5 Tips for Creating Insta-Worthy Cooking Video

Author: Tobias H. Gillot

You're a great cook, your dishes are always eye-catching, and your techniques are worth imitating. So, shouldn't your latest cooking video be a hit on social media? If you're not getting enough views on your cooking videos, it may not be about the food you're cooking. Engaging content is what helps social media cooks to go viral more than sound cooking techniques. So, instead of doubting your kitchen skills, focus on creating a captivating video to draw in audiences.

Everything from the lighting you choose to the pots and pans you cook with can change your video. It can be the difference between a dull and uninteresting clip, or fun and appealing video. And, even the most visually-appealing food can look unappealing in the wrong serving plates. So, get great equipment, pick the right setting, and choose cookware that elevates your video. Also, remember to follow other Instagram chefs to research your competition.

Your kitchenware matters.

Remember that your video will showcase more than your food. So, it's essential to surround it with attractive accessories. Everything from the pot you use to the setting of your video will make a difference. If your pots and pans are not video-friendly, you should consider investing in new products.

You can get great deals at an online store like OutletSale.com, so you don't have to spend too much on your new kitchenware. You can purchase high-quality European kitchenware that adds a classy touch to your food videos, at wholesale prices. Stock up on attractive cookware to help your video stand out. Add everything from serving spoons and knife sets to patterned cookware sets to your shopping cart.

You can lower your costs further with free shipping, coupon codes, discount codes, and free returns. Also, consider smarter ways to showcase your finished meals without using cookware. For example, instead of soup in a pot, serve it in a bread bowl. Or, place chocolate spoons by a dessert plate instead of old silverware.

Get the right equipment.

Your cooking video has no chance if the camera you shoot with is outdated. For a social-media friendly video, consider getting the best equipment you can afford. Even professional videographers can't do their job effectively without the right tools. If you can't afford a professional camera or the best lighting equipment, don't worry. Some professional photographers and videographers rent out their equipment to make a little extra money on the side.

However, for a great deal on rental video gear, an online store is your best bet. Several companies offer rentals that can help elevate your videos. You can rent Sony lenses, adapters, mirrorless cameras, and other video gear at an affordable price from companies like BorrowLenses. Ensure you research the company before you rent the equipment to ensure you get a great deal instead of falling for a scam.

Also, do enough research (especially if it's your first time) to get the right video gear for your needs. For example, for outdoor shoots and shoots that take a long time, an extra battery can help you shoot without the hassle of waiting till your battery recharges.

Pick an attractive backdrop.

Where you shoot your video also matters. You want to get a full-frame view rather than focus on tight shots of the food to hide the background. And, if you're not a professional, this is even more important to get right. Wide angles and steady shots are a better idea for a first time videographer, so make sure you spruce up your background.

If you have a small kitchen and no outdoor space to set up a cooking station, you can build a backdrop to hide the clutter. Keep your background light and simple to ensure the focus remains on the food. Your lighting will also change how your video looks, so remember to consider that as well.

Add a unique touch.

What makes your cooking video stand out? It's essential to add a unique touch to your video to help it look attractive. And you can make it an excellent experience for your family at the same time. Shoot a cooking video with your children, or add fun (but not distracting) graphic during the editing process. If it's your first time filming a cooking video for social media, stick to simple methods to help it look appealing.

Focus on offering viewers something different. Do you have any unique cooking techniques to share with your audience? Perhaps you could help them with nutrition tips. Or, draw attention to your attractive cookware set and tell your audience where to pick it up. But, remember not to draw too much focus away from your food when you do this.

Get some help.

Don't spend all your money on a professional videographer for a home cooking video, unless you plan to monetize it. However, it would help if you considered getting help to film the video. A person behind the camera will be able to tell you what your video looks like in real-time. So, you won't waste any time and energy on re-shoots. If you're filming a step-by-step cooking video, having a cameraman can help you focus on getting the best shots for each step.