Choosing the Right Video Style for Your Brand

Explore the strengths of different video formats, from docu-style to animation, and how to align them with your goals.

“We switched to an animated explainer after reading this blog, and engagement doubled in a week! Thanks for the clarity!” – Rachel L., Marketing Director

Ever felt like your brand’s videos just weren’t hitting the mark? I’ve been there. A few years back, I launched a video ad that looked sleek, had great transitions—but it fell flat. Why? The style didn’t match the message. That moment sent me down the rabbit hole of understanding video formats. I tried docu-style, animation, product demos—you name it—and finally cracked the code.

Since then, I’ve helped dozens of businesses find their unique video voice. It’s not about following trends—it’s about telling your story in a way your audience truly connects with.

Everything you need to find your brand’s perfect video style:

• 1 Clear Objective: 

  • Define what success looks like—brand awareness, lead generation, product explanation, etc.

• 2 Scoops of Audience Insights: 

  • Understand who you're speaking to—their preferences, challenges, and behavior.

• A Generous Serving of Brand Personality: 

  • Is your brand playful and bold, or polished and professional? Let this guide your tone and visuals.

• 1 Budget Reality Check: 

  • Know your limits. Animated videos may cost less than full production shoots but may also require more editing time.

• A Pinch of Platform Strategy: 

  • Tailor your format to where your audience lives—short vertical videos for social, long-form for YouTube, etc.

Step-by-Step Directions

• Preheat Your Strategy:

  • Start by defining your goal. Are you aiming to inspire your audience, educate them, or drive conversions? A clear objective sets the tone for every creative decision that follows.

• Mix in Your Audience and Brand Flavor:

  • Consider who you’re speaking to and how your brand naturally communicates. Reaching Gen Z? Animation or fast-paced reels might resonate. Talking to executives? A docu-style or testimonial approach may be more effective.

• Fold in the Right Platform:

  • Every platform has its preferred recipe. Instagram favors bold, short-form content. YouTube excels with long-form storytelling. Match your video style with the platform where your audience is most active.

• Whisk Together Your Message and Tone:

  • Emotional message? Consider cinematic storytelling. Explaining a complex idea? Opt for screencasts, whiteboard videos, or animated explainers. Your tone should reflect both your message and your brand personality.

• Taste-Test Video Styles:

  • Explore and compare formats like explainer videos, live-action footage, customer testimonials, motion graphics, or product demos. Choose the one that best complements your goal, audience, and brand identity.

• Finalize and Bake:

  • With your style selected, move on to scripting, storyboarding, and production. Whether you hire a pro team or DIY with tools like Canva, Adobe Premiere Rush, or Animoto, ensure the final product is aligned with your strategy.

• Serve and Share:

  • Publish your video across your chosen platforms. Promote it thoughtfully. Then sit back and enjoy the engagement—views, clicks, and conversions that come with the right style, delivered at the right time.