How To Start the Best True Crime Youtube Channel That People Want to Watch 100%

Are you a fan of true crime documentaries and shows? Do you constantly look up new cases and murders to learn more about them? If so, you may be thinking about starting a true crime YouTube channel. 

But before you take the plunge, you should know a few things about true crime YouTubers. I’ll cover everything from finding your niche to setting up your channel and growing your audience in this blog post. So, whether you’re a total YouTube beginner or just curious about the topic, keep reading for some essential advice on starting a successful true-crime YouTube channel.

Finding Your True Crime YouTube Channel Niche

Think about the specific aspects of true crime that you are passionate about. Consider whether you want to focus on unsolved murders, serial killers, famous cases, or lighter topics like urban legends or unsolved mysteries.

To use platforms like YouTube, Google Trends, and social media to identify popular true crime niches and topics with a significant following and engagement, follow these steps:

1. YouTube:
   • Search for true crime-related keywords on YouTube’s search bar.
   • Look for channels with a large subscriber base, high view counts, and consistent engagement in likes, comments, and shares.
   • Pay attention to the types of true crime content that are attracting the most attention and generating the most discussion among viewers.
   • Take note of popular true crime channels and the specific niches they focus on.
2. Google Trends:
   • Go to the Google Trends website (trends.google.com).
   • Enter true crime-related keywords or topics in the search bar.
   • Explore the search interest over time and related queries to identify popular niches within the true crime genre.
   • Pay attention to any spikes or trends in search interest for specific topics or cases.
   • Compare the search interests of different true crime niches to determine their popularity.
3. Social Media:
   • Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to search for true crime-related hashtags and accounts.
   • Look for accounts or posts with a significant number of followers, likes, comments, and shares.
   • Explore discussions and conversations related to true crime topics.
   • Pay attention to the types of content that are generating the most engagement and interest among social media users.
   • Look for communities or groups dedicated to true crime where enthusiasts discuss various niches and topics.

Analyze the Competition

Once you’ve picked a niche for your true crime YouTube channel, it’s time to analyze the competition. Do a Google search for keywords related to your niche and look at the results of the best true crime YouTube channels. How many videos are there? What type of content do they cover? Are they amateur or professional?

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel when making true crime content. If there are already successful channels covering the same topic, try to find out what makes them successful and see if you can emulate their success.

To analyze the competition for your true crime YouTube channel, follow these steps:

1. Perform a Google search: Search for keywords related to your niche on Google. For example, if your niche is “unsolved mysteries,” search for “best true crime YouTube channels” or “top true crime channels covering unsolved mysteries.”
2. Explore the results: Look at the search results and click on articles or lists that mention the best true crime YouTube channels. These articles often provide insights into popular channels within the true crime genre.
3. Identify the number of videos: Visit the YouTube channels mentioned in the search results and check the number of videos they have uploaded. This will give you an idea of the content volume and frequency that successful channels in your niche produce.
4. Analyze the content type: Watch a few videos from these channels to understand the type of content they cover. Take note of the topics, formats, and storytelling techniques they use. This will help you identify the content that resonates with viewers in your niche.
5. Assess the professionalism: Determine whether the channels you explore are amateur or professional. Look for indicators of high production quality, such as video and audio clarity, editing techniques, and overall presentation.
6. Learn from successful channels: Take note of what makes these channels successful. Look for patterns in their content, engagement with viewers, and unique selling points. Consider how you can incorporate these elements into your own channel while still maintaining your unique voice and style.

Remember, while it’s essential to learn from successful channels, it’s also important to bring your own unique perspective and approach to the true crime genre. Emulate their success, but also strive to offer something new and exciting to your viewers.

Setting Up Your True Crime YouTube Channel

To set up your true crime YouTube channel, follow these steps:

1. Create a YouTube account: If you don’t already have one, sign up for a YouTube account using your Google account or create a new Google account specifically for your channel.
2. Define your channel’s niche: Decide on the specific niche or theme for your true crime channel. This could be unsolved mysteries, serial killers, historical crimes, or any other subgenre within true crime.
3. Choose a channel name: Select a name for your channel that reflects your niche and is memorable. Make sure it is unique and not already in use by another channel.
4. Customize your channel’s branding: Design a visually appealing channel banner and logo that represents your true crime theme. Use graphic design tools or hire a designer if needed.
5. Set up channel sections: Organize your channel by creating sections such as “Featured Videos,” “Playlists,” and “Popular Cases.” This helps viewers navigate your content easily.
6. Create a channel trailer: Craft a compelling channel trailer that introduces viewers to your content and entices them to subscribe. Highlight your unique selling points and showcase your best content.
7. Plan your content strategy: Determine the types of videos you want to create, such as case analyses, documentary-style videos, interviews, or podcasts. Develop a content calendar to ensure consistent uploads.
8. Invest in quality equipment: Purchase or borrow equipment such as a high-quality camera, microphone, and lighting setup to ensure professional-looking videos with clear audio.
9. Learn video editing: Familiarize yourself with video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or iMovie. Edit your videos to enhance their visual appeal and storytelling.
10. Create engaging thumbnails: Design eye-catching thumbnails for your videos that accurately represent the content and entice viewers to click.
11. Optimize video titles and descriptions: Use relevant keywords in your video titles and descriptions to improve search visibility. Include a concise summary of the content and relevant tags.
12. Collaborate with others: Reach out to other true crime YouTubers or experts in the field for potential collaborations, interviews, or guest appearances. This can help expand your audience and provide diverse perspectives.
13. Engage with your audience: Respond to comments, questions, and feedback from your viewers. Foster a sense of community by interacting with your audience through live chats, Q&A sessions, or social media.
14. Promote your channel: Share your videos on social media platforms, true crime forums, and relevant communities. Consider running targeted ads to reach a wider audience.
15. Analyze and adapt: Monitor your channel’s analytics to understand viewer behavior, engagement, and video performance. Use this data to refine your content strategy and improve your channel over time.

Remember, building a successful YouTube channel takes time and dedication. Stay consistent, provide value to your audience, and continuously improve your content to stand out in the true crime genre.

Youtube Equipment

When setting up your true crime YouTube channel, it’s important to have the right equipment to ensure the quality of your videos. Here are some essential equipment you should consider:

1. Camera: Invest in a good-quality camera to capture high-resolution videos. While a DSLR or mirrorless camera would provide excellent video quality, you can also use a smartphone with a high-quality camera if it meets your needs.
2. Tripod or stabilizer: To ensure stable shots, use a tripod or stabilizer to minimize camera shake. This will help your videos look more professional and steady.
3. Microphone: Good audio quality is crucial for a true crime channel. Consider investing in a dedicated microphone, such as a lavalier or shotgun microphone, to capture clear and crisp audio. Avoid relying solely on your camera’s built-in microphone, as it may not provide the best sound quality.
4. Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for well-lit and visually appealing videos. Use natural light whenever possible or invest in affordable lighting equipment, such as softbox lights or ring lights, to ensure your videos are well-lit and free from shadows.
5. Background setup: Create a dedicated filming space with a clean and visually appealing background. Consider using props or visuals related to true crime to enhance the atmosphere and theme of your videos.
6. Video editing software: Choose a video editing software that suits your needs and skill level. Some popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, iMovie, or even free software like DaVinci Resolve or HitFilm Express. Use these tools to edit and enhance your videos before uploading them to YouTube.
7. Storage and backup: As you create more videos, you’ll need sufficient storage space for your footage. Invest in external hard drives or cloud storage solutions to ensure you have a backup of your video files.
8. Optional: Green screen setup: If you want to add special effects or create a more immersive experience, consider setting up a green screen. This will allow you to replace the background in your videos with different images or videos during the editing process.

Remember, while having good equipment can enhance the quality of your videos, content is key. Focus on creating engaging and informative content that resonates with your audience. As your channel grows, you can gradually upgrade your equipment based on your needs and budget.

Uploading Your True Crime Videos

When it comes to uploading your true crime videos on YouTube, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure a smooth and optimized process. Here’s a guide on uploading your true crime videos:

