The cultural shift toward real

Audiences now value storytelling that feels genuine and relatable. This trend rewards creators who embrace experimentation and let personality shine through, rather than trying to produce something flawless.

Analog nostalgia

Film grain, scratches, and vintage filters are back in style. Like vinyl records, these lo-fi visuals have a more human and authentic feel. For audiences, they bring a sense of comfort and familiarity, reminding people of old home movies and TV shows. This makes content feel warmer than polished digital video. From music videos shot on VHS to short films with 16mm overlays, the analog look gives viewers the sense they’re watching something timeless and authentic.

Social media fatigue

With 40% of videos on major social media platforms now made by AI, people are noticing content that feels real more than ever. A polished shot can feel more like an ad than a real moment. Imperfect clips with uneven lighting, shaky movement, or rough audio feel closer to everyday life and are easier to relate to. For filmmakers, this is good news too. Lower production value means less time on set and less money spent while still connecting better with audiences.

Early internet and home video influence

The grainy charm of early webcams, pixelated YouTube uploads, and awkward framing have grown into their own style. Many Gen Z creators copy these lo-fi quirks to give their content a nostalgic feel and connect with audiences who grew up online. For creators, this style is practical, too. Faster production enables them to stay ahead of social media trends.

How to get the aesthetic of imperfection

Creating the look of imperfection means intentionally using small flaws in camera work, lighting, texture, editing, and sound to make your content feel more authentic, relatable, and alive for viewers.

Camera work

When the camera shakes, zooms in suddenly, or frames something in a way that feels a little “off”, the video feels more real. These small “mistakes” copy the way people move in real life, which helps your viewers feel like they are there in the moment.

Lighting

Instead of using studio lights and softboxes, you can play around with sunlight, shadows, and even the lamps already in the room. The video will look less perfect, but feel more natural, making the scene feel more like a real place.

Texture

Adding film grain, noise, fuzz, blur, or overlays can change how your video feels, making the picture look less perfect and more human. These effects remind people of old movies and home videos, adding a sense of familiarity and warmth.

Editing and pacing

When a video uses jump cuts, small mistakes, or changes that don’t line up perfectly, it can feel messy but exciting. These editing choices break away from the smooth style and give your video energy and personality.

Sound design

Including ambient room tone, mic pops, or leaving in a laugh or stumble makes audio feel more alive. These sounds make the scene feel real and help people connect with what’s happening, as if they were there in person.

Why raw connects and how creators use it

From online influencers to filmmakers, both big and small brands are using raw, unpolished content to create a sense of trust, emotional connection, and authenticity that stands out in crowded feeds.

Trust and relatability

With raw content, viewers feel like they’re seeing the real you, not a curated façade. That trust translates into deeper loyalty and higher engagement. Small brands in particular are embracing this by filming behind-the-scenes clips on their phones, capturing team members, day-to-day processes, and products in progress. These lo-fi glimpses invite audiences into the room, creating a sense of authenticity that polished campaigns can rarely match.

Anti-advertising

In a crowded feed, polished content often screams “ad.” Unpolished content, by contrast, feels more like a friend’s post — and that makes people lean in instead of scrolling past. 

Larger brands have even begun experimenting with this approach, layering in shaky handheld footage or deliberately rough edits to bring a raw, organic feel to campaigns that would otherwise seem overly manufactured.

The Lululemon campaign featuring Joan MacDonald used splitscreen, fast edits, and lots of film grain to create an energetic and relatable feel. The video used photos and phone-filmed clips on a pale pink background, giving it a VHS-style vibe.

Emotional immediacy

Imperfections — a shaky laugh, a quick pan, a clipped breath — make a video feel alive in the moment. They create presence and immediacy that’s hard to replicate with heavily produced content. YouTubers play with this dynamic through jump cuts, unpolished B-roll, and off-the-cuff commentary. At the same time, TikTok creators sometimes go as far as to downgrade video quality on purpose to mimic the lo-fi, filmed-at-home aesthetic. Both platforms thrive on this sense of intimacy, making rawness part of the brand.

Algorithm advantage

Feed-based platforms are designed to reward content that feels native, and authentic-looking clips often perform better than glossy, overtly “produced” videos. Musicians have leaned into this by creating VHS-style lyric videos or stripped-back performance clips. The DIY aesthetic not only connects fans to a more intimate vibe but also accelerates the content cycle, as these formats require significantly less production time. That speed allows creators to stay present in the feed, which is exactly what the algorithms favor.

Artlist picks — Perfect is dead collection

Artlist has handpicked sets of footage, music, sound effects, and templates that embody the imperfect-but-powerful look.

Imperfect stock footage

This collection features handheld B-roll, gritty textures, and authentic moments that bring a natural, unpolished feel to your projects. It’s perfect for intros, transitions, or cutting raw sequences into a polished timeline.

Check out the Perfect Is Dead Footage collection now

Raw music 

This collection includes lo-fi beats, hazy synths, and rough acoustic takes that add an intimate, unpolished vibe to your videos. It’s great for vlogs, indie projects, or any video where “too polished” feels wrong.

Check out the Perfect Is Dead music collection now

Lo-fi sound effects

If you’re looking to enhance authenticity and bring more grit to your project, this is the perfect place to start. It features ambient noise, mic pops, static, and raw textures that make scenes feel more real and immersive, ready to layer into your footage.

Check out the Perfect Is Dead SFX collection now

Gritty templates

These gritty template packs give you everything you need to create a “perfectly imperfect” look with ease. 

Use Ink Stamp to add rugged stamped titles that give your text a raw, handcrafted feel, or try Ink Flow for messy transitions layered with analog texture that bring energy and unpredictability to your edits. 

Shapes Animation adds playful, imperfect shapes that work perfectly for retro-style sequences, while Bright Glitched Vaporwave Titles deliver nostalgic 90s lo-fi vibes that instantly set the mood.

For more dramatic effects, Time Machine applies analog distortion and time-warp effects to footage, giving your edits a tactile, vintage feel. Together, these templates let you quickly craft projects that feel alive, authentic, and visually striking, all while maintaining the flexibility to mix and match elements to suit your style.

Perfectly imperfect

The art of imperfection is here to stay. Unfiltered visuals connect on a deeper, more human level. For creators, that connection is priceless. This isn’t just a passing trend, it’s the future of authentic content.
The good news is that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. With Artlist’s Perfect Is Dead collections, you can download ready-made footage, music, sound effects, and templates that embrace the raw aesthetic of today’s content culture.

FAQs

הפוסט Perfect is dead – why authentic content wins today הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

AI video is no longer the future. It’s here. Google’s video generation model, Veo 3, just raised the bar, and if you’re a video creator, it’s time to start paying attention.

Google’s latest model turns text into cinematic 1080p video footage. It understands camera language, mood, pacing, and even subtle shifts in tone. Want a slow-motion dolly shot of a dancer in a sunlit warehouse? Veo gets it. 

But the real question isn’t what Veo 3 can do. It’s what you can do with Veo 3.

Let’s break it down.

What Veo 3 does well (and how to use it)

It literally speaks your language

You don’t need to be a coder. Veo 3 takes English text prompts and turns them into beautifully composed video clips. Want a slow-motion drone shot of a waterfall at golden hour? Just type it. Veo understands cinematic terms like “timelapse,” “over-the-shoulder,” “dolly zoom,” and more.

Even more impressive is that it gets context. You can describe mood, genre, or emotion, and Veo adapts. Think “melancholic sci-fi landscape” or “warm, nostalgic street scene at dusk.” It picks up the vibe and runs with it.

High-res, high realism

The model outputs 1080p video with fluid motion, coherent character behavior, and realistic physics. That means water splashes or fabric moves as they’re meant to. You can now also add or remove objects from your videos. Veo 3 will preserve the scene’s natural composition and change shadows to maintain a realistic-looking video. What used to take a studio and a budget now takes a sentence and a click. 

Creative control is built in

Unlike earlier AI video models, Veo 3 lets you iterate. You can tweak prompts, change scenes, or build on previous clips, just like you would if you were directing a film. Precisely control framing and exact shot movements using camera controls. You can also provide a specific visual style to capture the aesthetic you are imagining. Veo 3 collaborates with you until you get the finished look you were going for. 

Pitch and plan like a pro

Whether you’re planning a music video, ad concept, or short film, Veo 3 is a fast, visual way to test ideas. Skip the mood board. Type a few lines, generate clips, and build a proof-of-concept in minutes. We suggest using it for concept pitches to clients, storyboarding visual styles, or mood testing for different genres. 

Native audio generation

AI audio includes synchronized dialogue, ambient sounds, and music, all generated directly from your text prompts. This advancement significantly ups the storytelling capabilities of AI-generated videos. Some users have reported inconsistencies with audio generation, such as missing sound in certain clips. Google is addressing these issues, and improvements are on the way. 

