A strategically monetized standalone video can make significant revenue and serve as a powerful income generator over time. Learn about the best methods to monetize single videos and start earning money from your videos. Continue reading
Video content has exploded in popularity.
Driven by high-speed internet, mobile accessibility, high-user engagement, rise in social media, and short-format content, videos are becoming the dominant form of online media consumption.
This rise in video content has opened up substantial earning opportunities, even for a single video. There are multiple revenue streams, creators can tap into and unlock potential to earn money from single videos.
In this blog, we will discuss how a standalone video, if strategically monetized, can generate significant revenue.
What are the best ways to monetize single videos? Get a brief on proven video monetization models, from ad revenue and sponsorships to direct sales and crowdfunding.
Also, explore the pros & cons of the best video monetization platforms like Vimeo, YouTube, Facebook, Muvi TV, and more. Find out which monetization channel is best suited for monetizing single videos. Stay Tuned!
Sell videos online on the best marketplace and earn money – Muvi TV
Videos are everywhere. Around 82% of internet users worldwide consume video content for entertainment and staying updated with the latest news & events. This increasing video consumption habit is very much driven by Gen Z and Millennials.
The global video-on-demand market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.27% between 2024 to 2027. Experts estimate that the online video market will reach a volume of US$231.50bn by 2027 from its current volume of US$182.40bn in 2024.
The user penetration rate in the online video streaming market is also projected to increase to 43.2% by 2027, reaching a total user base of 3.4 billion worldwide.
There is a rapid increase in video consumption, especially for single videos and short-form content. Viewers demand more original and unique content but in the format of individual or standalone videos.
The growth of OTT platforms like Hulu, Netflix, and Disney+ also drives video consumption habits among viewers. Many independent creators and businesses are hence launching their own video streaming services using end-to-end OTT solutions like Muvi One.
Global video ad spending is also expected to grow 20x, as more brands/companies are pivoting towards digital advertising. This presents significant revenue potential for video content creators.
The rise of user-generated video content (UGC) is one of the biggest drivers of the online video market. Many creators are creating quality videos using their smartphones and monetizing single videos through ads, sponsorships, subscriptions, and more.
Artists, filmmakers, online gamers, and professional vloggers are also leveraging the UGC trends, uploading their single/independent creatives on video monetization platforms like Muvi TV, and making good money.
Video creators often face several challenges when trying to monetize single videos. These obstacles can hinder their ability to earn revenue or slow down their monetization efforts. Here are the major hindrances video creators encounter.
Many video monetization platforms have eligibility requirements to join their monetization program. For example, the YouTube Partner Program requires at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time in the past 12 months.
Creators who produce single videos, catering to a niche/smaller audience group, often struggle to meet these thresholds. Even if the content is valuable, the monetization eligibility prevents creators from earning revenue until they meet the criteria.
Monetizing single videos through ads has been the go-to method for creators, as there is no upfront cost. But the hard truth is there is no consistency in earnings made through ad revenue.
The ad revenue is dependent on the cost-per-mille (CPM) rates, or how much advertisers pay per 1,000 views. The CPM rates greatly depend on various factors like audience demographics, location, and content niche. Also, many viewers use ad-blocking software, which reduces the number of ads shown on videos.
Earning money from videos through ads can be pretty unpredictable, making it difficult for creators to rely on this as a stable income source.
Copyright strikes can lead to demonetization, legal challenges, or permanent bans on platforms, jeopardizing the creator’s ability to monetize single videos. Platforms like YouTube have strict copyright policies and automated systems that flag or remove videos with copyrighted content.
Even an unintentional use of copyrighted material (e.g., background music, clips, images) can result in demonetization and takedown notices. Sometimes creators also face false copyright claims, which can lead to lost revenue or prolonged disputes.
Many creators rely solely on ad revenue from YouTube. But Over-reliance on one platform creates vulnerabilities.
A small change in the YouTube Partner Program, content guidelines, or algorithm updates can greatly affect your earnings overnight. Hence, it is recommended to diversify into other video monetization models such as rentals, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or merchandise.
Monetizing single videos involves platform fees. If not upfront cost, platforms like YouTube charge high commissions i.e. 45% on earnings made through ad revenue. This greatly reduces the actual earnings.
