What really happens behind the camera—the burnout, the hustle, and the secrets they never share.

Unspoken Truths About Vlogging: Tips and Tricks Nobody Tells You

Vlogging looks effortless when you watch your favorite creators, but behind the scenes, it’s a mix of awkward moments, ethical dilemmas, and clever techniques that most YouTubers learn the hard way. I’m here to spill the beans on what nobody else tells you about vlogging, from handling the cringe of filming in public to planning a video that keeps your audience hooked. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned creator, these tips will help you navigate the unspoken challenges of vlogging with confidence.

Coping with the Awkwardness of Filming in Public

I used to think that hitting 100,000 subscribers or vlogging for a year would make filming myself in public feel natural. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. Even after years of creating content, I still feel a bit awkward whipping out my camera in a crowded cafe or park. But I’ve learned ways to cope, and you can too.

One of my go-to techniques is the walk and talk. Moving while chatting to the camera feels way more natural than standing still, especially when strangers are nearby. It’s less intimate than spilling your heart out with someone hovering next to you, and it keeps the energy dynamic. If the awkwardness creeps in, take a quick break to shoot some B-roll—filming your surroundings instantly feels less weird than pointing the camera at yourself. Plus, it gives you a moment to reset and feel like a “normal” person again before diving back in.

Navigating the Ethics of Filming in Public

One of the biggest questions I get is how to film in public without coming off as a jerk. The legal side varies by country—in Canada, for example, it’s fully legal to film anything or anyone visible in a public space, like streets, parks, or restaurants. However, private property owners (like a cafe or store) can set their own rules and stop you from filming. Laws are nuanced, so check the regulations in your country. I’ve linked a video in the description where a lawyer breaks down Canadian filming laws for more details.

But legality isn’t the whole story—ethics matter too. Here’s my personal approach, broken down into three categories:

1. People in the Background: If I’m vlogging on a busy street and people are passing by, I don’t stress too much. If someone’s face is identifiable and on screen for a while, I’ll blur it in post-production. But for quick, incidental shots, it’s not a big deal.

2. B-roll Footage: Filming crowds at events, like concerts or festivals, is usually fine if no one is overly identifiable. I take extra care with children, blurring their faces if they’re recognizable. For public figures like street performers or tour guides, I always leave a tip if I include them in my B-roll (clips without audio, lasting 3-5 seconds).

3. Featured Characters: If someone will be a major part of my video—like speaking, being named, or appearing for a long time—I always ask for their consent first. I explain my vision for the video and make it clear they can say no. For example, when filming in a coffee shop, I might say to the barista, “Hey, I’m making a vlog about my day. Mind if I film while you make my drink? No worries if not.” If they’re busy, I might skip asking and stick to atmospheric shots (like close-ups of hands steaming milk) to avoid being intrusive.

When vlogging with friends, like on a recent group trip to France, I check in beforehand: “I’m planning to vlog this for my YouTube channel. If you don’t want to be filmed, just let me know.” Most friends are excited to be included, but clarifying upfront makes everyone comfortable and reduces awkwardness.

The key is to stay respectful and unobtrusive. If you’re not blocking anyone’s path or ruining their experience, don’t worry about looking “cringy.” Taking a quick video is no different from snapping a photo as a tourist—it’s not a crime to capture a moment.

Gear That Makes Solo Vlogging Easier

Many vloggers make it look like they have a professional crew, but most of us are solo acts. The right tools can elevate your videos without needing a cameraman. A basic tripod is a game-changer—it frees you from holding your phone and lets you appear in your shots, avoiding that home-movie POV vibe. For more creative angles, I’ve been loving the Insta360 GO 3S Ultra. (Big thanks to Insta360 for sponsoring this video!)

This tiny camera shoots in 4K at 60 fps, has a detachable magnetic mount, and pairs with an action pod to monitor your shot in real time—no more running back and forth to check framing. It’s a huge upgrade from the Insta360 GO 3S, with better battery life, fast charging, a 4K clarity zoom, and an SD card slot for easy file transfers. Plus, it’s waterproof up to 10 meters—perfect for adventurous shoots. (Yes, I did a polar bear dip in freezing Scottish waters to test it!) Check the description for a special link to get a free 128 GB SD card with your purchase.

Planning Your Vlog for Maximum Impact

Good vlogs feel like hanging out with a friend, but that effortless vibe takes planning. Here’s my process to create engaging vlogs:

1. Start with a Hook: Skip the generic “day in my life” framing. Think of a premise or theme—like a cozy workday, a bold new experience, or a reflective moment. Craft your intro like a movie trailer, teasing what’s to come and setting the vibe to boost viewer retention.

2. Map Out Chapters: Break your vlog into distinct scenes, like a morning routine or a commute. Plan the energy for each—maybe a slow, reflective morning with acoustic music, followed by a high-energy commute with upbeat tracks. Varying the pace keeps viewers engaged, and thinking about this before filming makes editing easier.

3. Find the Takeaway: As you film, consider the “moral” or feeling you want to leave with your audience—maybe motivation to try something new or inspiration to connect with friends. Reflecting on this during filming can lead to authentic A-roll moments that tie the video together. Even if it’s just a small, meaningful note, it elevates your vlog beyond a surface-level recap.

Embracing the Awkward and Getting Started

The biggest secret about vlogging? You’ll never feel fully ready. It’s always a bit awkward, but that’s okay. Rip off the band-aid and start filming. The more you do it, the more natural it feels, and the memories you capture are worth every cringe-worthy moment. On my channel, I love sharing behind-the-scenes tips like these to make vlogging less intimidating. Check out my other videos for more advice or to see my vlogs in action on my hobby YouTube channel, where I document my van-life travels.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you’re inspired to create your own amazing vlogs. Go out there, have adventures, and follow your dreams—I believe in you!