With insights from working experts, these recommendations are based on what video professionals use, from creative directors with a team to solopreneurs marketing their business.

Gear for filmmakers and content creators can vary widely in price, so we’ve included a range of gifts priced above and below $500, as well as more affordable gifts priced at $100 or less.

Here’s our 2026 gift guide for filmmakers and content creators. Don’t worry; we won’t judge if you get inspired to do a little personal shopping.

Top 5 Picks at a Glance

The full list below features something for every video professional, but this short list highlights the best of the best across five categories: 

• Best splurge: Nikon ZR Cinema Camera with 50mm Lens Kit ($2,646.95). RED’s cinematic color in a camera one person can shoot with, lens included.
• Best under $500: DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor ($435). Pro editing software plus a hardware controller, and it works with any camera.
• Best for corporate video pros: Elgato Teleprompter ($271.99). A teleprompter with a built-in screen, so presenters can read their script while looking into the lens.
• Best for content creators: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo ($549). A stabilized 4K camera that fits in a pocket.
• Best if you don’t know their gear: Lensrentals gift certificate (any amount). Your giftee can rent exactly what their next project needs.

*All prices checked on 11/4/26

Gifts for Filmmakers Over $500

We’re starting with the highest-ticket items, which include essential equipment professional filmmakers need. Discover the greatest, latest, and most classic gear.

1. Digital Cinema Camera

For the filmmaker capturing movie-quality footage, a digital cinema camera is essential. This type of camera captures color-rich, ultra-high-resolution footage, providing flexibility in post-production editing. For anyone creating full-scale productions, from Hollywood movie studios to content production houses, these are the standard cameras for cinematic video.

Nikon ZR Cinema Camera with 50mm f/1.4 Lens Kit ($2,646.95) 

Best for: Independent filmmakers and creators ready to step up to a true cinema camera, and RED shooters who want a compact second camera.

The ZR is Nikon’s first cinema camera, built with RED Digital Cinema, which Nikon acquired in 2024. That’s what makes this camera a rare combination: RED’s cinematic image, recorded in RED-style raw video at up to 6K, in a 1.19-pound camera one person can shoot with.

TechRadar sees it becoming a go-to second camera for pros, since its color closely matches RED cameras. And it’s not just for pros. One beginner cinema shooter wrote in a review that his ZR footage “looked like a movie after minor editing” in DaVinci Resolve.

While RED cameras require extra gear, the Nikon ZR includes the essentials: a screen bright enough for direct sunlight, built-in stabilization, smart autofocus, and 32-bit float audio recording. 

The featured kit includes a lens, so your filmmaker can start right away. Just add a high-speed memory card compatible with this camera, like the SanDisk PRO-CINEMA CFexpress Type B.

2. Premium Lens

There are a few workhorse lenses that can provide everything a filmmaker needs. A premium lens can be that workhorse if you choose the right one. In contrast to purchasing niche or budget lenses, a video professional can buy a single lens and be well-equipped for most scenarios.

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens ($2,399) 

Best for: Filmmakers who shoot with Canon RF-mount cameras and want a single lens for nearly every job.

“This is the standard photojournalist lens,” shared filmmaker Nick LaClair. “If you go into a war zone, you take this lens with you. It covers your wide shots, your mediums, and your coverage. Outside of wildlife photography or sports, you’re covered for anything you might need for storytelling. The Canon, specifically, is known to be bomb-proof.

“I still own one that I bought in 2006. It’s almost 20 years old, and it functions perfectly. I beat the crap out of it on horseback once. I had to shoot, then throw it over my back and go, like I was in the Kentucky Derby, to get in front of the people to then grab it and shoot again. The whole time, it was just bouncing on the saddle,” said LaClair.

Lenses are tied to a camera’s mount, so check what your filmmaker shoots with before buying. This lens fits Canon’s RF-mount mirrorless cameras, including its smaller-sensor models.

3. Tripod System

Video tripods are generally more expensive than photo tripods. The reason? Smoothness. It’s costly to produce a tripod that’s so smooth you don’t notice when watching the footage back. This challenge is also why tripods made for photography generally don’t translate to video.

Sachtler Flowtech75 MS Tripod System ($1,980)

Best for: Filmmakers who want a professional tripod that sets up fast and carries any camera up to 17.6 pounds.

“Sachtler is the best tripod brand, and they have been forever,” said filmmaker Nick LaClair. “The Flowtech is a carbon fiber tripod that is super lightweight and quick to adjust. Until Flowtech came out, all professional video tripod systems were time-consuming to set up and adjust.

“You would unscrew the legs, let them come down, and screw them all back in. It took forever, and it was clunky. This Flowtech75 system made my life much easier. The one caveat is you have to put it in a rugged case because it’s carbon fiber,” said LaClair.

4. Smartphone with Quality Camera

Smartphone cameras are downright impressive. They help ensure you can capture magical moments wherever and whenever they happen. In many instances, a smartphone camera doesn’t replace a professional one, but that might be changing as cameras continue to improve.

iPhone 18 Pro (1,199+)

Best for: Creators who want pro-level video control in a camera that’s always in their pocket.

After testing the iPhone 18 Pro Max, which shares the Pro’s new main camera, a Tom’s Guide reviewer concluded he can “(almost) ditch my mirrorless.” The reason? The iPhone 18 Pro is the first iPhone with an adjustable aperture, the same opening-and-closing lens mechanism found in traditional cameras.

For filmmakers, that means real control. The built-in Camera app now includes pro controls for aperture, shutter speed, white balance, and manual focus, so your filmmaker can blur a background or capture natural-looking motion without downloading a separate app.

5. Pocket-Sized 4K Drone

Capture scenic views and creative angles with a flying drone. If you’ve ever wondered how your favorite YouTuber got that incredible bird’s-eye shot, here’s the answer.

Drones can be expensive, but the shots they capture are priceless and would otherwise require significantly more resources. A small drone is a great way to reduce costs while getting the unique shots you (or your filmmaker) want.

DJI Mini 5 Pro ($759)

Best for: Travel filmmakers and creators who want aerial shots without hauling a big drone.

The DJI Mini 5 Pro sets “a new gold standard for mini drones” for its camera, according to Tom’s Guide. As the first mini drone with a 1-inch sensor, it captures sunrises, sunsets, and other shots in tricky lighting with a quality that rivals larger, pricier drones.

The drone records 4K HDR video, flies up to 36 minutes per battery, and uses laser-based obstacle sensing to avoid crashes, even at night. Its camera also rotates 225 degrees, making it possible to film vertical video without editing or cropping in post. 

“We often deal with breezy conditions as we’re super close to the beach, and this drone handles it with ease, ensuring smooth, cinematic shots that draw viewers into the experience we offer,” shared Jonathan Pickard, Head of Marketing for Holiday Resort Unity, who flies the previous model, the DJI Mini 4K, which you can grab for just $299.

A note on DJI in the US (as of November 2026): In December 2025, the FCC added DJI to a list that blocks approval of its new models. Drones approved before then, including the Mini 5 Pro, can still be sold, but only while stock lasts. If this one’s on your list, buy early.

6. Mobile Production Kit

For many video professionals, a high-quality mobile production kit is all they need, whether they’re filming on the go or in their office. The goal is to significantly increase the convenience of filming without sacrificing video or audio quality.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo ($549) 

Best for: Creators and vloggers who want smooth, stabilized footage in a pocket-sized camera.

The DJI Pocket is a fantastic video solution for anyone who needs to capture quality footage easily without carrying a full-frame camera. “The Osmo Pocket 3’s features, specifically the 4K/60 FPS recording, are amazing for slow-motion. It can also shoot in different aspect ratios, making it easier to edit for Instagram and YouTube,” said Oleksiy Torokhtiy, Founder of Torokhtiy Weightlifting.

“Thanks to its small size, I can move around the gym and lift weights while capturing close-up form checks without being intrusive. The Pocket 3 performs remarkably well even in low-light conditions and is ideal for travel. I throw it in my gym bag and carry it along,” shared Torokhtiy.

The Creator Combo Kit includes everything you need to start filming stable footage with minimal noise. You can even use your phone as a wireless video monitor and to customize film settings.

Want the newest pocket camera? DJI’s Osmo Pocket 4 isn’t sold in the US. The Insta360 Luna Ultra ($769.99) is the newest option, featuring two lenses and 8K video.

7. Rugged Hard Drive

Every video professional needs to back up footage. And external SSDs have become the standard. They’re compact and pretty foolproof. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to use one that’s rugged enough to protect your footage from life’s various hazards.

Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD ($557) 

Best for: Any filmmaker or creator who shoots on location and needs a protected place to back up footage.

“In the past, everyone had to carry 15 pounds of hard drives. That’s not a problem with external SSDs,” recalled filmmaker Nick LaClair.

This industry-standard option from Samsung protects your footage with an IP65 rating, ensuring it is both dust-proof and resistant to rain. Plus, it features a three-meter drop rating, super-fast transfer speeds, and a range of storage sizes (1TB to 4TB), making it a thoughtful gift for creators and filmmakers alike.

Storage prices have climbed sharply as AI data centers buy up memory chips, which makes a new drive easy to put off buying, and a gift your filmmaker will actually use.

The Best Gift Ideas Under $500

Video equipment can quickly become expensive. While $500 is still a significant investment, filmmakers and those who love them can get a lot of great equipment in this pricing tier.

8. Gimbal System

A gimbal system is essential for reliably smooth shots. Whether the camera moves to tell the story or the filmmaker stands in one place, gimbals eliminate the shake in a camera’s shot. You can walk around with it or use it on a tripod, then tilt and pan with the little button. It makes almost everything you need to do a lot easier.

DJI RS 4 Mini ($309)

Best for: Solo filmmakers and creators shooting with a mirrorless camera or smartphone.

Gimbals are a must-have for filmmakers, but the truly useful ones have not been affordable until recently. The DJI RS 4 Mini puts the functionality of the DJI RS 4 Pro Gimbal Stabilizer into a lighter-weight package for a fraction of the price.

“It’s bonkers that this tech is under $500. There isn’t a filmmaker out there who shouldn’t have a gimbal now. It used to be a specialized kit; now it’s table stakes,” said filmmaker Nick LaClair.

Before buying, check that your (or your filmmaker’s) camera fits. The RS 4 Mini holds up to 4.4 pounds, and DJI keeps a compatibility list by camera and lens.

9. Field Monitor with LUT Support

Cameras often need to be positioned in specific or unusual locations. They might be up high or super low. One could be in a corner, shoved behind a bunch of books. A video monitor makes it really easy to see what the camera sees and review it with multiple people. It also allows the filmmaker to see the shot while they’re in it.

Atomos Shinobi II 5″ Touchscreen HDR Video Monitor ($369)

Best for: Filmmakers who shoot outdoors or who need to position their camera where they can’t see its screen.

The small and relatively affordable Atomos Shinobi II video monitor is ideal for a wide range of video professionals. “The 1500-nit screen makes it perfect for outdoor shoots, where visibility in sunlight is crucial,” shared Ryan Stone, Founder and Creative Director of Lambda Video Production. “The Shinobi II stands out for its USB-C camera control for Canon, Sony, Panasonic, and Z CAM cameras, a feature usually found in more expensive models.”

The Shinobi II works with any camera that has an HDMI output, but its camera control works only with supported camera models, so check your filmmaker’s camera before purchase.

