5 Things you Need to Know about Background Video

Changing trends and new technology mean that there’s always something new to consider for your website. Deciding what to implement and what to ignore can be challenging at times; sometimes the latest and greatest trends are best left to fade away into obscurity. The homepage background video trend, however, is not one of those.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Video captures attention

Our brains are wired to give attention to things that move. That was helpful for us in humanity’s early days, to avoid being eaten by a predator or to help us catch dinner. Now we use that instinct to help keep our website’s visitors engaged.

2. Keep it simple

Background video is a popular trend, and as such, we see bad examples of the technology everywhere. The best video is small (in terms of file size, that is), contrasts nicely with other page elements, and never, ever contains sound.

3. You don’t have to make it yourself

While it’s nice to have the video set at your business, it’s not necessary. If you can find a pre-made video that matches your brand and needs, go for it! It won’t have your brand’s identity, sure, but it will be formatted properly, and won’t have the cost associated with producing your own video.

4. Don’t crowd out your other content

If your home page already has a video or two, some animations, a hero image, and scores of headers and sub-headers, consider paring down your content before looking into a background video. Visitors like content, but too much and they’ll get confused and bounce.

5. See what others are doing

You should already know what your competitors’ websites look like; there’s a certain amount of keeping up with the Joneses that has to happen to stay relevant. When considering adding a new element to your site, like a home page background video, it’s also a good idea to take a look at the trend’s best practices (we really like Wild Renfrew). If your competitor missed that part, you may find their visitors, are now your visitors.

SGD has built sites with home page background videos for Bondi Hardware, The Butler Potts Point, and The Lucky Hotel. Let us know if you’re ready for yours!