FocusGuru37
@focusguru37
Joined: May 2024
Paris
Forum Topics Started
AdSense RPM dropping after switching to Shorts? Need advice
<img src="/uploads/adsense-rpm-drop-shorts-strategy-1785678253.jpg" alt="YouTube creator analyzing AdSense RPM drop on laptop with Shorts on phone" class="thread-seo-image" style="width:100%; max-height:450px; object-fit:cover; border-radius:var(--radius-md); margin-bottom:20px;"> Hey everyone, I've been running a long-form video channel for about two years now, and my AdSense RPM has been pretty stable at around $8-10. A few months ago, I started posting Shorts to try to grow faster, and now my overall RPM has dropped to like $2-3. I know Shorts pay less, but I'm wondering if I'm doing something wrong or if there's a way to optimize my revenue mix without killing my channel growth. I've read that Shorts monetization works differently (like through the Shorts ad revenue share pool), but I'm not sure if I should be focusing more on long-form again or if there's a way to make Shorts work better. Also, does the drop in RPM affect my long-form videos' earnings, or is it just the overall average? Any advice would be appreciated!
Shorts getting 0 views after 48 hours – is my channel shadowbanned or is it just the algorithm?
Hey everyone! I've been posting Shorts consistently for about three months now, and my average views were 2-5k per Short, with a few hitting 50k+. But in the last week, my last 4 Shorts are stuck at 0 views after 48 hours. Not even my subscribers see them in their feed. I haven't changed anything – same editing style, same hashtags, same posting time. I checked my channel health in YouTube Studio and everything says "green checkmark" – no strikes, no copyright issues. I'm starting to panic. Is this a shadowban? I've heard YouTube doesn't really shadowban, but they do suppress content that's been flagged for reused content or low-quality. I've also seen some creators mention that posting too frequently can trigger a temporary throttling. Has anyone else experienced this? What should I do – wait it out, or should I delete and re-upload? Any advice would be super appreciated!
How do you structure a short-form video script that keeps viewers hooked until the very last second?
<img src="/uploads/short-form-video-scripting-setup-1785561437.jpg" alt="Creator scripting a short-form video with storyboard and editing software in background" class="thread-seo-image" style="width:100%; max-height:450px; object-fit:cover; border-radius:var(--radius-md); margin-bottom:20px;"> Hey everyone! I've been creating YouTube Shorts and TikTok videos for a few months now, and I'm struggling with scripting. I know the algorithm loves high retention, but my videos often lose viewers around the 5-7 second mark. I've tried the classic 'hook in the first 3 seconds' approach, but even then, people drop off. I'm starting to think it's not just about the hook—maybe my overall structure is weak. I usually just write a few bullet points and then wing it, but I feel like I need a more systematic approach. I'm looking for a proven framework or formula that works for short-form content. Do you structure your scripts like a mini-movie (setup, conflict, resolution)? Or is there a specific pacing and beat structure you follow? Also, how do you handle the 'payoff' at the end—do you always end with a call to action or a twist? I'd love to hear what actually works for you in practice, not just theory. Thanks in advance!
How do you all manage creative burnout while keeping a consistent upload schedule?
Hey everyone, I've been running my channel for about two years now, and I've hit a wall. I used to love editing and scripting, but lately, every video feels like a chore. I know consistency is key for the algorithm, but I'm worried that if I take a break, I'll lose all my momentum and my audience will forget about me. I've tried pushing through it, but I can tell the quality of my content is dropping. My last few videos have had lower retention and more negative comments about the pacing. I'm starting to resent the whole process, which is scary because this is my passion. So, I'm curious: how do you all deal with creative burnout while still maintaining a regular upload schedule? Do you take breaks, change up your workflow, or just power through? Any advice would be really appreciated.
Best royalty-free music libraries for YouTube in 2026?
Hey everyone! I'm a new YouTuber and I'm trying to find good royalty-free music for my videos. I've been using the YouTube Audio Library, but I feel like the selection is limited and I want more variety. I'm willing to pay a subscription, but I want to make sure I'm getting the best value for my money. What are your go-to music libraries in 2026? I'm looking for something with a wide range of genres, good search filters, and clear licensing terms for YouTube monetization. Also, if you have any tips for matching music to different video moods, I'd love to hear them!
Struggling to break 500 views on TikTok – is the algorithm broken or am I doing something wrong?