1. Create a YouTube channel: If you haven’t already, create a YouTube channel for your true crime content. Choose a channel name that reflects your niche and brand.
2. Prepare your video files: Before uploading, make sure your video files are properly edited and saved in a compatible format. Export your videos in a high-quality format, such as MP4, with recommended settings for YouTube.
3. Sign in to YouTube: Go to the YouTube website and sign in to your Google account associated with your YouTube channel.
4. Click on the upload button: On the top-right corner of the YouTube homepage, click on the “Upload” button. This will take you to the YouTube Studio, where you can upload and manage your videos.
5. Select your video file: Drag and drop your video file into the upload area or click on the “Select files to upload” button to browse and select your video file from your computer.
6. Add video details: Once your video is uploaded, you’ll need to add details such as the title, description, and tags. Optimize these elements to make your videos more discoverable. Use relevant keywords and include a compelling description that entices viewers to watch.
7. Set video privacy: Choose the privacy settings for your video. You can make it public, unlisted, or private. Public videos are visible to anyone, unlisted videos are only accessible to those with the link, and private videos are only viewable by you and selected users.
8. Add video thumbnail: Create an eye-catching thumbnail for your video. Thumbnails play a crucial role in attracting viewers, so make sure it’s visually appealing and represents the content of your true crime video.
9. Add end screens and annotations (optional): Consider adding end screens or annotations to promote other videos or encourage viewers to subscribe to your channel. These features can help increase engagement and retention.
10. Add video elements (optional): YouTube allows you to add elements like cards, captions, and subtitles to your videos. Utilize these features to enhance the viewing experience and accessibility of your true crime content.
11. Set monetization (optional): If you want to monetize your videos and earn revenue through YouTube’s Partner Program, you’ll need to meet the eligibility requirements and enable monetization for your channel.
12. Publish your video: Once you’ve filled in all the necessary details, click on the “Publish” button to make your true crime video live on YouTube. It may take some time for the video to process and become available to viewers.
13. Promote your video: After uploading, promote your video through social media, your website, or other platforms to increase its visibility and reach a wider audience.

Remember to adhere to YouTube’s community guidelines and copyright policies when uploading your true crime videos. Provide accurate information, respect the privacy of individuals involved in the cases, and ensure your content is ethical and responsible.

Optimizing Your Video and Channel

1. Title: Create a descriptive and attention-grabbing title for your video. Include relevant keywords that accurately describe the content of the video and attract viewers.
2. Description: Write a detailed and informative description for your video. Include relevant keywords, a brief summary of the video, and any additional information or resources related to the topic. Use this space to engage viewers and encourage them to watch the entire video.
3. Tags: Add relevant tags to your video. These tags should include keywords related to the video’s content, true crime genre, and any notable individuals or cases involved. Use a mix of broad and specific tags to improve search rankings.
4. Thumbnail: Create an eye-catching and compelling thumbnail for your video. Use high-quality images, bold text, and vibrant colors to grab viewers’ attention and entice them to click on your video.
5. Closed Captions: Consider adding closed captions or subtitles to your video. This improves accessibility and allows a broader audience to engage with your content. YouTube’s automatic captioning feature can be used, but it’s recommended to review and edit the captions for accuracy.
6. End Screens and Cards: Utilize YouTube’s end screens and cards feature to promote other relevant videos, playlists, or your channel. This encourages viewers to continue watching your content and increases engagement.
7. Engagement: Encourage viewers to like, comment, and share your video. Engage with the comments section to build a community and improve user interaction. This can also help with YouTube’s algorithm, as higher engagement signals the video’s quality and relevance.

Optimizing Your Channel:

1. Channel Trailer: Create a captivating channel trailer that introduces new viewers to your true crime content. Highlight your unique selling points, showcase your best videos, and give viewers a taste of what they can expect from your channel.
2. Channel Art: Design visually appealing channel art that represents your true crime brand. Use high-resolution images, relevant graphics, and incorporate your channel name or logo. This helps create a professional and cohesive visual identity for your channel.
3. About Section: Write a compelling and informative “About” section for your channel. Describe your niche, content, and what viewers can expect. Include links to your social media accounts or website if applicable.
4. Playlists: Organize your videos into playlists based on themes, cases, or series. This helps viewers navigate your content and encourages them to watch multiple videos. It also helps with YouTube’s algorithm, as it recognizes the organization and relevance of your content.
5. Channel Keywords: Choose relevant keywords for your channel. Incorporate these keywords in your channel description, video titles, and tags to improve search rankings. This helps YouTube understand the content of your channel and increases the chances of appearing in search results.
6. Channel Sections: Utilize channel sections to showcase your best videos, playlists, or featured content. This helps new viewers discover your most popular or relevant videos and encourages them to explore your channel further.
7. Channel Subscriptions: Subscribe to other true crime channels and engage with their content. This can help build relationships with other creators and potentially attract subscribers from their audience. Collaboration and cross-promotion can be beneficial for growing your channel.
8. Channel Branding: Maintain consistent branding across your channel, including your logo, color scheme, and typography. This creates a cohesive and recognizable brand identity and helps viewers associate your content with your channel.

