Facebook, a social media behemoth, has evolved into a versatile platform that accommodates a plethora of content formats. As a content creator, you may have pondered the limitations surrounding video length on this platform. Traditionally, Facebook videos were capped at a mere 10 minutes, leaving you yearning for more creative freedom. However, the tides have turned, heralding an era of boundless video expression on Facebook.
Rejoice, content creators! Facebook has recognized the growing demand for sharing in-depth and captivating videos with its vast audience. In a momentous move, the platform has lifted the 10-minute barrier, allowing you to unleash your creativity and share content that resonates with your viewers on a deeper level. Now, you can captivate your followers with longer videos that delve into intricate narratives, thought-provoking discussions, or immersive visual experiences.
Embracing the potential of long-form videos on Facebook opens up a myriad of possibilities. You can engage in storytelling that captivates, present educational content that enriches, and showcase your expertise in a compelling manner. The extended video duration empowers you to delve deeper into topics, foster meaningful connections, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your niche. Prepare to soar to new heights of creativity and connect with your audience in unprecedented ways as you harness the power of long videos on Facebook.
Upload Directly to Facebook
Uploading videos directly to Facebook is a straightforward process that allows you to share your long videos without any third-party tools. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
Choose the Right Format
Before uploading, ensure that your video is in the correct format. Facebook supports the following formats:
| Format | Codec |
|---|---|
| MP4 | H.264 or HEVC |
| MOV | H.264 or HEVC |
| WMV | VC-1 or WMV |
Size and Duration Limits
Keep your video within the following size and duration limits:
| Upload Source | Maximum Duration | Maximum File Size |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop | 60 minutes | 250GB |
| Mobile | 20 minutes | 250GB |
| Live Stream | 8 hours | N/A |
Upload Your Video
To upload your video directly to Facebook:
1. Click the “Photo/Video” button on your Facebook page or the “Post” button in a group you have access to.
2. Select the “Post a Video” option.
3. Choose “Upload Photos/Videos” and select your video file from your computer.
4. Optionally, you can add a title, description, tags, and adjust privacy settings.
5. Click “Post” to share your video.
Use Facebook Live
Facebook Live provides you with the ultimate platform to broadcast real-time videos directly to your audience, allowing you to share events, demonstrations, or interactive sessions that extend beyond the 60-minute limit. This live streaming feature is a powerful tool for engaging with your followers and reaching a wider audience.
To post a long video on Facebook using Live, follow these steps:
Preparations Before Going Live
1. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a suitable device or webcam for capturing high-quality video.
2. Plan the content of your live stream, including its purpose, duration, and key talking points.
3. Notify your audience in advance about your upcoming live session through social media updates or email announcements.
Initiating Facebook Live
1. On your Facebook page or profile, click the “Live Video” option located usually at the top of your news feed.
2. Configure your Live settings, including selecting your video source, adding a title and description, and setting privacy options.
3. Customize your Live broadcast by applying filters, adding music, and inviting guests to participate.
During the Live Broadcast
1. Engage with your audience in real-time, responding to comments and questions, and keeping them entertained and informed.
2. Monitor the stream’s analytics to keep track of viewer numbers, engagement levels, and any potential technical issues.
3. Wrap up your live stream gracefully by thanking your viewers and providing any necessary follow-up information or resources.
Upon completing your Facebook Live session, the video is automatically saved to your Page or Profile for future viewing and sharing.
Split the Video into Smaller Segments
Splitting your long video into smaller segments is a great way to make it more manageable and easier to share. This is especially helpful if you’re posting a video that’s longer than 60 seconds, as Facebook has a time limit on videos posted to its platform.
There are a few different ways to split a video into segments:
- Use a video editing software program. This is the most precise way to split a video, but it can also be the most time-consuming. If you’re using a video editing software program, simply import your video into the program and then use the editing tools to split it into segments.
