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October 6, 2023When you design a website, you shouldn’t only think about static visuals. There are so many ways to build a website, exactly because of the opportunities that the digital world offers. Websites with video background started to be very popular these days. These videos are browser-sized and offer the visitors a completely new experience when they visit the website.
In a world where User Experience matters the most in the online field, video backgrounds enlarged the possibilities that web designers have, giving them the chance to express a certain message or a certain idea solely by including this one element in their work.
Should you use websites with video background or not?
Business websites choose video backgrounds often
Using a video homepage is common for business websites or other organizations that want to present their services in the most efficient manner. In business, it is very important to give the user the information he looks for before he even starts getting interested in what your company has to offer. Well, video backgrounds have this power and including them in a business website design has more chances of transforming a visitor in a client than static visuals.
Video backgrounds go well with selling products
For businesses that sell individual goods, a large background video will give them the chance to present a specific product in a very good light that is going to quickly stir the interest of the visitor. The way this video is created will influence the final result. When selling products, you need to show customers the act of using it. The only way to do that is by incorporating videos to your website, to make people have an idea of how their life would be changed if they possessed that product.
Shops and location-based businesses definitely need to use it
Another category of websites that should opt for a video background website is represented by physical location businesses that need to present the surroundings of their location in-detail. The most popular businesses in this category are hotels and restaurants. Video backgrounds act as showcases for the location of the business so that they give clients the main idea of what they are going to see if they visit it. It will make visitors want to visit the location and it is much more efficient than adding pictures in the photo gallery because you decide what the visitor gets to see.
Any other businesses in the hospitality industry
Large background videos are also used to create websites for businesses in the hospitality industry. To present events or how tours take place, the best way to do it is by video. The audience will expect to see the experience they would get if they choose your company. There is nobetter method to offer them that excitement other than a video on the website.
What rules you should know about when using video backgrounds?
Select the purpose of the video
The first rule when building websites with video background are to set a purpose. Videos are meant to powerfully express a message that your brand desires to express to the customers. Without setting purpose, you won’t be able to express anything through that video, making it completely irrelevant for your website. Decide what message you want to send and convey it through the use of a website background video.
Your video shouldn’t replace the content
Websites with video background are not supposed to replace using the content. Video backgrounds are versatile, and text can be added on top of them. Of course, you need to keep the amount of text you use limited and you also need to use a contrasting color, so that it is easy to read, but you can save other sections of your website for the actual written information you use. One thing is for sure – you can’t completely get rid of written content.
Perfect examples of websites that use video backgrounds
A list of websites that used cool video backgrounds should help you understand what makes them so useful and appreciated by visitors. Websites with video background seem to be the most efficient method to transmit a message nowadays when everyone is in a hurry and would like to get their information fast. These are some html5 video background examples that should inspire you for your next project:
Cosmetics
This website uses a video that has quick cuts from different perspectives. Aerial shots are pretty popular in terms of camera work, and they made use of it exceptionally. Besides using it as a background video, the company made the full video available if visitors want to see more.
Dubai Future Talks
Faraday Future is a great website that includes a car commercial as a video background. Everything you would want to know about that car is presented in the shortest time possible. The website immediately accomplishes the goal of transmitting a message and catching the eye of the visitors, turning them into potential customers.
Oasen
Flipboard is an app for iPhone and iPad and the designers selected a video background to present the way the app works. This is the easiest and most efficient method to make people curious about the app.
FAQ on websites with video backgrounds
Do video backgrounds slow down website loading times?
Absolutely, mate! When you've got a video playing in the background, it's like having a mini-movie theater on your site. It can be a bit heavy, especially if the video file is large. So, yeah, it can slow down the initial load time. But if you optimize the video, use the right formats, and maybe even consider a bit of lazy loading, you can minimize the impact. It's all about that balance between aesthetics and performance.
How do I optimize a video for my website background?
Ah, the age-old question! First, you want to compress that video without losing too much quality. There are tools out there like HandBrake that can help. Then, think about the format. WebM and MP4 are popular choices. Keep the video short and loop it if needed. And remember, the smaller the file size, the faster it'll load. It's a bit of a dance, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be golden.
Are there any SEO implications for websites with video backgrounds?
Good one! So, while search engines like Google can't "watch" your video, they can index the metadata. If you're using a video background, make sure you've got relevant keywords in the video file name, description, and alt text. But, don't rely solely on the video to convey critical info. Always have accompanying text. And remember, user experience is a big deal for SEO. If your video slows down your site too much, it could hurt your rankings.
Can video backgrounds be mobile-friendly?
Oh, for sure! But it's a bit tricky. Mobile devices have data limits and smaller screens. So, you might want to consider using a shorter or lower-resolution video for mobile, or even swapping it out for a static image. Always test on different devices to see how it looks and feels. The key is to ensure that the user experience isn't compromised, no matter the device they're on.
What's the best length for a background video?
Short and sweet, my friend! Think 10-20 seconds. You want it to be engaging but not overwhelming. And if it's too long, you risk slowing down your site. Remember, it's a background element, not the main show. Looping a shorter video can give the illusion of length without the heavy load time.
How do I choose the right video content for my website's theme?
Ah, the art of choice! Think about your brand and message. The video should complement and enhance, not distract. If you're a travel agency, maybe a serene beach scene. Tech company? Perhaps some slick animations or futuristic visuals. Always keep your audience in mind. What would resonate with them? And, of course, ensure it's high quality. No one likes a pixelated mess.
Do video backgrounds affect user experience?
They can, both positively and negatively. A well-chosen, optimized video can elevate the user's experience, making your site memorable. But, if it's too loud, too busy, or slows down the site, it can be a turn-off. Always prioritize the user. If you're getting feedback that it's too much, listen and adjust.
Are there copyright issues to consider?
Oh, absolutely! You can't just grab any video off the internet and slap it on your site. Make sure you have the rights. There are stock video sites where you can purchase rights, or consider creating your own. Always, always ensure you're on the right side of the law. No one wants a nasty legal surprise.
How can I make sure my video background doesn't distract from my content?
Balance is key. The video should be a backdrop, not the star of the show. Consider using videos with slower movements, muted colors, or even a slight blur. You want it to enhance, not overshadow. And always make sure your main content, like text or call-to-action buttons, is clearly visible against the video.
Can I use sound with my video background?
Technically, yes. But, tread carefully. Most users don't expect sound when they land on a website. It can be jarring. If you do opt for sound, make it subtle and give users the option to mute. Always think about the user's environment. They might be in a quiet office or a busy cafe. Don't be that site that embarrasses them with unexpected noise!
Conclusion
The popularity of websites with video background has grown tremendously. If integrated well, videos can imprint a message in the visitor’s mind, transforming them in customers easier. Videos seem to be more effective than any other method used in web design until now.
