When I started my YouTube channel, I used a strategy that I often warn people against today. Okay... I always warn people against it. I decided to wing it. And you know what I learned? Winging it is a disaster. So to help you avoid the same disastrous mistakes I've made, I'm sharing step by step what you need to do to create your first or next video.

After 400 videos, I've learned that you need a few things to create content on YouTube and luckily, they're all easy. Are you ready to get started?

So right out the gate, I want you to understand this. You DO NOT have to be perfect in order to create YouTube content. You don't need a make up artist, professionally done hair, a studio set up or pin worthy background.

What you need is valuable content that your audience WANTS to hear! So let's chat about how to create that high value content.

Equipment.

This is an area that so many people get stuck on. They think that they need to have a professional camera or a dSLR in order to create quality content. This just isn't the case. You can absolutely start with what you have!

Camera- When I started, I thought I needed a dSLR camera to create quality videos and I felt pretty good because I was able to borrow one from my mom. Or I did, until I saw the actual footage. The lighting was off, I was out of focus and the results weren't what I expected.

Why? Because I had no idea how to use a dSLR. It made no sense for me to try to learn it when I had a webcam at the time that worked perfectly well and I knew how to use! So use the camera you have!

This is a great time to try your iPhone, an Android phone or even an iPad! You'd be surprised to know how many YouTubers are relying on phones to create content.

Audio- This is one area you DO want to pay attention to! Now you don't have to get all fancy but you do want to make sure that your audio is not distracting. This means paying attention to echos in your recordings, minimizing background noise and even learning your camera settings.

If you need to invest in a mic, there are several options available under $100 that will seriously improve any quality issues but you can definitely start with the microphone on your phone.

Lighting- Get excited because this one is one that you can get FOR FREE! Yes! Lighting is so so important and can make a video look amazing. And all you really need is a window. Natural light is absolutely the best light possible.

For some, though, natural light might not be available. You can use day light balanced bulbs, ring lights, softboxes and more. These options are readily available on Amazon for under $100 as well.

Before You Hit Record.

There are a few things you need to take care of before you actually hit record. By taking the time to take care of these things, you ensure that your video quality is to the best of your ability.

Background- This isn't something you need to get too fancy with. In fact, just focus on keeping your background clean and simple. You don't need crazy decor or special backdrops. After all, your viewers are here for YOUR content!

Create a Plan- I cannot stress this enough. YOU NEED A PLAN. One of the worst things you can do is going into your recording without know what the plan for your video is. I recommend working in this order.

Create a title. Once you know the title, determine what you'll put on your thumbnail. Create a script and then film your primary content. Also known as your "a-roll." After all of that, it's time for b roll.

You also want to make sure that you're comfortable. For some, this means wearing make up and doing their hair. Ensure that you're wearing a color that doesn't wash your skin tone out as well!

The Camera- Be sure to angle the camera slightly above your eye line. This prevents any unflattered downward shots and generally works for everyone. You also want to make sure you're a good distance from the camera. You don't want to be so far that you're not the main subject but you also don't want to be so close that your viewers can see every pore on your face!

Once you do all of that, it's time to begin. Don't overthink this! You've got this!

Hit Record.

When you're recording, there are a few things to keep in mind. You want to make sure you're looking at the lens. This allows you to really connect with your audience because it will seem as though you are making eye contact with them.

Make sure that you know your topic well and that you have your script with you. That being said, you don't want to read off the script or off a teleprompter. Instead, glance at your script, say a few lines, pause and then repeat.

Once you've recorded your video, set a self timer on that camera and take a few photos. You need a thumbnail, after all!

Editing.

Please please, do not think you need to do anything crazy here. You don't need animations or transitions. Instead, focus on cutting out the pauses and mistakes within the video.

If you're working with a Mac computer, I highly recommend iMovie to begin with. It's simple to use and FREE! Working with a PC? Camtasia and Filmora are great options!

You can also add music to your videos, just ensure that the music used is copyright free. I recommend using YouTube's Audio Library for this!

After you edit, it's time to export!

Upload the Video.

You've done it! You've created a video. Now you just need to upload it. But I need you to hear this. You might not get any views on that first video. Or the next. That's just the way YouTube is. Do NOT get discouraged.

The more you post consistently on YouTube, the more views you'll get. So keep going!