- Use an online video splitter. There are a number of online video splitters available, such as Clipchamp, Kapwing, and Online Video Cutter. These online tools allow you to split your video into segments without having to download any software.
- Use Facebook’s built-in video splitter. Facebook has a built-in video splitter that you can use to split your video into segments before posting it. To use Facebook’s video splitter, simply upload your video to Facebook and then click on the “Split Video” button.
Once you’ve split your video into segments, you can then upload the segments to Facebook individually. When you upload a video segment to Facebook, it will be automatically added to your Timeline. You can then share the video segment with your friends and followers.
| Video Splitter | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Video Editing Software | Precise, allows for custom segment lengths | Time-consuming, requires software |
| Online Video Splitter | Convenient, no software required | May have limited features, may not be suitable for large videos |
| Facebook’s Built-in Video Splitter | Easy to use, integrated with Facebook | May not be as precise as other methods, limited segment lengths |
Host the Video on a Third-Party Platform
If your video exceeds Facebook’s time limit, consider hosting it on a third-party platform such as YouTube, Vimeo, or Dailymotion. Here are the steps involved:
1. Choose a Platform
Select a reputable platform that allows long-form video hosting and offers embedding options.
2. Upload the Video
Create an account on the chosen platform and upload your video file. Optimize the title, description, and tags for visibility.
3. Get the Embed Code
Once the video is uploaded, retrieve its embed code from the platform’s website. The embed code will typically include a unique URL and an HTML snippet that embeds the player on your page.
4. Embed the Video on Facebook
Copy the embed code and navigate to Facebook. In the status update box, paste the embed code. Facebook will automatically detect the video and embed it into your post. Make sure to add a compelling title and description to entice viewers to watch.
| Platform | Max Video Length |
|---|---|
| YouTube | 12 hours |
| Vimeo | 10 hours |
| Dailymotion | 60 minutes |
Utilize Facebook Premiere
Facebook Premiere is a feature that allows you to schedule and broadcast live videos on Facebook. It’s a great way to share long videos with your audience and allow them to interact with you in real-time. To use Facebook Premiere, follow these steps:
- Create a new video post on Facebook.
- Click on the “Premiere” tab.
- Choose a title and description for your video.
- Select a start time and date for your premiere.
- Invite your friends and followers to watch your premiere.
Once you’ve scheduled your premiere, Facebook will automatically create an event page for it. You can share this event page with your audience so they can RSVP and receive reminders.
On the day of your premiere, Facebook will notify your audience that it’s about to begin. When you’re ready, start streaming your video live. Your audience will be able to watch and interact with you in real-time.
After your premiere has finished, Facebook will automatically save it to your video library. You can share it with your audience again later, or you can use it to create other content, such as highlight reels.
Here are some additional tips for using Facebook Premiere:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Promote your premiere in advance. | Let your audience know about your upcoming premiere so they can mark their calendars. |
| Use a high-quality camera and microphone. | This will ensure that your audience has a good viewing experience. |
| Be prepared to interact with your audience. | Answer questions, take requests, and generally engage with your viewers. |
| Have fun! | Premieres are a great way to connect with your audience and share your content. |
Use a Video Scheduler
Facebook’s video scheduler allows you to schedule videos to be published at a later date or time. This can be useful if you want to post a video at a time when you know your audience will be most likely to see it. To use the video scheduler, simply follow these steps:
- Go to your Facebook page and click on the “Publishing Tools” tab.
- Click on the “Videos” tab.
- Click on the “Create Post” button.
- Select the video you want to post.
- Click on the “Schedule” button.
- Select the date and time you want the video to be published.
- Click on the “Schedule Post” button.
Your video will now be scheduled to be published at the specified date and time. You can view your scheduled videos by clicking on the “Scheduled Posts” tab in the Publishing Tools section.
Benefits of using a video scheduler
There are several benefits to using a video scheduler, including:
- Saves time: Scheduling videos in advance saves you time because you don’t have to remember to post them later.
