Video trailers are short, portrait-format video clips that appear on your live event pages. They give members a quick preview of what your session offers before they sign up or attend. This guide covers best practices on how to record or upload one.
What is a trailer video?
A trailer is a short, portrait-style video that gives our community a quick, personal preview of your live event. Think of it as a 30-second pitch direct to camera: who this is for, what they'll experience, and why it matters. It appears on your live event page, so a compelling trailer can significantly boost registrations.
Quick tips for a successful trailer
You likely have five seconds to get someone excited about joining your event.
- Lead with the hook. Skip "Hi, my name is…” Open with the problem your session solves: "If you keep waking at 3 am, this is for you."
- Look into the lens. Eye contact builds trust. Prop your phone or camera at eye level and try to sound natural - you don’t have to be perfect! Referencing a script is alright if you find it helpful.
- Say who it's for and what they'll walk away with. One sentence each. If you try to speak to everyone, you'll reach no one.
- One idea only. Aim for 20 seconds. A single clear promise beats a summary of everything you cover.
- Face your light - soft natural light from a window is best.
- End with the invitation. "Join me live!"
Do I have to appear on camera?
We strongly encourage you to appear on-camera, speaking directly to your audience; it's one of the fastest ways to build trust and help build a connection. We understand that isn't always possible, though, so it's not mandatory. Voiceover trailers are also accepted, as long as the visuals (b-roll) clearly support the offering you're promoting.
If you'd rather not show your face on camera, here are some options:
- Slow, steady footage of nature or your practice space. Gentle movement reads better than a static shot.
- Hands only: turning pages, holding mala beads, resting in a mudra, pouring tea, journaling
- A wide or side-on shot of you practicing, with your face out of frame
- Abstract texture and light: water, fabric, shadows moving across a wall, sunrise through a curtain
- A lit candle, a plant swaying in a breeze, curtains billowing in a window, a simple altar or practice space
- Keep it calm and consistent with your live event's tone. Avoid busy cuts, stock-looking montages, or anything that competes with your voice.
Prefer not to film at all? Free, royalty-free stock footage works just as well. Sites like Pexels and Pixabay have plenty of nature and lifestyle clips you can drop straight in, often with more polish than a phone recording.
Where do I add my trailer?
You can add a trailer to:
- New live events — uploading a video trailer is mandatory when creating a new live event
- Published or approved live events — you can add or update a trailer on any existing live event, even after it has been approved
Is a trailer mandatory?
Yes. A video trailer is required for every new live event. Our team reviews each trailer before your event goes live. If yours doesn't meet the requirements, we'll get in touch with feedback so you can resubmit and get your live event published.
How do I add a trailer?
There are currently two ways:
Option 1 — Upload a file: Select "Upload video" and choose an MP4 file from your device. This is the best option if you have a pre-recorded clip ready to go.
Option 2 — Record in your browser: Select "Record now" to use your webcam and record directly inside the teacher dashboard. No third-party app required. Read the tips below before you hit record.
Technical requirements
Requirements | Spec |
|---|---|
Format | MP4 |
Orientation | Portrait (vertical) |
Ideal Length | 20-30 seconds |
Clean Video | There cannot be on-screen graphics or text |
Duration | Minimum: 10 seconds Maximum: 45 seconds |
Can I update my trailer after publishing?
Yes. You can add, replace, or update a trailer on any live event or course at any time, including content that has already been approved and is live on the platform.
Once you have added it, please resubmit it for approval.
Additional questions
Can I record a trailer on my phone and upload it? Yes. Record in portrait mode on your phone, then export and upload the MP4 file from your device.
My live event is already approved. Can I still add a trailer? Yes. You can add or update a trailer on any published live event, even after it has been approved. Once you've submitted your new trailer, your event will stay published as is while we review it — we just need to confirm it meets our guidelines before it goes public.
Questions? Reach out through the teacher chat on your dashboard or email us at publishers@insighttimer.com.