As the holiday season approaches, social media platforms become inundated with festive content, showcasing everything from pre-lit garlands to creative DIY projects. This yearly trend, referred to as Vlogmas, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of others during what is often celebrated as ‘the most wonderful time of the year.’
The Vlogmas concept originated in 2011, introduced by YouTuber Ingrid Nilsen. By blending the terms video blog and Christmas, she initiated a challenge to post a new video each day in December, resembling a visual advent calendar leading up to Christmas Day. Since then, this tradition has broadened, transcending YouTube to encompass platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, where individuals share their distinct takes on this festive endeavor.
Making Vlogmas your own
Creators often showcase high-quality videos with elaborate setups. However, participating in Vlogmas does not require professional gear. One approach is to document the essence of December through candid glimpses of daily life, allowing for comfort by staying behind the camera. Embracing personal style is essential to let authenticity shine through.
Break the rules and have fun
No strict guidelines dictate how Vlogmas should be executed. Participants may choose to document their experience daily leading up to Christmas or select specific days that resonate personally. Some creators adhere to the traditional format of 12 days of Vlogmas, while others adopt a more relaxed approach. Ultimately, the essence of Vlogmas lies in enjoying the process of capturing individual celebrations throughout the month.
As individuals age, simple pleasures often become sources of profound happiness. These can include savoring a morning coffee from a beloved mug, enjoying the soft glow of a candle, or admiring nostalgic ornaments that adorn holiday trees each year. Vlogmas serves as a reminder to intentionally appreciate these moments and share them with others.
Creative storytelling through Vlogmas
Vlogmas distinguishes itself through its flexibility, allowing participants to craft narratives that resonate with their personal experiences. Some individuals may choose to showcase their hands wrapping gifts, while others might capture the tranquility of their favorite reading spaces or the festive ambiance of their holiday decorations. Each participant has the autonomy to tailor their content according to what feels authentic to them.
Sharing memories and rituals
Vlogmas has become a platform for many individuals to share poignant stories from their lives. Whether it involves revisiting cherished childhood memories or presenting a family recipe that has been handed down through generations, these narratives serve as meaningful gifts to viewers. Offering even a brief glimpse into daily life can cultivate a sense of connection among audiences, including friends, family, and even strangers who resonate with the warmth of shared experiences.
In my own Vlogmas journey, I have chosen to remain behind the camera. I will document my surroundings from my viewpoint—my festively decorated living room, the sights of my neighborhood adorned with holiday lights, and various outings. I plan to include shots that focus specifically on my hands as I participate in seasonal activities. For those interested in adopting a similar approach, here are some straightforward, low-pressure suggestions:
Easy tips to get started
Capturing the essence of Vlogmas
Filming your surroundings can highlight the unique aspects of the season. Consider capturing your beautifully decorated mantel, the twinkling lights that adorn your street, or any scene that reflects the festive spirit. Adding music or on-screen text can enhance your videos, making the process rewarding.
Vlogmas enthusiasts often employ techniques such as panning across scenes while narrating a brief story, or recording audio to accompany the visuals of their day. Most smartphones are equipped with user-friendly editing tools, and free applications like Canva or CapCut facilitate trimming clips and adding various elements to improve your content.
The charm of Vlogmas lies in its accessibility; it does not necessitate a perfect backdrop or flawless lighting. All that is required is a moment each day—or whenever inspiration strikes—to capture something that brings joy, however small it may be.
During a time that can often feel overwhelming or isolating, participating in Vlogmas can encourage individuals to pause and appreciate the small joys in life. This initiative may help uncover a new cherished tradition that showcases one’s unique perspective and the everyday moments that make life special.
Many individuals engage in creative challenges like Vlogmas. What are the holiday memories that resonate most with you? Do you prefer to share your experiences on camera or keep them private? The community invites you to share your insights and reflections.
