Uploading custom background videos

NextSteps, a powerful digital tool developed by the Jesus Film Project, offers versatile options for incorporating videos into your digital journeys. This guide will walk you through the process of uploading and using custom background videos, enhancing the visual appeal and engagement of your content.

Understanding Video Options in NextSteps

NextSteps provides multiple sources for video content:

• Digital library videos
• YouTube videos
• Custom uploaded videos

Step-by-Step Guide to Uploading Custom Background Videos

1. Selecting a Royalty-Free Video

1. Visit a royalty-free video website (e.g., Pexels, Pixabay, or Videvo).
2. Use the search function to find appropriate videos (e.g., search "Australia").
3. Browse through the results to find a suitable video (in this example, a video of the ocean during sunrise).
4. Click the download button to save the video to your device.

2. Accessing the Background Settings in NextSteps

1. Open your journey in the NextSteps journey builder.
2. Navigate to the card where you want to add the video background.
3. Click on the card to open its editing options.

3. Uploading the Custom Video

1. In the card editor, select "Background".
2. Click on "Video" in the background options.
3. Choose "Select Video", then click "Upload".
4. You can now either:
   • Drag and drop your downloaded video into the "Drop a video here" window, or
   • Click "Upload file" and locate the video on your computer.

4. Implementing the Video Background

Once uploaded, NextSteps will automatically:

• Use a still frame from the video as a background preview in the journey builder.
• Set the video to loop continuously when users view the card in the live journey.

Best Practices for Custom Background Videos

1. File Size Optimization: Compress your video to ensure fast loading times. Tools like HandBrake can help optimize video files.
2. Video Length: Keep background videos short (10-20 seconds) to maintain smooth looping and reduce file size.
3. Content Relevance: Choose videos that complement your message without distracting from the main content.
4. Mobile Considerations: Ensure your video looks good on smaller screens. Consider using a static image for mobile users to improve performance.
5. Accessibility: Provide alternative text or descriptions for users who may have visual impairments or slow internet connections.
6. Quality Check: Preview your journey on various devices to ensure the video plays smoothly and enhances the user experience.

Leveraging Video Backgrounds for Engagement

• Use background videos to create atmosphere or evoke emotions related to your content.
• Consider using videos that subtly reinforce your message or call-to-action.
• Experiment with different video styles to find what resonates best with your audience.

By effectively utilizing custom background videos in NextSteps, you can create more immersive and engaging digital journeys that captivate your audience and enhance your ministry's digital outreach.For more detailed information on using NextSteps and its features, visit the NextSteps Support Page. Additionally, explore the Jesus Film Project Tools for more resources to enhance your digital ministry efforts.