You have a TikTok account and now you want to start making videos yourself. Great! In this guide we explain step by step how to make your first TikTok video. We also share handy tips to make your videos better and more fun.

Why make TikTok videos?

TikTok offers a unique chance to express your creativity and share it with the world. Whether you want to share your hobby, teach others something, or just have fun, there is room for everyone. The nice thing is that you don't need professional equipment. Your smartphone is enough to get started.

What can you share?

The possibilities are endless:

  • Recipes and kitchen tips
  • Gardening and plant care
  • Hobbies such as knitting, painting or crafts
  • Travel experiences and vacation tips
  • Pets and their funny moments
  • Life lessons and words of wisdom
  • Humor and entertainment

Making your first video

Let's start with making your first video. We'll walk you through every step.

Step 1: Open the camera

Open the TikTok app and tap the plus sign (+) in the middle of the bottom bar. This opens the TikTok camera.

Step 2: Choose the video length

At the top of the screen you'll see options for the length of your video:

  • 15s: For very short videos
  • 60s: One minute, good for a bit more explanation
  • 3m: Three minutes for longer content
  • 10m: Ten minutes for in-depth videos

As a beginner, we recommend starting with 15 or 60 seconds. Short videos are easier to make and often get watched more.

Step 3: Record your video

You have two options for recording:

Option A: Hold down the record button Hold down the big red button while you film. Let go to stop.

Option B: Hands-free recording Tap the red button once to start. Tap it again to stop. This is handy if you need both hands.

Step 4: Record multiple clips

You can record several separate clips that are automatically joined together. This is perfect for:

  • A before-and-after video
  • Showing different scenes
  • Taking breaks between takes

After each clip you'll see a progress bar that shows how much time you have left.

Handy features while recording

The TikTok camera has lots of handy features. We explain the most important ones.

Setting a timer

Tap "Timer" on the right side. You can choose a 3 or 10 second countdown. This gives you time to get into position before recording starts. You can also set how long the recording should last.

Flipping the camera

Tap the icon with the rotating arrows to switch between the front camera (selfie) and the rear camera.

Adjusting the speed

With the speed option you can speed up or slow down your video:

  • 0.3x or 0.5x: Slow motion effect
  • 1x: Normal speed
  • 2x or 3x: Sped-up effect

Effects and filters

Tap "Effects" to add fun filters to your video. Thousands of effects are available, from simple color filters to funny face effects.

Beauty mode

Beauty mode makes your skin look smoother and more even on camera. You'll find it under the effects or as a separate icon. Use it subtly for a natural result.

Adding music

Music makes your video more fun and can help attract more viewers.

Choosing music before recording

  1. Tap "Sounds" at the top of the screen
  2. Search by artist or song, or browse the categories
  3. Tap a track to hear a preview
  4. Tap the checkmark to select the track
  5. Drag to choose the right snippet

Adding music after recording

You can also record first and add music afterwards:

  1. Record your video without music
  2. Tap "Next"
  3. Tap "Sounds" to add music after all

Sounds that are trending have a small arrow next to them. By using trending sounds, there is a better chance your video will be seen by more people.

Editing your video

After recording, you can edit your video to make it even better.

Trimming or deleting clips

Tap "Adjust clips" to:

  • Trim the start or end of a clip
  • Change the order of clips
  • Delete a clip completely

Adding text

Text makes your video clearer and more accessible:

  1. Tap "Text" (the Aa)
  2. Type your text
  3. Choose a font and color
  4. Drag the text to the right position
  5. Tap "Done"

Tip: Tap your text and choose "Set duration" to decide when the text appears and disappears.

Adding stickers

Stickers make your video more playful:

  1. Tap "Stickers"
  2. Search or browse the options
  3. Tap a sticker to add it
  4. Drag and resize the sticker

Recording a voiceover

Want to explain something about your video? Use a voiceover:

  1. Tap "Voiceover" (the microphone)
  2. Tap and hold to speak
  3. Your voice is laid over the video

Publishing your video

Done editing? Then it's time to publish.

Writing a description

Write a short, catchy description. This is what people see before they watch your video. A good description:

  • Is short and to the point
  • Says what the video is about
  • Can ask a question to encourage comments

Adding hashtags

Hashtags help people find your video:

  • Use relevant hashtags that fit your video
  • Mix popular hashtags with more specific ones
  • Use 3 to 5 hashtags, not too many

Examples: #recipes #cooking #easyrecipe #dinnertips

Choosing a cover photo

The cover photo is what people see on your profile:

  1. Tap "Select cover"
  2. Choose a frame from your video
  3. You can also add text to the cover

Privacy settings

Decide who can see your video:

  • Everyone: Visible to all TikTok users
  • Friends: Only people you follow who also follow you
  • Only me: Private, nobody else can see it

Tips for better videos

With these tips you'll make videos that people love to watch.

Good lighting is essential

Light makes a huge difference in video quality:

  • Film in natural daylight when you can
  • Stand facing the window
  • Avoid backlighting (a window or lamp behind you)
  • Consider buying a ring light

Keep your camera steady

Shaky footage is tiring to watch:

  • Rest your elbows on a table
  • Use a tripod or phone holder
  • Lean against a wall for more stability

Start strong

The first 1 to 2 seconds decide whether people keep watching:

  • Start with something eye-catching or intriguing
  • Ask a question
  • Show right away what viewers can expect

Be yourself

Authenticity works best on TikTok:

  • You don't have to be perfect
  • Mistakes make you human and relatable
  • Share what genuinely interests you

Getting inspiration

Not sure what to make? Here are ways to get inspired:

  • See what others in your niche are making
  • Look at trending sounds and challenges
  • Think of questions people often ask you
  • Start with what you already know and are good at

Frequently asked questions

How long should my first video be?

Start short, for example 15 to 30 seconds. Short videos are easier to make and are more often watched all the way through. As you gain more experience, you can try longer videos.

Can I delete a video after posting it?

Yes, you can always delete a video. Go to the video on your profile, tap the three dots and choose "Delete". Note: the video is then gone for good.

Why does my video get few views?

This is normal for new accounts. The algorithm first has to get to know you. Keep posting consistently, use relevant hashtags and make content people want to share. It can take a few weeks before your videos get more reach.

Do I need to post a video every day?

No, quality matters more than quantity. Start with 2 to 3 videos per week. It's better to post good content regularly than mediocre videos every day.