Keep expectations realistic 

Google itself admits there are still limitations with Veo 3, which they are working to improve. Here’s what you should keep in mind when creating: 

• Audio is new, and not always perfect: Although Veo 3 now supports synchronized sound, results can vary, and it’s not yet as flexible or editable as you might want.
• No character consistency: Continuity is still a challenge. The model can’t guarantee the same person across multiple shots. 
• No true shot sequencing: You can create incredible individual clips, but there isn’t yet a built-in multi-shot, so you have to manually stitch them together. 

Our predictions for Veo 4 and the future 

The release of Veo 4 will likely depend on both technological readiness and market dynamics. Google may aim to outpace competitors like OpenAI’s Sora by introducing groundbreaking features. They might instead choose to refine Veo 3’s capabilities further before launching a new version

It may be too early for specific details, but the industry is already guessing if we will see the next interaction before 2025. Here is what we think creators should be looking out for….

• Video lengths: Veo 3 currently generates 8-second clips. Veo 4 might support longer durations for better storytelling. 

• Audio capabilities: Building upon Veo 3’s introduction of synchronized audio, Veo 4 could offer more nuanced sound, including advanced dialogue generation and ambient sounds.

• Prompt accuracy: Veo 4 is anticipated to improve on Veo 3 by following prompts more closely, allowing for more precise control over the generated content.

• Improved realism and physics simulation: Veo 4 is expected to refine real-world physics simulations further, resulting in more lifelike movements and interactions within generated videos.

• Integrations: Hopefully, Veo 4 will offer deeper integration with other tools, like its own Google Flow and maybe eventually editing software and other AI tools, for more seamless workflows for creators. 

So… should you use it?

If you’re a creator who pitches, experiments, storyboards, or explores visuals, the short answer is yes.

Veo 3 won’t replace a camera, crew, or editor. But it will change the way you work. You can test concepts faster, present ideas more clearly, and create visual material without budget or gear.

It’s not about replacing creativity. It’s about accelerating it. Veo 3 is powerful. It is not perfect, but it is certainly changing the way videos are made for the better.  

Soon, you’ll be able to experiment with this model directly through the Artlist platform. Imagine combining AI-powered visuals with world-class music, SFX, and footage, all in one place, made for creators like you.

Use it to spark ideas, pitch to clients, or unlock visuals that would’ve been out of reach before. As a creator, stay grounded and stay curious. It’s time to get experimenting, so when Veo lands inside Artlist, you’ll be ready.

הפוסט Is Veo 3 changing everything for video creators?  הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

As a key architect responsible for scaling Artlist’s influencer marketing efforts into the structured, high-performing program it is today, I’ve seen firsthand how the right approach to partnerships can create long-term value not just for our brand, but also for the creators we collaborate with.

Moving beyond the traditional influencer model

The traditional influencer model tends to focus on reach and polished, lifestyle-driven content: influencers with large followings are paid to showcase a product in a way that feels aspirational, often emphasizing visuals and personal branding. But in the SaaS space — especially when marketing to creators — this model rarely delivers meaningful results. Our users are filmmakers, editors, YouTubers, content creators, and creatives working in companies. They are discerning, skilled, and pragmatic. And they’re looking for tools that integrate seamlessly into their workflows and genuinely elevate their content.

That’s why we approach influencer marketing not as a one-off campaign, but as a partnership built around utility and authenticity.

Influencer marketing in a SaaS context

SaaS products often require expertise to use, and by nature, are not about instant gratification. They require explanation, context, and ideally, demonstration. What sets influencer marketing in this space apart is the need for education and trust, not just visibility.

When we work with a creator, it’s never just about “show this product.” We collaborate with them to build content that:

• Integrates naturally into their workflow (e.g., showing how they use Artlist music and AI tools in their video edits)
  
• Offers real value to their audience (e.g., tutorials, editing breakdowns, gear roundups)
  
• Drives measurable performance (trials, signups, conversions)
  

Importantly, we give creators the freedom to tell their story in their own voice. We trust them to know what resonates with their audience. Our role is to support and empower, not script.

This is where niche focus becomes a strength. Partnering with creators who are deeply embedded in specific communities — like editing, cinematography, VFX — means we’re not just reaching more people — we’re reaching the right people, in the right way.

A positive feedback loop: Creators who grow with us

At Artlist and Motion Array, we treat creators as long-term partners, not temporary promoters. We’ve found many of our partners at their early stages and have worked with them for years. These relationships are sustained not just by fair compensation but by mutual value creation and growth.

One of the most overlooked dynamics in influencer marketing is that when we pay creators to promote us, we’re also enabling them to keep creating. That video you see about Motion Array’s templates or Artlist’s AI tools? It’s also supporting that creator’s livelihood and allowing them to continue publishing valuable content for their audience.

Beyond their public channels, we also showcase creator content within our own ecosystem, featuring them in product tutorials, newsletters, testimonials, and educational materials across Artlist and Motion Array. This not only extends the value of the collaboration but also gives creators increased visibility and reinforces their role as trusted voices within our community.

This creates a positive cycle:

• Our product becomes part of their creative process
• Their content drives awareness and conversions for us
• Our support enables them to create more (and better) contentTheir audience begins to associate us with quality and professionalism

That synergy is why so many of our most successful collaborations have felt more like strategic partnerships than typical influencer deals.

In essence, we make them better creators, and they make us a better brand.

This cycle only works when the relationship is built on trust, support, and aligned values. It’s not about using influencers to reach our business goals — it’s about growing together.

Hard sell vs. real impact

Another mistake I see often is applying eCommerce-style tactics to influencer marketing in SaaS. Flashy promos, shallow endorsements, or overly scripted talking points might work when selling a $20 water bottle — but not when introducing a professional tool that requires trust and commitment.

Instead, we lean into what I call “narrative-led influence.” We want creators to tell a story: How does Artlist fit into their workflow? What challenges does it solve? Why do they keep using it?

Audiences respond to that. When creators speak authentically about their process and the tools that support it, they’re not just selling a product — they’re advocating for a solution that improves their audience’s creative journey.

People follow these creators out of genuine admiration, valuing not just their work but the insight behind it. Their recommendations carry weight because they’ve earned trust over time, and their voices are seen as both credible and aspirational within the industry. When a respected creator chooses a tool like Artlist, it lends a level of authenticity and influence that no scripted promotion could replicate.

Niche focus is a strength, not a limitation

Unlike brands chasing mass appeal, we work in a niche: creators. But that niche is powerful. Working with creators embedded in communities like video editing, VFX, or motion graphics means we’re not shouting into the void. We’re speaking to people who truly care about craft, tools, and professional quality.

While our focus is on creative professionals, this approach applies far beyond our industry. Any brand serving a specialized or high-intent audience — whether it’s developers, designers, educators, or other professionals — can benefit from influencer marketing strategies built on relevance, trust, and community alignment.

Influencer marketing in this space isn’t just a numbers game — it’s about relevance and resonance.

Thought leadership is a shared space

Building a reputation in this space isn’t just about what we say about our product — it’s about what others say because they believe in it. At the end of the day, influencer marketing in SaaS is about more than numbers. It’s about trust, consistency, and shared purpose.

And now, thanks to the evolution of AI-driven algorithms, that depth of content matters more than ever. Platforms like YouTube are increasingly analyzing video transcripts, keywords, and context, not just engagement metrics, to decide what gets recommended. Creators who go deep, explain clearly, and integrate tools authentically are more likely to be surfaced by algorithms, which means that in-depth content isn’t just good for the audience, it’s good for performance.

As platforms like YouTube continue to grow as educational hubs, creators will play an even bigger role in shaping how people discover and use software tools. The role of partnership managers, then, is not to script or dictate, but to support and amplify. The best results come from collaboration, not control.

And for brands like ours, working in a space where our users are also our best ambassadors, the future of influencer marketing is not just bright — it’s personal, powerful, and full of creative possibility.

If you’re in the SaaS space and looking to rethink how you approach influencer marketing, the best place to start is by asking: What value can we create together? When the answer is clear, the impact goes far beyond a single campaign.

הפוסט Rethinking influencer marketing for the creative SaaS era הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

How many followers do you need to make this a reality? Would 100k subscribers set you free from your 9-5 desk job? Sure — but you can do it with a tenth of that.

I know because, well, I did it. I dropped out of college to pursue YouTube and made a decent living that year with less than 10k subscribers. 

Now I’m making over six figures per year from my channel, and I’m not even at 20K subscribers yet. I don’t say this to brag — I say it to encourage. You can do it too — here’s how.

Bigger is not always better

The biggest YouTubers in the world may get millions of views every single day, but most of them pay for that success by losing one of the most powerful tools at a creator’s disposal: connection.

As a small creator, you have the ability to respond to every comment, like every shared post, and even take content requests from your community. 

