VidCon 2023: Biggest Key Takeaways
Lights, cameras and a surge of digital creativity filled the atmosphere as VidCon 2023, the premier online video conference, unfolded in all its glory. Gathering content creators, fans and industry professionals from around the world, this year's VidCon surpassed all expectations as it cemented its position as the ultimate hub for digital media innovation.
As the latest installment of this influential event, VidCon 2023 took place late June at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif., attracting a dynamic community eager to connect, learn and shape the future of online content.
Lemonade was there, and we sure learned a lot. Keep reading for our biggest takeaways about the future of video!
What is VidCon?
Since its inception in 2010, VidCon has evolved into a transformative annual gathering, transcending the boundaries of the digital realm and becoming a springboard for aspiring creators and a hub for digital enthusiasts. With each passing year, VidCon continues to set the stage for meaningful collaborations, industry insights and unforgettable experiences.
VidCon 2023 drew in a diverse crowd of content creators, industry insiders and devoted fans. From YouTube vloggers and TikTok sensations to podcasters and emerging influencers, the event brought together a mosaic of talent, fostering an environment of creativity and inspiration. With its finger on the pulse of the digital zeitgeist, VidCon provided a platform where dreams were shared, ideas were exchanged and connections were forged.
VidCon 2023 Key Findings
VidCon 2023 shed light on several key trends shaping the online content landscape.
Creators are the Top Performers
That’s right! The results are in and creator-led videos are the top-performing content types across all platforms.
Big Value in Collaborations
With creator-driven content reigning on all platforms, brands that collab with influencers are seeing the biggest results.
Bigger Budget for Influencers
In 2023, we’re seeing major brands prioritize influencer partnerships by shifting some of their paid media budget toward more collaborations.
Keep it Short (form)
The appetite for trendy influencer-led content underscores the popularity of shorter videos. Current trends suggest short-form video is the best approach for building brand awareness and driving channel growth.
Build Engagement with Long-Form
There’s still room for long-form video, but it's best targeted at consumers already in the funnel. Use long-form video to build an engaged audience once they’re already “in the door.”
Where’s Your CTA?
Viewers who click the CTA at the end of a video are considered to be more qualified leads because they were interested enough to watch the entire video.
Coming Soon: Livestream Shopping
TikTok is actively promoting its livestream feature and previewed its live shopping at VidCon.
But Wait, There’s More
One of the really great things about VidCon 2023 was getting the chance to drill down topics with industry experts from YouTube and beyond. Here are a couple of our biggest takeaways on specific topics.
Don’t Make Ads, Make TikToks
Short-form video took center stage at VidCon 2023, reminding content creators and brands of the power of this captivating format. The prevailing wisdom echoed throughout the event was clear: don't make ads, make TikToks.
People believe that the best trends start on TikTok. So, current best-practice is to craft visually engaging content, where the combination of striking visuals and concise storytelling reigns supreme. The infusion of music further enhances the immersive experience, elevating the impact of short-form videos. Furthermore, the importance of good audio is a way to level-up the quality from mid to memorable.
Coming Soon to YouTube
Exciting updates on the horizon for YouTube were unveiled at VidCon 2023. Among the forthcoming developments, YouTube announced plans for A/B testing of long-form video thumbnails, aiming to optimize visual appeal and engagement for creators and viewers alike.
Additionally, AI-generated audio translations were revealed, which promises to break language barriers and foster broader accessibility on the platform. These exciting insights were shared directly by Amjad Hanif, YouTube's Head of VP of Creator Products, signaling a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement within the YouTube ecosystem.
What’s Next? Start a Conversation
VidCon 2023 left us buzzing with excitement for the future of video content. The key insights and trends unveiled at the event have the power to shape the strategies of content creators, brands and marketers moving forward. As we navigate this ever-evolving landscape, it's essential to stay informed, adapt to emerging trends and continue providing value to our audiences.
Want to know more about how Lemonade can help your brand’s video content? Check out our capabilities and then get in touch.