Lay the foundation

How to make high-quality recruiting videos yourself for $0

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Video is the bedrock of any successful recruiting campaign.

In my unsuccessful recruiting campaign, other people made my videos.

In my successful recruiting campaign, I made every single video myself (with my dad).

I’m going to show you how easy this really is.

What equipment do you need?

iPhone or Android phone

This tutorial is for the iPhone

Android is similar. Pretty easy to transfer the knowledge over to that phone

You don’t need any other equipment

3 rules when it comes to video

No videos longer than 30 seconds (there is a way to use longer videos, but we’ll talk about that later. For now, stick to making videos that are shorter than 30 seconds)

No music / creative editing (the video should almost look boring)

Provide value (show your best skills — obviously)

What angle should I take the video at?

Multiple angles is always best, but spend most of your time filming from the optimal angle

Here are the optimal angles for each type of video:

Hitting: open side (3rd base side for lefties, 1st base side for righties)

Defense: no specific angle, just make sure the play is unobstructed by fencing, netting ,etc.

Pitching: open side and behind the mound (best to include both of these angles)

Some pieces of advice on the content of the video

Fill the screen only with things of value — never make a video of a swing or play that you’re not proud of.

For hitters, coaches are mostly looking for the swing. Only include videos of you running the bases if speed is a marketable trait for you (if you’re fast).

Videos of line-outs are fine (again, the coach is mostly looking at the swing)

Should I send game video or practice video?

Send both, but game video is better

Game video cannot be manipulated, so coaches find it more trustworthy

Coaches want to see how you interact on the field, and move with the flow of the game

Certain positions showcase better in game film (catchers with pop times)

Skills each position should showcase (besides hitting)

Outfielders: throws to bases

Infielders: double-play turns and feeds

Catchers: receiving, blocking, and throwing

Pitchers: wind-up and stretch

Edit and upload your video in 10 easy steps

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Want to see video examples?

Some of my videos from junior college are still on YouTube

Type in “Jack Kruger OCC Santa Ana”

You’ll see baseball and softball videos on there (my sister used the BB system to earn a spot at the University of Pittsburgh)

PLEASE NOTE: You’ll see 4 second videos and 5 minute videos. Some of these videos were created for specific coaches and specific situations. This is because keeping coaches engaged over a long period of time is different than getting them interested in the first place. We’ll talk about some more video strategies later on, but for now, stick to the 30-second rule.

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