8 cost-effective ways to create awesome video content for your local business

Video has quickly become one of the most engaging ways to connect with customers. It’s personal, visual, and can help your business stand out in crowded online spaces like Instagram, Facebook, and Google Business Profiles. For small businesses in South East London, the idea of making videos might feel daunting or expensive, but the reality is you can get started today with little more than your phone and a bit of creativity.

Here are 7 practical, low-cost tips to help you create videos that showcase your business, build trust, and bring in more customers.

1. Don’t be afraid to use your smartphone

You don’t need fancy cameras to make an impact. Modern smartphones shoot in HD or even 4K, which is more than enough for social media. The trick is in how you use it:

• Wipe the lens to avoid blurry shots.

• Film in landscape for YouTube or your website, and portrait for Instagram Reels or TikTok.

• Use a tripod or even balance your phone on a shelf for a steady shot.

By keeping your setup simple, you can produce professional-looking videos without extra kit.

2. Keep it short and simple

The best videos are focused and easy to watch. People scrolling through Facebook or Instagram don’t want a five-minute sales pitch—they want a quick, clear message. Aim for 30–90 seconds where possible.

• Showcase one product or service per video.

• Start strong—hook viewers in the first three seconds.

• End with a simple call to action like “pop into our shop in Welling” or “visit our website for more.”

Short videos are easier for you to make, and easier for customers to remember.

3. Take advantage of free editing apps

Editing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Free apps like CapCut, InShot, or iMovie let you:

• Cut out mistakes or dead time.

• Add captions (great for people watching with the sound off).

• Overlay text with your business name, opening hours, or website.

• Include royalty-free music for extra energy.

A couple of minutes of editing can take a basic video and make it look polished, professional, and much more engaging. You can even pay for some AI apps which make editing even easier too if you look around.

4. Use natural light

Good lighting can make your video look instantly more professional. You don’t need soft boxes or ring lights—just use daylight.

• Film near a window for soft, flattering light.

• Avoid overhead lights which can cast unflattering shadows.

• If filming outside, choose early morning or late afternoon when the sun is softer.

• Don’t shoot with the sun directly behind your subject as this could cause contrast issues.

Even something simple like turning off harsh shop lights and moving closer to a window can make your video look ten times better.

5. Tell a story

Instead of thinking of video as a sales pitch, treat it as storytelling. People remember stories far more than facts. Some simple ideas:

• Share the journey of how your business started.

• Show how a product is made, packaged, or prepared.

• Film a happy customer sharing their experience.

• Give a “day in the life” glimpse of running your shop or café.

• Happy smiley faces from your business go a long way with connecting with your audience.

These stories create an emotional connection with your audience and show there’s a real person behind the business.

6. Repurpose what you already have

You don’t always need to create brand-new content. Look at what you already use to market your business:

• Turn a popular blog post into a short explainer video.

• Repurpose photos from your Instagram into a slideshow with music.

• Share quick clips of staff setting up shop, stocking shelves, or prepping food.

This way, you get more mileage out of the work you’ve already done, without having to start from scratch each time.

7. Experiment with live video

Going live on Facebook, Instagram, or even TikTok can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to engage directly with your audience. Lives don’t need to be long or polished—the raw, real feel often works better. Some ideas include:

• Host a Q&A about your services.

• Show off new products as they arrive.

• Take viewers behind the scenes at a local event.

Live video gives your business personality and shows authenticity, which is exactly what builds trust locally.

8. Add captions to every video

Most people scroll social media with the sound off, so captions are no longer optional—they’re essential. Captions not only make your videos accessible to everyone but also help reinforce your message. The good news is you don’t need to type them all out manually. Free tools like CapCut or Clipscribe, and even built-in options on Instagram and TikTok, can auto-generate subtitles in seconds. Adding clear, readable captions ensures your videos are understood, even when watched silently on a busy train from Welling to London Bridge.

Final thoughts

Video doesn’t need to mean big budgets or hours of editing. By using your smartphone, natural light, free apps, and a little creativity, you can create powerful content that makes your business stand out across Welling, Bexleyheath, Eltham, and the rest of South East London. The key is to keep it simple, be consistent, and let your personality come through—that’s what your customers will connect with most.