Do it. 

Your viewers want to have a connection to you, so embrace this by giving them the time and consideration that large YouTubers are unable to provide.

Start small. Don’t try to make a video with higher production quality than Mr. Beast. Make a video that serves a niche audience in a way that Mr. Beast never could. If you want to be successful on YouTube, you have to remember: it’s not about you — it’s about them. 

My channel started seeing growth when I shifted focus to only making videos that served my community in the ways that they wanted. When every piece of content you create is made in this way, your audience sees that you truly care about them — then something funny happens: they start to trust you.

Trust is the process

If you were looking to buy a new car, would you trust the opinion of the salesperson at the dealership or your buddy who spends his entire weekend in the garage and constantly complains about how his modded 2010 Honda Civic doesn’t get the gas mileage it used to?

It takes time to build up trust with your audience, but there’s absolutely no skipping this part of the small-YouTube-success equation. Honesty is the only way to build a community of viewers that will make it possible for you to eventually quit your day job. Thankfully, it’s not rocket science. 

Here’s what you have to do:

• Be honest about your skills and experience level: None of us are pros at everything. Bring your viewers along as you learn a process or discover something new.
• Show the bad: Don’t be afraid to critique products or experiences that fall short of your expectations.
• Share how you feel: Are you frustrated? Excited? Discouraged? Let the audience experience that too.
• Be authentic: You are the most unique thing about your channel. 

I know it’s a mind-blowing idea, but just be you. Your community wants to know what you think, laugh at your humor, and agree (or disagree) with your takes. 

Complete honesty is even more important if you review products or take sponsors. 

My first “breakout” video was a review of the music and sound effects on Artlist, and I didn’t hold back. I told my viewers exactly what I liked about the site, and all the areas that I thought they could improve. I shared my honest opinion, and not only did my viewers love it, but Artlist did too. They’ve taken that feedback and used it to improve their service.

In the end, everyone won. Artlist got feedback, the viewers got an honest review on a product they were interested in, and I had begun to build a reputation as a completely honest and transparent product reviewer. 

Now, years later, I pick apart flaws in cameras and other creative tools, and my viewers fully trust that what I say is truly what I think. There’s nothing more valuable than that.

Time to make money

Now, I get it — trust is important, but what good is a foundation if you’ve got no roof over your head? You’re never going to make it out of that cubicle if you can’t find a way to monetize your content.

Whatever your content niche is, there are a few go-to ways to start making money from YouTube, as well as some things you absolutely must do if you want your channel to replace your full-time job:

Affiliate programs

There’s a way to make sales commissions from any product you use or advertise in your videos — these are called affiliate programs.

Major retailers like Amazon will give you a cut of the profits from any sale that results from a click through a special link that they give you to share with your audience.

Some creators make a good living with Amazon or similar affiliate programs, but generally, this requires much larger viewership, as the commission rates are relatively low here, ranging from 1-6%.

What you want to do as a smaller creator is seek out companies that make products within your niche to see if they offer affiliate programs directly. These commission rates are often much higher than Amazon, and you’ll likely refer more sales because the product will be a better fit for your audience.

Affiliate programs are the bread-and-butter of income for product review creators, specifically, because most people watching a review are already considering purchasing the product and are ready to take your advice on whether or not to buy it.

This is also an excellent source of the fabled “passive income”. I still make commissions from product reviews that I posted on my channel years ago.

That said, don’t forget that trust is paramount on YouTube, and affiliate links can be a slippery slope. Never recommend a product that you’re not willing to stand behind.

Sponsorships

Sponsorships are not only for YouTube channels with millions of subscribers.

More and more brands are seeing the value of working with small creators who have built up a specific and dedicated following. 

Think of it like this — would you rather advertise a new and improved garden rake on a billboard by the highway, or at a gardening convention with 1000 people in attendance?

You are the gardening convention — but most rake companies don’t know you exist, so you have to go to them.

Make a list of 10 companies that make products that your audience might be interested in, then email them asking for collaboration. You may get free products, a sponsorship deal, or absolutely nothing, but you’ll never know until you try.

I began working with Artlist years ago by joining their affiliate program when I had only a couple of thousand subscribers, and now I’m writing for their blog. Life can be funny like that.

Courses

If you’re a creator who has positioned yourself as an expert in your niche and you have something valuable to teach your viewers, you may want to consider building and selling an online course to make some money while providing added value to your audience.

Just make sure that whatever you’ve included in the course is truly exclusive content so that it’s worth whatever price tag you put on it. Nobody wants to pay for access to something they can already get for free on your channel.

That said, if done well, this can be a very lucrative way to monetize your channel, even if you only have a couple of hundred subscribers.

AdSense

AdSense is a program run by YouTube (Google) that pays creators for the ads that they run before and during videos.

Here’s the catch — it’s extremely unreliable.

Some months I’ve made $1K from AdSense, and a month later, it’s dropped to $200. This is not unusual.

It’s not that this source of income isn’t nice, and can’t be substantial once you start pulling in more views, but full-time creators need income that they can count on. 

The feeling of becoming officially “monetized” on YouTube is incredible, but for most small YouTubers, AdSense should be treated as the icing on the cake — a bonus if you will — not a steady source of income.

Treat it like a business

If you want YouTube to replace your full-time job, then you have to treat it like a business, which means not being afraid to invest your time and effort into making it grow. 

Once you’ve started to create some amazing videos, you shouldn’t be afraid to:

• Invest in equipment: a good editing computer, microphone, and camera do wonders.
• Spend money on videos: Do you need to rent equipment for that review? Do it.
• Invest in software: Get pro editing software and creative assets like music from Artlist. 

Stepping up your video quality will not only keep your viewers watching longer, but it’ll also make you appear more professional, which makes people trust your opinions more readily.

It’s also super important to make sure you’re licensed to use all the music, sound effects, and other creative assets that you edit with, so that you don’t run into any copyright issues down the road. Here are a few of my favorite royalty-free tracks from Artlist to get you started:
(“The Living Room” by Flint) (“Komorebi” by Ottom) (“The More I Know – No Lead Vocals” by Steven Beddall)

Go do it

I’ve just flooded you with a ton of advice and techniques that I used to build my YouTube channel into a six-figure business — and every ounce of me knows you can do it too.

But now it’s up to you. Your full-time YouTube dream isn’t going to realize itself — so start building your community, emailing sponsors, and creating incredible videos. 

I want to see you on my YouTube explore page. Go do it.

הפוסט How to go full-time on YouTube with 10,000 subscribers הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

The idea is very simple: every cut you make should be judged against six criteria. Each one has a different weight, with emotion ranked highest. Murch’s point is clear – technical precision matters, but it should never come at the cost of how the audience feels.

Here’s how the rule of six editing laws breaks down, including a ranking of importance:

1. Emotion (51%)

First up, does the cut feel right emotionally? That’s your top priority. The audience should feel what the character feels. If a cut kills the emotion  — even if it’s perfect technically  — then it’s the wrong cut.

Example: Holding a close-up a second longer to let a character’s reaction land. 

2. Story (23%)

Second, does the cut push the story forward? Every edit should serve the narrative. If it doesn’t move the story, then it doesn’t belong.

Example: Cutting early to a character’s decision instead of dragging out a scene that’s already made its point.

3. Rhythm (10%)

Thirdly, ask yourself does the timing feel right? Great editing always has a pulse. Too fast, and you lose meaning. Too slow, and you lose attention.

Example: Matching the pace of dialogue with quicker cuts in a heated argument.

4. Eye trace (7%)

Eye trace is about understanding if the cut respects where the viewer’s looking. You want to guide their gaze. Don’t make them search the frame. We’ll take a closer look at this further on.

Example: If a character exits left in one shot, place them entering from the same side in the next.

5. 2D Plane of Screen (5%)

As an editor, it’s important to analyse whether the composition flows left to right or top to bottom. The visual direction should stay consistent to avoid disorienting cuts.

Example: Keeping a car chase moving in the same direction across cuts.

Last but not least, is the spatial geography clear? Don’t confuse your viewer. They should always know where characters are in relation to each other.

Example: Staying within the 180-degree rule during a dialogue scene.

What is eye tracing?

Eye tracing, one of Walter Murch’s rules, is the subconscious way viewers follow action and composition across cuts. It’s how the eye naturally moves from one point of interest to another, both within a single shot and between shots. You may not have really noticed this before while watching films because, when done right, the audience’s gaze flows effortlessly, making the edit feel smooth and intuitive. 

Managing eye trace is crucial because it keeps the visual flow clear and prevents confusion. If a cut suddenly moves the subject to a completely different part of the screen, or if the viewer’s eye has to jump around searching for what to focus on, it breaks their connection with the scene. This kind of disruption can easily pull people out of the story, even if they don’t consciously notice it.