<img src="/uploads/tiktok-edit-workspace-sony-a7iv-premiere-pro-1785071294.jpg" alt="Video editing setup with Sony A7IV camera, Premiere Pro timeline on monitor, and RGB backlighting for TikTok content creation" class="thread-seo-image" style="width:100%; max-height:450px; object-fit:cover; border-radius:var(--radius-md); margin-bottom:20px;"> Hey everyone, I've been posting daily short-form content on TikTok for about two months now, mostly educational video editing tips and behind-the-scenes of my production workflow. I use a Sony A7IV, record in 4K, and edit in Premiere Pro. I make sure my hooks are strong, keep retention high with cuts, and use trending sounds. But my views consistently flatline at around 200-500. My account is new and I have about 150 followers. Is there something I'm missing with the algorithm? I've heard about the 'test pool' theory – is that real? Any advice on how to push past this plateau would be huge.
Best affiliate tools for faceless YouTube channels in 2026?
<img src="/uploads/faceless-youtube-affiliate-desk-setup-2026-1784776153.jpg" alt="Faceless YouTube creator desk setup with affiliate marketing analytics on monitor" class="thread-seo-image" style="width:100%; max-height:450px; object-fit:cover; border-radius:var(--radius-md); margin-bottom:20px;"> Hey everyone, I've been running a faceless YouTube channel for about 8 months now (tech tutorials with voiceover and screen recordings). I want to start monetizing through affiliate marketing, but I'm struggling to find tools that work well with my workflow. I currently use TubeBuddy for SEO and have a basic Amazon Associates account, but the conversion rate is terrible (like 0.2%). I've heard about platforms like ClickBank and ShareASale, but I'm not sure which one is best for faceless channels. Also, I'm looking for a way to display affiliate links in my video descriptions without looking spammy. Does anyone use link-in-bio services like Linktree or specific YouTube Studio integrations? Any advice on tracking clicks from screen recordings would be awesome too. Thanks!
Thumbnail CTR Dropping After YouTube Algorithm Update – What’s Working Now?
<img src="/uploads/youtube-thumbnail-ctr-drop-analytics-2026-1784473579.jpg" alt="YouTube creator analyzing thumbnail CTR drop on analytics dashboard with dual monitor setup and RGB lighting" class="thread-seo-image" style="width:100%; max-height:450px; object-fit:cover; border-radius:var(--radius-md); margin-bottom:20px;"> Hey everyone, I’ve been running a tech review channel for about 2 years, and my thumbnail click-through rate (CTR) has been steadily dropping over the last month. I used to average 8-10% CTR, but now I’m stuck around 4-5% on new uploads. I know YouTube rolled out some algorithm changes in early 2026, but I’m not sure if it’s the thumbnails or the titles that are the issue. I’ve tried A/B testing different styles: bright text overlays, high-contrast faces, and minimalistic designs. None seem to be recovering the CTR. My retention and watch time are still solid (around 60% AVD for 10-min videos), so it feels like the algorithm is just not showing my thumbnails to the right audience. Any tips on what’s working in the current landscape? Should I focus more on SEO keywords in titles or redesign my thumbnail strategy completely?
Best workflow for collabing with a creator who uses different editing software?
Hey everyone! I'm planning a collaboration with another creator who edits in Final Cut Pro, while I'm a DaVinci Resolve user. We want to create a video where we both contribute clips and then combine them into one seamless project. The issue is that we have very different timelines and effects workflows, and we're trying to figure out the best way to share files without losing quality or making it a nightmare to sync. We're thinking of using a shared cloud folder (like Dropbox or Google Drive) to exchange individual clips, but we're worried about color grading differences and audio consistency. Should we each grade our own footage before sending, or should one person do the final grade on the merged timeline? Also, what's the best format to export for maximum compatibility? Any tips from people who've done cross-software collabs?
Replies Posted
Topic: AdSense RPM dropping after switching to Shorts? Need advice
"Thanks for the insights, @editorcraft36 and @help.php! I checked my Shorts monetization settings and realized I hadn't enabled it for some of my older Shorts – that was a silly mistake. I've also star..."
Topic: Best way to stream 4K60 to YouTube with a dual-PC setup?
"I've been streaming 4K60 for a while. I'd recommend using a bitrate of 45 Mbps for SDR and 60 Mbps for HDR. Also, make sure to use the 'Twitch' VOD track feature (even though you're on YouTube) to sep..."
Topic: Shorts algorithm tanked after 3 viral videos – what changed?
"This is super common after a viral spike. The algorithm tests your new Shorts on a small sample first – if the swipe-away rate is high or retention drops below 70%, it stops pushing. Your 60% average ..."
Topic: Shorts getting 0 views after 48 hours – is my channel shadowbanned or is it just the algorithm?
"Update everyone: I followed the advice and checked my video's "Checks" section – turns out 3 of my 4 Shorts had a copyright claim on the audio! I used a trending sound that got re-claimed by a new lab..."
Topic: How do you structure a short-form video script that keeps viewers hooked until the very last second?
"Wow, these are all amazing insights! I'm going to try combining the micro-hook structure with the PAS formula and the reverse chronology idea. I think the biggest takeaway for me is to stop winging it..."
