Video Information Checklist: Metadata, Formats, and Best Practices
1. Metadata — must include
- Title: clear, descriptive, include primary keyword near start.
- Description: 150–300 words with summary, keywords, timestamps, links, and a call-to-action.
- Tags/Keywords: 5–15 relevant tags; use both broad and specific terms.
- Thumbnails: custom image, 1280×720 px, high contrast, readable text.
- Categories: choose the most relevant category to help discovery.
- Language & Subtitles: set language and upload accurate captions (SRT).
- Copyright & Credits: list music/footage sources and license info.
2. Formats & Technical Specs
- Container: MP4 (H.264 codec) for widest compatibility.
- Resolution & Aspect Ratio: deliver at source resolution; common choices: 1080p (16:9) or 4K if available.
- Bitrate: 8–12 Mbps for 1080p; 35–45 Mbps for 4K (variable bitrate preferred).
- Frame Rate: match original (24, 25, 30, 60 fps).
- Audio: AAC-LC, 48 kHz, 128–320 kbps stereo.
- Color: Rec.709 for SDR; include color profile if HDR.
- File Naming: descriptive, include date and version (e.g., projectname_2026-02-08_v1.mp4).
3. Accessibility & Compliance
- Captions & Subtitles: mandatory for accessibility and SEO; provide transcript file.
- Audio Descriptions: for long-form content when required.
- Legal: ensure rights clearance for all assets; keep release forms.
- Privacy: obscure or obtain consent for identifiable people when needed.
4. SEO & Discoverability
- Keyword Placement: keyword in title, first 1–2 sentences of description, and tags.
- Timestamps: for longer videos, add chapter markers to improve engagement.
- Structured Data: implement schema.org/VideoObject on pages embedding the video.
- Engagement Hooks: include CTA, suggested playlists, and end screens.
5. Quality Control & Delivery
- Pre-upload Checks: watch full render, check audio sync, inspect thumbnails at 100% size.
- Test Across Devices: verify playback on mobile, desktop, and TV.
- Version Control: keep master files and incremental exports with changelog.
- Backup: store originals in at least two separate locations (cloud + local).
6. Distribution & Repurposing
- Platform-Specific Exports: create vertical/short versions for Reels/Shorts/TikTok.
- Localized Versions: translate titles/descriptions and supply localized subtitles.
- Clip Strategy: produce short highlight clips for social promotion.
Quick Checklist (short)
- Title, description, tags — done
- Custom thumbnail — done
- Correct format (MP4/H.264) — done
- Captions uploaded — done
- Rights cleared — done
- Backup master file — done
If you want, I can generate a fillable checklist or exportable template for uploads.
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