Want a bigger screen? The new Atomos Shinobi 7 II ($499) won a Best-of-Show Award at IBC 2026 and brings the same tools to a 7-inch screen.

10. Editing Software + Controller

Video editing software enables professionals to transform raw footage into a cohesive and visually engaging experience. Video post-production often involves much more than editing clips and scenes together. For this reason, many filmmakers’ workflows include multiple software programs.

DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor (includes DaVinci Resolve Studio) ($435)

Best for: Editors who cut in DaVinci Resolve (or want to start) and want to work faster.

DaVinci Resolve Studio is the only all-in-one video solution that truly competes with Premiere Pro. With 95% of its functionality freely available to anyone, the paid Studio version is what unlocks the pro tools, and the Speed Editor is the most giftable way to get it.

“There are some very powerful tools in the paid version, like noise reduction, lens correction, and face detection. Especially the noise reduction: you can stick any footage into DaVinci and make it look as cinematic as possible,” said filmmaker Nick LaClair.

The Speed Editor features a compact editing keyboard with a search dial for racing through footage. With a Studio license included ($295 on its own), the keyboard itself adds $140 and gives your filmmaker something to unwrap that will accelerate their efficiency. 

“You don’t have to keep paying for upgrades, which future-proofs your investment in the software. They frequently update it to make it better,” shared Senthil M, Founder and Cinematographer with T-Eight.

Note: At the time of writing, this product is 20% off on Amazon, going for $349. That makes the keyboard just $56 more than the software license alone.

11. Durable Carry-On Gear Case

For video professionals who travel down the road or across the globe, a rugged gear case is essential. Hardshell cases are waterproof, dustproof, and crushproof, protecting the expensive gear inside. Outside of the film world, many professionals in other industries use these cases for the same reason.

Pelican 1510 Protector Carry-On Case ($269.95)

Best for: Filmmakers who fly with their gear and don’t want to check it.

“Unless you’re on a little puddle jumper, you don’t want to check your luggage with your camera and other expensive stuff. The 1510 allows you to keep your equipment with you while traveling,” shared filmmaker Nick LaClair. “The Pelican 1510 is always at my side at airports. And it fits in the overhead compartment instead of having to check it.”

12. Professional Lavalier Microphone

Wireless lavaliers are the easiest way to get professional audio quality. Your subject can move around without any wires, and there’s no need for boom mics. Overall, wireless lavaliers offer sound quality comparable to wired lavaliers while being easier to use and less expensive.

Hollyland LARK MAX 2 Ultimate Combo Wireless Lavalier ($299)

Best for: Creators recording interviews, podcasts, or two-person videos who want clean audio without a sound crew.

The Hollyland LARK MAX 2 offers significant upgrades over its predecessor, making it even easier for creators and filmmakers to capture high-quality audio.

Featuring 32-bit float recording, the LARK MAX 2 captures a wider dynamic range without distortion. In other words, filmmakers can worry less about audio being too quiet or too loud during filming. It also includes earbuds for real-time listening and built-in timecode that keeps audio and video in sync, saving time in post-production.

The Ultimate Combo is ready for two-person shoots out of the box, with two mics, two receivers, the monitoring earbuds, and a charging case. 

13. All-in-One Smartphone Video Kit

Most people already have a fancy camera in their pocket. A smartphone video kit is an ideal way to support someone’s burgeoning passion without breaking your budget. A quality video kit can bridge the gap between your (or your filmmaker’s) dreams and getting started.

SmallRig All-in-One Universal Video Kit ($189.99) 

Best for: Beginners and creators who shoot on their phone and want to level up without buying a camera.

Many creators and filmmakers start their careers with a smartphone, and this all-in-one video kit is the perfect upgrade for beginners. It features a universal stability cage with handles and a wireless record button that works from about 30 feet away. An included microphone, pop-on light, and portable tripod round out the list for a practical setup that’s less than $200.

The cage fits most phones, even with a case on, and the mic includes an adapter for older iPhones with a Lightning port, so it works with nearly any phone.

14. Studio Key Light

A key light is the heart of any studio lighting kit. Key lighting illuminates the main subject, while other hard and soft sources support it. It’s a versatile gift ideal for filmmakers or creators building or upgrading their studio space.

Elgato Key Light ($179.99) 

Best for: Streamers and creators setting up or upgrading a home studio.

The Elgato Key Light features 2800 lumens of adjustable brightness and a range of color temperatures for adjusting warmth. The included desk-clamp mount makes it an easy addition for creators. Brightness and color are adjusted from the app on a phone or computer, making it easy to fine-tune the lighting, whether you’re behind or in front of the camera. 

Pair a key light with a couple of RGB light wands (below) for an easy, minimalist setup that’s ideal for live streamers and content creators.

15. Teleprompter

Teleprompters let the speaker read a script while looking into the camera, keep up with comments during a live stream, or give a presentation as though they’ve memorized it.

Elgato Teleprompter with Built-in Screen ($271.99)

Best for: Corporate video pros recording training videos, product demos, and exec messages.

The Elgato Prompter is an all-in-one teleprompter that makes scripted recording easy. Its 9-inch screen is built in, so there’s no tablet or phone to set up. It works with webcams, mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, and smartphones, though it’s best to check compatibility with your presenter’s specific camera. Reviewers rave about it, with Digital Camera World saying it offers “a level of convenience and simplicity that its competitors can only dream of.”

Because it connects to a computer, it’s best for desk setups, where the script is easy to read from about six feet away.

On a tighter budget? The NEEWER Basics X12B Teleprompter ($89.99) turns the phone or tablet your presenter already owns into a teleprompter with a 12-inch display. It requires no assembly, includes a remote to control the scroll, and even comes with a carrying bag. It’s built for filming with a mirrorless or DSLR camera, not a phone.

16. Online Classes

Knowledge is the gift that keeps on giving. Websites like Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, and MasterClass are popular platforms for learning and skill development. Independent creators and small businesses also offer classes or mentorship programs.

MasterClass Annual Membership ($120/year) 

Best for: Aspiring filmmakers, creators, and video professionals who want to learn from notable experts in their field.

MasterClass provides a variety of classes, especially in film and TV. Jodie Foster’s class, for example, walks aspiring filmmakers through the process of creating a real short film, from building the story to choosing music for the final cut.

Foster calls filmmaking “a series of choices and compromises.” Her class provides insights into the challenges and rewards of being both director and actor, offering highly relevant advice for content creators and independent filmmakers.

A MasterClass membership includes access to the full library of 200+ classes across 13 categories. It also provides professional development courses that include a certificate of completion on its mid- and high-tier plans. 

Giving it as a gift? MasterClass ran a 50% off holiday offer in 2025, so watch for a similar deal this season. Just let your recipient know that discounted gift memberships renew at full price.

17. Gear Rental Gift Card

Owning all the gear for a project isn’t always the most cost-effective route. Say you only need a drone to capture aerial shots for a specific project. It doesn’t make sense to invest hundreds of dollars (or more) if you’re not sure you’ll regularly use it again. Gear rentals are also an affordable way to test out a camera setup without committing to thousands of dollars.

Lensrentals Gift Certificate (any amount) 

Best for: Filmmakers of any skill level testing gear before they buy, seeking gear for a one-off shoot, or needing professional equipment on a short-term basis.

Lensrentals carries cameras and lenses from every major manufacturer, plus the audio, lighting, and support gear to round out a shoot. Your filmmaker can rent a single piece of gear or choose a ready-to-go package built for a specific job, from event and vlogging kits to cinema cameras.

Rental prices are listed for seven days, so it’s easy to see how far a gift certificate will go. You can choose any amount, but we recommend $200 to $400, which is enough to rent kits like the Panasonic Lumix S5 IIX Content Creator Starter Kit ($323) for a week before shipping and optional damage coverage. Rentals run anywhere from one to 90 days.

Buying a gift certificate directly from Lensrentals requires creating an account.

Affordable Gifts and Stocking Stuffers Under $100

Thoughtful gifts are always appreciated. This list of affordable gift ideas under $100 features items that will improve your filmmaker’s daily life and help them gain new inspiration.

18. Shortcut Controller

A shortcut controller features programmable buttons that live in a small deck. It turns repetitive clicks into one-button presses, such as switching between apps in a webinar where fumbling with menus is distracting to viewers.

Elgato Stream Deck Neo ($79.99)

Best for: Video pros who record training videos, or who present demos and webinars.

The Stream Deck Neo has eight buttons, each with a small screen displaying an icon you choose, plus two touchpoints for flipping between button pages. The video professional assigns each button an action, like a keyboard shortcut but for more specific computer tasks.

Say the professional is hosting a webinar. In practice, they can assign buttons to start a screen recording, mute their mic, advance slides, and switch between their screen and webcam.

It works with apps like PowerPoint, Teams, Zoom, and many more. Setup is simple drag-and-drop on Mac or PC. Because it’s an Elgato product, it can even control the Elgato Key Light featured above.

19. A Portable RGB Light

A portable light (or multiple) is a practical choice for filmmakers who need to travel with minimal gear or quickly shoot a video at home. These lights offer a full range of RGB colors, as well as regular white light with percentage dimming for extreme precision.

NEEWER TL20C RGB Light Wand ($50.49)

Best for: Creators who want colorful backgrounds and accents without a big lighting budget.

The NEEWER TL20C delivers full-color RGB light and accurate white light in a wand small enough to hold in one hand. Add a rainbow glow or touch of warmth to any set, or pick from built-in scene effects. Magnets let it stick to metal surfaces for quick setups, and a rechargeable battery means no cords on set. At this price, it’s affordable enough to give as a pair, one for the subject and one for the background.

20. Color Checker

A color chart is essential for matching colors when filming with multiple cameras. In DaVinci Resolve and other software, there are automated processes that read color charts from various cameras and color-grade accordingly.

Datacolor SpyderCHECKR 24 Color Chart ($69)

Best for: Filmmakers who shoot with multiple cameras and need their footage to match.

“A color chart’s colors are an absolute, exact known color. They don’t shift from one color chart to the next. So when you stick that in front of a camera, the software will determine, based on what it looks like, how to correct the footage,” said filmmaker Nick LaClair.

The SpyderCHECKR 24 includes 24 color patches, including skin tone patches and a gray ramp, in a thin, portable card. It works with any camera, so it’s a safe pick even if you don’t know what your filmmaker shoots with.

21. Reflectors Kit

Reflectors allow filmmakers to carry less equipment while controlling light to their advantage. You can bounce light off of them, so you don’t have to bring a ton of lighting equipment other than the light itself. Reflector kits are versatile because they include different types of reflectors, such as gold, silver, and white. And each color shapes light differently.

Westcott Illuminator QuickGrip 5-in-1 Reflectors ($49.90)

Best for: Filmmakers who want to shape light, in the studio or on location, without adding more fixtures.

“It’s versatile for a thousand reasons. If you have to create a shadow where there isn’t one, there’s a blackout reflector. And inside that, if you take the cover off, you can use it for diffusion too,” shared filmmaker Nick LaClair. “Instead of carrying a light and a light modifier, like a soft box and a fill and other things, you can just have one of these that you throw a light through.”

The reflector includes built-in handles that make it easy to position with one hand. It also pops open instantly, then twists and folds down into the included carrying case. It works with any light source, from the sun to studio lights, making it useful regardless of camera setup. 

