How to Add Layers
Yo Reader!
Anyone else think of Shrek when you read the word “Layers”?
Last time I shared about how the BEST videos have layers.
But what do you mean by that? I’ll tell you.
The Need for Layers
Most videos are 1 dimensional.
For Example: a podcast setup. Guy talking to another guy. That’s it. There’s nothing more to it.
Most of the time, you can add more layers by specifying the topic.
But only having 1-2 layers is boring. Even the top level podcasters have more layers because ONE OF THE LAYERS IS THAT THEY ARE FAMOUS.
So why do you need to add more layers?
It’s much easier to add layers to a video than to become a more interesting human.
Even the most boring person in the world can have multiple layers to a video and make it interesting.
How Do You Add a Layer?
Let’s go back to podcasts for example.
Once upon a time there were two guys who wanted to start a podcast… (only one layer)
They wanted to stand out and didn’t want to worry about getting guests.
So they decided to record their podcast outside.
And now they killed two stones with one bird:
- Never have to book guests (because it’s always random people)
- They added multiple layers: the setting and location, the situation, pattern interrupt, might be illegal
Questions to Ask to Generate More Layers
Here’s a few questions you can ask yourself to come up with new layers for a video you’re working on:
- What if instead of TEACHING people about something I ASKED people about it instead?
- What is a setting I could film in that is the OPPOSITE of the norm?
- How can I involve audience participation (virtually and physically)?
- How would I film this differently if I was forced to give away $10K?
- Can I use a voiceover in any part of this video?
These are just a few but I think they can help with creating higher quality videos.
What are some layers that pop out to you with your favorite creators/content?
Dino