What size, and how long do you professionals think a promo video should be on a website?

And if I can only have it as a Quicktime, Windows media, or Real file, which is the most used?

Thanks,

Joshua

I am pretty sure Windows Media is most used. It comes standard with any Windows operating systems which is what the majority of people have I beleive. That answers one question. LOL

Often magic sites have two different videos of each promo bit. One is a smaller sized file (for those with dial-up connections) and other is the large version (for those of us with broadband).

This might no longer be the case, but in the past many sites used the Real Player for the smaller videos, because they can/could put more video in smaller sized files.

Windows Media is the standard, and as MC said, you should make two different sizes, one for dial-up, and one for broadband/DSL.

My promo video is longer than it should be, but if you want to see an example, go to:

http://www.magicshane.com/lookingforamag......ideo.htm

Shane Wiker

Thanks for the tips guys.

Shane, I tried to watch your video, but the one I looked at was a bunch of card moves. I didn't see any performances or even see your face at all. Is that really your promo video for prospective clients, or did I see the wrong one?

Joshua,

Actually, while I call it my promotional video, that's not really what it is. I don't show it to clients. Awhile ago, I was going to make a promotional video, but as I was doing it, my intentioned changed from making a promotional video, to making more of a close-up card routine.

I never ended up changing the name, but that's not important for what I am saying.

About file size, most video creators will actually give you the option of saving it for certain Internet connections. For example, Windows Movie Maker gives options for cable, broadband, and dial-up.

This is better than just decreasing the quality, because when people click on the link, it only takes about 8-10 seconds to load a 5-minute video, when it would normally take at least a minute.

Click on the video, and see how long it takes to load. On most computers, as long as you select the right speed, it will take less than 10 seconds (If not, there is probably a problem with you computer's virtual memory).

It may not seem too important, but if someone clicks on your video, and it takes more than 20-30 seconds, they will most likely exit and move on.

About your comment on a promotional video, at the moment, I am actually working on another PROMOTIONAL video, which will replace the card video, but for now, the website it still under construction, so the video will stay there for the time being.

The new video will still contain some card effects, but it will be more than just a card routine on a close-up mat.

:)
Shane Wiker