22. Gaffer Tape

You can never have too much gaffer tape. It’s the go-to solution for just about any problem on set. It makes a great gift because it goes fast, and filmmakers are constantly buying it. Grab a range of colors to provide more options for its use.

Gaffer Power Professional Grade Gaffer Tape ($20.88) 

Best for: Filmmakers of every level who need a quick fix for cables, gear, and marks on set.

Gaffer tape is useful for labeling equipment, marking floors to remember tripod positioning, securing cables, attaching camera accessories, securing filters to lights, and countless other small but mighty tasks on set. 

“At $20 a roll, you need gaffer tape all the time, and you hate buying it. There’s another $20 and another $20,” laughed filmmaker Nick LaClair. “If you love someone, get them a six-pack roll of gaffer tape in various colors so they always have some. It’s useful for absolutely everything. There’s nothing it can’t do, but you go through it quickly.” 

23. Videography Apps

Gifts don’t have to come in a box to have a big impact. Filmmakers use various types of apps, some of which are made for video (like the shot-planning app featured below), while others are also useful (like the Sun Seeker app for determining how sunlight will impact a shot).

Cadrage Director’s Viewfinder ($19.99) 

Best for: Directors and cinematographers with an iPhone or iPad who scout locations and plan shots.

“The Cadrage Director’s viewfinder comes in handy when I visit a location before filming to scout it (known as recce). I want to travel light and don’t want to lug around camera gear for these outings,” said Senthil M, Founder and Cinematographer with T-Eight.

“The app has a library of presets, which allows me to set up the cameras and lenses I plan to use for a shoot. I can take videos and stills with the lens frame line markings. This is handy to share with the production team, especially with the art department, as they will know how wide a shot will be so they can prep before the shoot,” said Senthil.

FAQs on Gifts for Filmmakers & Content Creators

What do you get a filmmaker who has everything?

Give them something they’ll use up or something that adds flexibility. A Lensrentals gift certificate lets them rent whatever their next project needs, from a cinema camera to a drone. Gaffer tape is the classic consumable every filmmaker runs out of, and a color checker is a small upgrade many skip buying for themselves.

What’s a safe gift if I don’t know what camera they use?

Camera-specific gear like lenses, gimbals, and camera-control monitors depends on their setup, so skip those. Instead, choose gifts that work with any camera, like a portable RBD light wand for easy color, the Samsung T7 Shield SSD for ever-growing storage needs, the Pelican 1510 hardshell case they can organize their own way, or a Lensrentals gift card to upgrade their next shoot. And you can’t go wrong with online classes and gaffer tape. 

What are good gifts for a beginner filmmaker?

Start with gear that builds on what they already own. Choose the SmallRig smartphone video kit to turn a phone into a video rig, or the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for a stabilized camera that fits in a pocket.

A MasterClass membership teaches the craft from experienced directors, and the DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor includes the full Studio software when they’re ready to edit. 

Can you still buy DJI drones and cameras in the US?

As of November 2026, yes, with limits. DJI products approved before December 22, 2025, when the FCC added DJI to its Covered List, can still be sold in the US, including the DJI Mini 5 Pro and Osmo Pocket 3 in this guide. Newer models, like the Osmo Pocket 4, aren’t sold here, and existing models are only available while stock lasts, so buy early.

We hope we made it tough to choose with our list of the best gear for the video creator in your life. Happy Holidays from the SproutVideo crew!

The post 23 Gifts for Filmmakers, Content Creators & Corporate Video Pros in 2026 appeared first on SproutVideo.

Email marketing earns an average of $36 per $1 spent, according to Litmus. But how do you get more from video emails? We asked marketing experts and business owners what they tested to get more readers watching. Their tests showed lifts of up to 31.2%.

With a video host, you can also collect data on every contact who watches. The video holds the product demo or sales pitch, so contacts who click through and watch the full video are warm leads. For B2B teams, this turns video in email into a sales funnel.

Learn three ways to add video to email, dig into expert-tested results, and track who watched after they click.

Can You Embed Video Directly in an Email?

Yes, but only in some email apps, such as Apple Mail. You can add an HTML5 video to an email, but most email apps, including Gmail and Outlook, block video playback in emails due to potential security risks (such as phishing scams). Where video does play, large video files can load slowly and stall playback. That’s why we don’t recommend sharing a video file directly in an email; instead, use a thumbnail image or GIF and link to your video. 

Does Video Play in Gmail, Outlook, and Apple Mail?

There are many email clients, but the vast majority of opens occur in Apple Mail, Gmail, or Outlook.

• Apple Mail: Yes, on Mac, iPhone, and iPad. 
• Gmail: No. Gmail shows your fallback image instead.
• Outlook: No, in nearly every version. 

Even in Apple Mail, embedded video doesn’t give viewers the next step and leaves you with no insight into who watched or how much they watched. Plus, you still need a fallback image for everyone reading elsewhere. 

For less common apps, see Can I Email for the full list of clients.

3 Ways to Embed Video in Email

You can embed a video in an email in three ways: with an animated GIF preview, a static thumbnail with a play button overlay, or an email embed code from your video host. 

Each method links your thumbnail to the landing page where your video plays.

The main difference between them is what you can track: a GIF or static thumbnail tells you who clicked, while an email embed code from a host like SproutVideo also shows which contacts watched and how much they watched.

1. Animated GIF Video Thumbnail

An animated GIF preview is a short, looping clip from your video that links to your video landing page. It brings motion into the inbox without embedding the video itself.

GIFs display in nearly every email app. The exception is Outlook for Windows 2007–2019, which shows only the first frame, so choose a first frame that works on its own. To see how animated thumbnails perform against static ones, see the thumbnail test below.

To use a GIF thumbnail:

1. Upload the GIF to your email marketing platform and insert it into the email.
2. Hyperlink the animated poster frame to your video’s landing page.
3. Ensure the video and landing page are ready for traffic, then schedule the email.

Keep animated poster frames under 1 MB so your email loads quickly and displays properly.

2. Static Thumbnail With Play Button Overlay

A static thumbnail is a still image, usually with a play button overlay, that links to your video landing page. Static images provide faster loading times and improve accessibility for readers sensitive to motion. Certain brands may also prefer the stark professionalism of static images.

To use a static thumbnail:

1. Add a play button overlay so readers know the image is clickable. You can do this in your preferred image editor or using your video host. 
2. Insert the image into your email and link it to your video landing page. 

3. Email Embed Code From Your Video Host

An email embed code is the HTML you grab from your video host to add directly to your email marketing platform. This embed code adds your video’s thumbnail or animated poster frame to your email, with a link to your video. Because the host generates the preview, you don’t need to create a GIF or add a play button overlay in other software.

To use an email embed code: 

1. Generate a custom email embed code through your video host. 
2. Paste the code into a custom HTML block in your email.

Using a responsive embed code also ensures your video thumbnail scales to fit every screen. Your email platform determines whether manually added thumbnails resize. SproutVideo email embed codes are responsive by default.

A SproutVideo email embed code also lets you track which email contacts watched your video and how much time they spent watching. See how in How to Track Who Watched Your Email Video.

5 Tests to Improve Video in Email Marketing Results

To improve video-in-email results, A/B test one element at a time and compare results. Repeat each test to confirm the result holds. Once you know what works, the results become standards.

The five simple tests below come from agencies and small businesses that ran them in their own campaigns and shared them with SproutVideo in early 2025. Use them as inspiration for your own tests, rather than industry benchmarks. 

Here’s what experts found when they tested video in email:

• 22% more opens from adding “Video” to the subject line (Bright Force Electrical)
• 18% more engagement from adding intro copy before the video (Medical Anti-Aging)
• 21% higher click-through rate from a GIF thumbnail versus a static one (InboxArmy)
• 15% higher click-through rate from a specific CTA (Pro Coffee Gear)

1. Put “Video” in the Subject Line

A subject line that mentions video tells readers what to expect before they open it and sets your email apart in a crowded inbox.

Test to run: Send the same email with and without “Video” in the subject line. Compare open rates, then compare click-through rates to see whether the extra opens become views.

2. Add Intro Copy Before the Video

Many marketers put the video at the top of the email. A few sentences of context first can give readers a reason to click.

Test to run: Create an A/B test where Version A opens with the video thumbnail and Version B opens with two or three sentences of context, then the thumbnail. Compare click-through rates.

3. Test Animated vs. Static Thumbnails

Motion captures attention, encouraging readers to pause and absorb more of your messaging. Animated or static, your thumbnail should set video expectations at a glance. 

Test to run: Use the same moment in your video for the GIF and static thumbnail to create the cleanest A/B test. Compare click-through rates.

4. Find Your Best Thumbnail

Beyond choosing between animated and static options, the frame you feature determines whether readers click. Pull several strong moments from your video and test them against each other.

Test to run: Keep everything else in the email the same, change only the thumbnail, and compare click-through rates.

5. Write a Specific CTA 

Don’t assume readers know the next step. A specific CTA tells them why they should click.  

Test to run: Compare “Watch Now” against a compelling CTA that describes what the video shows or why they should click. Measure click-through rate. 

None of these tests measures how readers engaged with the video after the click. That data lives with your video host; see the tracking section next for how to capture it. 

How to Track Who Watched Your Email Video With SproutVideo

Your email marketing platform shows who opened the email and clicked on your video. A video host with engagement data, like SproutVideo, shows you who watched the video and how much of it they watched. When your email links to your video landing page with one of the methods below, each viewing session connects back to the contact who clicked.

See Which Contacts Watched Your Video

1. Use an Email Embed Code

The simplest way to see who watched your video from an email is to use a SproutVideo email embed code. When customizing the embed code, select your email provider. When a contact clicks your video thumbnail and watches the video on the landing page, SproutVideo links their email address to their viewing activity in your engagement metrics. 

The email embed code works with more than 25 email marketing platforms, including HubSpot, Mailchimp, Klaviyo, and Marketo. 

2. Add Merge Tags to Your Landing Page Link

If you link your own GIF or static thumbnail, or your email provider isn’t on the list, you can track viewers by adding merge tags to your landing page link. Your email platform provides these tags to fill in each recipient’s details. Merge tag formats vary by platform, so check your email provider’s documentation for the exact syntax. This help doc walks through the setup.

Sync Engagement Data with HubSpot, Zapier, or Make

The HubSpot integration syncs watch milestones (1%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) to each contact record. You can then use this data in your CRM to determine warm leads and create segmented follow-ups. For other platforms, connect SproutVideo through Zapier or Make.

For example, with SproutVideo’s HubSpot integration, you can trigger a sales task when a contact reaches 75% of a demo video, or send a follow-up email to contacts who stopped before the halfway point.

All marketing integrations are included on every SproutVideo plan. 

Put Viewer Data to Work

Use this data to see which videos and video lengths hold attention. Once you know who watched and how much, each team can act on it:

• Marketing evaluates leads by watch depth and segments lists for follow-up campaigns.
• Sales uses engagement data to prioritize leads and personalize sales pitches. 
• Support reaches out to new customers who never watched the onboarding video.

Video in email works best when the email earns the click and the landing page does the rest. Test what gets readers to click, then use what they watch to decide who to follow up with and what to send next.

Video in Email Marketing FAQs

What types of emails work best with video?

Video works best in emails where watching is the goal, or where the video drives a conversion on your landing page. This might include: 

• Nurture sequences
• Webinar invites
• Demo replays
• Sales walkthroughs
• Onboarding and training
• Feature updates 

In all cases, the video should provide value that copy alone can’t.

