Top 5 Video Takeaways from 2023

Now that 2023 is behind us, here are the top 5 things we learned from video production and video marketing this past year:

1. Short and Sweet Takes the Cake: Attention spans shrank faster than ever, propelling short-form video to the top of the content pyramid. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels exploded, and even giants like YouTube adjusted, proving that micro-narratives can pack a punch. This reignited the focus on compelling hooks, punchy visuals, and concise storytelling, reminding us that brevity can be the soul of wit (and clicks).

2. Authenticity Beats Perfection: Polished productions took a backseat to raw, real, and relatable content. Viewers yearned for transparency and connection, embracing shaky phone footage and genuine human moments. This authenticity wave propelled user-generated content (UGC) to new heights, proving that stories told by the people, for the people, resonate deeply. Brands took notice, learning to collaborate with real audiences rather than dictating narratives.

3. Immersive Experiences Rule the Game: 360° videos, augmented reality (AR) filters, and even virtual reality (VR) dipped their toes in the mainstream, offering hyper-engaging, interactive experiences. From product tours to concert front rows, brands explored the potential of putting viewers at the heart of the action. While still in its nascent stages, immersive technology hints at a future where video transcends passive consumption and invites active participation.

4. Mobile Masters the Craft: Smartphones further democratized video production like never before and manufacturers like Apple touted the iPhone 15’s filmmaking capabilities. AI-powered editing apps, intuitive interfaces, and affordable add-ons like smartphone gimbals empowered everyone to become a storyteller. This accessibility redefined the video landscape, proving that high-quality content can be born from the palm of your hand.

5. Data Drives Decisions: Video analytics evolved into sophisticated storytellers, whispering valuable insights. From engagement metrics to heatmaps and conversion tracking, data became the compass guiding content creation. This focus on measurable results led to targeted campaigns, versioning existing content based on performance marketing data, and a laser-sharp focus on audience preferences. It's a reminder that behind the creative spark lies a data-driven engine, optimizing every frame for maximum impact.

As we step into 2024, these lessons leave us brimming with excitement. Short and authentic micro-stories will continue to captivate, while immersive tech promises to blur the lines between reality and video. Mobile filmmaking will democratize the craft further, and data will remain the fuel for strategic video campaigns. One thing's for sure: video is the language of the future, and those who embrace its evolving trends will be the storytellers who truly connect, engage, and inspire.

What 2023 trends intrigued you the most?