As an editor, you guide eye movement by carefully controlling the following:

• Framing: You want to keep the subject or key action in roughly the same area of the screen across cuts. This creates visual continuity.
• Motion: You can focus on using natural movement within the frame to lead the eye toward the next shot’s point of interest. For example, if a character looks left, cut to a shot where the object or person they’re looking at appears on the left side.
• Contrast: You can highlight important elements by using light, color, or focus.. Brightness and sharpness attract the eye, helping to anchor attention where it should be.

How eye tracing affects editing decisions

Naturally, following the eye tracing rule is going to shape how you cut shots together and demands certain editing techniques. If you don’t consider where the viewer’s eye naturally goes, your edits can feel jarring or confusing. But eye tracing isn’t just about avoiding confusion — it’s about creating a smooth visual rhythm that supports the story and the emotion. When your cuts respect eye tracing, the viewer stays engaged without distraction, letting your story flow naturally.

Planning your edits around eye trace

Before cutting, ask yourself where the viewer’s eye is going. What’s their focus in the current shot, and where should it land next? Plan your cuts so that visual elements lead the eye logically and smoothly. This keeps the flow natural and avoids unnecessary distractions.

Digital assets and the rule of eye tracing

Pre-keyed footage, templates, and transitions can be helpful in edits, but also risky. If these assets don’t respect the natural eye movement in your shots, they can interrupt flow and confuse viewers.

You want to use transitions that match the direction of movement or composition. Templates that position elements consistently help maintain eye trace. If you overuse flashy transitions, random overlays, or mismatched templates, it can pull attention away from the main action, breaking the viewer’s visual path.

Practical tips for applying eye tracing and the “rule of six”

Match screen direction

You should keep characters and objects moving consistently from one side of the frame to the other. If a person walks left to right in one shot, then continue that direction in the next. This maintains spatial logic and prevents viewers from getting disoriented.

Maintain framing

You want to try and keep key subjects or points of interest in the same general area of the screen between your cuts. If a character is on the right side of the frame in one shot, don’t suddenly place them on the left in the next unless there’s a clear reason. Consistent framing helps the viewer’s eye stay focused and reduces visual confusion.

Follow motion

You should use movement within the shot to lead the viewer’s eye naturally. For example, if a character reaches or looks toward something, cut to a shot where that object or person is positioned in the direction of that motion. This guides attention seamlessly through the edit.

Use contrast intentionally

You can leverage elements like brightness, color, and focus to highlight important parts of the frame. Brighter or sharper areas draw the eye. Make sure your cuts keep these visual anchors consistent so viewers instinctively know where to look.

Prioritize emotion first

Remember Walter Murch’s “rule of six” and the weighting given to each point. Emotion always comes first and takes priority. So if a cut connects emotionally, small breaks in eye trace or technical rules can be acceptable. Never sacrifice feeling for perfection in framing or continuity.

Check pacing

Rhythm impacts how the eye moves. Fast cuts, such as a jump cut can make the eye dart; slow cuts let it settle. Adjust your timing so the viewer’s gaze can comfortably follow the action and absorb key details.

Test edits

Step back and watch your cuts without overthinking too much. Notice if your eye moves naturally or if you get stuck searching. If something feels off, then you should tweak the framing, direction, or timing.

Use digital assets wisely

When working with templates, pre-keyed footage, or transitions, ensure that they don’t disrupt the viewer’s natural eye path. You should choose or customize digital elements that align with your scene’s motion and composition, avoiding anything too flashy that pulls attention away from the story.

Templates, lower thirds, and transitions can be huge time-savers if they’re designed to respect eye trace. When these elements line up with the natural flow of the viewer’s eye, they help keep your edits smooth and clear without extra work. For example:

Templates that position text or graphics consistently on one side prevent the eye from jumping around.

Lower thirds placed in predictable spots let viewers absorb information without distraction.

Transition video templates that follow the direction of motion or match the composition help maintain visual flow between shots.

Using these assets thoughtfully not only streamlines your workflow but also supports better storytelling. You avoid having to rework cuts because the eye gets pulled off-track. Instead, you build momentum and keep the audience focused.

When choosing or customizing assets, always check that they guide the eye naturally and don’t clash with your shot composition. That way, you save time and deliver cleaner, more professional edits.

Wrapping up

Great editing isn’t just about knowing the tools — it’s about using them with intention. Every cut should serve a purpose, whether it’s driving emotion, supporting the story, or guiding the viewer’s eye. That’s where the “rule of six” really comes in. It’s not a rigid formula, but more of a practical checklist that helps you prioritize what really matters: the audience’s experience.

Use this framework to stay grounded in what each moment needs. Lead with emotion, respect rhythm, and let eye tracing keep your visual flow smooth and intuitive.

If you’re looking to streamline your process and improve clarity, why not start with Artlist assets that are built with eye trace in mind? Smartly designed templates, lower thirds, and transitions don’t just save time — they help you edit with confidence and consistency.

הפוסט Understand eye tracing and the rule of six הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

Fashion Week is a vibrant global phenomenon featuring the newest innovations in fashion, exclusive parties, and celebrity sightings. The biannual event is held in fashion capitals around the world, and although the runway shows may be the backbone, it’s always about way more than the clothes. These buzzy events are where clothing designers serve up the styles that will influence the creative world for seasons to come. For content creators, video makers, and industry insiders, it’s also one of the biggest networking and business opportunities of the year. 

Fashion Week is all about establishing and forecasting trends for the season ahead. Video creators, runway photographers, and fashion editors play a big role in how those stories are shared, and what (or who) becomes the next big thing. 

Is Fashion Week really a week?

If you look at the CFDA’s (Council of Fashion Designers) calendar of dates, you will notice that important fashion-related events are happening all over the globe throughout the year. 

The global, roving nature of Fashion Week is why folks in the industry refer to the big four consecutive Fashion Weeks as Fashion Month. If you are lucky enough to be able to fly out for an upcoming Fashion Week, here’s some dates to keep on your radar: 

• London Fashion Week — June 12 – 15 
• Milan Fashion Week — June 20 – 24
• Paris Menswear Fashion Week — June 24 – 29
• New York Fashion Week — Sept. 11 – 16

What is Fashion Week’s sound? 

Fashion runway music is carefully selected to complement the looks as supermodels strut down the catwalk. Designers use music as a storytelling tool, helping set the mood and complement the pieces being showcased. 

“The soundtrack for the show is everything,” Donatella Versace explains in a BTS video from the Fall-Winter 2025 Fashion Week. “It evokes the mood, inspires the models, and the audience.” 

As a video creator, you should give the music used in your fashion videos the same level of attention. Fashion Week sounds like a combination of loud music, excited chatter, clinking glasses, and the rhythmic clicking of models walking down the runway in extremely high heels. Music at a runway fashion show elevates the experience and helps communicate the story of the collection. It should do the same in your Fashion Week videos. 

Building a curated playlist 

The tracks on Artlist’s curated Fashion Week playlist transport you to the feeling of being at a fashion show. These royalty-free songs are bold, high-energy, and confident — music that will move with the models and engage your viewers. 

Inside the collection, you will find tracks with chic rhythms, uplifting beats, and chill lofi vibes. 

Benefits of royalty-free music 

Fashion designers often use well-known tracks in their shows, which includes a lengthy process of negotiating a licensing fee. Most creators probably can’t afford those same fees, and there is always a risk that the copyright holder can choose to deny you usage.

Using royalty-free music for your video projects offers a lot of benefits. Here are some of the biggest perks. 

Simplifies the process: There’s no need to negotiate with record labels or artists for a usage fee.  

Cost effective: Pricing for a royalty-free track is included in your Artlist subscription. No hidden fees, or need to pay royalties to the artist down the line. 

Built-in legal protections: Using royalty-free music from one of Artlist’s curated playlists helps protect you legally. It also prevents video projects from being flagged by YouTube for copyright infringement. 

Although there are many benefits to using royalty-free music, digging through royalty-free music sites can be cumbersome. Artlist’s curated Fashion Week playlist is a great place to get your search started. 

Have a well-known song in mind? Artlist’s music discovery tool can help you see what sounds are trending around the globe and match big hits to royalty-free tracks within the catalog. 

How to use music in your fashion videos

Picking music to complement the style of the video will strengthen your visual storytelling. Fashion Week videos can take many forms. Fashion Week catwalk videos are a given, but in recent years, other niche video styles have become popular too. Designers are often looking for lookbook videos, “get ready with me” promo videos, or content that captures the energy backstage. 

We love how this pulsing electronica track complements this lookbook video showcasing the Sofia Steinberg 2024 collection.

‘City Lights’ from the Artlist Fashion Week playlist has stylistic similarities — the quick pacing of this track is well-suited for a fashion runway video. 

This “get ready with me” video featuring Doja Cat getting ready for her first Met Gala has a more subdued, mellow track.  