Can video autoplay in an email?

Not reliably. Gmail and Outlook don’t play video in the email at all, so there’s nothing to autoplay. For motion that starts on its own, use an animated GIF thumbnail. It plays automatically in nearly every email app and links to the full video on your landing page. Keep the loop short, a few seconds, so it catches the eye without distracting readers.

Does adding video to an email hurt deliverability?

Not if you link to it. Deliverability problems arise when attaching video files or embedding them directly in the email, which inflates message size and can trigger spam filters or size limits. A linked thumbnail keeps the email light. 

Keep animated GIFs under 1 MB, add alt text, and pair the thumbnail with enough copy that the email doesn’t read as image-only.

How do you send a private or confidential video by email?

Link your email thumbnail to a video that requires a password or login to watch. With SproutVideo, login protection gives access only to the specific people you allow, and SproutVideo automatically tracks each viewer’s activity by their email address. 

Password protection also works for simpler sharing. See how to secure and protect your videos for every option.

How do you make a video in an email accessible?

Make your video emails accessible by adding alt text to your thumbnail. Alt text lets screen readers describe it. Additionally, include captions on your video so viewers can watch without sound, and test your email across devices and email apps before you send.

The post How to Embed Video in Email (and Track Which Contacts Watched) appeared first on SproutVideo.

Adding a video to a landing page gives visitors a low-friction way to engage, with 63% of people preferring to watch a short video when learning about a product. Moreover, 85% of people say video has convinced them to buy a product or service. This guide outlines exactly how to create a video landing page that converts:

• Where to place the video
• Which type of video to use
• How long to make the video
• Supporting elements to include

You’ll see these best practices in action with real landing page examples. Finally, learn how to add video to your own landing pages and use engagement data to increase conversions.

What Is a Video Landing Page? 

A video landing page is a single-purpose web page that uses a video placed above the fold (visible without scrolling) as the primary tool to persuade visitors to take one action. Supporting elements such as text, calls to action, social proof, and other rich media guide visitors toward that action.

Why Do Videos Improve Landing Page Conversions?

Video landing pages improve conversions by providing multiple ways for visitors to engage with your messaging while focusing their attention on a single call to action. 

In one widely cited case study, adding a video to TutorVista’s landing page lifted signups by more than 86%. More recently, Animoto observed a 179% average increase across ten pages where the only change was adding a video. But it’s not magic. Multiple benefits of a video landing page work together:

• Improve Product Understanding: Research on multimedia learning shows that people understand ideas more deeply when words and visuals work together.
• Shorten Sales Cycle: One short video can explain a product’s value, address objections, and show real use cases, expediting the customer journey. 
• Connect with Prospects: Video builds emotional connection in a way text can’t, and pairing it with real customer proof reinforces that your solution actually works.
• Get Actionable Data: A static page can only tell you so much. Video analytics show you exactly what viewers watched, so you know how to improve engagement.
• Improve SEO Visibility: With a video sitemap, your video can appear in the SERP, video results, or image results as a thumbnail, increasing your chances of being found. Adding video schema helps search engines understand and display your content. 

How to Build a Video Landing Page That Converts

There are several ways landing pages successfully incorporate videos. But regardless of how video is used, a few elements nearly always remain the same. 

1. Choose a Video Type 

The right video type depends on what you want viewers to feel or do first.

• Fullscreen Background: Immerse viewers in your product or brand experience. These videos feature the product in the context of the lifestyle it is associated with.
• Founder Video: Introduce the people behind a company to build trust quickly. Pull back the curtain by letting people see who they’d be working with.
• Product Demo: Showcase the actual product or interface in action. Best for products where seeing it work answers more questions than describing it would.
• Customer Testimonial: Put your social proof front and center. When prospects are weighing multiple companies, let happy customers make the case for yours.
• Explainer Video: Deliver your elevator pitch in a short video. Name your ideal customer’s main pain point and show how your product or service solves it.

You’ll see each of these in action below, alongside real landing pages using them.

2. Consider Video Length 

The ideal video length varies by industry, target audience, and video type; however, 71% of marketers agree that the most effective videos are 30 seconds to 2 minutes long. Dwight Zahringer, founder of digital agency Perfect Afternoon, trimmed a 4-minute video to 90 seconds, increasing conversions from 2.1% to 8.3%.

Product demos sent to prospects typically fall into the 2-5 minute range to provide all the details. But it’s common for homepage product demo videos to loop on mute. This allows visitors to see the product in action at a glance, without being asked to stop and watch. 

Don’t force a cut just to hit a shorter runtime; give the video the time it needs to convey your product’s value.

Remember the Hook

Whatever video length you land on, pay special attention to your opening hook. Capturing attention in the first ten seconds is critical.

John Beaver, CEO and founder of standing desk company Desky, saw a 23% increase in clicks by leading with a unique selling point at the start of the video.

3. Place Video Above the Fold

Place the video at the top of the page so that viewers can play it without scrolling. A video buried further down won’t improve conversions if no one sees it.

Keep in mind that “above the fold” isn’t the same across screens. Make sure you test your video landing page on desktop and mobile. 

4. Determine CTA Placement 

Shorten the path from watching to converting by placing your call to action directly next to the video and above the fold across screens. Ensure that whatever action you want viewers to take, such as requesting a demo, reviewing pricing, or subscribing, is a clear, visible button that no one has to scroll or hunt for.

If your video hosting platform supports in-player calls to action, you can prompt viewers to act while they’re still watching. Test different trigger times to see what converts best for your offering. 

5. Optimize the Thumbnail 

Your thumbnail is the billboard for your video. It’s your greatest chance to influence a prospective customer to press play. You can intentionally use the visual elements of your thumbnail to increase views (as measured by play rate in analytics). 

To create a high-converting thumbnail: 

• Stay On-Brand: Align the visual story of your thumbnail with your brand tone and aesthetic. On-brand doesn’t always mean polished. Arvind Rongala, CEO of corporate training provider Edstellar, increased conversions by 27% by swapping a design-heavy image for a screenshot of the instructor at a whiteboard, better reflecting the courses.
• Hook with a Focal Point: The first moments after a visitor lands on your page are critical. Use the video thumbnail as a hook by making the pain point its focal point. Kerry Anderson, co-founder of SEO agency RankingCo, saw a 73% higher click-through rate when the thumbnail showed the problem.
• Use Color & Emotion: Contrast makes your thumbnail stand out from the rest. Use complementary colors, like yellow and purple, to create palettes that capture attention. Use color and other visual elements to conjure emotions that motivate viewers to act. 
• Keep Text to a Minimum: Show, don’t tell, as much as possible. Use text to intentionally reinforce the video’s message or provide more context that increases the hook’s power. Avoid vague language and ensure the text is large enough to read across formats. 
• Represent the Video Accurately: Above all else, the video thumbnail must align with the video’s content. If a viewer presses play expecting one video and gets a different topic or tone, they’re likely to bounce rather than convert. 

The goal is to stop the scroll and capture enough attention to inspire action. If you have a high play rate, you know the thumbnail is working. If conversions still lag, you can rule it out and focus on other elements of the video and page.

6. Add Social Proof 

Showcasing customer success with social proof helps remove doubt. Whether in the form of testimonial quotes, customer logos, review site badges, or user-generated content (UGC), social proof increases conversions. Kevin Heimlich, CEO of digital marketing agency The Ad Firm, increased demo requests from 1.5% to 4% by adding a 15-second testimonial after its product demo.

Social proof is a powerful trust-building tool on your page. Hugh Dixon, marketing manager for moving company PSS International Removals, noticed that placing social proof near the page’s video increased conversions even when visitors didn’t press play. Don’t be afraid to combine multiple types, such as logos, badges, and testimonials, on a single video landing page. 

7. Remove Distractions 

Make sure every element of your video landing page serves a specific purpose. Your video grabs attention and persuades. Social proof builds trust. Surrounding copy adds context at a glance. The CTA directs viewers to the next step you want them to take. 

Any additional elements should similarly complete a specific job, or they become distractions and traffic-leak points. Nina Golban, SEO copywriter for solar installation company SunValue, quadrupled quote requests by adding a state-specific utility rates calculator below its video. 

Meanwhile, removing unnecessary elements, like navigation, social links, and blog posts, helps focus the viewer’s attention. Bernadette King, CEO of the marketing agency King Digital Pros, consistently sees a 30-50% higher conversion rate on client landing pages when navigation is removed.

5 Video Landing Page Examples

1. Fullscreen Background Video

Fullscreen background videos, like this GoPro example, are common in e-commerce and typically occupy nearly all of the “above-the-fold” space on a landing page. They generally showcase the lifestyle associated with the product, inviting viewers to imagine themselves within it. As covered above, autoplay and looping on mute are standard for this format.

These video landing pages are also ideal for video portfolios, such as this example from video production company Lambda Films, which features past work.

2. Founder Video

MK Law Firm uses a 30-second video to quickly connect with visitors by introducing the company founder. The brief surrounding text is written to build trust, while the prominent consultation form directs visitors to take the next step. If viewers scroll, they will discover more detailed information. But everything they need to know is visible as soon as they land on the page.

Landing Page Video Example

3. Product Demo 

Product demos are the most straightforward video format because the company shows the product directly and how it is used. This Notion example autoplays on loop. The video itself is only 10 seconds long, which is all it needs to show businesses the platform’s value for managing projects across teams. 

Above the fold, Notion focuses on driving action toward a demo request. But as soon as the visitor scrolls, they’re met with a wall of customer logos as social proof.                                

Landing Page Video Example

4. Customer Testimonial

Customer testimonial videos are most commonly used as supporting elements rather than as the featured video. In this 3 Men Movers example, the page centers its “Free Move Estimate” call to action. But directly below sit four vertical testimonial videos that can be played without scrolling on most screens. Together, the page elements build trust in a company that handles something as personal as a move.

Landing Page Video Example

5. Explainer Video

Explainer videos amplify the viewer’s biggest pain point, then showcase the ‘after’ reality they can expect from the company’s service or product. 

This SproutVideo example uses all of this article’s best practices above the fold: supporting text, CTA button, and social proof. Rather than relying on a thumbnail to earn a click, the video autoplays muted, with captions enabled, to grab the viewer’s attention.

Landing Page Video Example

How to Create a Video Landing Page with SproutVideo

Your landing page video can do a lot more than just play. With SproutVideo, your video becomes a brand-aligned asset that helps you better understand your audience. 

No matter where you build your landing page, use SproutVideo to add your video for fast, reliable playback and a player that keeps your content protected.

1. Protect the Source Video: Set the video to Private (instead of Public). When embedded, the video is playable for everyone who visits your landing page. However, viewers will not be able to directly download the video or easily share it otherwise. 
2. Customize the Embed Code: Make your video a seamless part of the landing page. Customize colors and player controls, enable autoplay or looping, toggle on responsiveness so the video plays across screens, and more.  
3. Add the Embed Code to Your Landing Page: Paste the embed code wherever the video is intended to live within your website code or builder. Most website builders call this a “Custom HTML” block.

There’s a lot more you can do. Our guides to adding a video to your website and customizing your video player are great resources for seeing your options in action. 

Next Steps: Optimize Your Landing Page Video 

You can learn a lot about your landing page from the video’s engagement data and use that data to increase conversions. 

