Video metadata
A crucial component of digital video files, video metadata is data about the file’s own data - it provides information about other data. This includes the supporting details that accompany a video file. Metadata contains everything from the name of the file’s author to its location and date of creation.
What is video metadata?
Video metadata is data about a video file that provides basic info about the file’s contents. Metadata can be broadly categorized into three types: descriptive, structural, and administrative. Each type provides unique information about the video file.
Descriptive metadata
Descriptive metadata provides information that helps in identifying and discovering the video. This includes details like the title, author or director, synopsis, and keywords. Descriptive metadata is the most common type of video metadata. It is the information displayed when you search for a video on a platform like YouTube or Netflix.
Descriptive metadata makes a video easier to find. It helps search engines understand what the video is about, which in turn helps users locate the video when they search for related keywords.
Without descriptive metadata, a video would be virtually invisible on the internet. Optimizing descriptive metadata will improve your video’s visibility on search engines, which attracts more viewers and increases engagement.
Structural metadata
Structural metadata provides information about the 'structure' of the video. This includes the number of scenes or chapters, the order of scenes, and the length of each scene. Structural metadata is particularly important for long videos or films, as it allows viewers to navigate through the video easily.
For example, the DVD menu that allows you to jump to a particular scene or chapter uses structural metadata. On a streaming platform, the feature that allows you to skip the intro or jump to the next episode is also powered by structural metadata.
Overall, structural metadata provides great accessibility features like chapter navigation, closed captions, and audio descriptions to make the viewing experience more convenient and enjoyable.
Administrative metadata
Administrative metadata provides technical information about the video file. This includes details like the file format, codec used, file size, resolution, aspect ratio, and creation date. Administrative metadata is essential for managing, preserving, and archiving video files.
For example, if you are a video editor, you need to know the video's file format and codec to make sure it’s compatible with your editing software. If you are a digital archivist, you need to know the creation date and file size to organize it and store the file in the right place.
How to utilize video metadata effectively
Here are a few tips on how to use video metadata to improve the quality and visibility of your content:
Prioritize descriptive metadata
Using relevant keywords in a video’s title, description, and tags can significantly improve its visibility on search engines. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as it can lead to penalties from search engines.
Also, make sure that your descriptive metadata accurately represents the content of your video. Misleading metadata can lead to a high bounce rate, which can negatively impact your video's ranking on search engines.
Apply structural metadata
Utilize structural metadata to enhance the accessibility of your video. Provide navigation cues, such as chapters or scenes, to allow viewers to navigate through the video easily. Also, consider providing additional accessibility features, such as closed captions or audio descriptions, to cater to a wider audience.
Remember, a more accessible video is likely to attract more viewers and generate higher engagement.
Manage administrative metadata
Manage your video's administrative metadata effectively to ensure smooth operations. Also consider preserving your video files for future use, especially if they have historical or archival value.By managing your administrative metadata effectively, you can avoid technical issues and make your video files last longer.