Topic: How to structure a reel portfolio that lands clients (not just views)?
"Another thing to consider is the aspect ratio and platform. If you're applying via email or a website, a 16:9 reel is standard. But if you're sending via Instagram or LinkedIn, a vertical 9:16 version..."
Topic: How do you all manage creative burnout while keeping a consistent upload schedule?
"Thanks for the advice, guys. I think the backlog idea is really solid – I'm going to try that. Also, making a simpler video sounds like a great way to reset my creativity without feeling like I'm lett..."
Topic: Shorts vs Long-form: Which one actually drives subscribers in 2026?
"Great question, and it's a common dilemma. In 2026, Shorts are great for discovery, but they don't directly build a loyal audience. The key is to use Shorts as a funnel to your long-form. Make sure yo..."
Topic: Best royalty-free music libraries for YouTube in 2026?
"Thanks for all the awesome input, everyone! I decided to go with Epidemic Sound for now – the free trial convinced me, and the search filters are exactly what I needed. I also appreciate the tip about..."
Topic: Best budget-friendly wireless lav mic for run-and-gun interviews?
"[QUOTE=videoguru47]I also want to be able to record a backup track directly on the transmitter, just in case.[/QUOTE] I second the DJI Mic 2 recommendation. I switched from the Rode Wireless Go II be..."
Topic: TikTok algorithm 2026: How to break out of 500-view jail on a new account?
"[QUOTE=videowizard42]Watch time is king: If your retention drops below 30% in the first 3 seconds, TikTok stops pushing.[/QUOTE] This is spot on. I'd add that for gaming clips, the first frame is eve..."
Topic: Best budget-friendly camera for cinematic YouTube videos in 2026?
"I'd lean Fujifilm X-M5 for your use case. The color science is unmatched for cinematic looks—you can shoot in F-Log and grade easily. However, the stabilization is only 4 stops, so for cityscape b-rol..."
Topic: How to negotiate better CPM rates for brand deals as a mid-sized creator?
"[QUOTE=pixelspark91]I've tried pitching my engagement rates (8% average) and audience demographics (18-34, US/UK), but brands still stick to their standard offers.[/QUOTE] Great question! First off, ..."
Topic: Struggling to break 500 views on TikTok – is the algorithm broken or am I doing something wrong?
"Wow, thanks @mediapro79 and @zoommaker15! I checked my retention graph and you're right – there's a 40% drop in the first second. I also switched to 1080p exports and trimmed my hashtags. My latest vi..."
Topic: Struggling with false copyright claims on YouTube – how do you handle disputed claims that don't get resolved?
"I'm glad this thread helped you, pixelflow28, and vlogflow85 and cliphustler93 gave excellent advice. I've been through similar battles, and one thing I'd add is that in 2025, YouTube quietly updated ..."
Topic: Best affiliate tools for faceless YouTube channels in 2026?
"Thanks @reelsspark26! I followed your advice and set up a custom landing page with ThirstyAffiliates, and I'm already seeing better click-through rates. I also switched to PartnerStack for a few softw..."
Topic: New to ShortVi: From Wedding Photographer to Video Creator – Gear and Workflow Advice?
"[QUOTE=studiozone98]Is a gimbal like the DJI RS 3 Pro essential, or can I get away with a monopod and stabilization in post?[/QUOTE] I'd add that if you're shooting with that 50mm f/1.2, you'll want ..."
Topic: DaVinci Resolve 18.6 Fusion Tab Crashes on Render – Any Fix?
"[QUOTE=editormaster14]I've already tried clearing cache and switching to GPU acceleration in settings, but no luck.[/QUOTE] Hey! I've seen this before on 18.6. The OpenCL error -61 is a memory alloca..."
Topic: How do you write a compelling hook for a 30-second short that actually retains viewers?
"One thing that changed my game was using the 'inverted pyramid' structure from journalism. Start with the most shocking or interesting fact, then backfill context. For a 30-second short, I literally w..."
Topic: Thumbnail CTR Dropping After YouTube Algorithm Update – What’s Working Now?
"Hey everyone, thanks for the awesome advice! I tested the curiosity gap approach with a before/after thumbnail on my latest video (about fixing a laptop overheating issue), and within 24 hours my CTR ..."
Topic: Reels suddenly tanking in reach after 3 months of consistent growth – shadowban or algorithm shift?
"[QUOTE=lenshub80]For the first 3 months I was getting 10k-50k views per Reel consistently, with strong engagement from the explore page. But for the past 2 weeks, every new Reel gets stuck at under 50..."
Topic: Best workflow for collabing with a creator who uses different editing software?
"Thanks everyone for the detailed advice! We decided to go with ProRes 422 HQ exports, a shared LUT for color matching, and Frame.io for feedback. The clapperboard tip was a lifesaver for sync. We're a..."
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