Here’s an enhanced version of the YouTube Media Upload Guide for SMACC Members, now including monetization potential for each media type.
YouTube Media Upload Guide for SMACC Members (With Monetization Insights)
YouTube supports multiple media formats, each with different engagement styles and monetization potential. Below is a breakdown of key media types, best formats, recommended resolutions, and monetization strategies.
Types of Media You Can Upload on YouTube
| Media Type | Description | Best Formats | Recommended Resolutions | Best Uses | Monetization Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Video | Regular video content (vlogs, tutorials, documentaries, product reviews, etc.). | MP4 (H.264) | 1080p (1920×1080) or 4K (3840×2160) | Most common content type for evergreen content. | High: Ad revenue (AdSense), sponsorships, affiliate marketing, memberships, Super Thanks. |
| YouTube Shorts | Vertical short-form videos (under 60 sec) competing with TikTok & Reels. | MP4 (H.264) | 1080×1920 (9:16) | Viral content, quick engagement, challenges. | Moderate: YouTube Shorts Fund, brand deals, and redirection to monetized content. |
| Live Streams | Real-time video with audience interaction (gaming, Q&A, product launches). | MP4 (H.264) or RTMP Stream | 1080p (1920×1080) | High engagement & real-time feedback. | Very High: Super Chats, channel memberships, live ads, donations. |
| 360° Video | Immersive content where viewers can look around (travel, VR, events). | MP4 (H.264) | 4096×2048 (4K 360) | Unique, interactive experiences. | Niche but Growing: Ad revenue, brand sponsorships, premium content sales. |
| Premieres | Pre-recorded videos released as live events. | MP4 (H.264) | 1080p or 4K | Builds anticipation for big content drops. | High: Super Chats, memberships, sponsorships, ad revenue. |
| Podcasts (Video) | Long-form discussions or interviews. | MP4 (H.264) | 1080p (1920×1080) | Audience retention, expert interviews. | High: Ad revenue, brand sponsorships, memberships, merch promotion. |
| Community Posts (Images/GIFs) | Visual content for engagement in the Community tab. | JPEG, PNG, GIF | 1080×1080 or higher | Engaging audiences between uploads. | Indirect: Builds audience loyalty, promotes monetized content. |
| YouTube Stories | Temporary vertical videos (like Instagram Stories). | MP4 (H.264) | 1080×1920 (9:16) | Behind-the-scenes, updates, teasers. | Low to Moderate: Used for audience engagement, brand collaborations. |
Best Video Settings for YouTube
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Container Format | MP4 |
| Video Codec | H.264 |
| Audio Codec | AAC-LC |
| Frame Rate | 24, 30, or 60 FPS |
| Bitrate (1080p) | 8 Mbps (Standard), 12 Mbps (High) |
| Bitrate (4K) | 35-45 Mbps |
| Aspect Ratios | 16:9 (Standard), 9:16 (Vertical) |
Monetization Breakdown for SMACC Members
1. YouTube AdSense (Revenue from ads shown on videos)
• Requires 1,000 subscribers + 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months (or 10M Shorts views in 90 days).
• Higher RPM (Revenue per 1,000 views) for finance, tech, education content.
2. Super Chats & Super Thanks (Monetized audience interactions)
• Available in Live Streams & Premieres.
• Viewers can pay to highlight their messages.
3. Channel Memberships (Subscription-based income)
• Offer exclusive perks, badges, and content for monthly subscribers.
4. YouTube Shorts Fund (For viral short-form content)
• Payouts based on engagement & views.
• Will be replaced with ad revenue sharing on Shorts.
5. Affiliate Marketing & Sponsorships (Direct revenue from brands)
• Best for review channels, tutorials, travel, and tech.
• Partner with brands for product placements.
6. Merchandise Sales (Sell your own products)
• YouTube Merch Shelf integrates with Teespring, Spreadshop, etc.
• Great for gaming, lifestyle, and influencer brands.
Key Takeaways for SMACC Members
✅ Maximize monetization by diversifying content types (Shorts + Long-form + Live Streams).
✅ Live content is highly profitable due to real-time audience engagement.
✅ Evergreen content (tutorials, reviews, how-tos) generates consistent ad revenue.
✅ Affiliate marketing and brand deals can often pay more than YouTube ads.
✅ Community engagement (Stories, Posts, Memberships) drives long-term growth.
