GUIDELINES

Developing Your Content

The video you produce will be seen by millions of people in the YouVersion Community! More importantly, it will guide how the next generation develops in their faith and understanding of the Bible. Keep the following in mind:

● KBE is watched around the world, so themes should be global, diverse, and appropriate for a broad range of church backgrounds.

● Spotlight core essential biblical principles and avoid strong theological bias or perspectives specific to a certain denomination or faith tradition.

● Focus your teaching on the context of the verse assigned to you. Consider who wrote the passage, their audience, and historical context as you examine the message being communicated in this verse. 

● Videos should be able to stand alone and be understood well with no additional context.

● Avoid “Christianese” religious jargon, as well as verbiage specific to your church, organization, or ministry.

Creating Your Video

Our research shows that a one-shot, "talking head" style video does not keep the attention of our target audience. Think outside the box and be creative! 

● Film your video in short segments and shoot from different angles, change up your background, and use transitions or filters.

● Experiment with different video styles like a “how-to” video or podcast-style interview.

● Use animation, art, object lessons with props, personal examples, or storytelling…the sky’s the limit!

● Energy and enthusiasm should be authentic and genuine, a peer-to-peer style of communication from that of a trusted friend.

● Avoid speaking to a crowd ("hi boys and girls"), instead speak to the individual as a trusted friend.

● Avoid skewing too young with your vocabulary, tone of voice, or music choices. It can be helpful to imagine aiming your communication at a youth ministry age.

● Avoid talking too fast to be understood. 

● Consider saying your name and where you are from at the beginning of your video, especially if you are not in North America.

Preparing to Shoot

● Content should be clear and focused on one main point, while being authentic and personable.

● Both video and audio should be of high quality. Avoid shakiness and film in a distraction-free environment. Ensure audio is clear with no background noise.

o Level Up: Try using an external mic for clear audio like SHURE MV88 for iPhone 6 and later models. Avoid camera shakiness by using a gimbal, like the Osmo Mobile 3.

● On-camera attire should avoid brand names, logos, or distracting elements.

● Backgrounds should be distraction-free and free of text. 

● If you choose to include music, gifs, or video clips, ensure you have the rights to use them and they are free of copyright. You may be asked for a license. 

● Because of our global audience, please cover tattoos or piercings (women's earrings are ok).

● All videos must be filmed and submitted in portrait (vertical) format. Videos filmed in landscape (horizontal) will not be approved and require re-filming.  

Final Tips

● If including Scripture, bonus points for reading from the Bible or Bible App!

● If creating multiple videos, change your clothes, hairstyle, and background. 

● Wear clothes that are appropriate for all seasons, as your video could be shared at any time of the year. 

● Once finished, this content is your own and may be used for your church services, social media marketing, or other organizational use.