A guide to creating Pinterest video pins
It’s fair to say that Pinterest was behind the curve when it came to video content BUT over the last couple of years they’ve really upped their video game. It’s now easier than ever for you to create dynamic video content that showcases your business and captures your audience’s attention. It’s also a really great way for you to flex your creativity and maybe even learn some new skills.
Another plus point is that reach is really flipping good on video pins right now! It seems Pinterest are giving them an extra algorithmic boost so it’s well worth investing time and energy creating them.
In this guide, I’ll explore the essentials you need to know to create Pinterest video pins that not only hook viewers in but also drive engagement and convert into sales.
1. Start with a strong hook
The first few seconds matter: Most users are quickly scrolling though Pinterest until something jumps out and makes them stop. To keep them watching your video needs to make an impact within the first few seconds. Use on brand attention grabbing visuals, bold text or intriguing snippets to hook viewers.
Highlight value: Clearly communicate the value viewers will gain by watching the entire video. Whether it's a tutorial, a product showcase or a behind the scenes set expectations from the start.
2. Optimise for sound off viewing
Visual storytelling: It’s useful for you to know that many users scroll through Pinterest with the sound off. Create your video to convey the message effectively even in silent mode.
Text overlay: Sadly Pinterest doesn’t offer captions just yet (hopefully they will in the not too distant future) so use text overlays to highlight key points, instructions or calls to action. Ensure that the text is easy to read and complements your visual elements. And remember that text overlay added in the Pinterest pin builder is searchable which gives an added boost to your platform SEO – win win!
3. Keep it simple
Short and sweet: Pinterest recommends keeping videos between 6 to 15 seconds for optimal engagement. Concise videos are more likely to be viewed in their entirety.
Focus on key messages: Identify the primary messages you want to convey and structure your video to deliver those messages succinctly.
4. Create an engaging video cover
Cover appeal: Your video cover is often the first impression. You have two options here. 1. Design and upload a visually compelling cover that accurately represents the content and encourages users to watch or 2. Choose a frame from your video that does this. You have the option to choose your video cover when adding your pin title and description etc.
Consistent branding: Maintain consistency with your brand colours, fonts and style in the cover to enhance brand recognition.
6. Enhance the reach of your video:
Don’t scrimp on the next essential step: Before you hit publish add a keyword rich title and description to your video pin. Add your web link, shopping tags if appropriate and topics which are pre-set by Pinterest. You can search for and add up to 10 topics which will help your video content be indexed correctly and boost your searchability.
5. Be aware of Pinterest's video specifications:
Aspect ratio: Pinterest recommends a 1:1 or 2:3 aspect ratio for video pins. Ensure your videos are optimised for these dimensions for the best display. Canva has templates and blank templates already set up in these dimensions for you.
Resolution: Use high resolution videos for a crisp and clear viewing experience. Videos taken on your smart phone are just fine or choose from the extensive Canva video library.
6. Add a call to action
Encourage clicks: Clearly state what action you want viewers to take. Whether it's visiting your website, exploring more products or subscribing to your newsletter, guide them exactly where you want to go with a clear call to action.
Overlay buttons: Consider adding overlay buttons or stickers that visually prompt users to click for more information.
Pinterest video pins are a brilliant opportunity for you to showcase your brand in an engaging way. By focusing on a strong hook, optimising for sound off viewing, keeping content concise and using clear calls to action, you can create videos that not only capture attention but also encourage clicks and drive sales.
My advice is always to keep an eye on what’s working with your video content and do more of that! Don’t be afraid to experiment but if something isn’t working, it’s fine to move on.
Happy video pin creating!
Did you find this guide useful? If you have questions about Pinterest marketing let me know in the comments or drop me an email here.
