The Ultimate Guide to UGC Video Ads for Apps & Games: Part 6 - Editing & Post-Production

Welcome back to the final installment of our comprehensive guide to mastering User-Generated Content (UGC) videos for apps and games!

In the previous episode, we explored the technical essentials for UGC shooting – from smartphone filming techniques to capturing the perfect shot.

But capturing raw footage is only part of the story. Today, we’ll focus on the magic that happens in editing and post-production.

UGC Video Editing Guidelines

Basic Editing Guidelines for UGC Videos for Apps and Games

Editing isn’t just about stringing clips together; it’s about storytelling. Your goal is to guide your viewer seamlessly through a narrative that captures attention and elicits action.

Software Recommendations for Editing User-Generated Content

• Adobe Premiere Pro: Ideal for professionals with advanced features and integrations.
• Adobe After Effects: Perfect for adding advanced visual effects and animations.
• Final Cut Pro: Intuitive, powerful software for Mac users.
• DaVinci Resolve: Excellent for robust color grading and video editing.
• CapCut for desktop: A simple yet effective tool for quick UGC editing.

Effective Sequencing: Crafting a Compelling Story Arc

Sequencing is the backbone of your UGC video’s narrative. A well-crafted sequence can turn a good video into a memorable, action-triggering experience. Here are some tried-and-true patterns:

• Attraction, Execution, Reward:
  • Example: A travel app
  • Attraction: "Pack your bags; we’re going on an adventure!"
  • Execution: "Since I downloaded the XYZ app, I can plan my vacation in just a few clicks."
  • Reward: "Hello, hassle-free holidays!"
• Problem, Resolution, Methodology:
  • Example: A productivity app
  • Problem: "Feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks?"
  • Resolution: "Enter the XYZ app, my personal taskmaster."
  • Methodology: "Here’s how it organizes my life down to the last detail."
• Introduction, Enhancement, Capabilities:
  • Example: A cooking app
  • Introduction: "Meet the XYZ app, your kitchen companion!"
  • Enhancement: "Gone are the days of recipe disasters."
  • Capabilities: "It walks you through every step and suggests substitutes."

Transitions

Transitions help in storytelling flow. Use simple cuts for fast-paced content and dissolves for slower, emotional pieces. Choose transitions that align with your video’s tone.

Quick Cuts & Dynamic Editing

Quick cuts capture attention by segmenting dialogue into multiple clips and weaving them together. Make abrupt but seamless cuts to maintain engagement.

Zooming for Dynamics

Zoom in to emphasize facial expressions or crucial moments, and zoom out to provide context. Dynamic zooming adds excitement and complexity.

Don’t Forget the B-Roll

B-roll footage enhances storytelling and covers transitions. Use cutaways, product close-ups, or stock footage to embellish the narrative.

Adding Meaningful Visual Elements

• Text Overlays: Emphasize key points with quotes, captions, or app features.
• Stickers and Emojis: Add relatability and emotion to your video.
• GIFs and Graphics: Elevate visual impact but maintain balance.
• Special Effects: Use AR effects or animations to create immersive experiences.

Gameplay and App Visuals: Show, Don’t Just Tell

Integrate gameplay or app walkthroughs to showcase the user experience and highlight your product’s value.

Subtitles in UGC Videos

Always include clear, well-synced subtitles. While TikTok users often watch with sound, Instagram and Meta users may view content on mute.

Text-to-Speech (TTS)

TTS is a cost-effective, versatile alternative to voiceovers. Customize voices for tone, accent, and age to suit your video’s context. Pair TTS with background music or sound effects for added impact.

Navigating UGC Safe Zones

Ensure critical elements like logos, text overlays, and CTAs are placed within the platform's safe zones to avoid obscuring them with UI elements. Test before finalizing your video.

Background Music and Sound Effects

• Royalty-Free Music: Available on TikTok and Instagram for commercial use.
• Stock Music: Platforms like Envato or Epidemic Sound offer diverse options.
• Copyrighted Songs: Ensure proper licensing to avoid legal issues.

The Perfect Finale: Ending Your UGC Videos on a High Note

End your video on an emotional high note to leave a lasting impression. Introduce CTAs subtly, aligning with the video’s tone and message.

Assessing UGC Ads' Performance

Track metrics like Engagement Rate, CTR, Conversion Rate, CPA, and ROAS to measure success. Use sentiment analysis and audience insights for qualitative assessment. Regularly test and iterate to refine your strategy.

For more tips and tricks, check out Flixr’s resource center!

🌟 Ready to craft impactful UGC? Let’s collaborate and bring your vision to life!