Some platforms also require creators to reach a minimum earnings threshold before paying out. These payout thresholds delay access to earnings and affect the overall cash flow.
Beat all the odds by selling videos on Muvi TV – Take a 7-day Free Trial
Monetizing single videos involves numerous challenges for creators. From meeting platform thresholds to navigating copyright issues and platform dependency, there are many.
To overcome these barriers, creators need to diversify income streams, focus on quality and engagement, and stay updated with platform changes and policies.
Before monetizing single videos online, content creators should consider several factors to ensure a successful and sustainable strategy. Here are the key things to consider:
Videos should be visually appealing, well-edited, and high in audio quality to engage viewers. Use the latest types of equipment while creating videos and follow high production standards for delivering a quality streaming experience to viewers.
Ensure that your content solves a problem, entertains, educates, or inspires your audience. The more value you provide, the more likely viewers will pay or support you.
Monetization strategies like ads, donations, and sponsorships rely heavily on having a dedicated audience that consistently watches and interacts with your videos.
Understanding your audience can help you tailor your video creation strategy. It also helps in building a loyal fan-base community, ensuring high engagements (likes, comments, shares), and consequently earnings.
Different platforms have their own policies regarding video monetization. For example, the YouTube Partner Program requires 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time in the past year to be eligible for video monetization.
Research the policies and rules before monetizing single videos on streaming platforms.
Finding the right monetization fit for your video content is crucial. Certain types of videos are better suited for specific video monetization strategies.
For example, an exclusive feature film will do great with pay-per-view monetization whereas a comedy clip or entertainment niche video will go with ads.
Monetizing single videos can be highly profitable as the niche audience is often more willing to pay for content and support creators.
If your video features another creator’s music, video clip, or image, make sure it’s either licensed or royalty-free. Do not use any media materials without permission, especially for commercial use.
Copyright strikes can lead to video demonetization and legal consequences. Avoid copyrighted material when monetizing single videos.
Top Video monetization platforms like YouTube, Muvi TV, Vimeo, and Patreon take a percentage of your earnings. So, before choosing a platform find details about charges and understand how much you’ll actually earn after fees and taxes.
Also, some platforms only pay out once you reach a certain earnings level. Like say, you need to earn at least $100 to be eligible for a payout on YouTube.
Make the best out of your videos – Earn money with Muvi TV
Monetizing single videos is not just about uploading content and activating ads. It’s essential to have a clear strategy that aligns with your audience, content, and long-term goals.
Understanding platform requirements, managing viewer’s expectations, maintaining quality, and diversifying revenue streams are all critical factors in achieving success as a monetized video creator.
Monetizing single or stand-alone videos is a great way for content creators to generate income, especially if they create compelling and high-quality content that resonates with audiences.
Below are the best possible ways to monetize single videos online, tailored for individual content creators and short video creators.
Ads are the most preferred way to monetize single videos, as creators don’t have to pay any upfront cost. Though there are many ad-based video monetization platforms, YouTube Ads and Facebook In-Stream Ads are the most popular ones, known for monetizing single videos.
You just have to meet the monetization eligibility criteria of the platform and you’re all set to make money from videos.
Pros: No upfront cost – Reliable income stream for single videos
Cons: Strict video monetization eligibility criteria, high platform charges, and requires significant audience size to earn lucrative revenue
You can sell standalone/independent videos directly to viewers on platforms like Gumroad or Vimeo. If your content is valuable, the audience will buy it for sure. Depending on your content type, you can charge viewers a one-time fee or offer monthly video subscriptions.
Pros: Complete control over pricing and full ownership of content
Cons: A dedicated strategy is required to drive traffic for selling videos online
Creators can monetize single videos by offering exclusive content to fans & followers in exchange for monthly subscriptions. Platforms like Patreon, Ko-fi, or Buy Me a Coffee, allow fans to support their favourite creator’s work through online donations.
If you’ve a loyal fan base, who love to interact with your videos regularly, crowdfunding is a good way to monetize single videos and earn a stable income.
