What a video essay is and why there should be more of them.

What is a video essay?

A video essay is an essay read allowed that is aided with some video component in order to convey a specific message or thought. The speaker is usually on script, and the video component is supplementary to the overall point the author is making. There are two typical approaches to the method. The first is to have the video relate to specific points a person is making as they speak. The demonstration of that point is done in real time with little description of what is being described past the points the author makes as the image appears. The second is to go over an entire concept and then demonstrate it through video. Both methods are valid and selection between the two depends entirely on the author's preference and complexity of the points being made.

Why there should be more of them?
The video essay takes the best components from both of its mediums and forms a more complete byproduct. By reading from a script, the author is directed and is prevented from endlessly rambling on about a topic. There are clear points made and the demonstration of those points is handled visually. The video component allows the author to provide the viewer with simultaneous visual demonstration of points.

Why aren't there more video essay on the web? 

The simple answer is most of them are too long winded or complicated to get views. The example above, from Nerdwriter, is from a significantly successful maker of video essays. His videos tend to be less than 10 minutes in length and only address one point at a time. Other video essayists tend to speak for long periods of time and use looped footage as a place holder for related video content. The end result is being simultaneously bored by the author's speech and overstimulated by the visuals.

Video essayists to check out:
Nerdwriter
Every Frame a Painting

Kurzgesagt