• Play rate tells you how effectively you’re persuading viewers to watch. If this is low, start by testing different thumbnails to see if you can increase the rate. If your video autoplays, judge it by the retention graph and engagement data instead.
• The retention graph shows how well you keep their attention overall. If viewers drop off before your core message, the graph shows you where to tighten or cut the video.
• Engagement data provides insight into individual sessions: how much the person watched, where they dropped off or replayed, their location, device, and more. Gain a granular understanding of where your videos lose, confuse, or engage viewers.
• The HubSpot marketing automation integration connects viewer activity to your leads. When a visitor converts, their engagement appears in their HubSpot contact record, so you can use these insights to segment your audience and tailor your messaging.

With this information, you don’t have to guess whether your landing page video is working.

Video Landing Page FAQ

What is a video landing page?

A video landing page is a web page designed to persuade visitors to take a specific action, such as buying a product, signing up for a free trial, or requesting a demo. The video is playable above the fold, meaning the visitor doesn’t need to scroll to see it. Common elements that support the video on the landing page include copy, CTA buttons, and social proof.

Where should the video go on the page?

Place your video above the fold (visible without scrolling) on the landing page, taking up a prominent portion of the screen. This helps set it apart as the page’s focal point. Supporting elements should reinforce the video’s core messaging and build trust.

How long should the video be?

Your landing page video should be 30 seconds to 2 minutes long in most cases. Autoplaying looping videos are often much shorter, operating like a GIF that plays for about 10 seconds on repeat. 

Conversely, some products benefit from longer runtimes (2-5 minutes), such as when asking visitors to request a demo after first learning about the product. Ultimately, your video should be the length it needs to be to convey the core value of your service or product to new prospects. 

Should the video autoplay?

Whether the video should autoplay depends on your product, goals, and audience. Requiring viewers to press play gives you additional data for optimizing conversions. If your landing page video has a low play rate, you can start testing elements such as the thumbnail to determine what needs improvement.

But in some cases, a few seconds of silent video can convey more. E-commerce companies, for example, may autoplay short, looping videos of someone using the product to inform visitors without interrupting the shopping experience. 

If you autoplay a video with a spoken message, mute it and turn on captions.

The post How to Create Video Landing Pages That Convert (5 Examples) appeared first on SproutVideo.

The three most common video gates are video lead capture, video paywall, and business access control. Each video gate serves a different goal and requires different tools.

A marketing team using video lead capture to gate a webinar needs a different solution than a course creator running a video paywall for a premium library. An HR team that restricts internal policy videos to verified employees requires its own secure workflow. All three call it gated video content.

Same phrase. Three completely different jobs. 

This guide breaks down each video gate, when to use it, and how to protect content beyond it.

What Is Gated Video Content? 

Gated video content is an umbrella term for three distinct access control workflows, each built around a different condition, audience, and goal:

• Video lead-capture forms collect contact information from anonymous viewers, but they can’t verify that the submitted information is accurate.
• Video paywalls verify subscription access for paying members, but they can’t prevent viewers from screen recording or sharing content.
• Business access control gates (login protection or SSO) authenticate individual identity, but they can’t hold viewers accountable once the content is accessed.

Know your goal to find which gate you need and how to protect content beyond it. 

The Three Types of Gated Video Content

Who needs access to your video content, and why? The answer determines which type of gate you need.

Businesses commonly implement video gates using a secure video hosting platform. Many third-party tools offer gating features, but most can’t control what happens to content after viewers gain access — a gap SproutVideo has spent over a decade helping businesses close.

Video Lead Capture Gate 

A video lead-capture gate converts anonymous viewers into marketing leads by requiring them to provide contact information before the video will play. Potential customers are often willing to exchange their details for high-value content, such as webinars, sales demos, proprietary research, and thought leadership. This gate type is used for top- and mid-funnel marketing.

For example, a B2B SaaS company gates its annual State of the Industry webinar behind a lead capture form. They collect hundreds of leads and earn backlinks from industry sites that reference the data. Within 30 days, the sales team has booked demos with 40 of them.

Video Paywall

A video paywall restricts access to paying members, whether via a subscription, one-time purchase, or membership login. Viewers verify their identity each session, and access can be limited or revoked at any time.

Online courses, premium media libraries, and digital events are the most common use cases, but any business that monetizes video directly uses some form of video paywall and membership login.

Implementation varies. Some businesses use a payment processor like Stripe alongside a secure video host with login protection. Others use a third-party platform like Substack or a WordPress plugin to manage both payment and access. In either case, businesses use a secure video host to control what happens to content after the paywall is cleared.

For example, a fitness instructor launches a premium membership library of workout videos. Members log in each session to access content. Within six months, the membership library generates enough recurring revenue to replace her client work entirely. If membership payment lapses, the trainer can revoke access immediately.

Business Access Control Gate

A business access control gate (login protection or SSO) restricts video access to specific, verified, authorized individuals, rather than allowing access based on payment or subscription.

This gate type protects sensitive or confidential content, including internal communications, employee training, client deliverables, and pre-release material. 

Business access control gates often use additional restrictions to limit content access, such as allowed domains, IP restrictions, and geographic limits. These give businesses control not just over who watches, but also where.

For example, a financial services firm shares a confidential acquisition briefing with senior leadership via a login-protected link. Only verified recipients can access the video, and the firm can see exactly who watched and when.

Clearing the gate is only the first step — what happens to content afterward is where most security gaps live.

How to Secure & Protect Gated Video After Access Is Granted

Most video security gaps live beyond the gate. Controlling who can gain access is step one. Maintaining control throughout the video’s lifecycle requires visibility into who is watching and enforcement tools that go beyond access control.

Identity: Know Exactly Who Is Watching

Viewer-level login ties each viewing session to a verified identity. A secure video host captures exactly who is watching, when, from where, and on what device. This connection provides businesses with a record of every viewing session.

Environment Control: Limit Where Video Can Play

Even an authorized viewer can forward an embed code, share credentials, or log in from an unauthorized location. No video gate can prevent that. Instead, close those gaps by also limiting where video can be embedded and where viewers can watch it.

Where the video is embedded

In browser-based environments, allowed domains limit playback to approved websites. In other environments, such as apps, signed embed codes do the same job with a more technical setup. In both cases, if someone shares the embed code outside the approved environment, the video won’t load or play.

Where the viewer is located

IP address restrictions prevent playback outside an approved network. Even if a viewer shares credentials outside the organization, an unauthorized user won’t be able to access the content off-site. Geographic restrictions take a broader approach, limiting playback to specific countries or regions, which is commonly used when licensing content to specific markets.

Accountability: Trace Unauthorized Activity & Sharing

Viewer-level data doesn’t just confirm who is watching: it helps identify when content is being misused. For example, a user who typically watches on a desktop in Canada that is suddenly using a mobile device in Ireland to speed-watch certification content is a flag worth investigating.

For sensitive and high-value content, businesses can also layer visible and invisible dynamic watermarks. 

• Visible watermarks deter theft by displaying the viewer’s personal information in a partially transparent, moving label on screen. 
• Invisible watermarks travel with the video file. So no matter how it’s stolen or where it ends up, the source can be traced to hold the viewer accountable.

Together, these layers — identity, environment control, and accountability — give businesses control over video content not just at the gate, but throughout its entire lifecycle.

Build your secure video workflow: The Complete Guide to Protecting Business Videos

FAQ on Gated Video Content

What’s the difference between gated and ungated video?

Ungated video is publicly available, meaning viewers can watch without taking any action. Gated video requires viewers to meet a specific condition before playback begins, such as submitting contact information via a video lead-capture form, paying via a video paywall, or verifying their identity through a business access control gate.

How do I gate a video on my website?

Gating a video on your website starts with a secure video hosting platform that supports the video gate you need.

• For a video lead-capture gate, look for a video host that integrates with your CRM or email platform.
• For a video paywall, you’ll need membership site with login plus either built-in payment integration, a third-party paywall tool, or payment processor like Stripe.
• For business access control, use login protection or SSO and consider layering allowed domains, IP restrictions, or geographic limits.

Most third-party website platforms offer video gating as a feature or plugin. However, these gates typically only control access, not what happens to content once it’s granted.

Does gated video content hurt SEO?

No, gated video content does not hurt SEO, though it does limit what search engines can index. Search engines cannot index content behind a gate, so the video itself won’t rank, but the page hosting the video can still rank if the surrounding content is optimized.

For businesses that want to block search engine crawling, a secure video host can prevent indexing, which also protects content from being used in AI training.

Can a gated video be downloaded?

You can protect gated video from downloads with a secure video host that blocks direct downloads and protects against piracy, including screen recording, credential sharing, and embed code scraping. Learn more about protecting video from downloads and piracy.

Is password protection enough to secure video?

Password protection is a video gate that limits access to anyone with the password. But unlike login protection or SSO, it can’t verify individual identity, revoke access for a specific viewer, or hold anyone accountable for how they use the content. 

For businesses that need control throughout a video’s lifecycle, password protection isn’t enough. Use this flowchart to determine which video access restriction is right for your use case.

The post What Is Gated Video Content? 3 Types and When to Use Each appeared first on SproutVideo.

In 2025, we launched the Business Video Playbook, asking professionals across industries how they drive real business results with video. We explored emerging AI tools for workflow efficiency, compared leading video editing platforms, and published practical guides on secure video sharing, player customization, video in email, and more.

From that work, we’ve pulled ten practical ways businesses are using video heading into 2026, based on the articles our audience found most valuable.

Here are the ten most popular SproutVideo blog posts of 2025.

10 Ways to Use Video, Based On Your Favorite Articles of 2025

10. Create High-Converting Videos for Landing Pages

Videos on landing pages enhance conversion rates when they guide decisions and educate potential customers. In this way, video landing pages help strategically reinforce value, build trust, and prompt conversion. 

Based on expert insights, effective landing-page videos often:

• Trigger the CTA early (first 15 seconds) to drive an average 18% lift in conversions
• Hook viewers with product benefits and unique selling points to increase watch time
• Remove doubt with social proof, including client logos and customer testimonials

From full-screen background videos to customer testimonials, see high-performing video examples in action and explore more tips in the guide.

9. Write Your Brand Narrative with Video Marketing

When perception matters as much as the product, video can be a powerful way to shape a brand’s narrative.

Kalene Griffith, CEO of Visit Bentonville, and her team used online video to reframe Bentonville, Arkansas, from a small corporate town into a destination that fuels the local economy.

Through cinematic visuals and authentic local voices, Griffith’s experience demonstrates how people-first storytelling shifts perception and creates lasting impact.

Watch the Interview: How Destination Storytelling Drives Local Tourism Economies

8. Create A Seamless, Custom Video Experience

Want more control over how viewers experience your content? Video player customization goes far beyond appearance.

Custom Video Player Example

Rather than treating the player as a passive container, you can decide how viewers interact and direct their attention to additional resources or links during and after playback.

• Collect viewer contact information with a lead capture screen.
• Add quizzes or links to relevant resources through custom end screens.
• Remove specific playback controls, such as full-screen or scrubbing.

A customizable video player enables you to create a viewing experience that aligns with your business goals, whether that’s lead generation, learning outcomes, or brand consistency.

Read Now: 11 Ways To Boost Branding & Conversions

7. Increase Video Discoverability Across Search Engines

The landscape of video discoverability has shifted with the introduction of AI search. One practical way to adapt is by adding video schema: a form of metadata that helps search engines and AI systems understand what a video contains and when to surface the content. 

