How to Post a Video on Reddit: A Veteran Redditor’s Guide

So, you’ve got a video worthy of the Reddit masses? Excellent. You’ve probably heard the saying: “Content is king”. Well, on Reddit, engaging content is Emperor! Posting a video can be a fantastic way to share your creation, spark a discussion, or simply reap the sweet, sweet karma. Here’s how to navigate the sometimes-murky waters of Reddit video uploads, turning you from a lurker into a legitimate content creator.

The Straight Answer: Posting a Video on Reddit

The process is relatively straightforward, but understanding the nuances can significantly impact your video’s success. You basically have two main options: direct upload and linking from an external source.

1. Direct Upload (Reddit’s Native Video Hosting):

• Go to the subreddit where you want to post.
• Click the “Create Post” button. This is usually prominently displayed in the subreddit’s interface.
• Choose the “Image & Video” tab.
• Click the “Select Video” button (or equivalent wording) to browse your files and select the video you want to upload from your computer or device.
• Add a title. A compelling title is critical. It’s your hook, your elevator pitch, your chance to grab attention in a sea of content. Be specific, engaging, and avoid clickbait.
• Choose a flair if the subreddit requires or recommends it.
• (Optional) Add a comment to your post to provide context, explain the video, or start a discussion.
• Click “Post”.

2. Linking from an External Source (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.):

• Upload your video to a video hosting platform like YouTube, Vimeo, or Streamable.
• Get the video’s link. Ensure the video is set to “Public” or “Unlisted” (depending on your preference) to allow access.
• Go to the subreddit where you want to post.
• Click the “Create Post” button.
• Choose the “Link” tab.
• Paste the video’s link into the provided field.
• Add a title. Again, make it count!
• Choose a flair if needed.
• (Optional) Add a comment.
• Click “Post”.

The choice between direct upload and linking often boils down to file size, video length, and personal preference. Direct uploads are typically limited in file size (Reddit currently has limits, typically around 1GB) and are generally better suited for shorter clips. External links are useful for longer videos or if you want to leverage the features of a dedicated video hosting platform (like YouTube’s analytics).

Maximizing Your Video’s Impact

Simply posting a video isn’t enough. You need to think strategically. Here are some tips:

• Know Your Audience: Different subreddits have different cultures and expectations. A video that thrives in r/funny might bomb in r/documentaries. Tailor your content and title accordingly.
• Timing is Everything: Pay attention to when the subreddit is most active. Posting during peak hours increases visibility. Use tools like Later for Reddit or simply observe posting patterns over a few days to identify optimal times.
• Engage in the Comments: Don’t just drop your video and run. Respond to comments, answer questions, and participate in the discussion. This shows you’re invested and genuinely interested in engaging with the community.
• Promote Thoughtful Discussion: Ask a question in your title or comment that encourages viewers to share their thoughts. Controversial (but respectful) topics often generate more engagement.
• Consider Crossposting: If your video is relevant to multiple subreddits, consider crossposting. But be mindful of subreddit rules and avoid spamming.
• Use Descriptive Titles: A title like “Cool Video” isn’t going to cut it. Be specific and descriptive. “Timelapse of a Hummingbird Building a Nest” is much more likely to grab attention.

Reddit Video FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. What are the video file size and length limits on Reddit?

Reddit’s native video hosting has limitations. Typically, the file size limit is around 1GB, and the maximum video length is about 15 minutes. These limits can vary slightly, so always check the specific subreddit’s rules for any exceptions or modifications.

2. What video formats are supported for direct upload on Reddit?

Reddit supports common video formats such as MP4 and MOV. Using MP4 is generally recommended for optimal compatibility and performance.

3. How do I improve the quality of my video upload on Reddit?

To improve the quality of your video upload, ensure that you are uploading a high-resolution video to begin with. Also, check if the subreddit allows HD videos and what the maximum resolution is.

4. Can I edit my video after posting it on Reddit?

Unfortunately, you cannot directly edit a video after it’s been posted to Reddit. If you need to make changes, you’ll have to delete the original post and upload the edited version. This is why planning and previewing are so critical.

5. How do I add captions or subtitles to my Reddit video?

Reddit’s native video player doesn’t directly support adding captions or subtitles. Your best bet is to either burn the subtitles into the video itself before uploading or to upload the video to a platform like YouTube where you can easily add captions. Then link to that platform on Reddit.

6. Why is my video not playing on Reddit?

Several factors can cause this. It could be a format incompatibility, a corrupted file, or Reddit’s servers experiencing issues. Ensure your video is in a supported format, that the file isn’t corrupted, and check Reddit’s status page to see if there are any known problems. It could also be that the video is being processed, try again in a few minutes.

7. How do I delete a video I posted on Reddit?

Go to your profile, find the post containing the video, and click the “…” (more options) menu. Select “Delete”. This will permanently remove the post and the video.

8. Can I monetize my video on Reddit?

Directly monetizing videos on Reddit is generally not possible. Reddit doesn’t offer built-in monetization features for video content. However, you can drive traffic to external platforms where you do monetize your content (e.g., YouTube) by linking to your videos.

9. How do I crosspost my video to multiple subreddits?

When creating a post, after you have selected your video and title, you’ll find a crosspost option. This allows you to select other relevant subreddits to share your post in. Be careful to only crosspost to subreddits where your video is genuinely relevant.

10. What are some common mistakes people make when posting videos on Reddit?

Common mistakes include posting irrelevant content, using clickbait titles, ignoring subreddit rules, failing to engage with the community, and not optimizing video quality. Avoid these pitfalls to improve your chances of success.

11. How do I embed a Reddit video on another website?

To embed a Reddit video, find the post and click the “Share” button. From the share options, select “Embed”. This will provide you with the HTML code to embed the video on your website.

12. How can I get more upvotes on my Reddit video?

Getting upvotes on Reddit is a combination of factors. Create high-quality, engaging content, post at optimal times, use compelling titles, engage with the community, and understand the culture of the subreddit. There are no guarantees, but these strategies will significantly improve your chances.

Mastering the art of posting videos on Reddit takes time and experience. By understanding the platform’s rules, optimizing your content, and engaging with the community, you can significantly increase your video’s visibility and impact. So, grab your best footage, craft a killer title, and get ready to unleash your creativity on the Reddit masses! Good luck, and may the karma be ever in your favor.