The track ‘Shaken, Not Stirred’ offers a similar low-key vibe, making it a  great choice for a behind-the-scenes style video that also features dialogue. 

Music is obviously a great tool for setting the pace of a video. If you are editing together a short social reel, that involves a lot of quick cuts and packing together a ton of footage from the day, opt for something that is fast-paced and upbeat. This will keep your viewer engaged. 

The instrumental version of ‘My World’ has a positive groove and prominent beat drops that you can match your video cuts to. 

A fashion video highlighting street style outside of the shows might be better suited with a lofi track, which gives the viewer more time to take in the scene away from the runway. 

‘Forgotten Dreams’ has a sexy and cool vibe that would be well-suited for a street-style Fashion Week video that showcases the unique style of the Fashion Week host city. 

Once you’ve found the perfect track to pair with your edit, experiment with cinematic transitions, bold color grading effects, or retiming bits of the footage for a more dramatic effect. Fashion-focused videos lend themselves particularly well to these creative choices. Artlist’s catalog has great templates and LUTs to get you started. 

Closing look 

Stay ahead of the next big trends with help from Artlist’s Fashion Week music collection. This curated playlist gives you access to high-quality royalty-free tracks without the headache of finding them, so you can focus on creating fashion-forward content. 

Explore the Fashion Week collection now and get inspired for your next fashion video.

הפוסט The best Fashion Week music collection for video creators הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

The way you discover music for your video projects has never been easier with Artlist.

Have you ever wondered what sounds are blowing up on TikTok this week? What songs are topping YouTube’s trending chart in the U.S.? Or what people in the UK are streaming on repeat on Spotify?

Now, you can find out, and use that insight to inspire your next edit.

What is this new Artlist widget?

This new Artlist widget brings you the most popular songs on TikTok, YouTube, and Spotify each week, so you can see what’s trending right now on the platforms your audience lives on. 

On YouTube and Spotify, you can even filter this information by country across 17 global markets. 

And here’s the kicker: For every trending song, we’ll show you up to 10 Artlist royalty-free tracks that are musically similar and creatively aligned — covered by your Artlist license and ready to drop straight into your project. It’s global inspiration, filtered down into something you can actually use in your videos.

This feature can easily be found on the Artlist homepage. If you are new to Artlist, create a free account now, and you can access more tools by signing up today.  

Why does this matter for video creators?

Combining Artlist’s high-quality assets with this tool, you can stay culturally in tune, creatively fresh, and strategically ahead. Now you can easily increase engagement with music that feels instantly familiar, spark inspiration with the latest trends, and discover music from our catalog that mirrors the world’s biggest sounds. 

Because when you’re tuned into what’s trending, you’re not just making content to stay consistent. You’re making content people care about that connects, entertains, and goes viral fast. The biggest creators on social don’t just follow trends. They anticipate them. And now, with this new feature showing you what’s trending on social media, you can too.

With this new Artlist tool you can easily stay up to date on the latest and most popular songs of the moment, and find similar royalty-free music to add to your videos instantly. Sometimes, a single trending sound is all it takes to launch a video into the stratosphere. Makeup tutorials using Doja Cat’s “Paint the Town Red” became a TikTok staple in late 2023, with creators syncing their lip combos and blush transitions perfectly to the beat. Thousands of beauty influencers used the song to boost visibility and ride the trend, and it worked.

These creators weren’t just lucky — they were on trend. They used the right sound at the right time to tap into what people were already feeling, sharing, and searching for. Now you can too with with this new, easy-to-use widget on Artlist.

Ready to see what’s trending?

If you have an Artlist subscription head to your homepage and start exploring the widget now. And if you don’t, this is the perfect time to join the platform built to keep creators moving forward. Sign up today and explore what’s trending around the world.

הפוסט Stay ahead of the trends with Artlist’s new music discovery tool הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how video creators approach their craft, with progress being made at such breakneck speed, it can be hard to keep up. To stay ahead of the game, video creators must understand basic AI terminology so you can elevate your creative projects and save valuable time. In this guide, we’ll break down essential AI concepts for creatives, explore how they’re used in video creation, and share the tools you need to stay ahead of the curve, streamline post-production, maximize generative AI, and experiment with AI-driven effects and scripts. Let’s go!

AI terminology glossary

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence — AI — is when computers or machines are designed to think, learn, and make decisions like humans. Instead of just following a set of instructions, AI analyzes information, recognizes patterns, and improves over time without being directly told what to do, kind of like teaching a robot to learn from experience. AI is game-changing for creatives and shaking up the entire industry, especially within film. At Artlist, we see AI as an opportunity to maximize the creativity of our community, enhance innovation, and democratize the film industry.

Machine learning 

Machine learning is a form of AI where computers learn from data and improve over time without being programmed for every task. In film it’s often used to streamline the creative process by automating tasks like video editing. Machine learning can analyze footage and make smart decisions about cuts, transitions, and color grading. It can assist with generating visual effects, suggest music that fits a scene, and improve facial recognition — which is why machine learning should be in every filmmaker’s tool box.

Generative AI

Generative AI is a game-changer for video creators because it uses machine learning models to create new and original content. It can generate realistic video clips and audio, enhance existing visuals, and automate arduous editing tasks. This is good news for video creators because it helps streamline workflow, suggest creative ideas, and generate animations and voiceovers with minimal effort and very little cost. Understanding the basics of generative AI gives creators a powerful edge, encourages experimentation and innovation, and unlocks new possibilities in the video production process.

Deep learning

Deep learning recreates the way a human brain works through AI, so the more information it receives, the more it understands the subject. For video creators, deep learning AI tools can recognize faces, objects, or even scenes in your footage. It can automate tagging, improve video quality, and create very realistic effects. Think of it as the tech behind smart editing tools that can ‘understand’ your footage and then make decisions that save you time and effort.

Training 

AI training is the process of feeding an artificial intelligence model large amounts of data so it can recognize patterns and make predictions. Over time, the AI model will improve its accuracy and adjust itself based on feedback, so it can help filmmakers perform specific tasks more effectively.

Models

AI models are smart algorithms that learn from data to make predictions or decisions, like teaching a computer how to recognize patterns. AI models can help with all sorts of things, from recognizing faces in photos to predicting what you might want to view on social media. They do this by learning from past examples. Here are three examples of AI models relevant for filmmakers:

• Foundational 

An AI foundational model is trained with huge amounts of diverse data, which can then be adapted to perform a wide range of tasks. Filmmakers can use this model to generate scripts and story ideas, automate the editing processes, and enhance visual effects. Because these models are already trained on a broad spectrum of information, creatives don’t need to start from scratch and can use it for lots of tasks while speeding up workflow and unlocking new possibilities.

• Large language 

An AI large language model is a type of AI that can understand and generate human-like text by analyzing vast amounts of written data. Creatives can use it to write scripts, brainstorm, generate dialogue, and write detailed descriptions for scenes. It can help automate subtitles, and translations, and generate creative content for marketing. Think of this model as a writing assistant that’s on hand to spark new ideas, and help with repetitive tasks so you have more time for creative work.

• Diffusion

An AI diffusion model is a type of machine learning that generates new images or videos by gradually adding and then removing noise to create realistic visuals. It’s useful for filmmakers as it can generate creative assets like concept art, background designs, or entire scenes based on text prompts. Creatives can describe what they want, and the model will create visuals that match — from futuristic landscapes, to character designs, to surreal scenes. It’s like having a digital artist on hand to create new, high-quality visuals specifically for your creative vision. 

RLHF (Reinforcement Learning with Human Feedback)

RLHF is when AI models learn by receiving feedback from humans, which improves their decision-making in creative tasks. Filmmakers can use RLHF to fine-tune AI tools in areas like video editing, scriptwriting, or visual effects, and guide the AI to produce results that align with the artistic vision and audience preferences.

NAS (Neural Architecture Search)

NAS is when AI figures out the best way to build itself by testing different “architectures” or setups. This process means AI can automatically find the most efficient and creative ways to handle tasks like editing, color grading, or visual effects, saving creatives time and improving results without manually tweaking everything.

API (Application Programming Interface) 

API acts like a bridge so different software and tools can talk to each other. This means filmmakers can connect different AI-powered tools — like video editors, special effects software, or script generators — and get them working together to automate tasks and speed up processes.

GAN (Generative Adversarial Network)

A GAN is a type of AI that creates new content like images or video, while another AI model judges if it looks real. Video creators can use GANs to create realistic CGI, generate hyper-realistic effects, or design creative visuals based on the AI “learning” from existing footage.

Data set

A data set is a collection of information or examples that AI uses to learn and make decisions. For filmmakers, this could be a library of footage, scripts, or sound files that an AI model “studies” to help it understand how to edit videos, suggest soundtracks, or even create new scenes based on what it’s seen.