For example, when adding video to a landing page, you can include schema that’s invisible to visitors, such as the video title, thumbnail image source, and transcript. This schema markup enables search engines to more easily locate, reference, and surface the content across both traditional and AI-driven search results.

Learn How: Enhance Video Visibility with Structured Data

6. Share Videos Publicly & Keep Them Protected

Public video doesn’t have to mean unprotected video.

Many platforms recommend sharing videos via direct links for convenience, but this approach leaves content vulnerable to downloading and redistribution. Instead, we recommend using embed codes to keep videos publicly viewable on your website, while retaining control over how and where someone accesses your videos.

Embed codes also make it easier to customize the player (such as play button colors) and update videos without manually replacing them across pages.

Read Now: How to Embed Videos on Your Website Without Risking Downloads

5. Improve Click-Through with Video in Email

Adding video to email has the potential to significantly increase click-through rates. But embedding video files is one of the fastest ways to break the email experience across clients. Instead, you can include a video thumbnail with a play button to entice clicks.

When a reader presses play, a webpage opens with the embedded video. This workflow offers the best of both worlds, delivering the value of video while preserving email performance and the viewing experience.

Read the Guide: 3 Ways To Add Video to Email Campaigns

4. Build Profitable Connections with Authentic Videos

Businesses commonly use video (91% in 2025!) to build trust and nurture long-term relationships. With 30 years of experience in real estate, Joe Siciliano knows firsthand how human-centered video can transform cold prospects into repeat clients. His approach focuses on consistently showing up, communicating sincerely, and compounding trust over time.

Grab the Free Downloadable Episode Overview for Actionable Tips

The first interview in our Business Video Playbook series, this episode is packed with practical guidance you can apply immediately. With a focus on sustainable, relationship-driven strategies, Joe shares what makes authenticity effective and profitable.

Watch Now: How to Connect with Video from A 30-Year Real Estate Veteran

3. Expand Content Distribution with AI Video Tools

We’ve found that AI video tools (so far) are most effective when applied selectively within an existing workflow. Rather than relying on one-click prompt-to-video generators, you can apply AI across individual steps (such as graphics, music, and voiceover) to maintain quality while increasing speed.

This approach enabled us to convert blog content into an AI-generated video in under two hours. For higher-impact pieces that require additional time and polish, such as our gift guide video, this AI-enhanced video workflow takes one to two days, compared to about a week prior.

Learn How: 5 Steps from Blog to Video in Under 2 Hours

2. Choose the Best Video Software for Your Workflow

The right video software for your workflow should depend on how your team actually works.

For example, while both DaVinci Resolve and Adobe Premiere Pro are industry standards, they are designed for different production models. Premiere Pro supports traditional workflows, where various professionals often handle editing, color grading, and finishing. DaVinci Resolve, by contrast, is built around a more integrated approach, making it easier to move between every stage of post-production within a single tool.

Even with decades of experience in Premiere, our Creative Director, Nick LaClair, switched to Resolve last year while producing this series. Furthermore, his breakdown of the tradeoffs became our most-watched YouTube video of 2025.

Watch Now: Premiere Pro vs. DaVinci Resolve: Should You Switch?

1. Craft Engaging Videos for Modern Learners

When you design videos around how people actually learn, it can drive real, measurable outcomes.

For Ethan Anderson, Director of Product Management at NOLA Education’s Star Academy, success is measured by students who graduate. His research-backed approach to video learning helps learners advance quickly and confidently, resulting in a 92% video success rate.

Our most popular Business Video Playbook episode of the year, Anderson helps you understand your learners and design video experiences that support progress, rather than merely completion.

Watch Now: Video-Based Learning: A Playbook for Student Success

What Will Video Do for Your Business in 2026?

These ten articles reflect what resonated most with readers in 2025. Each highlights a practical way businesses are using video today, informed by how we build, test, and use video at SproutVideo. We’re excited to continue learning alongside you in 2026!

The post Top 10 SproutVideo Articles of 2025 appeared first on SproutVideo.

“The future of video is deeply human, even when powered by tech. Learners want authenticity. Teams want flexibility. And everyone wants content that feels made for them.”

— Max Shak, Founder/CEO, nerD AI

We asked experts in learning and development (L&D), corporate communications, and marketing what video trends they predict and how their strategies are evolving. Here’s a look at the top video trends for 2026, grounded in insights from industry leaders.

2026 Video Trends: Scaling Authentic, Personalized, and Interactive Content with AI

Cross-Industry Video Trends for 2026

1. AI-Assisted Video Workflows Gain a Role

We don’t expect AI video tools to replace video production workflows in 2026; however, AI tools are poised to become common additions in tech stacks. Businesses will increasingly turn to AI tools to enable small teams to make bigger contributions with greater workflow efficiency. 

“Most organizations aren’t replacing humans; they’re building workflows where AI drafts scripts, auto-generates multiple versions, and creates rapid voiceovers so teams can iterate instantly. It’s becoming the default for internal training videos, especially when policies or product knowledge change weekly.”

— Albert Richer, Founder & Editor, What Are The Best.com

For example, we recently experimented with AI tools for repurposing a blog post into a video. From the experiment, a five-step workflow emerged that allows us to produce a video in as little as two hours. We then expanded this process, incorporating in-person cutaways in our gift guide for filmmakers to add polish and a cozy vibe. 

2. Authentic, Casual Video Continues to Win Engagement

The theme of authentic video emerged repeatedly in our Business Video Playbook interviews in 2025. From real estate and tourism to product marketing and video-based learning, authenticity has become shorthand for content that feels true-to-life and requires minimal production value. 

“The biggest shift I’m seeing is away from the ‘corporate polish’ look. The content that actually builds trust now? A founder talking directly to the camera about a real challenge they faced, shot on their phone, with zero editing.”

— William DiAntonio, CEO, Brand911

Unpolished videos were hugely popular on social media in 2025, with viewers seeking genuine glimpses into a brand or person’s life over staged ads. This video trend is expected to expand in 2026 and become increasingly common in corporate environments. Learn why and how to ditch the script with Alex Hoff, CEO of CoverStory. 

Video Trends in L&D and Corporate Comms

3. AI Video Personalization & Avatars Build Momentum 

Businesses are using AI tools to generate personalized videos from core content. This cost-effective trend is gaining popularity in corporate training, communications, and even marketing. For example, a company can create multiple onboarding videos tailored to specific employees from a single video or script.

“We created thousands of sports highlights for different fan segments from one game. Corporate comms teams will do this in 2026: one CEO town hall becomes 50 department-specific versions with relevant examples spliced in. The tech finally works reliably.”

— Maria Consuelo Gonima, Founder, Big Smile Co.

AI Avatars are also expected to become more common, especially as executive stand-ins for corporate communications: “[Imagine] your VP of Sales records themselves once, then L&D teams generate dozens of personalized sales training videos using that avatar without ever booking their calendar again,” said Ariel Coro, Tech Expert & Keynote Speaker. 

4. Language Localization Becomes Table Stakes

Speaking of video personalization, AI video tools already enable companies to create multi-language voice overs, making it easier for global companies to localize content. But in 2026, more businesses are expected to generate videos in multiple languages from a single script, producing content that’s truly customized to each viewer. 

“When I demonstrated Sora (OpenAI’s text-to-video model) earlier this year, the immediate reaction was, ‘We can finally create Spanish-language training videos without flying crews or hiring translators.’ For L&D teams serving diverse workforces, this means you’ll be able to type scenario-based training prompts in English and generate localized video content in Spanish, Mandarin, or Portuguese within minutes. The cost savings are huge compared to traditional dubbing.”

— Ariel Coro, Tech Expert & Keynote Speaker

We recently interviewed Kevin Alster, Strategic Advisor at Synthesia, for his perspective on how AI is transforming L&D and corporate learning in 2026: “The real challenge is keeping every version of your content up to date as the product evolves. AI lets small teams scale creation, localization, and updates at the pace of product change.” Watch the full interview for more.

5. Branching Scenarios Move Into the Mainstream

Branching scenarios provide a choose-your-own-path learning approach with videos structured into short, highly specific snippets. Instead of a static video playlist, learners can watch videos in an order that will best support their learning or company role.

Branching Scenarios May Use Quizzes to Determine the Next Video

“We built a library of over 30 expert-taught seminars that faculty can drop into their curriculum based on specific gaps. For corporate training, this means building non-linear video modules employees can sequence based on role or project need, rather than forcing everyone through the same timeline.”

— Cheryl Cassaly, Chief Marketing Officer, Rehab Essentials

In 2026, branching scenarios for video training are expected to become increasingly common. One-pagers, quizzes, AI-generated feedback, and other interactive elements may be included alongside videos to encourage applied learning. 

Video Trend Predictions in Media & Marketing

6. Long-Form Video Makes a Comeback

Short-form video content delivered reliable ROI in 2025, and that isn’t expected to change in 2026. However, long-form videos and livestreams are gaining momentum on social media once again as AI fatigue grows and people crave content that’s unmistakably based in the real world. 

“People are tired of performance. They crave reality in the spaces they once used to escape it. This is why user-generated storytelling, behind-the-scenes transparency, and community-driven reviews dominate engagement metrics.”

— Armel Dussol, Founder & Creative Director, MDM Media

Aligned with the trend of authentic videos, long-form content typically uses fewer cuts, minimal graphics or b-roll, and soft background music, if any at all. “I see a shift towards ‘slow content.’ This is the opposite of the high-energy videos we see everywhere today,” shared JoAnne Loftus, President and Owner of Archival Designs. 

Long-form B2B Video Example

For businesses, one strategy is to use strategic short-form content that is repurposed from longer-form content, which is more likely to build trust and drive conversions. 

7. GEO Video Optimization Becomes the Competitive Edge 

Generative engine optimization (GEO) is the new evolution of SEO for AI-driven search engines. Traditional SEO still helps you rank in link-based search results, while GEO helps large language models (LLMs) understand and cite your brand within generated answers.

“Generative AI (GenAI) solutions are replacing user queries that previously may have been executed in traditional search engines. This will force companies to rethink their marketing channels strategy…Content should continue to demonstrate search quality-rater elements such as expertise, experience, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness.”

— Alan Antin, Vice President Analyst at Gartner

Since AI search engines retrieve and synthesize information, video content with strong metadata (especially when paired with accessible transcripts) becomes surfaceble in AI search. AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews can reference the content, cite your brand, or even directly share your video with the person searching. 

In 2026, well-structured content about your product offerings (ideally in both video and text), distributed across your channels, becomes valuable input for both GEO and SEO.

8. Decentralized Discovery Makes Video Even More Valuable 

Modern buyers rarely move through the sales funnel in a linear fashion. The days of someone searching Google, landing on a webpage, and then buying a product are largely behind us. Over the last few years, consumers have shifted toward gathering information across multiple channels. 

The average buyer might start with a quick Google search, refine their understanding in ChatGPT, look for user experiences on TikTok or YouTube, and check Reddit for opinions. By the time the buyer encounters your brand, they’ve done their homework. They want to understand why your specific solution is the right one. 

“The pattern I’m seeing for 2026 is that video is moving away from ‘content marketing’ and toward ‘decision acceleration’. People want to see the actual person they’ll be working with, hear how they think, and make a decision faster. When the right person explains the right thing in under two minutes, it eliminates weeks of back-and-forth.”

