The convenience and accessibility of platforms like Shopify and SendOwl make it easier for users to discover, purchase, and share videos — fostering a more direct and personal connection between artists and their audience. Selling videos online democratizes the film industry, empowering artists to build sustainable careers on their terms. That’s why we want to share how you can start selling your own videos online today, with Shopify! 

What are digital videos?

Digital videos aren't tied to a specific physical product. They can be stored, transmitted, and played back using various digital services and devices. The advent of digital video has revolutionized how people access, share, and enjoy content, making it more portable and convenient than ever. Online platforms and services, such as streaming apps, digital downloads, and cloud storage, have further expanded the reach and availability of videos, providing viewers with vast libraries at their fingertips. While streaming apps are great, being the sole distributor of your videos gives you unparalleled control and ownership of your work.

Benefits of selling videos online

Selling videos online has numerous benefits. By bypassing traditional distribution channels, such as production companies and physical stores, creators can retain a larger share of their earnings. Online platforms allow for direct-to-consumer sales, reducing the need for intermediaries who typically take a substantial cut of the profits. 

No physical product storage or shipping

Digital distribution eliminates many of the costs associated with producing and shipping physical products and media, such as DVDs or Blu-rays, and even the packaging needed to protect those discs.This reduction in overhead costs means a higher percentage of each sale goes directly to the creator. Moreover, with digital videos, creators can continuously earn revenue through downloads, streaming services, and licensing opportunities, without the significant upfront costs and risks of physical production.

Setting up your Shopify Online Store

To get started selling videos on Shopify, you'll first need to set up your Shopify online store and integrate it with SendOwl, a platform that specializes in digital product delivery.

Creating a Shopify account

Creating a Shopify account is straightforward. Sign up on the Shopify website, and follow the prompts to set up your store. It's a good idea to dedicate a special email address to this new account to help you keep track of Shopify-specific messages. Download the Shopify app to stay updated on your notifications.

Integrating SendOwl with your Shopify account

SendOwl seamlessly integrates with Shopify, providing a robust solution for selling digital products. Here's how to get started:

Connecting Shopify and SendOwl accounts 

Head to the “Settings” page in your SendOwl account, and click the "Shopify settings" link. Next, hit the “connect” button. Ensure you read about the permissions that SendOwl requires for you to sync with your Shopify orders and securely deliver your digital content. 

Linking SendOwl products to Shopify products

Once your accounts are connected, you can easily link your SendOwl products to corresponding products in your Shopify store. Head to your SendOwl dashboard, and hit the "sell" button on one of your products. You'll then see a list of ways to sell your item. Click on "Shopify," and select the product you want to link. Now, when someone purchases the linked product from your Shopify checkout, SendOwl will safely deliver the digital file to your buyer.

Creating your videos

Creating videos online requires a blend of creativity, technical skills, and strategic planning. Here are some tips to consider when filming:

1. Start with a good camera, video editing software, and high-quality microphones. Consider investing in good lighting equipment to enhance the visual appeal of your videos. 

2. Familiarize yourself with your video editing software and other production tools. Many online tutorials and courses can help you master the software and hardware you use. 

3. Take advantage of the wide range of stock footage and effects available online. These can enhance your videos and help you create professional-looking content. Use online tutorials, forums, and courses to continuously improve your skills. 

4. Websites like YouTube, Coursera, and Udemy offer valuable insights into video production techniques and industry trends. Don’t be afraid to explore various genres and styles. This can help you find your unique visual style and expand your creative horizons.

While you’re focused on creating your final videos, keep in mind that all the raw footage you create while filming and experimenting can also be turned into digital goods! If you track what you learn during the creative process, you can use that footage to craft and then sell online courses on video making for other creators. 

Uploading and listing your videos

Once your videos are ready, upload your video files to SendOwl from your dashboard, ensuring they’re correctly formatted and ready to be downloaded by customers. In your Shopify dashboard, create product listings for each of your videos, providing detailed descriptions and engaging images to entice potential buyers. Make sure they’re connected with the corresponding products in SendOwl. Follow the instructions from the "Linking SendOwl Products to Shopify Products" section above to ensure that they’re safely delivered to your buyers. Again, we recommend that you download the Shopify app to ensure you never miss a notification.

Setting prices and descriptions

Once your items are in your Shopify item library, set appropriate prices for your videos, based on factors such as production costs, market demand, and perceived value. Craft compelling descriptions of the unique aspects of each video to attract potential buyers. Highlight the things that make your content different. Research similar products and their price points to list the most competitive prices in your store.

Marketing your videos

Now that your videos are live on your Shopify store, it's time to drive traffic and generate sales through effective marketing tools and strategies.

Optimizing listings with relevant keywords and SEO

Optimizing your listings with relevant keywords and SEO can improve visibility in search results. Research keywords related to your videos and incorporate them into your product titles, descriptions, and tags.

Promoting your videos on social media platforms

Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to showcase your videos, engage with your audience, and drive traffic to your Shopify online store. Check out these resources on how to promote and sell digital products on TikTok and Instagram to get some ideas on content creation.

In addition, when you’re about to release a new product, work to reel in potential customers with some digital art, audio clips, or even some snippets of video to get people excited!

Utilizing SendOwl data for informed marketing decisions

Monitor sales data and customer behavior within SendOwl to identify trends, track the performance of your marketing efforts, and make data-driven decisions to optimize your strategy. Your Shopify dashboard will also provide you with valuable user metrics that will help you make data-informed decisions to ensure you’re reaching your target audience. 

Delivering your videos securely

Ensuring the security of your digital downloads is crucial for protecting your products and customers' information. Here's how SendOwl helps you deliver videos securely:

Unique, secure download links for each purchase

SendOwl generates unique download links for each purchase, preventing unauthorized access and sharing of your digital files.

Customizable link expiration and usage limits

You can set expiration dates and usage limits on download links to encourage timely downloads of purchases and prevent abuse of your products.

Start selling videos online today with Shopify!

Selling videos on Shopify can be a great way to generate passive income, by tapping into your passion for creating in the digital age. By following this step-by-step guide, you can set up your store, create compelling videos that people want to watch and buy, and market those videos effectively to reach your target audience. Here’s a quick recap to get you started:

1. Set up your Shopify account, integrate SendOwl, and download the Shopify app.

2. Create your original videos using high-quality equipment. 

3. Upload your videos to SendOwl, and create product listings through your Shopify dashboard. 

4. Implement marketing strategies that drive traffic and generate sales.

5. Deliver your videos securely using SendOwl's customizable features.

With the right tools, resources, and mindset, you have everything you need to succeed in selling videos on Shopify. Get started today, and turn your passion into a thriving online business!