Best Video Formats for Authors

The beauty of TikTok is that you don't need Hollywood production values to succeed. In fact, overly polished content often performs worse than authentic, simple videos. Let me break down the formats that work best for authors in 2025.

The Power of Talking Head Videos

Yes, showing your face still works incredibly well. But not for the reasons you might think.

Why Face-to-Camera Works:

  • Builds personal connection with readers
  • Higher engagement rates
  • Algorithm favors authentic content
  • Easier to batch create

The Magic Formula:

  1. Strong hook in first 3 seconds
  2. One clear message or story
  3. Natural lighting (window light is perfect)
  4. Phone at eye level
  5. Be yourself - quirks and all

I resisted this format for months, thinking I wasn't "TikTok material." My first face-to-camera video got 50K views. Sometimes the formats we resist are the ones we need most.

Slideshows: Still Useful in 2025?

Short answer: Yes, but strategically.

When Slideshows Work:

  • Book recommendations with covers
  • Step-by-step tutorials
  • Before/after transformations
  • Quote collections

When They Don't:

  • Generic motivational quotes
  • Text-heavy slides
  • No personal connection
  • Overused trending audio

Slideshow Best Practices:

  • 3-5 slides maximum
  • High-quality, consistent images
  • One point per slide
  • Your voice over trending audio when possible

Faceless Video Formats That Convert

Not ready to show your face? These formats can work:

Hand Reveals

Show your hands holding books, writing, or flipping pages. Surprisingly engaging when done well.

Book Aesthetics

Flat lay shots of books with props. Works for:

  • Genre mood boards
  • Book hauls
  • Reading nooks
  • Character aesthetics

Screen Recording

Record your phone screen while:

  • Scrolling through Goodreads reviews
  • Shopping for books online
  • Showing writing apps
  • Demonstrating book organization

Text Overlay + B-Roll

Overlay text on footage of:

  • Coffee shops
  • Libraries
  • Your writing space
  • Nature scenes

The Hybrid Approach

Mix formats to keep content fresh:

  • Monday: Face-to-camera book recommendation
  • Wednesday: Hands holding your latest read
  • Friday: Slideshow of weekly reading wins

Format-Specific Tips

For Talking Head Videos:

  • Script your hook, improvise the rest
  • Look slightly above the camera (more flattering)
  • Use hand gestures naturally
  • Don't worry about perfect takes

For Slideshows:

  • Start with your strongest image
  • Use consistent fonts and colors
  • Time transitions with music beats
  • End with a clear call-to-action

For Faceless Content:

  • Show personality through your choices
  • Use your voice when possible
  • Create visual consistency
  • Focus on your unique perspective

Common Format Mistakes

The Everything Video Trying to cover too much in one video. Pick one book, one tip, one story.

The Perfect Take Trap Spending hours on one video. Your personality shines through imperfection.

The Trend Chase Using formats just because they're trending. Choose what feels authentic to you.

The One-Format Rut Using the same format repeatedly. Variety keeps audiences engaged.

My Format Evolution

I started with slideshows because they felt safe. Moved to hand reveals when I got braver. Finally embraced talking head videos when I realized readers wanted to know the person behind the books.

Each format taught me something about connecting with readers. Don't skip steps - embrace the evolution.

Finding Your Format Sweet Spot

Ask yourself:

  • What feels most natural to me?
  • What content do I enjoy creating?
  • Which format serves my message best?
  • What does my audience engage with most?

Technical Quality vs. Authentic Connection

Here's the truth: A shaky phone video with genuine book enthusiasm will outperform a perfectly lit, professionally edited video with no soul.

Focus on:

  1. Clear audio (most important)
  2. Adequate lighting
  3. Steady hands
  4. Genuine emotion

Your Format Experiment Plan

Try each major format at least 5 times before deciding what works:

  • Week 1-2: Talking head videos
  • Week 3-4: Slideshows
  • Week 5-6: Faceless content
  • Week 7-8: Mix your favorites

Track which formats get the best:

  • Views
  • Comments from ideal readers
  • Profile visits
  • Book sales

Remember: The best format is the one you'll actually use consistently. Choose sustainability over perfection every time.

Next, we'll dive into the technical elements that make your content discoverable - hashtags, audio, and captions.

Up next

Hashtags, Audio, Captions

Master the technical elements that make your content discoverable and engaging.