1. The Unboxing Video

It is perhaps the most unusual of all of the YouTube videos, watching someone open a box and (hopefully!) getting exciting about the contents. Yet this video genre is hugely popular, and relatively easy to make. All you need is an unopened box full of tech/makeup/toys (or whatever you prefer) and a camera placed in a position to capture it all.


As long as you’re talking while the unboxing takes place, you should be able to produce a video that people will enjoy and respond to. Note that some unboxing videos have a soundtrack, rather than a commentary, but these tend to be shorter.

2. Everybody Loves Time-Lapse Videos

One very simple way to make a movie is with the use of a time-lapse camera, or if you’re using a smartphone, a time-lapse app. These tools are simple to use and can produce amazing results, which is why the videos prove so popular – both for creators and the audience.
Time-lapse videos might be anything from a Lego construction to the building of a genuine building (such as the new World Trade Center), and even the creation of art, like this piece of hyperrealism:

3. Video Game Walkthroughs

Like gaming? With the help of a screen capture device (or a video camera) you can pass on your expertise on a particular game (or level) and entertain people at the same time. Video games as a spectator sport is a relatively new phenomenon, one made popular by Twitch.tv, where over 45 million gamers gather every month. Some gamers have become celebrities in the Twitch.tv world.


YouTube has its own version, YouTube Gaming, where gamers can stream or upload their gaming activity. Unlike Twitch.tv, these videos will remain on the site long-term.

4. How To/Tutorials

YouTube is a regular destination for anyone looking for a way to do something. It might be technical help for dealing with problems upgrading to Windows 10 or something less computer-related, such as learning the basics of carpentry.
Here’s a screencast tutorial we produced:


If you feel you have a skill, ability or technique that you are happy to demonstrate, then making a how to video is the best way to share it with the world.
You might do a simple screencast (essentially recording your PC’s desktop to explain anything from opening a command prompt to performing a tricky technique in Photoshop) or opt for a more personal, camera-facing approach. This latter option might result in a quite a bit of work filming and editing, but as long as you have editing tools and ability, the results should be good.
As another example, here’s how to safely discharge a CRT TV or monitor:

5. Product Reviews

Related to the box opening video, product reviews are really simple to produce, BUT you would be well advised to make notes in advance. After all, you don’t want to be left without anything to say!


While first impressions are the domain of the box opening, product reviews should go more in depth, and include reflections upon your experiences with the product in question, whether it is a new frying pan, a bike, a collection of pencils, a new partwork magazine, a phone, some makeup… it’s up to you!
Best of all, you can conceivably manage a product review with a single camera, although you might like to add some photos and captions into the video to polish the finished production somewhat.

6. Fan Videos, Reviews and Commentaries

Another popular option is the fan video. This might be speculation on your favorite TV show, movie or book series, a review of the latest episode, or even a commentary.


Popular franchises under discussion in such videos include Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter and Doctor Who although there is no reason to limit yourself to these. But if you can find some popular videos discussing any of these, you’ve got a good idea of the type of video people are enjoying.
Best of all, the production is minimal. All you need is a webcam or digital video camera, and the ability to talk about the show or movie you like!