Who We Are.

As a Houston-based video production company, we're obsessed with making memorable marketing videos for serious tech companies looking to build their brands. Our award-winning team can help by producing high-quality photoreal 3D animation, 2D motion graphics, cinematophagrapy, and mind-blowing visual effects.

Should You Include Audio in Your Video?

Videos are made up of two main components: the visuals and the audio. But, in a time where auto-play videos are muted on social media, what’s the best way to effectively use audio in your videos so that your message isn’t lost on mute, but is improved when included? How do you know which options are right for you to use for audio in your video content? 


Consider what would make your video the best, given no restrictions. If your video is of your kid’s piano recital, audio is absolutely necessary. If it’s to show off dominoes falling into the shape of a Mario riding Yoshi, then not so much. A step by step instruction video needs audio if you have a person saying each step, with on-screen text, not so much. Be aware of what your video needs to get your message across. In other words: know what your video is. 


Visuals with No Audio

Sometimes, audio is absolutely necessary. Think about a music video (any music video). Mute it and see if it’s nearly as good (although you could make an argument for the incredible visuals in OK GO’s music videos). Video without audio puts all of the weight of the video on the visuals. But with audio, a video is enhanced and made more memorable. Most social media auto-plays videos muted, meaning the user has to turn on the sound manually to hear that. If you’re posting to social media, is your video going to make the impact you want even if it’s muted?


Audio with No Visuals

Is it possible to have a video without visuals and just audio? Sure, look up at podcast on YouTube. If there’s a video it’s either just a camera pointed at the person’s face talking into the mic, or a still image of the podcast logo. Yet these YouTube videos can get millions of views. It’s very unlikely that this is the kind of video you need, unless you’re a record label releasing a new song that doesn’t have a music video yet (but even then those are being replaced by lyric videos).  


Videos with Both Audio and Visuals

For marketing purposes, usually the best option for video content is to create a video that works as a video without audio (for the formats that are auto-muted like Instagram or Facebook), but that includes audio that makes it even better for those that can hear it. I know this seems like a tall order (“just do everything great!”), but as long as you plan out for this kind of video, it’s not as difficult to achieve as it initially seems. 


The key, as it is with a lot of things in business and marketing, is to plan ahead. Know what you need from your video, what message you’re trying to get across. Know what your audience will actually experience (don’t post an audio-necessary video on a platform that mutes video). It’s okay to tell people “hey, make sure to turn on the sound!” if your video needs it (just don’t ask for this if it isn’t necessary, that’ll backfire). The bottom line is that you want your visuals and your audio to marry in a way that leave your viewers riveted, engaged, informed, and if possible, amazed.

OTHER blogs

Check Out More Posts

Unveiling the Magic: A Deep Dive into Our 2D Animation (Motion Graphics) Video Services

This comprehensive guide will take you through the intricacies of our video production process, elucidate the impact of budget, timeline, and creative complexity, and shed light on our commitment to quality through our glitch-free guarantee.

Decoding Video Production Costs: Budget, Time, and Creative Output

In this article, we'll demystify the relationship between budget, time, and creative output in video production, emphasizing that creating a video is far from a simple, instantaneous feat.

Animation Review and Feedback: Streamlining the Process for Outstanding Results

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of reviewing and offering feedback on animations, with a focus on explainer videos, product demos, how-tos, and other business-oriented videos.

Navigating Storyboards: A Client's Guide to Understanding, Evaluating, and Providing Feedback

In this guide, we'll provide insight into understanding storyboards, their purpose, how to interpret the information they convey, and offer relevant feedback that streamlines the process.

Mastering DIY Video Scriptwriting: A Comprehensive Guide

This in-depth guide will walk you through the process of crafting an engaging video script, covering essential aspects such as precise timing, maintaining a logical flow, eliminating unnecessary content, infusing character, effectively targeting your audience, and crafting a compelling call to action.

Enhancing Your Social Media Videos with SRT Subtitle Files: A Comprehensive Guide

Subtitles make your content more inclusive, enabling viewers with hearing impairments or language barriers to enjoy your videos. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of uploading SRT files with videos on major social media platforms and explore the perks of using SRT files to enhance your online videos.

Exploring the Power of CTV and Best Practices for Your Business

In today's digital age, Connected TV (CTV) has emerged as a powerful advertising medium, revolutionizing how businesses engage with their target audiences.

The Benefits of Video for Recruiting Top Talent

Recruiting top talent is essential for the success of any business, but it can be a challenge to stand out in a crowded job market. Video can help you differentiate your company and attract top talent.

How to Use Video to Improve Your Sales Process

Video can be a powerful tool for improving your sales process and closing more deals. It can be used at every stage of the sales funnel, from lead generation to closing the sale.

Using 3D Animation to Bring Your Product Demos to Life

3D animation can help you bring your product demos to life and make them more engaging and memorable. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using 3D animation in your product demos.

How to Use Video in Your Email Marketing Campaigns

Video can help you cut through the noise and capture the attention of your subscribers. In this blog post, we will discuss how to use video in your email marketing campaigns.

The Role of Motion Graphics in Corporate Videos: A Guide for Businesses

Motion graphics can be used to explain complex concepts, add visual interest, and make your videos more engaging. In this blog post, we will discuss the role of motion graphics in corporate videos and how they can benefit your business.

The Dos and Don'ts of Creating Engaging Video Content for Social Media

In this blog post, we will discuss the dos and don'ts of creating engaging video content for social media.

The Benefits of Using VFX in Your Video Marketing Strategy

Visual effects, or VFX, are a powerful tool for enhancing your video marketing strategy. They can be used to create stunning visuals, enhance storytelling, and captivate your audience.

The Power of Explainer Videos for B2B Businesses

Explainer videos are a powerful tool for B2B businesses looking to educate their audience and drive conversions.

How to Create Effective Product Demos: Tips from Control Shift Video

Product demos are a powerful tool for showcasing your products and services to potential customers.

How Control Shift Video Can Help Your Business Create High-Quality Videos

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of videography and how Control Shift Video can help your business create high-quality videos.

The Benefits of 3D Animation: Why Control Shift Video Is Your Go-To Studio

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of 3D animation and why Control Shift Video is your go-to studio for all your animation needs.