This post continues the Podcast Seminar series. This week we answer the question, What type of podcast should you produce?
In general, there are two types of podcast you can produce, audio and video.
First let’s discuss audio. In audio there are basic podcasts and “enhanced” podcasts. Basic podcasts are most times encoded with the MP3 codec though they can be encoded in WMA, OGG, or AAC. Basic audio podcasts can be produced on Macs, PC’s, portable recorders, etc. The options to creating a basic audio podcast are almost endless. Also the number of devices that can listen to basic audio podcasts is almost limitless.
The enhanced podcasts are those that are created solely for use on iTunes and the iPod. They contain chapters, images and links that the listener can click on when they are at their computer to get more information on the topics that the podcaster is discussing. Enhanced podcasts are created with a Macintosh computer and the iLife software, Garageband. If you’re only targeting those listeners with iTunes and/or an iPod, this might be the format for you. Keep in mind that enhanced podcasts are more time consuming to produce than basic audio podcasts.
How about video? Breaking down video subtypes, I would make two broad categories: screencasts and traditional video. Screencasts are first person videos where the podcaster/presenter shows you their screen and records a voiceover to explain what and how they are doing on the screen. Screencasts are almost as easy to create as audio p0dcasts with the correct software. I highlighted a free tool called CamStudio that you can use to get started in screencasting with little more than a microphone. You can also checkout the post I made about the Camtasia. If the aim of your podcast is to show users of the software your company makes how it works, then this is the podcast type for you. Also, there are new and better tools being made for this type of video, so don’t stop here if you are interested in making screencasts.
Traditional video is the final type of podcast. Traditional video podcasts come in a huge variety of styles. It could be recording you and a buddy on a couch, Diggnation style, or a fully produced show like TikiBar, or a man or woman on the street show like Mahalo Daily. Traditional video podcasts are going to be the most time consuming to create, edit, encode and the most costly to distribute.
In order of ease of production are audio, enhanced audio, screencasts, and then traditional video.
Basically it comes down to this; will your content be conveyed in an effective manner through audio, enhanced audio, screencast or video?
Other things to consider in choosing your podcast type:
- equipment needed to produce your podcast: camera, microphones, mixers, lights
- time required vs. time available to edit your podcast
- costs for producing your podcast: talent, equipment, opportunity cost
- costs for distributing your podcast: hosting, bandwidth
Next time, What equipment/software do you need?