- Ensures your videos are published at the optimal time: By scheduling videos in advance, you can ensure that they are published at a time when your audience is most likely to see them.
- Helps you stay organized: Scheduling videos in advance helps you stay organized and on top of your social media marketing efforts.
Tips for using a video scheduler
Here are a few tips for using a video scheduler:
- Plan your videos in advance: It’s helpful to plan your videos in advance so that you can schedule them at the optimal time.
- Use a variety of content: Don’t just post the same type of video over and over again. Mix it up with a variety of content, such as product demos, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes videos.
- Promote your videos: Once you’ve scheduled your videos, be sure to promote them on social media and other channels.
Optimize the Video for Mobile
With the majority of Facebook users accessing the platform through mobile devices, it’s crucial to ensure that your long videos provide an optimal viewing experience on smartphones and tablets. Here are some tips to consider:
Aspect Ratio
Choose an aspect ratio that’s suitable for mobile viewing. The ideal ratio for long videos on Facebook is 16:9, which is compatible with both portrait and landscape modes.
Video Length
While Facebook allows videos up to 240 minutes in duration, it’s recommended to keep them concise for mobile viewing. Aim for videos between 5 and 15 minutes in length, or consider breaking longer videos into smaller segments.
Video Quality
Target a video resolution of at least 720p (1280 x 720). This ensures crisp and clear video playback on most mobile devices.
Bitrate
Set an appropriate bitrate for your video file. A higher bitrate results in better video quality, but keep it within a reasonable range to avoid excessive buffering or data consumption for mobile users.
Closed Captions
Incorporate closed captions into your video to make it accessible to viewers with hearing impairments or those who prefer to watch with the sound off.
Video Description
Use the video description to provide a concise summary of the content, including any relevant keywords or hashtags. This helps users quickly understand what the video is about, even without audio.
Thumbnail
Create a visually appealing thumbnail that accurately represents the video’s content. This encourages clicks and previews from mobile users.
Comply with Facebook’s Video Guidelines
To ensure your long videos are successfully published on Facebook, it is essential to adhere to the platform’s guidelines. These guidelines encompass various aspects, including:
Video Length
The maximum length for a Facebook video varies depending on the method of upload and the user’s account status. Generally, the duration limits are as follows:
| Upload Method | Maximum Length |
|---|---|
| News Feed | 240 minutes |
| Stories | 15 seconds (single frame) |
| Reels | 60 seconds (default), up to 90 seconds (for verified accounts) |
| Live Videos | 8 hours |
File Size
The maximum file size for a Facebook video depends on the upload method and video resolution. For standard upload to the News Feed, the file size limit is 4GB. However, higher resolution videos may exceed this limit.
Video Resolution
Facebook supports video resolutions ranging from 240p to 1080p. It is recommended to upload videos in the highest possible resolution to ensure optimal quality. However, consider optimizing the resolution to reduce file size and improve loading times.
Aspect Ratio
The ideal aspect ratio for a Facebook video is 16:9. This ratio is compatible with most devices and provides a wide viewing experience. Videos with different aspect ratios may be displayed with black bars at the top or bottom.
Video Format
Facebook supports a variety of video formats, including MP4, MOV, MKV, and AVI. It is recommended to encode videos using the H.264 codec and AAC audio codec.
Closed Captions
Closed captions provide accessibility for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing. Facebook encourages users to add closed captions to their videos.
Metadata
Include relevant metadata, such as a title, description, and tags, to help users discover your videos. A concise and descriptive title can attract viewers, while tags and a comprehensive description can improve video visibility.
Promote the Video Effectively
Once you’ve uploaded your long video to Facebook, it’s time to promote it effectively to reach a wider audience and maximize its impact. Here’s a detailed guide to help you promote your video effectively:
1. Write a Compelling Title and Description
Craft a title that accurately reflects the content of your video and grabs attention. Write a clear and concise description that provides an overview of the video and encourages viewers to click.
