Almost everyone is aware that video is playing a larger and larger roll in the Internet. We've heard that 87% of buyers search oniiine, 84% view videos before making a purchase and that a large portion of real estate buyers report using video as basis of their final decision.  Video works... if it's done right.

But it takes more to making an effective video than just moving pictures, particularly in the case of the fake videos consisting of moving still images (Ken Burns effect) which is being sold as "video" to the unsuspecting.

The same mistakes that Realtors® make with still shots for MLS don't improve by adding motion.

Top 10 agent photo issues I've noticed on YouTube:

• Clutter in the house, yard, counter tops, closets
• Open toilet and washer lids
• Old TV style 4:3 images with black pillars on the sides - Set your camera for 16:9 wide angle
• Didn't turn lights on (dull)
• Not using wide angle lens (like looking through a periscope)
• Bedroom with bare mattresses (Yes, I've actually seen that!)
• Generally poor lighting (dark rooms)
• Seasonal (Christmas) decorations (quickly outdated)
• Parts left out (What's the back yard look like?)
• Poor choice of "thumbnail" picture for the finished product.

Suggestions: When you're taking pictures or video of a listing here are a few suggestions to put the listing in the best light (pun intended).

• Turn on all the lights, close all the shades and curtains.
• Schedule for the middle of the day to avoid direct sun in the lens or hard shadows.
• When shooting video or assembling a slide show video, keep the images in a logical sequence so that the viewer has some concept of where they are.
• (Video) Don't wave the camera like it was a magic wand. Move the camera slowly and avoid too much zooming.
• Close the lid! Whether it's the washer or the toilet, please close the lid before you start taking pictures or video.

Other tips:  Some extras I've started taking along -

• A package of spare light bulbs (for burned out or missing bulbs)
• Dark colored light weight extension cord - easy to hide to connect unplugged lamps
• Portable light (photo light or LED work light) where you need light and there just isn't any
• Place mats (to dress up dull, empty counter tops)
• Garbage bag (for collecting the clutter so you can put it back later)

When putting your video on YouTube:

• Select your thumbnail picture carefully - That's the all-important "first impression"
• Title your video using keywords
• Include details in the description, including keywords, just as you would for a web site
• Select the "Tags" carefully - See what others are using. Tags are the "Keywords" for videos
• View your own video! How many real estate videos on YouTube show zero views! What does that say to the seller?

Also introduce yourself to potential customers with an Agent Video so potential customers feel like they know you and will be more comfortable contacting you.

For more tips and suggestions follow @realtytour on Twitter.

(As featured at ActiveRain.com - HERE)