how i plan, organize, and create my youtube videos (everything i use)

Introduction

Planning out content is essential for consistency and growth on social media. As a creator managing two YouTube channels and an Instagram page, I have developed an effective planner to organize my life. This planner helps me keep track of when and where I need to post content, ensuring I stay on point and productive.

My Planning Process

My content planning generally involves a few key elements: an idea, a title, and the actual content. I have created a customizable Notion template where I can consolidate all of that information efficiently. Here’s how my planner works:

• Dashboard: When you first enter the planner, you’ll find a master content calendar displaying deadlines and statuses across all platforms like YouTube and Instagram. You can customize it further to include TikTok or any other platform you prefer.

• Video Status Tracking: Each video or post has a status that can be marked as "Not Started," "Filmed," "Editing," or "Completed." This allows me to see instantly what’s in progress and what’s finished.

• Goal Setting: Each video includes a goal section where I can jot down what I hope to achieve and the value I want to provide my audience.

• Brain Dump and Script Section: I have space for a quick brain dump of my initial ideas, followed by a detailed script to guide what I want to say in the video. This keeps me on track during filming.

• Thumbnails and Titles: The planner allows space for various thumbnail text ideas and potential titles to represent the video efficiently.

• Research and Notes: I can gather any necessary research or notes for the video to ensure I am well-informed and prepared.

• B-Roll List and Editing Checklist: There’s even a section for B-roll planning and an editing checklist to make sure I have everything covered—from audio quality to color correction.

• Instagram Content Planner: The planning template extends to my Instagram content as well. You can layout posts, including carousels, Reels, and more, with unique sections specific to Instagram.

• Brand Collaborations: A section is dedicated to brand collaborations, where deadlines, status, and payments can be recorded to ensure nothing gets overlooked.

• Digital Products and Newsletter: In addition to videos, I also have sections for managing my digital products and drafting newsletters before copying them to the final platform.

Organizing My Filming Gear

I use specific equipment to enhance my video quality, including:

• Camera: The Sony ZV-E10 is my go-to camera, providing excellent features for content creation.
• Lenses: I use the Tamron 11-20mm for wide shots, Tamron 17-70mm for versatility, and the Sigma 16mm lens for a beautiful background blur.
• Audio Equipment: The Blue Yeti microphone is perfect for voiceovers, while Rode Wireless Go mics allow for flexibility in sound capture.
• Lighting: I rely on a ring light and a key light for indoor shooting, as well as natural light outdoors.
• Tripods and Bluetooth Remotes: A peak design tripod keeps my setup stable, and a Bluetooth remote allows me to control my camera easily.

Editing Process

For editing, I primarily use DaVinci Resolve, which is free or available for a one-time payment. I pair it with Epidemic Sound for music to incorporate a vibe into my videos. My editing process involves tackling everything in stages—from rough cuts to refining the intro and adding music and text. This deliberate approach helps me produce cohesive and engaging content.

Keywords

• Content Planning
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Notion Template
• Video Status
• Goal Setting
• B-Roll
• Editing Checklist
• Filming Gear
• DaVinci Resolve

FAQs

Q1: What tools do you use to plan your video content?
A1: I use a customizable Notion template that includes a master content calendar, goals, and sections for scripts and research.

Q2: How do you manage your filming gear?
A2: I utilize a Sony ZV-E10 camera, various lenses for different shots, quality audio equipment, and proper lighting setups.

Q3: What video editing software do you recommend?
A3: I recommend DaVinci Resolve as it offers a free version and has a one-time payment for its paid version which is comprehensive for an editing suite.

Q4: Can I plan Instagram content with the same planner?
A4: Yes! The planner is designed to accommodate both YouTube and Instagram content effortlessly.

Q5: How do you keep track of brand collaborations?
A5: There’s a dedicated section in my planner for tracking deadlines, statuses, and payment details related to brand collaborations.