Send Compelling Direct-to-Camera Videos with Powerful Enhanced Video Texting Technology
Want to explore new methods for distributing video content, but don’t know where to start? Try sending simple, direct-to-camera videos using Switchboard’s Enhanced Video Texting (EVT) technology.
Professional-quality video content is no longer a requirement for capturing your audience’s attention. Filming simple but genuine direct-to-camera videos is easy and just as effective - all you need is a cell phone!
There are many options for distributing your video content, but no option is as reliable or as powerful as our Enhanced Video Texting (EVT) technology.
If you are not familiar with EVT, here are the basics you need to know:
Our award-winning EVT allows you to send clear 30+ second videos to all phone types and phone carriers.
Videos are embedded directly in the text message, not linked.
Custom Captions are an optional addition to make videos accessible to phones in silent mode.
Sending videos directly to audiences you own ensures that your content will get in front of the right people, unlike live TV or digital platforms with vague reporting and tracking.
Interested in making direct-to-camera videos optimized for EVT? We have compiled a simple list of guidelines for making great quality videos, along with examples, to inspire you.
Guidelines for Great Texting-Optimized Direct-to-Camera Videos
Choose a quiet space with ample lighting (try to avoid backlighting).
Avoid movement/scene changes. For example, sitting at the table in front of your phone is better than recording yourself walking through your neighborhood.
Do a test run. This allows you to practice what you're going to say and ensure there are no unanticipated background noises.
Videos recorded in a square or horizontal aspect ratio are better than those recorded vertically.
Check Out This Real Example of a Direct-to-Camera EVT
WRS, an award-winning, full-service creative strategy and voter engagement firm, coordinated the texting for the Nick Clemente for Delegate campaign. They sent three amazing direct-to-camera EVT videos featuring Clemente about his commitment to standing with victims of sexual assault to each county in his district and one direct-to-camera EVT Monday before Election Day in 2021 shown above.
These videos achieved a 95% delivery rate on average across the four projects, receiving 589 replies total. This level of delivery and direct engagement offered WRS valuable zero-party data they could use to continue making informed outreach decisions.
More Direct-to-Camera EVT Ideas
Brands and organizations of all sizes and industries have started making these simple, direct-to-camera videos. A quick scroll through TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts will reveal marketing videos not so different from the organic content coming from regular users of these platforms. Here are some more ideas for inspiration:
Bottom Line
No matter the size of your organization, it is important to connect with your audience in ways that truly resonate with them. While it is important for voters to have multiple kinds of touchpoints in any outreach program, video content is the most effective in accurately conveying your message and drawing a genuine emotional connection.
If you are ready to start using texting to send your video content directly to your audience, take the first step today and sign up with Switchboard at myswitchboard.com. Have more questions about Switchboard or EVT? Contact our sales team at (833) 245-2534 or sales@myswitchboard.com to discuss how texting can best work for you.
