Many stock video users come with some questions. Like what are the pros & cons of using these videos? And should we use those or not? So, in this post, I will talk about the pros and cons of using these videos. Then it will be your choice to conclude the post according to your need.
Table of Contents
What is Stock Video Footage?
Videos that are professionally created with high quality and according to a specific industry that is free to use in videos. are known as stock video footage. Different platforms offer these videos. Like iStock, Upsplash, Pixabay etc. These videos are usually less than a minute. They might be free and some of the versions of higher quality will be paid. And you have to pay for using this video.
These stock videos are used for a lot of purposes. Like in any type of project or any other type of video. They are used for many reasons. Like when you don’t have the resources to create such a high-quality and perfect video. Or you don’t have the time to go and record the video. And if you want animated stock videos for your project then how will you get them without resources and spending a lot of money?
Why do Video Creators and marketers use Stock Videos?
Multiple reasons why video creators and marketers use this video. Many creators use this video because of the quality of the shot. And marketers use these videos because:
- They make the website pages more engaging and attractive.
- Some of the videos are so artistic that they are very hard to recreate.
- These videos are the perfect fit for social media.
- Tremendous Intros and Drone shots.
- Backgrounds are according to the event.
Pros & Cons of Stock Video Footage
Pros
1. More Engaging
Telling a story with just words will not get you the desired result. And if you are telling a story then you need to engage the audience with high-quality exceptional videos. And that is where stock video footage will help you. Because these videos will tell your story more engagingly. Because they are shot according to a certain field. Like if you are creating a video about nature and health. Then adding the stock video will improve your storytelling.
These videos will play a huge role in the connection between the video and the viewer. Because there are many types of stock videos available on a single topic. And you can choose wider angles, Closer shots, and different camera angle shots. You can place it in the video to express a specific emotion or present an expression.
2. High-Quality
Stock videos are very effective, and everybody uses them cause not everyone has the skill to create these types of high-quality videos. Because they don’t have the knowledge, resources, or the budget to create it. And that is why these high-quality videos are very beneficial. These videos will enhance credibility and boost the overall video.
Many professionals work hard to capture those amazing shots of the highest quality. And using high-resolution stock video will have a good impact on the viewer.
3. Time Saving
Not everybody can record these types of astonishing videos. They don’t have resources and also, they don’t have enough time to go to mountains or other types of places to capture a 1 minute or less stock video. And that is why it is the best option to add to the video. And its high quality makes the video tremendous.
4. Affordable
Another reason why everyone uses stock videos in their videos is because they are affordable. Some of the videos are free to use and everyone can download them and use them without any type of permission or license. Many of them are paid too but they are more affordable so that even small creators and businesses can use them too.
Cons
1. Uniqueness
These videos are not unique at all, and many businesses and video creators might use this video. So, if anyone is looking for a unique look with these videos. Then this is not a good option. And these videos are not good for credibility. Because if you are a unique business that is offering services or products. Then you need unique videos. And the stock video will not have a good impact on the viewer. And the users don’t trust the business.
2. Limited Options Available
There are only limited videos related to a topic to add to your project. And that means that you might not get the desired video. Which makes the video a bit irrelevant sometimes. And then the content and the video do not match. And the user finds these videos not engaging.
3. Best Options Are Expensive
As I discussed above, some of the stock videos are free. But mostly high-quality and more relevant videos require a lot of money. And if you want to use it. You want to buy it. And that is why it might put weight in our pocket if you are creating a small project and want good footage for it.
4. Understand the Usage and Buy Process
If you are buying a stock video, then you should have known the license of the footage. And if you by mistake use it in the wrong way. Then you have to go through hard times. Like the website might hit you with a copyright claim. And your whole work will be wasted.
Conclusion
There are both pros and cons of using stock video in the project. The first pro is that some of these are affordable. And these videos save time & money. These videos are of high quality and according to the topic. And more engaging because of the professionally captured shots. And the cons are that the stock video is not unique, and many people use it. So, it may not look unique to the audience. Premium quality is expensive and there are only limited options to choose from. And you have to understand the license before buying it. And should know its usage.