Pros: Receive monthly recurring income directly from your fans & followers
Cons: Requires a loyal and engaged fan base for the payment
Do you know you can also rent out and make money from videos? Platforms like Muvi TV and Uscreen allow you to monetize single videos by charging viewers a one-time fee for accessing your content.
Pay-per-view is gaining popularity among viewers, as there is no commitment to any monthly subscriptions. It’s like, they want to stream a particular content and they are instantly paying for it.
Pros: Ideal for premium content or one-time exclusive videos
Cons: More challenging to build an audience, as viewers prefer free content
You can make money from videos by leveraging affiliate marketing trends. Join affiliate programs of brands that are suitable for your video niche and start recommending their products relevant to your audience.
Whenever a viewer purchases through your affiliate link, you’ll earn a commission. For better revenue opportunities, it is recommended to pair up affiliate marketing, with unboxing videos, tutorials, and product reviews.
Pros: Scalable, good source of passive income
Cons: Lower earning potential if the audience isn’t highly targeted
Brands often pay creators to promote their products on video. You can collaborate with brands that resonate with your audience and make exclusive videos featuring their products.
Showcase your video creation skills and niche to grab good sponsorship deals. Flaunt your creatives on social media platforms and connect with brands through email outreaches.
Pros: High earning potential, especially for niche audiences
Cons: Creating videos as per brand guidelines, may hamper your creative freedom
Selling your video licenses is one of the best ways to monetize single videos. If your video is creative, valuable, newsworthy, or unique, you can license it to media companies like Netflix, news organizations like BBC, or even sell stock footage on platforms like Shutterstock and storyblocks.
Licensing videos is not about selling your video completely. You retain full ownership of your video and deserve appropriate royalties when your content is streamed online.
Pros: High earning potential if the video is exclusive
Cons: A lot of convincing and pitching is required to license your videos to big media groups
If your content is educational, you can structure it into online courses and make money from videos. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Skillshare allow both free and paid courses.
It’s also easy to upload single videos on these online learning platforms and enable a suitable monetization option.
Pros: High-income potential for evergreen content
Cons: Getting subscribers on these platforms requires constant marketing efforts
Thanks to technological advancements, creators can now monetize single videos as NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). Marketplaces like Rarible, OpenSea, and Foundation allow you to turn single videos into NFTs to appeal to fans and collectors.
Pros: Unique monetization method with potential for high earnings.
Cons: Niche market, requires an understanding of blockchain and cryptocurrency.
Muvi TV is the best video marketplace to monetize single videos globally. The video streaming service offers a dedicated Pay-Per-View monetization engine, suitable for selling exclusive video content.
You can upload both short-form and long-form video content from the CMS, set your own price, and share it with your audience instantly. Many video creators boast Muvi TV’s easy-to-use interface and flexible payout policy.
Key Highlights
Instant monetization – upload your single videos & earn
No upfront investment is needed – Nominal subscription fee of $9/month
Only 9% commission on revenue – lowest in the video industry
No storage & bandwidth cost
Fully loaded streaming platform
Easy payouts in every 15 days
$50 payout threshold
If you really want to make money from videos, start uploading your single videos on Muvi TV. The platform is well built and equipped with the latest streaming technology such as cloud hosting, powerful CDN, DRM, customizable video player, Analytics, and Reporting.
If you have an active audience that regularly engages with your videos, you can opt for YouTube. The popular video streaming platform offers monetization options such as Ads under the YouTube Partner Program, Super Thanks, Super Chats, and Channel memberships.
Once you meet YouTube’s eligibility criteria i.e. 1000 subscribers and 4000 watch hours, you are all set to monetize single videos. Ads will start to run on your YouTube videos (pre-roll, mid-roll, or banner ads) and you can monetize your Shorts too.
When looking to monetize single videos through ads, Dailymotion can be a good option for you. This video monetization platform is an excellent alternative to YouTube. If you want to diversify your revenue streams beyond YouTube but want to stick with ads, you can go with Dailymotion.
The platform places ads on single videos and works on a similar YouTube-like ad revenue generation method for video creators.
Facebook is one of the popular video monetization platforms that allows you to monetize single videos (minimum length of 3 minutes).
