Creating video content has never been more exciting. In today’s world, sharing your creativity can take you far—whether you’re an independent filmmaker, a vlogger, or a musician with an engaging music video. But when it comes to reaching a global audience, many creators hit a wall. Distributors like “Deliver My Tune” or others seem like the only way to get your content on popular streaming platforms. What if we told you there’s another way?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to submit your video on all streaming platforms without a distributor. Yes, it’s possible to bypass the middleman and take complete control of your content’s journey. The process is simpler than you might think, and the freedom it offers can be incredibly rewarding.
Why Skip a Distributor?
You might wonder, why avoid a distributor? Distributors like “Deliver My Tune” and others do offer valuable services. They simplify uploading to multiple platforms and handle royalty payments, which can save you time. However, there are some reasons to go it alone:
- Keep All Your Earnings: Distributors often charge fees or take a percentage of your earnings. When you go direct, you keep every cent.
- Full Creative Control: Submitting videos yourself gives you more control over descriptions, metadata, and how your content appears on platforms.
- Learning Opportunity: Navigating the process yourself builds skills and knowledge about the digital distribution landscape.
- Flexibility: By bypassing a distributor, you can experiment more with different platforms, targeting specific audiences without restrictions.
Preparing Your Video for Submission
Before diving into the specifics of submitting your video on streaming platforms, it’s essential to ensure your content is ready for global distribution. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. High-Quality Video File
Make sure your video is in a resolution and format accepted by most platforms. Common formats include MP4 with H.264 encoding. Aim for at least 1080p quality, as platforms prioritize high-resolution content.
2. Engaging Title and Description
Craft a compelling title and description for your video. These elements are critical for attracting viewers and improving discoverability through search algorithms.
3. Accurate Metadata
Metadata is key to helping platforms categorize your content correctly. Include details such as genre, tags, release date, and contributors.
4. Thumbnail Design
A catchy thumbnail can make or break your video’s performance. Design something eye-catching, as thumbnails are the first thing viewers see.
5. Copyright and Licensing
Ensure you own all rights to your video and any accompanying audio. If your content uses third-party material, secure the necessary licenses.
Submitting to YouTube
YouTube is a must for video creators, and the platform makes it easy to upload content directly. Here’s how to do it:
- Log into your YouTube account.
- Click on the “Upload Video” button.
- Follow the prompts to upload your video file.
- Add your title, description, tags, and thumbnail.
- Choose your privacy settings (Public, Unlisted, or Private).
- Hit publish, and your video will be live!
Remember to promote your video across social media and other platforms to maximize its reach.
Getting on Vimeo
Vimeo is another excellent platform for sharing videos, especially for filmmakers and artists who value high-quality playback. Here’s how to submit your video:
- Create a Vimeo account and choose a plan (there’s a free option with limited features).
- Click “New Video” and upload your file.
- Fill out all the necessary details, including title, description, and tags.
- Customize your video’s appearance and privacy settings.
- Publish your video and share it with your audience.
Uploading to Facebook and Instagram
Social media platforms are essential for connecting with audiences directly. To submit your video on these platforms:
- Go to your Facebook page or profile.
- Click “Photo/Video” in the post composer.
- Upload your video file.
- Add a caption, tags, and hashtags.
- Post the video to your timeline.
- Open the Instagram app and tap the “+” icon.
- Select your video file from your phone’s gallery.
- Edit the video with Instagram’s tools if desired.
- Write an engaging caption and add hashtags.
- Share it as a post or reel.
Exploring Niche Platforms
Apart from mainstream platforms, there are many niche platforms where your video can shine. Here are some examples:
- Dailymotion: Similar to YouTube, it’s a great option for reaching international audiences.
- TikTok: Perfect for short-form videos with viral potential.
- Twitch: Ideal for gaming-related content and live streams.
- Patreon: Share exclusive content with paying subscribers.
To submit your video to these platforms, you’ll typically need an account. Upload processes are user-friendly, with clear instructions provided by each site.
Directly Uploading to Streaming Services
For creators aiming to get on services like Apple TV, Roku, or Amazon Prime Video, the process requires a bit more effort but is completely doable without a distributor. Here’s a brief guide:
Amazon Prime Video Direct
- Sign up for an Amazon Prime Video Direct account.
- Upload your video file along with a synopsis, cast details, and keywords.
- Set your availability by region and choose monetization options (e.g., rentals, purchases, or ads).
- Submit for review. Approval can take a few days.
Roku Direct Publisher
- Create a Roku Developer account.
- Design a channel using their tools or hire a developer if needed.
- Upload your video content to the channel.
- Publish and promote your channel to Roku users.
Tips for Success
To maximize your video’s impact, keep the following in mind:
- Consistency: Regular uploads keep your audience engaged.
- SEO Optimization: Use relevant keywords in your title, description, and tags.
- Cross-Promotion: Share your video across all your social media platforms.
- Engagement: Respond to comments and interact with viewers.
- Analytics: Monitor performance metrics to understand what’s working.
Final Thoughts
Submitting your video on all streaming platforms without a distributor may sound challenging, but it’s entirely possible. By following these steps, you can retain creative control, keep all your earnings, and gain valuable insights into the world of digital distribution. With some effort and persistence, your content can reach audiences worldwide. Now, go ahead and share your creativity with the world!
Related Articles:
For further reading, explore these related articles:
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Submit Your Video on All Streaming Platforms
- How to Submit Your Video on All Streaming Platforms for Free
For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT RECORDS PRIVATE LIMITED.