Text-to-image

Text-to-image AI is a tool that takes a description or prompt written in words and turns it into a realistic image or scene. You can describe a scene, character, or setting in detail, and generate visuals to match the description using AI. This can help creatives with everything from concept art, to background visuals, to storyboarding.

Text-to-text

Text-to-text AI is a tool that takes one piece of text and transforms it into another — whether that’s by rephrasing, summarizing, or expanding on the original content. For filmmakers, this could mean turning an idea into a full script, rewriting dialogue, or generating plot twists based on a few key details.

Text-to-video

With text-to-video, AI takes a written description or script and turns it into a full video, complete with visuals and sometimes audio. Creatives can type out a scene or idea and ask AI to generate a video that matches this vision, helping flesh out rough drafts or create quick concept visuals.

Image-to-video

Similarly, image-to-video AI takes a static image and turns it into a moving video, adding animation, movement, or transitions based on the visual content provided. This means you can take a still shot and bring it to life as a dynamic scene which is great for helping filmmakers in pre-production and pre-visualization.

Style transfer 

This is an AI tool that takes the visual style of one image — like a famous painting, for example — and applies it to another, such as a newly created video or photo. So you can take a scene from your film and make it look like it was shot in a specific artistic style, like Vincent Van Gogh or Picasso. More than anything, it encourages instant experimentation and gives your video an artistic feel that makes it stand out.

Scene generation

One of the most useful tools for any filmmaker is scene generation which creates entire visual scenes based on text descriptions or input parameters. Describe a setting like “a busy café in Paris at sunset,” and the AI will generate a fully designed scene with landscapes, skylines, background, and lighting. This will save time on pre-production and help visualize complex shots.

Deepfake

You may have read about deepfake AI in the news. This technology can swap faces or manipulate voices in videos to make them look like someone else, often so convincingly that it’s hard to tell if it’s fake. Filmmakers can use this tool to create realistic digital doubles of actors, bring historical figures into scenes, or borrow the familiar sound of a celebrity’s voice. It offers endless possibilities for storytelling, but it’s important to remember this technology does raise important ethical questions, so be aware of this when you use it. 

Latency 

This is the delay between giving a command to an AI system and seeing the result. It’s the lag you might experience when using real-time AI tools, like when you’re editing or generating visuals, and there’s a noticeable wait before the changes or effects appear on the screen.

Open source 

This is when the code behind a software or AI tool that is freely available for anyone to use, modify, or improve. Open-source codes allow filmmakers to access powerful AI tools or software for editing, visual effects, or script writing without paying for expensive licenses. You can even customize the code to better fit your needs and share improvements with the filmmaking community.

That’s a wrap on the future of filmmaking

So there you have it — an airtight summary of all the AI terms you need to enhance your filmmaking journey. This helps simplify all those techy terms, so you can create better videos, faster. But nothing beats getting stuck into Artlist’s AI tools to find out what works for you — and make sure to keep an eye on our blog for more updates about AI for filmmakers.

הפוסט AI glossary: A beginner’s dictionary for creatives הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

The best Super Bowl ads tap into deep consumer insights, deliver a clear brand message, and stand out by doing something distinctive and memorable. Here are some of our favorite commercials from the 2025 Super Bowl, featuring the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Doritos: Abduction

Super Bowl ads have become a bit of a celebrity fest. While it’s fun to see well-known actors, musicians, and sports stars, often in funny contexts, we love that this campaign is all about empowering the creative community and showcasing the amazing work of independent creatives.

Doritos launched its Crash the Super Bowl campaign in 2006, with a simple concept: Everyone is invited to submit an idea for a Doritos ad. The winners get their commercial aired in the Super Bowl, together with a generous cash prize. 

But in 2016 they ended the campaign, changing direction to more ‘traditional’ Super Bowl ads with big production budgets and plenty of celebrities.

This year, they brought it back, and the winning entry is great. An alien abduction is happening, but they’re trying to take a pack of Doritos, not the person eating them. The underlying message is clear: Doritos is what everyone wants, more than anything else. 

We’re excited for the winners, Dylan Bradshaw and Nate Norell, and hope Doritos will continue empowering creators in future Super Bowl campaigns. 

If you’re inspired to make your own alien abduction video, check out these alien-inspired music, UFO-themed SFX, and sci-fi footage collections on Artlist to help you get started.

Coffee Mate: Foam Diva

One of the biggest challenges for any brand is finding a way to stand out. Even more so during an event like the Super Bowl when everyone is pulling out all the stops to grab the audience’s attention.

That’s why we liked this quirky ad by Coffee Mate. It’s not the first commercial to use a metaphor of a party in the mouth when tasting a product, but it is the first to have a tongue voicing a new Shania Twain song.

It’s memorable, and the benefit comes across clearly. And of course, we’re big fans of any ad where the soundtrack plays such an important role.

Hellmann’s: When Sally met Hellmann’s

It’s all about ’90s nostalgia right now, and it’s hard to think of a more iconic movie moment than Meg Ryan’s restaurant scene in When Harry Met Sally (if we’re splitting hairs, the movie came out in 1989, but it’s close enough).

In this Hellmann’s commercial, Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal recreate the scene, but the difference is that this time, a commotion is caused by adding Hellmann’s mayonnaise to a sandwich. 

With a nod to contemporary culture, Sydney Sweeney closes the ad by reprising the famous line: “I’ll have what she’s having.”

This ad stands out for its clever blend of nostalgia and humor. It reconnects older viewers with an iconic movie moment while making the product the star of the scene, helping it stand out among the other commercials. The message is clear, though it might be just a touch exaggerated — but isn’t that what makes it fun?

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Skechers with Andy Reid

As head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid was heavily involved in the on-field action during the 2025 Super Bowl. He’s also made an impact off-field, starring in this commercial for Skechers.

Reid is known for his deadpan humor, which is well used in this ad when he claims to have a side hustle as a hand model. 

How does this tie into a sneakers brand? In 2024, Skechers launched its Hands Free Slip-ins line of shoes, designed to let you step into your shoes without using your hands. 

The obvious route for a commercial would be to focus on people who struggle to bend down to put on their shoes, or who always need to take their shoes on and off. 

Instead, this ad takes the benefit to an extreme. The Hands Free Slip-ins are great for people who need to be very careful with their hands, like a hand model. And who would be an unlikely and memorable hand model? Andy Reid.

This is a great example of how to creatively communicate a product benefit in a distinctive and memorable way.

Hexclad: Unidentified Frying Object

Okay, maybe we’re a bit too excited about aliens. But we’re also keen to highlight brands taking their first steps into the world of Super Bowl advertising in 2025, and Hexclad is one of them. 

The ad features celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, whose acting is a little wooden, but his association with extremely high standards in the kitchen is a good fit with the Hexclad brand. Pete Davidson also makes an appearance as a visiting alien. The humor might not be to everyone’s taste, but we loved the pun in the commercial’s title.

What we liked about this ad was the creative communication of the product benefit — the idea that Hexclad’s frying pan technology is so advanced that it’s actually “out of this world”. It’s clear and easy to understand.

A solid first venture into Super Bowl advertising.

Why music makes Super Bowl commercials unforgettable

The best Super Bowl commercials in 2025 have something in common: careful use of the perfect soundtrack and sound effects to help convey their message. In most cases, they aren’t the hero of the ad (except in the case of Shania Twain’s song for Coffee Mate), but they play a crucial role. Strip them out and the video just wouldn’t work in the same way. 

Think of them as the fullback of the ad. They don’t get the attention and praise of other members of the team, but without them, the team wouldn’t function. 

At Artlist, we understand the power of music and sound effects in storytelling. If you’re inspired by the Super Bowl commercials to create your own videos, check out our collection of Artlist music that’s been used in ads by the world’s biggest brands. Whether you’re looking for high-quality music, footage, SFX, video templates, or AI voiceovers, you can find it all in the Artlist catalog, royalty-free. Sign up for free today to start making your own content stand out — just like the best Super Bowl ads.

הפוסט The best Super Bowl commercials 2025 הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

The voiceover is an immediate sign of a video’s quality and professionalism. If you want to really win your audience over and convey a high level of emotion, clarity, and impact, nailing your narration is crucial. And that goes for trailers, podcasts, marketing campaigns — any kind of video.

The only issue is that voiceovers can also be tricky to get right. You need good equipment, sound-proof recording conditions, clear diction — and that’s just the beginning. Thankfully, Artlist’s AI Voiceover is a total game-changer, reducing the list of requirements for a great voiceover from seemingly endless to shockingly short. 

It’s a simple, powerful solution to help filmmakers, marketers, podcasters, and YouTubers create flawless voiceovers with ease, and learning how to use it is as easy as reading this blog post. Keep reading for must-know tips for doing AI voiceovers.