Regularly monitor and analyze your video and channel performance using YouTube Analytics. This will provide insights into your audience demographics, watch time, and engagement metrics. Use this data to identify trends, understand viewer preferences, and optimize your future content and channel strategy.

Remember, optimization is an ongoing process. Continuously adapt your strategies, stay up-to-date with YouTube’s algorithm changes and best practices, and engage with your audience to build a loyal community.

Growing Your True Crime YouTube Channel

Here’s an updated version focused more on promoting your true crime YouTube channel:

1. Define Your Unique Selling Point: Identify what sets your true crime channel apart from others. Highlight your unique perspective, storytelling style, or expertise in the field. This will help you stand out and attract viewers who are interested in your specific approach to true crime content.
2. Create Compelling Trailers and Teasers: Grab the attention of potential viewers by creating captivating trailers and teasers for your channel. Use intriguing visuals, suspenseful music, and snippets of your best content to entice viewers to click and watch your videos.
3. Cross-Promote on Social Media: Leverage your social media presence to promote your true crime channel. Share snippets, behind-the-scenes content, or intriguing facts related to your upcoming videos. Engage with your followers, respond to comments, and encourage them to check out your YouTube channel.
4. Collaborate with Influencers: Collaborate with influencers or popular YouTubers in the true crime or related genres. This could involve guest appearances, joint videos, or shoutouts. Partnering with influencers exposes your channel to their audience, helping you gain new subscribers and increase your reach.
5. Utilize SEO Strategies: Optimize your video titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords related to true crime. This will improve your chances of appearing in search results and attract viewers who are specifically searching for true crime content. Use tools like Google Trends or keyword research tools to identify popular and relevant keywords.
6. Engage with True Crime Communities: Actively participate in true crime communities, forums, or social media groups. Share your expertise, contribute to discussions, and provide valuable insights. Be genuine and avoid spamming with self-promotion, but when appropriate, mention your YouTube channel and invite interested members to check it out.
7. Offer Exclusive Content: Create exclusive content or bonus material for your loyal subscribers. This could include extended interviews, case updates, or behind-the-scenes footage. Promote these exclusive perks on your YouTube channel and social media platforms to encourage viewers to subscribe and become part of your community.
8. Attend True Crime Events or Conferences: If possible, attend true crime events or conferences to network with fellow true crime enthusiasts and creators. Share your channel with like-minded individuals and exchange ideas. You may even have the opportunity to participate in panel discussions or showcase your content to a live audience.
9. Engage with True Crime Podcasts or Blogs: Reach out to popular true crime podcasts or blogs and offer to be a guest or contribute content. This can help you tap into their existing audience and gain exposure for your YouTube channel. Provide valuable insights or share your unique perspective on true crime cases to attract new viewers.
10. Run YouTube Ads: Consider running YouTube ads to promote your channel to a wider audience. Set a budget and target your ads to reach viewers who are interested in true crime content. Create compelling ad copy and visuals that entice viewers to click and watch your videos.
11. Analyze and Adjust: Continuously analyze your channel’s performance using YouTube Analytics. Pay attention to metrics like watch time, audience retention, and subscriber growth. Identify trends and patterns to understand what content resonates with your audience the most. Adjust your content strategy accordingly to maximize engagement and subscriber growth.

Remember, promotion is an ongoing process. Consistently promote your true crime YouTube channel using various strategies and platforms to increase visibility and attract new viewers. Stay dedicated, authentic, and passionate about your content, and you’ll see your channel grow over time.

