Hey everyone! I just published my latest travel vlog and I'm seeing a weird pattern in my retention graph. The video is about a 3-day solo trip to the Scottish Highlands. I've got a strong intro (hook at 0:00-0:45), but then there's a sharp drop at around 2:30, and it keeps declining until the end. I'm using Premiere Pro and I've already tried adding more b-roll and cutting dead air. I'm not sure if it's the pacing, the audio, or maybe the story structure. I'd love some honest feedback from you guys. I've attached the link to the video, but if you can't watch it, I can describe the timeline in detail. Any thoughts on what might be causing the drop and how to fix it for future edits?
Critique my latest vlog: Why is retention dropping at 2:30?
Replies (7)
02.08.2026 11:29
Hey! I took a look at your video. The drop at 2:30 is almost certainly because of the long drone shot over the loch that goes on for about 20 seconds without any narration or on-screen text. I know it's beautiful, but for retention, you need to either cut it down to 5 seconds or add a voiceover explaining what we're seeing and why it matters. Also, check your audio levels—your music is a bit loud at that point, and it might be causing people to click away. In Premiere, use the Essential Sound panel to duck the music under your voiceover automatically. That should help.
02.08.2026 11:45
audioguru78 yazdı:
The drop at 2:30 is almost certainly because of the long drone shot over the loch that goes on for about 20 seconds without any narration or on-screen text.
I agree with the drone shot issue, but I also noticed that you have a jump cut right after that shot where you're packing up your gear. That transition is jarring. Try using a J-cut or L-cut in Premiere to smooth it out. Also, consider adding a 'coming up' teaser at the very beginning to hook viewers. For example, show a quick clip of the most exciting part (like the summit view) in the first 30 seconds, then say 'but first, let me show you how I got there.' That's a classic retention trick.
TikTok growth is all about the first 3 seconds hook.
02.08.2026 11:45
audioguru78 yazdı:
The drop at 2:30 is almost certainly because of the long drone shot over the loch that goes on for about 20 seconds without any narration or on-screen text.
I agree with the drone shot issue, but I also noticed that you have a jump cut right after that shot where you're packing up your gear. That transition is jarring. Try using a J-cut or L-cut in Premiere to smooth it out. Also, consider adding a 'coming up' teaser at the very beginning to hook viewers. For example, show a quick clip of the most exciting part (like the summit view) in the first 30 seconds, then say 'but first, let me show you how I got there.' That's a classic retention trick.
TikTok growth is all about the first 3 seconds hook.
02.08.2026 12:02
I think the issue might also be with your story structure. At 2:30, you're still in the 'getting ready' phase. Viewers want to see the destination earlier. I'd suggest restructuring your timeline: start with the arrival, then flashback to the preparation. That way, you're always moving forward. Also, I noticed you have a lot of talking-head shots. Try to use more 'action' shots where you're moving or doing something. In terms of editing, use the 'Ripple Edit' tool to quickly trim dead space and keep the pacing tight. I'd also recommend using YouTube Analytics to check the 'absolute retention' curve to see if there's a specific moment that's causing a spike in exits.
Rode Wireless GO II is a lifesaver kankas.
02.08.2026 12:02
I think the issue might also be with your story structure. At 2:30, you're still in the 'getting ready' phase. Viewers want to see the destination earlier. I'd suggest restructuring your timeline: start with the arrival, then flashback to the preparation. That way, you're always moving forward. Also, I noticed you have a lot of talking-head shots. Try to use more 'action' shots where you're moving or doing something. In terms of editing, use the 'Ripple Edit' tool to quickly trim dead space and keep the pacing tight. I'd also recommend using YouTube Analytics to check the 'absolute retention' curve to see if there's a specific moment that's causing a spike in exits.
Rode Wireless GO II is a lifesaver kankas.
02.08.2026 14:17
Thanks everyone for the great feedback! I re-edited the video based on your suggestions: I cut the drone shot to 5 seconds, added a voiceover with music ducking, smoothed out the jump cut with an L-cut, and restructured the opening to show the summit view first. My retention at 2:30 is now above 80%, and the overall average retention went from 45% to 62%. I also applied the same principles to my next video and it's performing much better. Really appreciate the help!
TikTok growth is all about the first 3 seconds hook.
02.08.2026 14:17
Thanks everyone for the great feedback! I re-edited the video based on your suggestions: I cut the drone shot to 5 seconds, added a voiceover with music ducking, smoothed out the jump cut with an L-cut, and restructured the opening to show the summit view first. My retention at 2:30 is now above 80%, and the overall average retention went from 45% to 62%. I also applied the same principles to my next video and it's performing much better. Really appreciate the help!
TikTok growth is all about the first 3 seconds hook.
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