1. Optimizing text for AI narration

The way you structure your script can make or break your voiceover. The best tools rely on well-optimized text to deliver smooth, professional results. By following these tips for voiceover, you’ll ensure your narration flows naturally and connects with your audience.

Keep sentences short and simple

Avoid overly complex or run-on sentences. Clear, concise phrasing helps the voiceover sound more natural and easy to follow.

Avoid special characters and symbols

Replace symbols like “#” or “&” with their written equivalents, such as “hashtag” or “and.” This prevents awkward pauses or mispronunciations.

Use proper punctuation

Proper use of commas, periods, and question marks creates a natural rhythm and tone. Experiment with punctuation to get the emphasis you want.

Test and iterate

Run your text through the tool and listen to the results. Adjust the phrasing, punctuation, or pacing as needed to refine the delivery.

Example: Instead of writing, “Our new product, which is easy to use, fast, and powerful, helps creators achieve amazing results.”

Try: “Our product is easy to use. It’s fast. It’s powerful. And it helps creators achieve amazing results.”

Need help crafting voiceover scripts? Check out our dedicated blog for more tips on writing engaging, professional copy.

2. Getting pronunciation right

Let’s start our list of voiceover tips and tricks with pronunciation — one of the most critical elements of a professional voiceover. A mispronounced name, brand, or technical term can quickly disrupt your audience’s experience. With Artlist’s AI Voiceover, you have complete control to ensure every word is spoken clearly and accurately.

Here are a few essential voiceover tips to perfect your pronunciation:

Select the right language for text input

Ensure the language setting matches the language of your script. This helps the AI Voiceover deliver natural and accurate results.

Artlist’s AI voiceover tool is constantly being updated so you can always generate studio-quality voiceovers with exceptional clarity on the first try. Choose from exclusive natural-sounding voices in over 21 languages, with multiple speeds, accents, and emotional tones. English accents include: American, British, Australian, and Indian.

• Languages include: 

Use phonetic spelling for tricky words

Proper nouns, brand names, or regional terms often trip up voiceovers. If you need to ensure precise pronunciation, spell the word phonetically. For example, you can write “Art-liss-t” for “Artlist” to clarify how it should sound.

Convert acronyms into pronounceable words

Acronyms, or words formed by combining the first letters of other words, are everywhere. Think: NASA, FOMO, ASAP. AI voiceovers read acronyms as letters by default, which might not always sound right. To fix this, type acronyms as they’re pronounced. For example:

• “U” as “you”
• “I” as “eye”
• “AI” as “Ay-eye”

Example: Let’s say you’re making a promotional video for your new start-up called “Innov-X.” If you just write “Innov-X” in your script, it’ll sound like this:

To get it right, type “In-oh-vex” instead, leaving no room for confusion:

3. Speak with emotion

Emotion is the heartbeat of any successful video, and voiceover is one place where you can really set the right emotional tone.

Here is how you can use Arlist’s AI Voiceover to infuse your voiceover with emotion:

Adjust the Emotion settings

Underneath your voiceover script is a dropdown menu for you to select the emotion you want your voiceover to express. You can choose from Neutral, Angry, Sad, Optimistic, Fearful, Disgusted, and Surprised. Note that you can only select one emotion for each generation.

Punctuation matters

Use punctuation creatively to convey tone and rhythm. For example, a simple exclamation mark (“!”) can add excitement or urgency, while ellipses (“…”) can create a sense of mystery or hesitation.

Double question marks for emphasis

Want to convey surprise or disbelief? Use double question marks (“??”) for an extra punch. For instance, writing “Wait, what??” delivers a different tone compared to “Wait, what?”

Play with sentence structure

Short, sharp sentences can create tension, while longer, flowing sentences are great for soothing or reflective tones.

Example: Let’s explore how punctuation changes the tone of the same sentence:

“You’re going to love this!” 

“You’re going to… love this.”

“You’re going to love this??”

See what we mean? 

Voice effects

Now you can also transform your AI-generated voiceovers with distinct voice modifiers — no plugins or post-production required. Choose from effects like Walkie-Talkie, Robotic Assistant, Vintage Radio, and more.

1. Choose your effect 
2. Hover to preview 
3. Use the slider to control how much effect you want to manipulate your voiceover.
4. Click Generate 
5. Find your new voiceover in the My Voiceovers tab
6. Click the info icon to see the voiceover information – the effect you used and the amount 

Learn more about the different effects here. 

4. Pace your voiceover like a pro

Pacing is everything in a voiceover. Whether you want to build suspense, maintain clarity, or keep your audience engaged, the right pacing ensures your message lands exactly as intended. 

Voice to Voice  

With Voice to Voice, you can upload any voice recording in English to generate the perfect AI voiceover, capturing every emotional range, tone, pronunciation, speed, pacing, and pause. Files can be uploaded in MP3, WAV, or OGG file types. Create more engaging, professional voiceovers in three easy steps. 

1. Drag & drop or upload your audio file in the Voice to Voice tab 
2. Select a voice from the catalog 
3. Click Generate 

Say what you want, how you want it, every time. See it in action here. 

Here’s how you can fine-tune pacing using a text prompt, for a professional-grade voiceover:

Adjust the Speed settings

You can find a dropdown menu to select the speed of your voiceover under the text box where you enter your script. There are options to make it 10-20% faster, or 10-20% slower.

Use punctuation for natural pauses

Commas (,) and dashes (–) can create brief, seamless pauses that mimic natural speech. For example: “The future of filmmaking – starts here.”

Add precise pauses with <break /> tags

Need a specific timing? Use the <break /> tag to set the exact duration of a pause. For instance: <break time=”1s” /> adds a one-second pause, perfect for dramatic effect or smooth transitions.

Bracket sentence breaks for smoother transitions

Divide your text into individual phrases using brackets, and the tool will automatically flow through them naturally. For example: [This is your moment.] [Make it count.]

Example: Let’s say you’re creating a suspenseful trailer for an action movie. Here’s how you can use proper formatting for maximum impact.

We want our voiceover to say, “This summer, a hero will rise to face impossible odds and save the world. But time is running out. Will they succeed? Find out in theaters July 12th.”

With only this simple punctuation, your voiceover would sound like this:

But with the right tags and formatting, we can make it even more impactful: 

[This summer,] [a hero will rise] <break time=”250ms” /> [to face impossible odds—and save the world.] <break time=”500ms” /> [But time is running out!] <break time=”1s” /> [Will they succeed??] <break time=”500ms” /> [Find out in theaters July 12th.]

5. Speaking numbers and web addresses

Precision is key when voicing numbers and web addresses in your projects. Mispronunciations or unclear formatting can confuse your audience, especially in tutorials, product demos, or explainer videos. 

Here’s how to make sure Artlist’s AI Voiceover gets everything right to keep your videos clear and professional:

Format dates and numbers for clarity

Use either the MM/DD/YYYY format or write them out to avoid ambiguity. For example, “01/26/2025” or “January 26th, 2025” ensures your audience understands.

Pause for long or complex sequences

Add commas, dashes, or <break /> tags to split up lengthy strings of numbers for better comprehension. For example, write “1,234,567” as “One million, <break time=”500ms” /> two hundred thirty-four thousand, <break time=”500ms” /> five hundred sixty-seven.” 

Spell out characters for codes or sequences

Use the <spell> tag for technical narrations, such as alphanumeric codes. For example: <spell> 4454 2371CG491 </spell> ensures each character is read distinctly:

Read URLs naturally

Write URLs the way they’d be spoken. For instance, “Artlist.io” becomes “Artlist dot eye oh.” When a sentence with a URL ends with a question mark, leave a space before the question mark to avoid the punctuation being read aloud.

Example: “To register, visit Artlist.io and enter the code 1234-XYZ”

You’ll have to format it like this:  “To register, visit Artlist dot eye oh and enter the code: <spell> 1234-XYZ </spell>.” It’ll sound like this:

Transform your projects with AI voiceovers

A great voiceover can be the difference between mediocre content and truly captivating storytelling. With Artlist’s AI Voiceover, creating professional-quality narration has never been easier.

Now that you know how to do voiceovers successfully, you’re ready to try it yourself. Sign up for Artlist today and start creating effortless, impactful voiceovers that elevate your videos. Your story deserves to be heard — let Artlist help you tell it.

הפוסט 5 tips to help you get the perfect AI voiceover הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

Every year, filmmakers and content creators push the boundaries of their creativity to produce new and exciting experiences for their viewers. Artlist has been right by your side, providing high-quality assets for your video projects. As the year draws to a close, take a look back at highlights from 2024’s top creative assets, hand-picked by the Artlist curators, based on what you loved over the past twelve months.

Here we’ll take a look at some of the highlights, but make sure to explore the full lists in the Artlist Spotlight stock footage collection, music collection, and sound effects collection for 2024.

