How to Upload a YouTube Short? Recording and Uploading Guide

How to Upload a YouTube Short

YouTube Shorts are attractive among YouTube users, offering creators a quick and engaging way to reach a massive audience. These short and vertical videos are designed for mobile users and have become a key part of YouTube’s ecosystem.

Whether you’re a new creator or an experienced YouTuber looking to master the power of Shorts, this guide will show you how to upload a YouTube Short successfully and give you some tips about uploading YouTube Short.

What Are YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts are short and vertical videos that provide creators with a way to share not-time-consuming content. Think of it as YouTube’s version of TikTok or Instagram Reels. These videos are designed to be quick, catchy, and mobile-friendly.

Key Features of YouTube Shorts:

  • Length: 15-60 seconds.
  • Format: Vertical or square video (aspect ratio of 9:16).
  • Discoverability: Appears in the dedicated “Shorts” section of YouTube.
  • Purpose: Attract viewers with interesting content.

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How to upload a short on YouTube? It is not complicated. If you’re ready to create and upload your first YouTube Short, check the detailed steps below.

How to Upload a YouTube Short? Step-by-Step Guide

It’s easy to upload a YouTube Short on your phone or iPad. Here are the step-step guide.

Step 1. Prepare Your Video

You can prepare videos for uploading: videos that have already been shot; videos made with the YouTube App.

Before uploading your YouTube Short, ensure that your content meets the platform’s requirements:

  • Aspect ratio: 9:16 (vertical format).
  • Resolution: At least 720 x 1280 pixels.
  • Length: Between 15 and 60 seconds.
  • File format: MP4 or MOV is recommended for compatibility.
  • Content: Create engaging, attention-grabbing content that aligns with your audience’s interests.

Step 2. Open the YouTube App

The easiest way to upload a YouTube Short is through the YouTube mobile app. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version.

  1. Open the YouTube app on your smartphone.
  2. Log in to your YouTube account (or create one if you haven’t already).

Step 3. Create and Upload Your Short

As mentioned earlier, you can upload a YouTube Short by recording now or use an already-prepared video.

Option 1: Record a YouTube Short in the App

  1. Tap the “+” icon at the bottom of the screen.
  2. Select “Create a Short” from the menu.
  3. Give your phone the app permission to access your camera and microphone if prompted.
  4. Tap on the record button to capture your video. You can record multiple clips by stopping and starting the recording.
  5. Use the app’s editing tools to trim clips according to your preference, add text overlays, and insert music or audio from YouTube’s music library.
  6. Once satisfied, tap Next to proceed to the upload screen.
Create a YouTube Short

Option 2: Upload an Already-Prepared Video

  1. Tap the “+” icon and select “Upload a Video”.
  2. Choose the already-prepared vertical video from your phone’s gallery.
  3. Trim or edit the video using YouTube’s editing tools.
  4. After editing, go to the upload screen.
Upload a YouTube Short

Step 4. Add More Short Details

Once your Short video is ready, you’ll need to provide some details:

Title: Write a catchy, descriptive title. Plus, include the keyword “#Shorts” to help the video appear in the Shorts section.

Description: Offers a brief description of the video.Add relevant keywords to improve discoverability and add links or calls to action if necessary (e.g., “Subscribe for more!”).

Visibility: Adjust the appropriate privacy setting: Public (Everyone can see your video), Unlisted (Only people with the link can view your video), and Private (Only you can view the video).

Thumbnail: While Shorts don’t prominently display thumbnails in the Shorts feed, having a custom thumbnail can make your video stand out in search results.

Step 5. Add Tags and Hashtags

Tags and hashtags help categorize your video and make it easier for viewers to find. Don’t forget to use #Shorts to ensure the video is recognized as a Short. Plus, you can also add other relevant hashtags (e.g., #CookingShorts, #TechTips).

Step 6. Upload Your YouTube Short

  1. Recheck all the details you’ve added.
  2. Tap Upload to publish your Short.
  3. Wait for the upload process to complete.

Your YouTube Short is now live!

Related: How to Upload a Video to YouTube from Your Computer or Phone

Things to Keep in Mind When Uploading YouTube Shorts

1. Follow Community Guidelines

YouTube has strict community guidelines (Rules and policy). Ensure your Short doesn’t violate any rules, such as prohibited content (e.g., hate speech, violence) and copyright infringement (e.g., using unlicensed music).

2. Optimize for Engagement

  • Short video means there is a shorter time for the audience to stay on your page. Try to hook viewers in the first 3 seconds to keep them watching.
  • The caption is also the first impression to audiences. Try to use captions or text overlays to highlight key points.
  • Encourage viewers to like, comment, and subscribe.

3. Take Advantage of YouTube’s Music Library

YouTube Shorts offers a vast music library you can use for free. Ensure that the music complements your video’s mood and theme and you’re adhering to copyright rules when using external audio.

4. Timing Matters

When to post your Short is also important. Posting your Shorts when your target audience is most active helps improve views and clicks. Analyze your channel’s analytics to determine the best times.

5. Consistency is Key

Uploading Shorts regularly can help you build an audience. Aim for a consistent posting schedule.

FAQs – How to Upload a YouTube Short

1. Can I monetize my YouTube Shorts?

Yes, you can earn money through Shorts if you meet YouTube’s monetization requirements. This includes joining the YouTube Partner Program and gaining income from ads, Super Chats, and the Shorts Fund.

2. Do Shorts require professional equipment?

No! Many successful Shorts are recorded using smartphones. It’s crucial to focus on content quality and creativity rather than expensive gear.

3. Can I edit my Shorts after uploading?

You can’t edit the video itself after uploading, but you can update the title, description, and tags.

Conclusion

Uploading YouTube Shorts is a useful way to grow your channel and engage with a new audience. This article mainly shows you how to upload a YouTube Short. Remember to focus on quality, optimize your videos for discoverability, and stay consistent with your uploads. Wish your Shorts can become a powerful tool for expanding your YouTube influence!

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