WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to send messages, photos, videos, documents and more to individuals or groups. One of the app’s key features is the ability to send short videos to your contacts. These videos can be up to 30 seconds long and are easy to record and send right within WhatsApp.
Requirements for Sending WhatsApp Videos
To send videos on WhatsApp, you need to first make sure you meet the app’s requirements:
- Have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on your device
- Be connected to the internet – WhatsApp requires a WiFi, cellular data or mobile internet connection to send videos
- Have enough storage space on your phone to record videos
- For optimal video quality, use a smartphone with a good camera and video capabilities
Recording a WhatsApp Video
Once you’ve ensured your device meets the requirements, recording a WhatsApp video is simple. Follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp and select the chat you want to send the video to
- Tap the attach button (paperclip icon)
- Select the camera icon from the menu
- This will launch your phone’s camera within WhatsApp. Select video mode to record a video.
- Press and hold the red button to start recording. Release when you’re done.
- You can record up to 30 seconds of video in one clip.
- If needed, tap the red button again to stop recording early.
- Your video will automatically be saved to your camera roll.
Some tips for recording great WhatsApp videos:
- Hold the camera steady for clear footage
- Make sure there is plenty of lighting so the video isn’t dark or grainy
- Get close enough to your subject to capture good detail
- Frame your shot carefully to get your subject in focus
- Try different angles and perspectives to make it more interesting
Editing and Trimming WhatsApp Videos
Once your video has been recorded, you may want to edit or trim it before sending:
- Open the video in your phone’s gallery or photos app
- Select the edit option (this varies by phone model)
- Trim the beginning or end of the video as needed
- Most phones also offer filters and editing tools to enhance your video
- Edit the clip until you are happy with the final version
- Save the changes and exit back to your gallery
Editing can help refine your WhatsApp videos by removing unwanted sections or enhancing the overall quality. Just don’t overdo it!
Sending Your WhatsApp Video
Once your video is recorded and edited, sending it via WhatsApp only takes a couple taps:
- In your chat, tap the attach button again
- Tap the gallery/photos icon
- Select your newly recorded video
- Tap send!
Your video will now be delivered to your selected WhatsApp contact. They will receive a notification that you have sent them a video file.
Tips for Better WhatsApp Videos
Following these tips can help you create better quality WhatsApp videos that your friends and family will love receiving:
- Film in landscape orientation, not vertical portrait mode
- Keep the camera steady by holding it with both hands or using a tripod
- Make sure the camera lens is clean before filming
- Check the lighting and your surroundings before recording
- Get creative with effects, props and editing to make it more engaging
- Have fun with it! Insert humor, inside jokes or something heartfelt
WhatsApp Video File Size and Length
WhatsApp does limit video files in two important ways:
- Length – Videos can only be up to 30 seconds long when recorded directly in the app
- Size – WhatsApp has a file size limit of 16MB per video
If your video exceeds either of these limits, WhatsApp will prompt you to trim it before sending. It’s best to keep your video within 30 seconds and under 16MB if possible.
Compressing Large WhatsApp Videos
If your video is over 16MB, you have two options to send it:
- Use a video compressor app to reduce the file size under 16MB
- Upload the video to a cloud drive like Google Drive, then share the link in WhatsApp
Compressing the video can take a few minutes but will ensure your recipient can view the original quality file. Sharing a cloud link lets WhatsApp handle the file separately from your phone’s storage.
WhatsApp Video Call vs Video Message
Beyond just sending video messages, WhatsApp also offers video calling through the app. There are some key differences between these two video features:
| Video Message | Video Call |
|---|---|
| Pre-recorded video clip up to 30 seconds | Live video call/chat with audio and video |
| Sent and viewed asynchronously | Real-time call that must be answered to connect |
| Can be saved, edited, shared outside WhatsApp | Real-time only, not saved by default |
In summary, video messages are pre-recorded short clips, while video calls allow for live video chats using WhatsApp.
Sharing Longer WhatsApp Videos from Gallery
If you want to share a longer video from your device’s gallery with WhatsApp contacts, you have two options:
- Compress and trim the video to 30 seconds maximum
- Upload the full video to Google Drive or a similar cloud service, then share the link in WhatsApp
While WhatsApp limits videos recorded in-app, longer videos can be shared via cloud links without the same restrictions.
Setting WhatsApp Video Quality
WhatsApp allows you to choose between sharing videos in standard or high quality:
- Standard quality uses less data but may be more compressed or grainy
- High quality provides full HD resolution for crystal clear videos
To change this setting:
- Open WhatsApp Settings
- Select Storage and Data
- Tap Video Upload Quality
- Choose your desired quality
Use high quality when you have an unlimited data plan and want the best resolution. Standard quality can help limit data usage.
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Video Issues
If you’re having trouble sending videos on WhatsApp, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Confirm you have a strong internet connection
- Check that your phone has enough free storage space
- Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed
- Try compressing the video to under 16MB
- Restart your phone and reopen WhatsApp
- Clear cache and data for the WhatsApp app
Sometimes restarting your device or reinstalling WhatsApp can help resolve temporary glitches. Make sure to backup your chats first!
WhatsApp Video Calling Tips
To get the most out of WhatsApp video calls, follow these tips:
- Ensure you have a strong WiFi or cellular data connection
- Place your phone on a steady surface with the camera at eye level
- Look directly into the camera when talking
- Avoid backlight from bright windows or lights
- Use headphones to avoid echo or background noise
- Test your connection first with voice calls
Optimizing your video call setup can help maximize call quality and avoid issues like lag, pixelation or choppy audio.
How to Save WhatsApp Videos
If you want to save a video you receive on WhatsApp, there are a couple options:
- iOS – Tap and hold the video thumbnail, then tap ‘Save Video’
- Android – Tap and hold the video, then tap the download icon
- On either platform, open the video full screen, then use your device’s built-in screenshot or screen recording tools to save it
Saving WhatsApp videos allows you to view them offline, share via other apps, or store for long-term keeping. Just be mindful of copyright laws if re-sharing media.
Conclusion
Sending fun, creative videos can add a personalized touch to your WhatsApp messages. With the app’s easy built-in camera and video tools, you can quickly record, edit and share short video clips or live video chats. So grab your phone and make a mini masterpiece to connect with your friends or family today!