Video Blocks

Video blocks are powerful tools in NextSteps that allow you to integrate compelling video content into your digital journeys. This guide will walk you through the process of adding and customizing video blocks to create engaging, multimedia experiences for your audience.

Adding a Video Block to Your Journey

To add a video block to your NextSteps journey, follow these steps:

Create a New Card:
- Return to the working area by clicking on the space to the left of an existing card or on the "X" at the top.
- Add a new card by either: a. Dragging a connector from the first card, or b. Clicking "Add Step"
- Click on the newly created card to edit it.
Add the Video Block:
- Choose one of two methods: a. Select the video card template when creating a new card, or b. Click "Add Block" and select the video block option.
Select Your Video:
- Click "Select Video" to open the video library.
- Search for your desired video (e.g., "Birth of Jesus" in the Jesus Film library).
- Optionally, change the video language if needed.
- Click "Select" to add the chosen video to your card.

Customizing Your Video Block

After adding a video, you can customize various aspects to suit your needs:

Adjust Video Timing:
- Set custom start and end times to focus on specific parts of the video.
- Example: To remove end credits, adjust the end time (e.g., 3 minutes and 34 seconds).
Video Properties:
- Aspect Ratio: Choose between "Fill," "Fit," or "Crop" to optimize video display on different screens.
  - Fill: Video may crop when viewed vertically on phone screens.
  - Fit: Ensures the entire width is visible on vertical screens.
  - Crop: A compromise between Fill and Fit.
- Autoplay: Videos are set to autoplay by default.
- Mute: Option to mute the video if desired.
- Cover Image: Add a custom cover image to display before the video plays.

Video Block vs. Background Video

It's important to understand the difference between video blocks and background videos:

Video Block:
- Has sound (except on the first card, where it's muted by default).
- Doesn't loop.
- Advances the journey when it finishes playing.
Background Video:
- Has no sound.
- Loops automatically.
- Doesn't advance the journey.

Best Practices for Using Video Blocks

Choose Relevant Content: Select videos that resonate with your target audience and support your journey's message.
Optimize for Mobile: Consider how your video will appear on various devices, especially mobile phones.
Keep It Concise: Trim videos to maintain engagement and focus on key messages.
Use Custom Cover Images: Create attractive cover images to entice viewers to play the video.
Consider Accessibility: Add captions or transcripts when possible to make your content more accessible.

Additional Resources

For more information on creating effective digital journeys with NextSteps, visit:

By mastering the use of video blocks in NextSteps, you can create rich, multimedia experiences that engage your audience and effectively communicate your message. Whether you're sharing biblical content, introducing your organization, or extending personal invitations, video blocks offer a powerful way to connect with your viewers and enhance your digital ministry efforts.