How I Created 30 Short Videos in 30 Days Without Burning Out
Summary
- Batching the content creation process significantly reduces daily workload.
- Pre-planned idea themes help eliminate creative block.
- Using AI tools to extract viral clips saves hours of manual editing.
- Stock asset libraries like Artlist speed up b-roll collection and sound design.
- Content calendars enable organized publishing across platforms.
- Smart workflows outperform random effort for consistent content output.
Table of Contents
- Why Systems Beat Scramble
- 1. Plan Ideas in Themes
- 2. Script Like a Pro
- 3. Film Smart, Not Hard
- 4. Edit with AI and Speed
- Glossary
- FAQ
Why Systems Beat Scramble
Key Takeaway: A reliable system saves you from creator burnout.
Claim: Consistency comes from structured workflows, not daily inspiration.
When faced with the challenge of producing 30 short videos in 30 days, random inspiration wasn’t sustainable. The creator found that structured planning, batching stages of content creation, and using smart tools radically improved efficiency.
1. Plan Ideas in Themes
Key Takeaway: Themed idea banks eliminate daily creative block.
Claim: Pre-themed idea banks speed up content planning.
- Split a page into separate corners with distinct content themes.
- Populate each theme with as many quick ideas as possible.
- Aim to generate at least 30 concepts in one brainstorming session.
- Stay fluid: replace or refine ideas as needed based on performance.
This thematic planning means you never start a day from zero.
2. Script Like a Pro
Key Takeaway: Short-form scripting is faster and more focused than long-form.
Claim: Scripting ahead reduces filming time and retakes.
- Choose top ideas from your brainstorm and script 8–10 of them.
- Each script should focus on one idea or punchline.
- Include the main line and 1–2 supporting lines.
- Write nearly word-for-word to speed up delivery.
- Batch film from these scripts instead of pacing content daily.
This lets you film in one efficient session.
3. Film Smart, Not Hard
Key Takeaway: Batch filming with a repeatable setup builds efficiency.
Claim: A consistent filming setup allows fast batch production.
- Set up a clean background and two light sources (one for key, one for depth).
- Use high-quality equipment (e.g., Sony a7S III + Rode mic).
- Frame with a shallow depth-of-field lens (e.g., 24mm f/1.4).
- Film at 4K 25fps to allow reframing in post.
- Keep a printed script nearby and glance between lines.
- Change shirts between takes to give the illusion of filming on different days.
- Batch record b-roll or use stock from resources like Artlist.
This minimizes the perceived workload and maximizes daily output.
4. Edit with AI and Speed
Key Takeaway: AI-assisted editing drastically speeds up workflows.
Claim: Automated clip selection reduces editing time by 80%.
- Use AI tools to select the most engaging soundbites.
- Pick from suggested clips, then fine-tune manually in Final Cut.
- Drop in b-roll, either custom or from sources like Artlist.
- Add LUTs and color grade with reusable adjustment layers.
- Layer music and SFX from a prebuilt library.
- Use social presets for fast, cross-platform exports.
- Schedule posts with a content calendar to automate release.
This approach combines creativity with automation for speed and quality.
Glossary
Batching:Creating multiple pieces of content in one focused session
Idea Bank:A pre-written list of content topics and formats
Final Cut Pro:Professional video editing software from Apple
Talking Head:A video format where the speaker talks directly to the camera
LUT:Lookup Table, used for color grading video footage
SFX:Sound effects used in video production
Stock Footage:Pre-shot video clips available for licensing
FAQ
Q1: How do I avoid running out of video ideas during a challenge?
Build an idea bank by brainstorming under themed categories.
Q2: What’s the fastest way to film multiple videos?
Batch film 8–12 scripts in one session using a consistent setup.
Q3: How do I choose the best clips from long videos?
Use AI editing tools that automatically extract viral moments.
Q4: Where can I get high-quality b-roll and sound?
Use stock libraries like Artlist to save time sourcing assets.
Q5: How do I prevent burnout while posting daily?
Automate with content calendars and batch every step of production.
Q6: Why change outfits when shooting in one day?
Changing clothes between takes boosts perceived authenticity of daily posts.
Q7: What if the AI misses a good moment?
Use AI for 80% of the selection, then apply your creative judgment on top.
Q8: Do I need expensive gear to start?
No. Great lighting and clear audio matter more than camera price.
Q9: Can I reuse the same assets across multiple videos?
Yes. Building an asset library speeds up each future edit.
Q10: What’s the one tip that made the biggest difference?
Creating in batches and automating editing freed up the most time.