Top songs and music of 2024

Music trends come and go, but video content always needs a killer track to set the mood. From cinematic scores to upbeat pop tunes, the most popular songs of 2024 cover a vast range of genres and styles, inspiring you to create your next project.

Escape Velocity by Steven Beddall

With a stunning orchestral arrangement of strings, percussion, and backing vocals, ‘Escape Velocity’ evolves into a powerful cinematic composition. The music builds throughout, creating an emotive soundscape that enhances the emotional depth of your film or campaign.

Tic Tac Toe by Captain Joz

‘Tic Tac Toe’ is an upbeat Hip Hop track with electric drums, sharp claps, and snappy percussion. The groovy vocals drive the energy, while the fast-paced beat keeps things lively and vibrant. It’s the perfect blend of rhythm and excitement, guaranteed to get you moving.

Celestial Rhythms by Ariel Dahan

With fast-paced drums, a deep bass, and gritty synths, ‘Celestial Rhythms’ delivers a high-energy electronic sound, perfect for sports content or action-packed montages. The track’s dynamic rhythm and energy enhance the excitement of any high-action sequence.

Sunny Daydreams by Danny Shields

‘Sunny Daydreams’ is the ideal summer groove, with a smooth beat and plenty of funky brass. The warm piano and electric drums back up the soft vocals, creating the perfect soundtrack for a hot summer afternoon relaxing in the shade.

Good Times by Rynn

One of the best songs of 2024 has to be the uplifting indie track ‘Good Times’ by Rynn. The infectious, upbeat vibe and folk-style backing vocals create a warm and exciting tone, reminding us of the good times in 2024.

These are some of our favorites, but make sure to check out the full Best of 2024 music collection

Top footage of the year

Stock footage is an invaluable asset for filmmakers and content creators alike. Whether you’re using the Artlist collection for storyboarding, adding stunning location shots to your films, or constructing entire narratives, it gives creatives the freedom to bring your visions to life.

Animated Bloom

The ‘Animated Bloom’ animation showcases vibrant pink blossoms bursting into life in hyper-realistic, high-speed motion. In the background, soft-focus cherry blossoms add contrast and depth, creating a dynamic and captivating scene.

Slow Mo Inferno

‘Slow Mo Inferno’ features a wooden house burning in a desert at dusk. The flames move slowly, casting an eerie glow as they flicker through the windows and door. The front of the house is silhouetted against the dimming sky, creating a haunting, atmospheric scene. 

Morning at the River

This stunning shot captures a serene, misty lake in the fall. The camera follows a swan as it takes off, creating slow-motion water splashes as it lifts into the air. The tranquil scene showcases nature’s quiet beauty and gentle movement in fall.

Faroe Islands FVP

This breathtaking drone shot captures the rugged coastline of the Faroe Islands, showcasing its remote wilderness. The drone glides effortlessly through the rocky landscape, gradually revealing a vast panorama of lush green mountains.

Animated Multiple Reality 

The ‘Animated Multiple Reality’ sequence offers a high-angle view of a bustling Tokyo crosswalk. Hundreds of pedestrians move in all directions, creating a dynamic contrast against the dark concrete and stark white road markings. The scene captures the organized chaos of city life with stunning visual depth.

There are even more stunning clips ready for you to download in the full Best of 2024 footage collection.

Best sound effects of 2024

The Best of 2024 SFX collection features some of the year’s most downloaded and viewed sounds. Artlist boasts an incredible library of sound effects, widely used in everything from animated commercials to feature films, adding depth and impact to every project.

Tonal synth transition

‘Sonic Shifts Vol 2’ is a short tonal whoosh with a dark, ominous feel. The reverb gives it a foghorn-like sound, while the synthetic strings add a musical touch. Part sound effect, part score, this can be easily layered into compositions in unique ways.

Back in Time Atmosphere

‘Back in Time Atmosphere’ is a chilling effect that begins with a slow, breathy wind sound layered with distorted clicks and claps. The tension gradually builds, culminating in a sudden, dramatic finish. The perfect SFX for horror, thriller, and sci-fi projects.

Howling Wolfpack

This minute-long track features wolves and coyotes howling in the wilderness. It includes pack howls and individual calls, perfect for setting an atmospheric tone or isolating specific sounds.

Bubble Pop

‘Bubble Pop’ is an incredibly versatile sound effect. This cartoon-style popping sound is perfect for accentuating movements in animation and motion graphics. Use it to emphasize the motion of elements, titles, or transitions — engage your audience with a playful, energetic touch.

Soft Synth

‘Soft Synth’ is a soothing, soulful loop featuring smooth percussion, warm keys, and rich synths. With its laid-back, summery vibe, this track is perfect for creating mellow lounge music, smooth club beats, and groovy RnB vibes.

Make sure to explore the full Best of 2024 SFX collection for even more high-fidelity sound effects recorded by leading sound engineers.

Looking forward to 2025

As you get ready for 2025, you’ll need the right tools and creative assets to bring your creative vision to life. Whether you’re an up-and-coming influencer or a business building your online presence, the Artlist library is perfect, offering high-quality, royalty-free stock assets, including LUTs, plugins, and AI voiceovers. Head to the Artlist Spotlight to explore more incredible curated collections and kick-start your next project.

הפוסט Artlist’s top creative assets for filmmakers in 2024 הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.

Drawing from extensive interviews with industry experts, creative leaders, and our survey of over 5,000 content creators, the Artlist Trend Report 2025 reveals the top marketing trends and forces shaping tomorrow’s creative landscape. This blog post will give you a glimpse into the trends, with in-depth insights, more data, and actionable takeaways, all available in the full report. 

The human renaissance

In 2025, creativity will be driven by genuine human emotion. As AI tools become commonplace, our research shows creators are returning to raw emotion and authentic storytelling. Moving beyond technical perfection and building deeper connections with their audiences. This isn’t just about aesthetics but the nuanced, intuitive creativity that only humans can provide.

“AI helps us reach new creative heights, but real stories come from real humans,〞observes Ori Winokur, Head of Music and Sound at Artlist. This shift will also give rise to ‘design carbs’, visual elements that provide emotional comfort and satisfaction in our increasingly digital world. The full report explores how brands can successfully embrace this human-centric approach. 

Quality in, quality out

As the AI marketplace races toward the trillion-dollar mark, creators’ priorities have shifted. Our survey shows that 31% of creators now prioritize AI quality, while 26% focus on ownership concerns, marking a change from last year’s focus on quick adoption. The principle of ‘quality in, quality out’ has become crucial, particularly as regulations like the EU’s AI Act reshape the creative landscape.

While many creatives view AI as a tool that enhances rather than replaces human creativity, success isn’t measured by how quickly you adopt AI, but how wisely you do so.

The art of trend response

Digital marketing trends now move at breakneck speed — emerging and vanishing faster than ever before. This new pace demands a fundamental shift in how creative teams work. The traditional linear process of briefing, strategy, and execution has transformed into a fluid dance of simultaneous creation and adaptation. While the full report explores how leading brands and agencies are restructuring for this reality, one thing is clear, the future belongs to those who can pivot with purpose, not just speed.

The power of creative collectives

Creator marketing is evolving beyond individual influence to collective impact, with creator groups collaborating to amplify their creative power. With nearly 40% of creators seeking deeper, more meaningful brand partnerships, collaborative creator groups are emerging as powerful forces. These collectives are redefining brand partnerships, driving higher engagement, and establishing new economies of scale in content creation that traditional influencer models simply can’t match.

Cross-generational content

The traditional age-based approach to content is experiencing a revolution. TikTok’s viral creators span from college students to grandparents, with over 70% of adults aged 50-64 actively engaging across platforms once considered Gen Z territory.

This goes beyond demographics, with age no longer limiting what content people watch and create. Luxury brands are collaborating with streetwear labels, “Granfluencers” are capturing millions of young followers, and cultural moments are being shared and celebrated across generations. Read more about how to capitalize on this, with takeaways in the full report.

Shaping tomorrow’s creativity 

As technology advances, the human element becomes more crucial than ever. “The future belongs to those who dare to innovate. At Artlist, we believe that by embracing creative disruption, we can all drive forward and shape the future of the creative industry together.” — Ira Belsky, Co-Founder and Co-CEO at Artlist.

Ready to dive deeper and explore actionable next steps to prepare for 2025? The Artlist Trend Report 2025 offers comprehensive insights into:

• Human-centered creative strategies
• Strategic AI integration
• Agile approaches to trend response
• The future of creator partnerships
• Cross-generational engagement tactics

For creative professionals, these aren’t just marketing trends, they’re essential tools for leading innovation this coming year. Get free instant access to the full report, no registration required, and take control of your creative future.

הפוסט How to leverage the top marketing trends in 2025 הופיע לראשונה ב-Artlist Blog.