How to Research True Crime Cases

Researching true crime cases requires a systematic approach to gather accurate and comprehensive information. Here are some steps to help you effectively research true crime cases:

1. Define Your Research Objective: Determine the specific aspect of the true crime case you want to explore. It could be the crime itself, the investigation, the trial, or the psychology of the perpetrator. Having a clear objective will help you focus your research efforts.
2. Gather Primary Sources: Start by collecting primary sources, which are firsthand accounts or documents related to the case. This can include police reports, court documents, witness statements, and news articles published at the time of the crime. Look for official records, interviews, and other primary sources that provide factual information.
3. Explore Secondary Sources: Secondary sources provide analysis, commentary, or summaries of the case. These can include books, documentaries, podcasts, and articles written by experts or journalists. Look for well-researched and reputable sources to gain a deeper understanding of the case and its context.
4. Utilize Online Databases: Online databases, such as court records, public archives, and newspaper archives, can provide valuable information about the case. Use search engines and specialized databases to access these resources. Make sure to verify the credibility and accuracy of the sources you find.
5. Interview Witnesses and Experts: If possible, try to interview witnesses, investigators, or experts involved in the case. Their firsthand accounts and insights can provide unique perspectives and additional details. Approach them respectfully and professionally, explaining your intentions and the purpose of your research.
6. Analyze Crime Scene Evidence: Analyzing crime scene evidence can provide crucial insights into the case. Review photographs, forensic reports, and any available evidence related to the crime scene. Consider consulting forensic experts or professionals to help interpret the evidence accurately.
7. Join True Crime Communities: Engage with true crime communities, forums, or online groups to connect with fellow enthusiasts and researchers. Share your findings, ask questions, and seek advice from others who have studied similar cases. Collaborating with like-minded individuals can lead to new discoveries and different perspectives.
8. Verify Information and Fact-Check: Ensure the accuracy of the information you gather by cross-referencing multiple sources. Fact-check the details, dates, and events to avoid spreading misinformation. Be cautious of unreliable or biased sources, and always prioritize verified and credible information.
9. Consider Ethical Considerations: When researching true crime cases, it’s important to be mindful of the sensitive nature of the subject matter. Respect the privacy and dignity of the victims and their families. Avoid sensationalizing or exploiting the tragedy for personal gain. Approach the research with empathy and integrity.
10. Document and Organize Your Research: Keep a detailed record of your research findings, including sources, dates, and key information. Create a system to organize your research materials, such as folders, spreadsheets, or note-taking apps. This will help you stay organized and easily access information when needed.

Remember, researching true crime cases requires time, dedication, and a commitment to accuracy. Approach the research process with integrity, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand and share the truth behind these cases.

Monetizing Your True Crime Channel

Monetizing a true crime channel on platforms like YouTube can be done through various methods. Here are some ways to monetize your true crime channel:

1. YouTube Partner Program: Join the YouTube Partner Program to monetize your channel through advertisements. Once your channel meets the eligibility requirements (such as having at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months), you can apply for monetization. YouTube will display ads on your videos, and you’ll earn a portion of the ad revenue.
2. Sponsorships and Brand Deals: Collaborate with brands or sponsors that align with your true crime content. You can feature their products or services in your videos, mention them, or create dedicated sponsored content. Negotiate sponsorship deals or use influencer marketing platforms to connect with potential sponsors.
3. Merchandise Sales: Create and sell merchandise related to your true crime channel. This can include t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, or other items featuring your channel’s branding or catchphrases. Set up an online store on platforms like Shopify or use print-on-demand services to handle production and fulfillment.
4. Crowdfunding: Engage with your audience and offer them the opportunity to support your channel through crowdfunding platforms like Patreon or Ko-fi. Provide exclusive perks, early access to videos, or behind-the-scenes content to your supporters in exchange for their monthly or one-time donations.
5. Affiliate Marketing: Recommend products or services related to true crime and earn a commission for every sale made through your affiliate links. Sign up for affiliate programs of relevant companies or use affiliate networks like Amazon Associates to generate income from your recommendations.
6. Public Speaking and Events: Establish yourself as an expert in true crime by offering public speaking engagements or participating in true crime conventions and events. You can earn speaking fees, sell tickets to your own events, or participate in panel discussions and workshops.
7. Book Deals and Publishing: If you have in-depth knowledge or unique insights into a specific true crime case, consider writing a book about it. Approach publishers or self-publish your work to generate income from book sales and royalties.
8. Licensing and Syndication: Explore opportunities to license your true crime content to other media outlets, such as television networks, streaming platforms, or podcasts. Syndication deals can provide additional exposure and revenue for your channel.

Remember to comply with the platform’s monetization policies and guidelines, and always disclose any sponsored content or affiliate links to maintain transparency with your audience. Building a successful and monetized true crime channel takes time, consistency, and quality content that resonates with your viewers.