2. Use Eye-Catching Thumbnails
The thumbnail is the visual representation of your video. Use high-quality, engaging thumbnails that entice viewers to click and watch your content.
3. Share on Multiple Platforms
Promote your video on various social media platforms where your target audience is active. Share the video on your Facebook page, Twitter account, and other relevant platforms.
4. Reach Out to Influencers
Collaborate with influencers in your industry. Ask them to share or promote your video to their followers, expanding your reach and credibility.
5. Run Facebook Ads
Consider running targeted Facebook ads to promote your video to specific audiences based on their demographics, interests, and behavior.
6. Host a Contest or Giveaway
Generate excitement and engagement by hosting a contest or giveaway related to your video. Offer prizes to participants who share or watch your content.
7. Create a Landing Page
Create a dedicated landing page for your video. Include a clear call-to-action and make it easy for viewers to watch, share, and comment on the video.
8. Leverage Facebook Groups
Join relevant Facebook groups where your target audience is active. Share your video and participate in discussions, building relationships and promoting your content.
9. Monitor and Measure Results
Regularly monitor the performance of your video using Facebook’s analytics tools. Track metrics such as views, engagement, and conversions to understand how your video is performing and make adjustments accordingly.
| Metric | Description |
|—|—|
| Views | The number of times your video has been viewed |
| Engagement | The number of likes, comments, and shares your video has received |
| Conversions | The number of actions taken after watching your video, such as website visits or purchases |
Monitor the Video’s Performance
Once you have posted your long video on Facebook, it is important to monitor its performance to see how well it is doing. You can track the following metrics:
- Views: The number of times your video has been played.
- Reach: The number of people who have seen your video.
- Engagement: The number of people who have liked, commented, or shared your video.
- Watch time: The total amount of time people have spent watching your video.
- Demographics: The age, gender, and location of the people who have watched your video.
You can track these metrics in the Facebook Insights dashboard. This dashboard provides you with a wealth of information about your video’s performance, and it can help you to identify areas where you can improve. For example, if your video is getting a lot of views but not a lot of engagement, you may want to try changing the title or thumbnail image.
10. Promote Your Video
Once you have posted your long video on Facebook, it is important to promote it to get people to watch it. Here are a few ways to do this:
| Promotion Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Share your video on other social media platforms | Post a link to your video on Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms where you have a presence. |
| Embed your video on your website or blog | This is a great way to get people to watch your video who may not be on Facebook. |
| Run Facebook ads | Facebook ads can be a great way to get your video in front of a larger audience. |
| Collaborate with other businesses or influencers | Partner with other businesses or influencers to promote your video to their audience. |
| Use email marketing | Send an email to your email list with a link to your video. |
How To Post Long Videos On Facebook
Facebook has a 20-minute video length limit. If you want to post a longer video, you can use Facebook Live or upload it to a third-party video hosting site like YouTube or Vimeo and then share the link on Facebook.
To post a long video on Facebook using Facebook Live:
- Click on the “Live” tab in the top menu bar.
- Select your privacy settings.
- Click on the “Start Live Video” button.
- Once you’re finished recording, click on the “End Live Video” button.
To post a long video on Facebook using a third-party video hosting site:
- Upload your video to the hosting site.
- Copy the video’s URL.
- Create a new post on Facebook and paste the URL into the status update box.
People Also Ask About How To Post Long Videos On Facebook
How long can videos be on Facebook?
Videos can be up to 20 minutes long on Facebook.
Can I post longer videos on Facebook?
Yes, you can post longer videos on Facebook using Facebook Live or a third-party video hosting site.
How do I post a video longer than 20 minutes on Facebook?
To post a video longer than 20 minutes on Facebook, you can use Facebook Live or upload it to a third-party video hosting site like YouTube or Vimeo and then share the link on Facebook.
