No Tech Skills? Over 40? Here’s how to start creating videos

Are you ready to create YouTube videos but feel intimidated by the tech? In this video, I’m sharing 3 simple tips on how to start making YouTube videos without being a tech head or expert. Let’s go!

If you’re ready to create content, you probably want to dive into YouTube or videos, but something is holding you back. Maybe you’re terrified or unsure about the technical aspects. This is something I see often—people who want to create but get stuck because they don’t consider themselves “techies.” I hear that label a lot, and even though I’ve worked in video for years, there’s still so much I don’t know. My name is Kevin Colby, and thank you for watching. I’m over 60, and my mission is to help people over 40 get into video creation. The biggest thing I notice is that many people in their 40s, 50s, 60s, or even 70s feel discouraged by the technology. But here’s the truth—you don’t have to be a tech expert to create great content.

You don’t need to be a technical genius to get started. Sure, I’ve been in video for a while, but I don’t always know the technical side inside out either. I can show you how to use a camera creatively, but I don’t get bogged down by all the details. Honestly, I don’t even read manuals most of the time—I just start experimenting. The key is to get past that fear so you can start creating. Chances are, you already have some ideas of what you want to make. If not, I’ve got resources to help you brainstorm topics and even find your niche. In this video, I want to keep it simple, spark some ideas, and help you break through those tech barriers.

The first thing to do is simplify your gear. One of the biggest obstacles I see is people thinking they need the “right” gear before they start. Maybe you’ve thought, “I don’t want to use just my phone.” But why not? Sure, I’m recording this on a Canon camera, but a lot of the time I use my phone. You probably already have a phone, and if you’ve ever taken a picture or shot a video with it, then you’re halfway there! Start with what you have. Use your phone, and if you’re recording long-form videos, turn it horizontally. If you’re doing shorts, vertical works too. As for audio, the built-in mic on your phone is usually good enough, especially in a quiet environment. You can always upgrade later with inexpensive microphones if needed.

Next, simplify the software. Another big hurdle for people is figuring out what software to use. You might be thinking, “I don’t know how to use any of this.” But it doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re on a Mac, use QuickTime—it’s free and already on your computer. If you’re on a PC, you can use something like Loom, which has both free and paid plans. There are countless options like StreamYard, Riverside, or OBS, but you don’t need to get bogged down by them right now. Start with something simple and just hit record.

The process of creating can also be simplified. It’s easy to get caught up in how to do everything perfectly. My advice is to just hit record and start talking. You don’t need a script, just some notes to guide you. If you mess up, that’s fine. You can always re-record small sections and put everything together later. Don’t aim for perfection, just focus on getting your message out there.

Lastly, don’t overproduce your video. It’s tempting to add fancy graphics, transitions, and music, but often less is more. I’ve been producing videos for a long time, and even I fall into the trap of overproduction. Keep it simple; focus on the message and the value you’re providing. Fancy effects can come later if needed, but for now, concentrate on creating content that resonates with your audience.

I hope these steps help you overcome the fear of tech and gear. You don’t need to be a tech expert to create and share your message. Don’t worry about what you don’t know; focus on what you can do. Someone out there needs to hear what you have to say, and by simplifying the process, you’ll be able to reach them.

If you’re ready to dive into video creation but feel paralyzed by the thought of handling all the tech, you’re not alone. So many people have amazing ideas but are held back by the fear that they’re “not techie” enough. It’s a common concern, especially for those in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond. I see this all the time—people who have valuable knowledge and stories to share but who let technology stand in the way of their creativity. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to be a tech expert to get started. In fact, you can create meaningful, impactful content with just a few basic tools that are probably already at your fingertips.

Take it from me—I’m Kevin Colby, and I’m well into my 60s. I’ve spent years working in the video world, and yet there’s still so much I don’t know about the technical side. That hasn’t stopped me from creating, and it shouldn’t stop you either. The key is to start simple. I don’t always dig deep into the manuals or the nitty-gritty details of how a camera works. I just start playing around, experimenting, and learning as I go. You don’t need to know everything right off the bat. The most important thing is to take action, to begin creating and sharing your gifts with the world. There are people out there who need to hear what you have to say.

One of the easiest ways to remove that technical barrier is by simplifying your gear. I get it—people often think they need high-end cameras, lights, and microphones to create professional content. But that’s not true. Your phone is a powerful tool. If you’ve ever taken a picture or shot a quick video with it, you already have the skills to create content. There’s no need to overthink it. Sure, I use a Canon camera for this particular video, but I also use my phone a lot. If you have a smartphone, you have everything you need to get started. Just turn it sideways if you’re recording long-form content and hit record. You don’t need to invest in a fancy setup—use what you already have.

When it comes to audio, don’t stress about getting the perfect microphone right away. The built-in mic on your phone is perfectly fine, especially in a quiet space. As you continue creating, you might want to upgrade to a more specialized microphone, but that’s something you can do down the road. In the beginning, focus on capturing your message clearly and confidently, not on whether you have the best gear.

Another point that tends to trip people up is software. There’s no shortage of options out there, and that can feel overwhelming. What’s important is that you don’t let the variety of choices stop you from getting started. If you’re on a Mac, you have free software like QuickTime built right into your computer. It’s simple, intuitive, and will get the job done without any fuss. For both Mac and PC users, you can use Loom, a browser-based software with free and paid plans. It’s incredibly easy to set up, and the free version allows you to record videos up to five minutes long. You don’t need complex editing software to create great content. Just keep things simple and use tools that feel comfortable for you.

The same rule applies to your overall process. Don’t overcomplicate things. I know it can be tempting to have everything perfectly scripted and edited, but often the most authentic and engaging content comes from simply hitting record and talking. Before I shoot a video, I make a few notes, just to keep myself on track, but I don’t script everything. I press record, talk through my points, and keep going. If I mess up or stumble, I’ll stop and record again, but I don’t worry about it being perfect. The key is to get your message across, not to create a flawless production.

Speaking of which, overproduction is another thing to avoid. You don’t need fancy transitions, graphics, or music to make your video stand out. In fact, overloading your video with effects can often take away from the message you’re trying to share. I’ve spent years producing videos, and I can tell you firsthand that less is often more. Focus on the content and the value you’re providing to your audience. The visuals and extra touches can come later once you’re comfortable with the basics. Right now, the goal is to simplify everything so you can start creating without feeling overwhelmed by the tech.

Remember, the goal is to create, not to become a tech guru. If you’re creating a tech channel, then yes, you might need to dive deeper into the technical side of things. But for most people, it’s about sharing their knowledge, passions, and experiences. Concentrate on what you know and what you can offer, not on what you don’t know about technology. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish with just a phone and some basic software.

Ultimately, someone out there is waiting for what you have to say. Whether it’s through a simple video recorded on your phone or something a little more polished, your voice matters. Don’t let the fear of not being tech-savvy hold you back. Start small, keep it simple, and focus on creating content that brings value to others. As you get more comfortable, you can always learn more about the tech side of things. But for now, just start. You’ve got this!