— Hooman Bahrani, Founder, Birch Stream Digital

In 2026, video increasingly serves as a decision-stage asset, helping buyers consolidate what they’ve learned across channels and move to purchase with confidence.

What Are Your 2026 Video Trend Predictions?

As AI-generated content floods every channel, a key question arises: Will video prioritize speed and scale, or will authenticity become the differentiator audiences seek out?

In 2026, businesses are moving from experimenting with AI to using it in practical, day-to-day ways that support how teams operate. However, as technology evolves, authenticity and personalization remain valuable because they deepen engagement and build loyalty.

AI won’t replace authenticity and personalization. But long-term success will depend on how deliberately teams balance these qualities with automation.

The post Top 2026 Video Trends and Predictions: What Business Leaders Are Prioritizing Now appeared first on SproutVideo.

Product marketing bridges the gap between product development and customer success. Savvy product marketing managers (PMMs) know how to build a video marketing buyer’s journey that turns customer needs into product adoption.

In Episode 9 of the Business Video Playbook, we spoke with Jeff Rezabek, a PMM with experience working for both resource-limited startups and enterprises with big expectations. He offers insights that companies of all sizes can use to strengthen their product storytelling with video marketing.

Rezabek shares how to connect with buyers using impactful videos, even with a small team. He explains his framework for using video in product marketing, including the use of AI tools when working solo.

In addition to working closely with customers to understand the buyer’s journey, Jeff covers a range of PMM topics, including how to:

• Integrate video into go-to-market strategies.
• Utilize video for sales enablement and training.
• Leverage AI for video production efficiency.
• Repurpose content for maximum ROI.
• Capture authentic customer stories.

Mapping the Buyer’s Journey: Videos for Every Stage of the Funnel  

In a new twist to our interview format, we introduced a “rapid-fire” segment as a framework for understanding how and when product marketing can build a video marketing buyer’s journey. Here’s a summary of the product marketing video use cases pulled from the interview:

Stage 1: Awareness (Top of Funnel):

At the initial stage of the marketing funnel, the goal is to attract attention and generate interest. A mix of video types plays a key role in building awareness for product marketing.

Video types:

• Video podcasts (like the Business Video Playbook!)
• Case study videos
• Testimonial videos
• Webinar snippets

Rezabek mentions webinars in the context of a launch but also suggests repurposing them for social media, which is often a top-of-funnel channel. These formats are crucial for building initial brand recognition and establishing thought leadership in a crowded market.

“The webinar is the meat of an asset because you can chop it up in many different ways and use it as a blog post, use small pieces and sound bites for social, and more.”

— Jeff Rezabek, Director of Product Marketing

Stage 2: Consideration (Middle of Funnel):

The goal of the consideration stage is to educate and nurture prospects who are evaluating their options. A brand needs to differentiate itself from the rest of the pack, and Rezabek explains how to do it with video.

Video types:

• Product videos
• Case study videos (note their versatility across stages)
• Webinar recordings (especially industry reports)

In the interview, Jeff highlights how product marketing uses video and customer insights to showcase product strengths, validate messaging, and effectively position the product against competitors, all of which are crucial for standing out during the consideration phase.

“There are competitive intelligence types of videos where you record using a competitor’s tool and share your product’s strengths and weaknesses against it. Additionally, you can also include a feature breakdown. I like to discuss three things that they’re good at, three things that we’re good at.”

— Jeff Rezabek, Director of Product Marketing

Customer Interviews Are Your Product Marketing Goldmine

Watch the Full Episode Now

Stage 3: Decision (Bottom of Funnel):

The goal with video content during the buyer decision stage is to overcome objections and drive the final purchase decision. It’s the ultimate stage in the video marketing buyer’s journey.

Video types:

• Detailed “how-to” videos (often based on technical documentation)
• Videos created by Customer Success Managers (CSMs) or technical writers

Jeff recommends including videos within your technical documentation or help sites.  

“I like when customer success managers create videos with their floating head on the bottom showing users how to do X, Y, Z. So if viewers know it’s a CSM, there’s a little bit more trust there.”

— Jeff Rezabek, Director of Product Marketing

Beyond the Video Marketing Buyer’s Journey: Key Insights from PMM, Jeff Rezabek

Watch the full interview for more insights from Jeff Rezabek on topics, including:

• AI for Video Production: Learn how Rezabek, a self-proclaimed video novice, leverages AI tools to create effective video content, challenging the notion that you need a huge production budget.
• Sales Enablement: Discover Jeff’s unconventional customer interviews that don’t just validate messaging, but transform your sales team’s confidence and closing rates.  
• Content Repurposing: Gain a simple, repeatable framework for repurposing a single 30-minute customer interview into five distinct, high-impact content pieces. It’s like a masterclass in efficiency.

“If you’ve done your messaging correctly and you’re actually talking to your ICP [Ideal Customer Profile], they’re using your messaging in their own words. Everything lines up, and product marketing can get their wheels turning.”

— Jeff Rezabek, Director of Product Marketing

Video is a versatile tool for PMMs across the entire buyer’s journey and beyond. Watch the full episode now for more PMM advice.

The post Mapping Video to the Buyer’s Journey: A Product Marketer’s Framework appeared first on SproutVideo.

It’s a compelling promise: thought leadership already drives value, and adding video can provide even greater engagement and organic traffic.

Furthermore, traditional video production is notoriously resource-heavy, so the risk-benefit of using AI comes down to one key question:

Can AI streamline video production and deliver content worth sharing—or churn out AI slop that could undermine your brand?

Step into the lab with us!

Here’s what worked, what flopped, and the final result (with cost). Plus, create your own video in under two hours with our AI content repurposing workflow. 

Testing “One-Click” AI Video Tools

We researched and chose a handful of the most popular AI content repurposing tools for creating thought leadership videos.

Then, we tested each AI video tool with the same prompt: “Make a 90-second video summary of the following blog post,” and shared the URL. 

Invideo Example; Cost: $30

Each tool provides a different level of customization, such as aspect ratio, tone of the script (casual vs professional), audience type, AI voiceover, and b-roll theme. 

Here’s what we discovered:

• Pictory: Quickly assembled videos using stock footage, but the results felt generic and lacked engagement. Branding options were a plus.
• Synthesia: Created presentation-style videos and offered AI avatars, which worked better for thought leadership content. Synthesia is known for its avatars, so there are significant options for including a talking head. Branding options were also a plus.
• Veed and Adori: Leaned on generative AI for visuals instead of stock. Unfortunately, outputs often included glaring AI artifacts like nonsensical text and awkward motion.
• Invideo: Known more for commercials and AI-generated UGC. (You can also “hire” a virtual actor, but that’s beyond the scope of our simple AI workflow.) Stock footage looked out of place, while generative visuals were costly and unusable.
• NotebookLM: Surprisingly strong slide deck results; the best job creating informative visuals. However, the lack of customization means every output looks the same, and the video runs too long.

Keep in mind: these tools serve different audiences. Synthesia is tailored to internal communications, training, and sales enablement, while InVideo focuses on marketing teams and creators looking to produce promotional or social content. 

For our use case, none of these tools delivered something we’d feel confident publishing externally.

That being said, many of these tools include additional pricing tiers and features. Our use case required direct control over the final product, whereas most are built for automation. Results may vary, and we’ll continue to share our findings as we explore these emerging AI tools.

How to Turn Blog Posts into Videos with AI in 5 Easy Steps

With one-click solutions in the rearview mirror, we pivoted to a workflow that uses AI tools at each step of video production while still leaving room for human oversight.

The result? A polished video made in just under two hours. Here’s how we did it. 

1. Use ChatGPT for the Script (<35 minutes)

We fed the blog URL into ChatGPT and asked it to create a 90-second video summary script. After a quick edit pass, we had a workable draft. The key here is speed: instead of staring at a blank page, we had a foundation in minutes.

Learn More: 3 Best AI Script Writers for Making High-Quality Videos

2. Build Slides in Gamma (20 minutes)

Next, we used Gamma, an AI tool designed for presentation decks. After setting up our brand guidelines, we pasted the script card by card to control what appeared on each slide. This workflow kept the visuals aligned with the narration. 

Then our graphic designer did a quick pass on that output to make it really sing. This additional pass is optional; however, it elevated the overall video.

3. Generate a Voiceover with ElevenLabs (10 minutes)

One of ElevenLabs’ most impressive features is the ability to clone a person’s voice. We used 60 minutes of existing recording to do just this. The result was a natural-sounding voiceover (very similar to the source) without stepping into a recording booth.

Creating your voice clone will require additional time, but thereafter, generating your sound-alike voiceover takes less than ten minutes. 

4. Add Music with Suno (5 minutes)

Background music is essential for video engagement. In just a few minutes, we generated a custom track in Suno. Stock libraries offer similarly efficient options.

5. Assemble in DaVinci Resolve (20 minutes)

Finally, we edited these elements together using DaVinci Resolve.

The edit was straightforward, since AI did most of the heavy lifting. Therefore, basic editing skills are sufficient.

What We Made

Here’s the result: a short​​ video summarizing the blog, matching our branding, and delivering a professional polish.

Overall, this video took about two hours to create, with quick editing from our in-house copywriter and graphic designer. Without this additional work, it would take an hour.

What It Costs to Make

• ChatGPT: Free 
• Gamma: $8 per month for each team member
• ElevenLabs: $11 per month 
• Suno: $6 per month
• DaVinci Resolve: Free 

Cost of AI Video Generation: $25 (per month)

With that $25 a month investment, we can repurpose an endless amount of content into brand-worthy videos by strategically using AI tools at every step of production. 

What do you think? Do AI tools live up to the hype? Would you share a video using this five-step process in your business?

Key Takeaways: Repurposing Blog Content into Video with AI

Returning to our original questions: can AI create brand-worthy content? Is an AI workflow more efficient when producing short-form videos from blog content?

The short answer is yes! 

• One-click AI tools (for our use case) aren’t there yet. Simple AI wrappers are fast, but they didn’t repurpose content into videos we feel confident publishing.
• AI accelerates the right parts of the workflow. Tools like ChatGPT, Gamma, ElevenLabs, and Suno cut down on writing, design, and audio production time, while still leaving room for human control.
• The process is flexible. Want to swap in different tools? Go for it. The workflow is modular; you can easily adjust it based on your team’s preferences.
• The results feel professional. With light human editing, the output looks like content a team created, not a robot.  

A video production that would have taken days or up to a week of collaboration and coordination was produced in under two hours while maintaining brand standards. 

This AI-optimized workflow is just the beginning. With new tools and features rolling out constantly, we expect this workflow to evolve quickly.

For now, it’s an efficient, scalable way to add video to your content strategy while boosting the reach of your thought leadership.

The post AI Content Repurposing: 5 Steps from Blog to Video in Under 2 Hours appeared first on SproutVideo.

Millions of tourists arrive annually in Chicago, drawn by its world-class architecture, museums, restaurants, sports, and entertainment. The city ranks among the top five U.S. destinations for culture and is home to the second-highest number of Fortune 500 headquarters in the country.

Tourism in Chicago is a multi-billion-dollar industry where local businesses and cultural institutions compete for attention. Nearly half of all visitor activity bookings happen after travelers arrive, which means valuable marketing moments occur in many ways: at the concierge desk, online, or on the streets when people ask, “What should I do right now?”

