Updated: Oct. 11, 2022

As one of the most versatile mediums out there, video content has plenty of exciting opportunities to offer anyone interested in a creative, unique career. Since its emergence as a popular trend in the early 2000s, vlogging has evolved into a full-blown industry with plenty of professional potential.

If you’ve ever thought about how to become a professional vlogger, or are wondering how to turn your creative passion into a fulfilling career, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to explore exactly what vlogging is, how to make money from vlogging, and the diverse range of opportunities it can offer you.

What is Vlogging?

Before you can jump into vlogging, you’ll need to have a clear idea of what it is. “Vlog” is actually a shortened name for video blogs or video logs and is a term used to describe any form of blogging that uses video as the main medium. One of the aspects of vlogging that has attracted so many people is the way it tells a visual story – something that a traditional written blog can’t achieve in the same way. 

Vlogs are considered part of the larger world of web-based television and have become a huge part of the video-sharing platform, YouTube. Other social media platforms, including Instagram, have recently incorporated video features that make it easy for vloggers to create and share content there as well.

Over the years, vlogging has grown into a community of creators from all over the globe. Major brand collaborations, annual vlogging conventions, industry awards, and even educational degree programs are just some of the many opportunities available to successful vloggers.

Trending Opportunities in Vlogging 

You might be considering vlogging as a fun hobby or creative outlet, but did you know that you can actually build a lucrative career as a vlogger? As the vlogging universe continues to grow and expand, you can find a variety of ways to make money as a vlogger. Whether you’re hoping that vlogging becomes a profitable side hustle or a full-blown career, here are some of the ways you can earn money as a vlogger.

YouTube advertising

YouTube is easily the biggest video sharing platform for vloggers, and part of its popularity is the opportunity for channel monetization. On YouTube, reaching 4,000 watch hours (over the past 12 months) and 1,000 subscribers comes with a major reward: the ability to apply for the YouTube Partner Program. As a partner, you can begin adding ads to your videos, which generate income each time your viewers click on them.

Selling merchandise and other products/services

Vlogging can be one tool in a well-rounded marketing toolbox, providing you with a fun way to spread the word about a product or service you have for sale. For example, if you are passionate about baking, vlogging is an excellent way to gain exposure. You’ll then have an ideal platform for promoting your newest baking cookbook, sharing information with an audience that you know is already interested in the topic.  

Brand collaborations

If you’ve ever watched sponsored video content, you’ve been part of the audience for a brand collaboration. Brands are well-aware of the impressive reach a trending vlogger can have, and having access to the vlogger’s audience base is definitely within a brand’s best interest. 

That’s why so many brands, large and small, are connecting with vloggers to suggest collaborative content. This could range from vlogs that review a specific product or service to a travel vlog that details a vacation to a specific location. Usually, brands target vloggers with a solid audience base, so working to expand your viewership is key. 

With a Media Education, Exciting Vlogging Opportunities Await

Diving into a fast-growing media trend like vlogging can be intimidating, especially if you’re wondering how to make your vlogs stand out from the crowd. And while there’s plenty to be said for creativity, passion, and a love for the medium, a certain amount of skill and knowledge is also key to your success. If you’ve been dreaming about how to become a professional vlogger, the first step in the right direction is education and training. 

At the Media Schools located in Colorado, Ohio, Illinois, and Miami, we’ve always been dedicated to staying ahead of the curve when it comes to hot new trends in the media industry. Here, you’ll receive an education that balances the technical, trendy, and everything in between. Plus, with our diverse selection of programs, finding your ideal path to the future has never been easier. 

If you’re ready to make your mark on the world of vlogging and start your very own vlogging trends, start your application for the Media Schools today!

*Image: By Dragana Gordic