A trailer is a film or video clip that shows the audience a brief but compelling portion of a full-length movie. Originally used to promote films, trailers have now also been adapted to promote television shows, video games and even books. A well-made trailer is often the difference between a movie or product going unnoticed and one that becomes a major hit.
There are many ways to make a trailer, and the most important thing is to choose the right footage. Use visuals that match your book’s tone and content, and don’t forget to include a call to action. Once you’ve decided what type of footage to use, put together your trailer using a video editing tool. There are many options available, including iMovie and Adobe Premiere. If you’re not familiar with using a video editing tool, consider hiring a professional editor to make your trailer for you.
The best trailers have a natural rhythm that makes them feel effortless. This is partly because they are edited so tightly. However, it’s also because the clips in good trailers are the perfect length, so they don’t feel too long or boring. In addition, the best trailers have a variety of images and sounds that give the viewer a feeling of what they’re in for.
Another key aspect of a trailer is to give a brief synopsis of the story, but don’t give away too much. The most effective trailers have a three-act structure that hooks the viewer and leaves them wanting more. The first act usually introduces the main character and a scene that grabs the audience’s attention. The second act builds tension and the third act delivers a satisfying climax that ties up all the loose ends.
In addition to using different camera angles, music and sound effects, a great trailer also includes a strong call to action at the end of the clip. The call to action should be original, exciting and relevant to the plot of your trailer. The call to action will convince the audience that your book is the right choice for them, and it will give them a reason to buy your book.
The final step is to upload your trailer to a video hosting site, such as YouTube or Vimeo. If you want to get the most views possible, YouTube is the clear winner due to its fast load times and high quality playback.