A Conversation with Tim O’Malley, Founder of Ateema Media

In Episode Six of the Business Video Playbook, Tim O’Malley, CEO of Ateema Media (a Tourism Marketing Agency), explained how he created the Chicago Does Interactive Video Map. O’Malley has years of experience working within the Chicago tourism industry and the use of engaging, often viral, video storytelling. For example, a behind-the-scenes video of the band Oasis testing a drone show the night before their concert went viral overnight, racking 225,000 views. Tim shares how authentic storytelling video content can turn small moments into massive engagement. 

The Chicago Does Interactive Video Map is a hybrid print and digital product that leverages multiple visitor touchpoints throughout their travel journey. It connects visitors directly to restaurants, venues, and attractions through video storytelling, interactive mapping, and traditional print and digital advertising. The map serves as a visitor media platform, an acquisition tool for local businesses, and an example of exceptional marketing for hospitality and tourism.

We’re trying to take the advertising dollars that would normally be spent on brochures and fold them into something that’s more useful for the visitor.

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

Watch the full interview now to see how Chicago Does combines video, maps, and real-time discovery to drive engagement and foot traffic. In the video, you’ll see the map come alive with real examples of restaurants, attractions, and events. Watch how these videos turn curiosity into real-world visits.

Why the Interactive Video Map Works

The Chicago Does Interactive Video Map succeeds because it delivers value on both sides:

• For visitors, it’s a simple, mobile-first way to explore the city, see what’s nearby, and quickly decide what to do. The videos are short, authentic, and engaging, giving travelers a feel for an experience before they commit.
  
• For partners, it’s the principal element within a multi-touch referral, print, and digital platform. Backed by storytelling rather than just logos or listings, businesses and venues reach visitors in a way that drives real-world outcomes like foot traffic, reservations, and ticket sales

O’Malley also explains why some videos achieve viral success and others don’t; a lesson every tourism marketer should learn.

“If we’re going to do it, we’re going to do it through storytelling and video, not just putting up logos.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

Lessons for Building a Video-First Tourism Platform

1. Balance Ads with Authentic Storytelling

A common trap for city guides is feeling like one long commercial. O’Malley emphasized that content must stay rooted in story, not just sales. Restaurants, museums, and events shine when presented by authentic voices, real visuals, and unique stories about the city. “The point isn’t a slick ad. It’s showing real people, real food, real spaces in a way that feels authentic,” said O’Malley. 

Sometimes, overlooked parts of a city make the most powerful stories. Take the Chicago Pedway, for example. It’s an underground tunnel system that helps pedestrians during the cold Chicago winters. Most locals have heard of it but don’t really understand it. One of Ateema’s video creators shot a short video describing the Pedway and how to use it. 

“People in Chicago had always heard of the Pedway but didn’t really know what it was. When our creator explained it with a clear hook and visuals, it gave them closure.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

This type of nuanced storytelling tapped into a curiosity gap. The result? The video exploded to 1.4 million views on TikTok and Instagram, proving that authentic storytelling can drive massive engagement.

The lesson is to treat video first as helpful and engaging media, and advertising second.

2. Design for Short, On-the-Go Engagement

Travelers aren’t sitting down for two-minute ads. They want quick hits of authentically local inspiration.

“If a visitor is standing in a hotel lobby with their phone, they’re not going to watch a two-minute video. They’ll give you 20 or 30 seconds.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

Videos should be long enough to capture initial interest and short enough to respect attention spans. Each mobile-first video matches each stage of the visitor’s decision-making journey. O’Malley demonstrates how to structure these quick-hit clips in the video.

3. Build in Easy Updates

Cities move fast. In Chi-Town, menus change, events rotate, exhibits close. Guides quickly become outdated without an easy way to update videos and listings.

“Events come and go. You need a system where updates are simple and low-cost, otherwise the content gets stale.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

A scalable product requires workflows for ongoing updates: whether that’s templated video formats, content tiers, or collaborative tools for partners. “The idea is to create recognizable formats. Whether it’s a 30-second hook on an attraction or a deeper dive into a neighborhood, partners know what to expect,” said O’Malley

Episode 6: Video Strategies for Visitor Engagement with Tim O’Malley

See how video storytelling, real-time mapping, and partnerships drive engagement: watch the full episode to uncover all the strategies that helped Chicago Does go viral.

Watch The Full Interview

4. Sell Foot Traffic, Not Ad Space

Ultimately, restaurants and venues don’t care about video views and ad impressions. They measure ROI by people walking through the door. Positioning the Interactive Video Map as a direct driver of customers proved more compelling than selling “visibility.”

“For restaurants, we weren’t selling ads; we were selling foot traffic. That’s what they care about.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

This shift reframes the platform as performance-driven, which helps secure buy-in and reduce churn. In the full interview, O’Malley walks through how he measures ROI for every campaign, turning video views into real-world customers.

5. Lean on Partnerships for Distribution

Discoverability is everything. Hotels and the concierge community became critical partners because they wanted to offer guests a richer experience without producing their own guides.

“Hotels love it because it gives them something valuable to hand guests without spending their own money on guides.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

Working with tourism boards, chambers of commerce, and hospitality partners gave the Interactive Video Map credibility and ensured travelers could find and use it. “Our map must meet visitors where they are, in the hotel lobby, in their hands. That’s why hotels and tourism boards are essential partners,” said O’Malley. 

From Chicago to Beyond

The Chicago Does Interactive Video Map shows how destination marketing can evolve into something more immersive, practical, and authentic. By blending short-form video storytelling, mobile-first design, and strong partnerships, the product creates value for the visitor and the business.

And the lessons apply far beyond Chicago. Whether you’re a DMO, tourism marketer, or local business, the takeaway is the same: if you want to influence travelers, meet them where they are. Share stories that feel real, tools that make decisions easier, and partnerships that extend your reach.

“Venues don’t care about views; they care if someone walks in the door after watching the video.”

—Tim O’Malley, CEO, Ateema Media and Marketing

Episode 6: Video Strategies for Visitor Engagement with Tim O’Malley

See how video storytelling, real-time mapping, and partnerships drive engagement: watch the full episode to uncover all the strategies that helped Chicago Does go viral.

Watch The Full Interview

Want to promote your destination with video storytelling?

Start your free trial of SproutVideo today and bring your community to life through video.

The post Video Storytelling Strategies for Hospitality and Tourism appeared first on SproutVideo.

If someone can download your video or access the raw file, they can share it anywhere: on a site you don’t control, in competitor marketing, or in ways that misrepresent your brand.

Basic video privacy tools like password or login protection work well for gated content. But what about the videos you want to share publicly, without sacrificing control?

Use this guide to embed your videos securely on website platforms (like WordPress and Squarespace) while protecting them from downloads, leaks, and unauthorized sharing. 

What Is a Video Embed Code?

A video embed code is a small snippet of HTML that displays a video on your website by “embedding” it from a video hosting platform.

Instead of uploading the video file directly to your site, the embed code links to the video hosted elsewhere and plays it within your webpage. 

Why Use Embed Codes Over Direct Links?

Common website builders like WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix encourage adding videos to your website with direct links because these platforms prioritize simplicity and convenience.

The problem? Direct links are vulnerable to downloads, leaks, and theft. Furthermore, the benefits of using embed codes over direct links are numerous: 

• Protect video from security risks: Direct links provide access to your raw video file. Embed codes with the right settings offer protection from leaks and theft. 
• Customize your video player: Share a branded, customized video player with personalized colors, in-player CTAs, end screens, and more.
• Gain in-depth viewer analytics: Embed codes allow your private video host to track viewer engagement and analytics for valuable insight into video performance. 
• Create a seamless user experience: Direct links lead to slower loading and clunky playback because they don’t adapt to the viewer’s streaming speed like embed codes. The lack of adaptability leads to slower page loading, affecting website SEO.

Examples of Adding Video to Website: Website Upload vs Direct Link vs Embedded Video

There are three ways to add videos to your website: direct website upload, direct link, or embed code. Let’s briefly compare your options with examples.

Website Upload

The video above was uploaded directly to the website without a video host. Notice there are no player customizations. You’re also able to download the video. 

Direct Link Example

This video was added to the website using a direct link. Here, the in-player CTA is still present; however, all other player customizations are lost.

Embedded Video Example

This video is embedded on the website privately while being available for anyone to watch. Notice the player customizations, including custom colors and hidden fullscreen toggle.

How To Embed Videos on Your Website without Risking Downloads and Leaks

Embed videos on your website with the following features to prevent content downloads, leaks, and unauthorized distribution. 

1. Choose a private video host that prevents downloads. 
2. Create your embed code and use Allowed Domains to prevent unwanted distribution.
3. Add the embed code to your website (usually via an Embed or Custom HTML block).

It’s that easy! Plus, every SproutVideo plan includes these features. 

How To Create An Embed Code for Your Video

Your video embed code controls the player’s appearance and behavior. Most private video hosting platforms allow you to create a custom embed code, enabling you to: 

• Show or hide player controls (fullscreen, volume, seek bar, settings).
• Set the video to autoplay and/or loop.
• Change the player dimensions or make it responsive to adapt to any screen.
• Add lead capture forms to your videos for video lead generation. 

And more!

How to Create an Embed Code with SproutVideo

1. Select your settings from the Player Options menu of any video.
2. Copy and paste the generated code into your site—no extra code or plugins required.

Discover all the ways you can customize your video player and learn more about creating a custom embed code for your video. 

How to Embed Videos on Your Website (WordPress, Squarespace, Wix)

Whether your website uses blocks, widgets, or elements, this functionality is usually labeled “Embed” or “Custom HTML”. 

Here’s how to embed a video on your website across the most common platforms: 

• WordPress.org: Use a Custom HTML block to paste your embed code.
• Squarespace: Add a Code or Embed Block and paste your embed code.
• Wix: Add an Embed Code Element and paste your code. 
• Webflow: Drag in a Code Embed Element and paste your code.

Most website builders allow you to add custom embed codes. However, some platforms (WordPress.com, Squarespace, Webflow) limit this option to certain paid plans. 

5 More Ways To Protect Embedded Videos on Your Website

For high-value content, confidential internal communications, or pre-release collaborations, here are additional options to protect embedded videos, whether or not you restrict viewing access.

• Password or Login Protection: Restrict access with passwords or login credentials. 
• Signed Embed Codes: Add extra embed code protections with an expiration time.
• Dynamic Watermarking: Use visible and invisible watermarks to prevent theft. 
• Geo-Blocking: Designate the countries or regions where your videos can play.
• IP Address Restrictions: Block video views from IP addresses outside your range.

Online videos have multiple access points, which can lead to privacy leaks. Use our guide on Video Privacy to protect your content. 

Ready To Embed Videos? A Private Video Host You Can Trust

With video embed codes, your website becomes a private channel you control, making it easy to treat your videos like the valuable assets they are. 

While direct links expose your content, embed codes that include the right settings keep your videos protected without reducing discoverability. 

With a private video host, like SproutVideo, you can share your content confidently while keeping your videos safe.

Ready for more? Discover our related resources:

• 7 Reasons Businesses Use Private Video Hosting Platforms vs YouTube
• Customizable Video Player: 11 Ways To Boost Branding & Conversions
• Video Content Distribution: How to Maximize ROI Across Channels

The post How to Embed Videos on Your Website Without Risking Downloads appeared first on SproutVideo.