10 Free and Cheap Online Video Production Tools and Resources

You don't need a giant video production department to create interesting videos to promote your business. There are several excellent free or cheap tools online that can help you create something that really stands out.

The following list was created by Sam Bakhtiar, a business and marketing expert who works with small businesses looking to make a great impression online.

1. Animoto: Use this online slideshow-maker to put photos to music. It's great for testimonials, says Bakhtiar. Free and paid.

2. Camtasia: This is a great tool if you want to record screencasts, tutorials, and how-tos. Bakhtiar suggests creating a videos showing clients how to navigate your site. Paid.

3. Common Craft: Common Craft has a library of videos that explain complex ideas with whiteboard-style animations. Membership lets you use its library of videos. Paid.

4. Go Animate: Create colorful animated videos with no experience. These will grab attention, for sure. Paid.

5. Magisto: You upload the video, Magisto does the editing. This online or iOS tool takes the work out of video creation. Free

6: Prezi: This clever tools lets you turn static presentations into dynamic works. Free and paid.

7: Reel SEO: After you've sampled OnlineVideo.net, look to Reel SEO for more video marketing advice. Free

8: Stroome: Use this online video editor to work collaboratively with others on your team. Free.

9: Xtra Normal: People will notice when you create funny videos with this easy animation tool. Paid.

10: YouTube Editor:  YouTube is good for more than just storing videos. It will also help you turn your raw footage into finished pieces. Free.

Bakhtiar usually helps personal trainers market themselves effectively online. He knows how small businesses can best present themselves to new customers.

"This is your opportunity to make your business more engaging, more human, and more appealing. If you can't convey your awesome personality on camera, then hire someone who can or use animation to tell your story. No one wants to watch 20 minutes of the talking head," says Bakhtiar.

Troy Dreier's article first appeared on OnlineVideo.net