How to Script and Shoot a Professional Explainer Video

Explainer videos are one of the most powerful tools for communicating complex ideas in a simple, engaging format. Whether you’re showcasing a product, service, or brand story, a professional explainer video can boost your business’s visibility, increase conversions, and build trust with your audience. But how do you create a video that not only looks polished but also effectively delivers your message? Follow these steps to script and shoot a professional explainer video for your brand.

Before diving into the technical details of scripting and filming, you need to have a clear message. Start by identifying the problem your audience faces and how your product or service solves it. Keep your message simple and focused—explainer videos are most effective when they stick to one central idea.

Key Points to Consider:

• Who is your target audience?
• What problem are you solving?
• How does your solution work?
• What action should viewers take after watching the video?

By answering these questions, you can create a concise, actionable message that will serve as the foundation for your script.

A great script is at the heart of any successful explainer video. When writing, keep your tone conversational and approachable, as if you’re talking directly to a customer. Avoid overloading the video with too much information—remember, your goal is to explain, not overwhelm.

Tips for Writing a Strong Script:

• Start with a Hook: Grab attention in the first 5–10 seconds. This could be a startling fact, a relatable problem, or a provocative question.
• Focus on Benefits: Highlight how your product or service benefits the viewer, rather than focusing solely on features.
• Include a Call-to-Action (CTA): End with a clear CTA, such as “Visit our website for more info” or “Sign up for a free trial.”

For length, aim for around 90–120 seconds. This keeps your video concise and prevents viewer drop-off.

Storyboarding is the process of visualizing each scene of your video before you start filming. It helps ensure that your video flows smoothly and that every shot aligns with the script. Create simple sketches of each scene, including any text overlays or animations, to map out your video’s structure.

This step is crucial for staying organized during the shoot and making sure the visuals support the narrative.

While you don’t need expensive equipment to shoot a professional explainer video, having the right tools can significantly improve the quality. Here’s what you need:

Essential Equipment:

• Camera: A DSLR camera or a high-quality smartphone camera can do the trick. Just make sure your device can shoot in HD or 4K for crisp visuals.
• Tripod: A stable shot is essential for a professional look. Use a tripod to avoid shaky footage.
• Microphone: Good audio is just as important as visuals. Consider investing in a lapel or shotgun mic for clear voice recordings.
• Lighting: Natural light works great, but if you’re shooting indoors, use softbox lights to evenly illuminate your subject without harsh shadows.

The setting plays a big role in how your video is perceived. Choose a location that aligns with your brand and message. For example, a clean office setting works well for corporate or SaaS businesses, while a more creative or relaxed background may suit lifestyle brands.

Pro Tips for Setting Up:

• Keep the background uncluttered: Avoid distractions in the frame so viewers can focus on the message.
• Use brand colors: Subtly incorporate your brand’s colors in the props, background, or clothing to reinforce visual identity.
• Frame your shots: Use the rule of thirds to position your subject in the frame for a balanced, visually appealing composition.

When you’re ready to shoot, take your time to ensure you capture clean, well-composed footage. Follow these steps for a polished result:

Best Practices for Filming:

• Shoot multiple takes: Always film more than one take for each scene. This gives you options when editing.
• Focus on smooth transitions: Plan how one scene flows into the next to avoid abrupt cuts. This could be done through camera movement, visual effects, or narration.
• Use B-roll footage: B-roll (supplementary footage) can enhance the story and add depth to your video. It might include shots of your product in action, your team at work, or customer testimonials.

Editing is where your video truly comes together. You can use software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or beginner-friendly tools like iMovie or Canva Video. Editing involves trimming down the footage, adding text, animations, and sound effects, and ensuring everything flows smoothly.

Editing Essentials:

• Keep it tight: Edit out unnecessary content to keep your video short and to the point.
• Add text overlays: Use text to highlight key points or emphasize your CTA.
• Incorporate music: Background music adds energy and emotion to your video. Just make sure it aligns with the tone and doesn’t overpower the voiceover.
• Brand your video: Include your logo, brand colors, and fonts to maintain consistency with your overall brand identity.

Once your video is ready, it’s time to distribute it across the right channels. Whether you’re uploading it to your website, YouTube, or social media platforms, make sure it’s optimized for each platform’s specifications. Additionally, include relevant keywords in the video title, description, and tags for better visibility in search engines.

Video Optimization Tips:

• Create a compelling thumbnail: This is the first thing viewers will see, so make sure your thumbnail is eye-catching.
• Use subtitles: Many viewers watch videos without sound, so adding subtitles improves accessibility and viewer retention.
• Add a strong CTA: Encourage viewers to take action by including clickable links or buttons within the video.

By following these steps, you can create a professional explainer video that effectively communicates your message, engages your audience, and elevates your brand. Whether you handle the production in-house or work with a freelancer or agency, understanding the process ensures you get the best results.