If you already have an existing audience on Facebook and meet the platform requirements i.e. 10,000 followers and 600,000 watch minutes in the last 60 days, you can make money from videos through Facebook In-Stream ads.
TikTok is no fun when it’s about monetizing single videos. You can earn money from videos on TikTok, real and good money. Small video creators who engage deeply with their audience can leverage TikTok’s Creator Fund.
TikTok pays users based on video performance (views, engagement). On average, TikTok pays between $20 to $40 for a million views on videos. But first, you have to meet the eligibility criteria i.e. a minimum of 10,000 followers and 100,000 video views in the last 30 days.
Patreon is a membership-based funding site that allows creators to monetize single videos either through tiered memberships or one-time donations. On Patreon, you can build a loyal and supportive audience, who are ready to pay for exclusive access.
Creators can offer exclusive videos, early access, or premium content to their paying subscribers and earn profitable revenue from videos.
However, Patreon is not a video-only platform. And that’s the reason why video creators often avoid monetizing videos on Patreon.
Gumroad is an e-commerce platform that allows creators to sell videos directly to consumers. You can monetize single videos either as downloadable content or streamable and maintain flexible pricing options with no gatekeeping.
But Gumroad also hosts other digital products like e-books, songs, images, software, and more. It’s not a complete video monetization platform though, but you can still try your luck here.
Make money from videos on Vimeo by selling directly to your audience. Vimeo gives you full control over pricing and revenue. You can choose from rentals, PPV, or subscriptions, and set your own price.
Vimeo’s high-quality streaming service is great for premium, long-form content like documentaries or tutorials. But currently, Vimeo is closed for new sellers, not accepting any new content.
Just uploading videos online won’t give you revenue, you need to drive viewers to stream your videos. Leverage the power of SEO and Social Media. Use the right keywords related to your videos and also create a hashtag.
Remember, the best way to maximize your video earnings is by getting higher views.
Audience trust and loyalty are essential for recurring revenue. Invest your efforts in building a strong community of followers.
Interact with your audience and allow them to support your creatives through donations, sponsorships, and memberships.
When creating videos, ensure the production is of high quality. Use the best equipment to record videos and audio. Also, create content that’s engaging and adds value to viewers.
Whether the video is of short-form or a full-feature movie, make sure it’s appealing to the audience for making a payment.
Take a 7-day Free Trial of Muvi TV and check out the possibilities of monetizing videos online. No credit card required. Cancel anytime you want.
YouTube Ad Monetization vs Pay Per View – Which is Better?
How To Make Money From Short Films?
Video Monetization: What is a Video Paywall and 5 Reasons You Should Use One
How To Sell Videos Online And Make 10x More Money In 2024
Top 10 Video Monetization Platforms in 2024: Features, Pricing, and more
Video Monetization in 2024: Maximizing Earnings from Your Online Content
After charging a hefty commission of 45%, YouTube pays $ 10 to 30 per 1000 views, which is very low earning as per video industry standards.
Daily Motion is a good alternative to YouTube, but that doesn’t mean it pays well. Daily Motion pays only $ 5 to 18 per 1000 views.
Muvi TV, Vimeo, YouTube, Daily Motion, Facebook, TikTok, Patreon, Gumroad
With Facebook In-stream ads, creators can earn $ 10 to 20 maximum per 1000 views. The ad earnings may fluctuate based on video engagements and audience location.
TikTok pays around $0.02 to 0.04 for every 1,000 views, which is considered the lowest earnings made from videos online.
Vimeo doesn’t support video monetization through ads. Creators can avail Pay-Per-View or subscription models for monetizing their videos on Vimeo.
On Muvi TV, creators can sell videos on a Pay-Per-View basis. Upload videos, set the desired price per video, and start earning money instantly.
Monetizing videos on Muvi TV is easy and simple. Sign up, setup your profile, upload videos one-by-one, set a price, and sell videos online via a shareable link.
Written by: Richi Milan
Richi is a passionate content marketing enthusiast with hands-on experience in strategizing and creating compelling content. Currently, working with world's best OTT platform provider - Muvi. Dive-in and explore the OTT-verse with Richi!!
Reach out to Muvi at:
Add your comment