Social First

Social-First Video Production

I’m Jon Collins, a UK-based freelance videographer and cameraman specialising in social-first video. Social is often where a campaign actually lives, so content needs to be designed for feeds, phones and short attention spans — not adapted later as an afterthought.

I work with brands, agencies and production teams to create social content that’s visually strong, clearly structured and built to perform across platforms. This work often sits alongside wider branded content filmmaking, ensuring consistency across campaigns.

Based in the South East, I work across London, the UK and internationally.

What Makes Good Social-First Content?

• Clear communication in the first few seconds
• Works without sound through subtitles or visuals
• Designed for mobile viewing
• Feels native to the platform
• Consistent branding without overproduction

Platforms, Formats and Constraints

• Instagram – Vertical-first, fast-paced, visually led
• TikTok – Full-screen vertical, authentic and immediate
• LinkedIn – Subtitles essential, longer-form social storytelling
• YouTube & Shorts – Vertical shorts and narrative-led social video
• X (Twitter) – Short, contextual clips supporting campaigns

Shooting Vertically (Properly)

For social-first projects, I often shoot vertically in-camera. This maximises sensor and lens performance, maintains resolution, and avoids cropping compromises later.

Using frame guides and platform overlays during production ensures text-safe framing and keeps key action clear of platform UI.

How I Approach Social Content

As a videographer working across social and branded content, I combine documentary instincts with platform awareness. This approach closely aligns with my freelance cameraman work, where flexibility and consistency matter.

Video Podcasts as Social Content

Video podcasts are a powerful source of social content, producing long-form episodes alongside platform-ready clips.

I regularly shoot podcasts with social output in mind. You can read more about my video podcast filming services.

Technical Capability

I shoot efficiently on location using broadcast-ready Sony systems with professional audio and monitoring. A full technical breakdown is available on my filming equipment page.

Let’s Talk

If you’re planning social content and want a videographer who understands platforms and performance, get in touch or learn more about me.