Why Vertical Video is the Fastest Way to Get More Enquiries
If you’ve spent any time on your phone lately—whether you’re waiting for a coffee in Milton or sitting on the couch after a long day on the tools—you’ve seen vertical videos. They are the tall videos that take up your whole screen on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Most business owners I talk to in Brisbane think these videos are just for kids dancing or people showing off their lunch. That is a massive mistake.
I’ve seen local tradies, real estate agents, and shop owners double their monthly enquiries just by filming simple, 60-second clips on their iPhones. Why? Because people buy from people they trust. When a homeowner in Chermside sees your face and hears your voice explaining how you fix a leaking pipe or why your shop has the best timber in town, they feel like they know you.
In this guide, I’m going to show you exactly how to use vertical video to grow your business. I’ll compare the expensive "pro" way with the "smart local business" way so you can decide what’s worth your time and money.
The Big Choice: Fancy Production vs. The 'Real' Approach
Most marketing agencies will try to sell you a $5,000 video package. They’ll bring in three guys, big lights, and fancy cameras. They’ll spend weeks editing it.
Here is the truth: For a small business, that is often a total waste of money.
I’ve worked with a landscaper in Carindale who spent thousands on a polished "corporate" video. It looked like a TV commercial. It got almost zero phone calls. Why? Because it looked like an ad. People skip ads.
Then, he started filming raw clips on his phone while he was actually on the job site. He showed the "before and after" of a retaining wall. He explained why he used a specific type of stone. Those videos cost him $0 to make and brought in three new jobs in the first week.
When you ditch the polished case study, you actually build more trust. People want to see the real you, not a scripted version.
Which one should you choose?
The Fancy Way: Costs $2,000 - $10,000 per video. Takes 4 weeks to see a result. Good for a big brand like Qantas, bad for a local electrician. The Smart Way: Costs $0 (just your time). Takes 10 minutes to film. You can post it instantly. This is what actually makes money for small businesses.
What You Actually Need (and What You Don't)
You don’t need a camera bag full of gear. If you have a smartphone made in the last three years, you have everything you need to start getting customers today.
1. Your Phone is Enough
Don’t let anyone tell you that you need a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. The cameras on modern iPhones and Samsungs are incredible. The key is to hold the phone vertically (standing up), not sideways.2. Lighting: The Sun is Free
Bad lighting makes you look like you’re filming in a basement. You don't need to buy LED panels. Just stand facing a window during the day, or if you’re outside, stand in the shade. Direct sunlight makes you squint and creates harsh shadows. Shade gives you that nice, even look that makes you look professional without trying too hard.3. Sound is the Only Thing You Might Buy
People will watch a slightly blurry video, but they will turn off instantly if they can't hear you. If you’re a tradie on a noisy site or there’s wind blowing, your phone’s microphone will struggle.I usually tell my mates to spend $50 to $100 on a small "lavalier" microphone—the kind that clips onto your shirt. You can get wireless ones that plug straight into your phone. It makes a world of difference. Even if you don't want to buy gear, you can get great results just by using a simple podcast rig in a quiet corner of your office.
How to Film a Video That Actually Makes Money
Don’t just hit record and start rambling. You need a simple plan. Use this 3-step formula that we use for our Brisbane clients:
Step 1: The Hook (First 3 Seconds)
You have to stop the scroll. If you start with "Hi, I'm John and I've been a plumber for 20 years," people will keep scrolling.Instead, start with the problem: "Is your hot water system making a weird banging noise? Here’s why that’s dangerous."
Now you’ve got their attention because you’re talking about their problem.
Step 2: The Value (The Middle)
Show them something. If you’re a mechanic, show them the gunk inside a dirty engine filter. If you’re an accountant, show them one simple trick to save $500 on their tax return. Don't worry about being perfect. If you stumble on a word, just keep going. This is the unfiltered logic that people love. It shows you know your stuff.Step 3: The Call to Action (The End)
Tell them what to do next. Don't be shy. "If you need help with this, give me a call on the number below." "Click the link in my bio to book a free quote." "Send me a message if you have a question about your roof."If you don't ask for the business, you won't get it.
Where Should You Post These Videos?
You’ve made the video. Now where does it go?
Instagram Reels and Facebook Reels
This is where most Brisbane businesses see the best results right now. Facebook is great for reaching people aged 35-65 (the homeowners and decision-makers). Instagram is great for more visual businesses like builders, cafes, or hair salons.TikTok
Don't ignore it. It’s not just for teenagers. There are thousands of people in South East Queensland looking for home advice, local food, and professional services on TikTok. It’s a great place to reach a younger audience who are starting to buy homes or start businesses.YouTube Shorts
This is Google’s version of vertical video. The best part? These videos can show up when people search for your business on Google. If someone searches "best pest control Brisbane," a short video of you explaining your process could be the thing that wins you the job.Common Mistakes That Kill Your Results
I’ve seen hundreds of business owners try video and fail. Here is why they usually quit:
1. Waiting for Perfection: You’ll never be 100% happy with how you look or sound. Just post it. Your customers don't care if your hair is messy or if you have a Brisbane accent. They care if you can solve their problem. 2. Over-Editing: Don't spend hours adding crazy transitions and loud music. It distracts from your message. Simple is better. 3. Being Boring: If you wouldn't watch it, your customers won't either. Keep it fast, keep it helpful, and get to the point. 4. Posting and Ghosting: If someone comments on your video, reply! That’s a potential customer knocking on your door. Don't leave them hanging.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
This isn't a magic wand. You won't post one video and have 500 people call you tomorrow.
Marketing is like going to the gym. You have to be consistent. If you post two vertical videos a week for three months, I guarantee you will see an increase in enquiries.
Month 1: You're getting used to the camera. Your friends and family like your posts. You might get one or two curious messages. Month 2: People start recognising you. You get a call from someone saying, "I saw your video about the solar panels." Month 3: You have a library of videos working for you 24/7. When someone visits your page, they see dozens of helpful clips and decide you're the expert they need.What Should You Do First?
If you want to start today, here is your checklist:
1. Pick a common question: What is the one thing every customer asks you? (e.g., "How much does a new deck cost?") 2. Find a quiet spot: Use natural light from a window. 3. Record a 60-second answer: Use the Hook, Value, Call to Action formula. 4. Post it to Facebook and Instagram: Don't overthink the caption. Just write "A quick tip for Brisbane homeowners." 5. Repeat: Do it again next week.
Is It Worth Hiring an Agency?
You can absolutely do this yourself for free. But I know you're busy. You're running a business, managing staff, and trying to have a life.
Sometimes it makes sense to have a partner who can handle the "thinking" part—helping you decide what to talk about, making sure the videos actually reach people in your local area, and tracking which ones are making you money.
At Local Marketing Group, we don't do the fluffy "artistic" stuff. We focus on what brings in phone calls and sales for Brisbane businesses.
If you want to grow your business using video but don't want to spend your weekends editing on your phone, let's have a chat. We can help you get a system in place that works without taking up all your time.
Ready to get more customers? Contact us at Local Marketing Group and let’s talk about a simple plan that actually works for your business.