properly use it. Luckily, I’ve found some pretty easy steps you could take to make your own book trailer if you don’t have the funds, or simply don’t want to hire a professional to create one for you.
Here are a few easy suggestions to help you create a book trailer:
1. Animoto. You can create a fairly good book trailer for free if you sign up, upload some pictures and create some marketable phrases. You have the option to add music, determine the length of play, and choose from a selection of songs or upload your own. You can also upgrade services if you want some additions that aren’t included in the free version. (My Liar’s Ball trailer was created with Animoto)
2. Windows Movie Maker. A lot of people already have this installed on their computers. Especially if you have Microsoft Office installed, you likely have Windows Movie Maker also. If you don’t have it, no worries! You can download it for free! You can upload pictures, create catchy phrases, or add Giff moments if you choose. It’s just like the title says…you’d be making a little movie!
3. YouTube. You can upload whatever trailers you’ve created from the other sources I mentioned, or simply create your own videos with your phone or tablet and upload it. This works out great if you already have a channel with subscribers to help you get the word out too. Some people like to surf YouTube videos as a hobby. You never know who might see it!
There is no set length that a book trailer must be. My advice would be to make it long enough to promote your book and gain excitement, but short enough so that you don’t lose your audience.
Have you created any book trailers?
Do you have additional suggestions for inexpensive ways to create a book trailer?
How did you like my trailer?Website: http://www.kfjohnsonbooks.comEmail: info@kfjohnsonbooks.comTwitter: www.twitter.com/KFJohnsonbooks Facebook: www.facebook.com/KFJohnsonAuthorWordPress: http://kfjohnson.wordpress.comTumblr: kfjohnsonbooks.tumblr.com