Getting started with Google Vids
Extension agents are busy and need to be able to create public-facing videos quickly without getting bogged down.
Making our own videos lets us be human, be authentic, and truly connect.
What is it?
Google Vids is an AI-powered video creation tool built directly into your NC State Google Workspace. Think of it like Google Slides, but for video
Who an use it?
Google Vids is automatically available to full-time students, faculty, and staff. You don’t need to request special access or download any heavy software; it’s already built into your campus account.
Four steps to get started:
- Log in and Open Google Vids - In your browser either navigate to your Google Drive and select New > Google Vids or head directly to: vids.google.com. Make sure you are signed into your official NC State Google account (using your unityid@ncsu.edu).
- Choose your path
You don’t have to start with a blank timeline. When you click to create a new project, you can:- Use a Prompt: Type a simple description of what you want your video to be about
Create a short, educational video to help home gardeners and local growers identify the Spotted Lanternfly. Keep the tone helpful and community-focused. The video should focus heavily on visuals: what the pest looks like at different life stages and where it likes to hide. End with a clear call-to-action on how to report sightings to the county Extension office. - Convert a Presentation:
Converting an existing slide deck into a video is where Google Vids really shines for Extension work. Instead of starting from scratch, you can take the presentation decks you already use for workshops, community meetings, or field days and transform them into standalone videos.
Upload an existing Google Slides deck, and Vids will automatically suggest transitions to help you turn your workshop into a video resource. - Create a social media snippet of your recent plant sale using the Styled Caption feature on your uploaded video
- Use a Prompt: Type a simple description of what you want your video to be about
- Customize and Add a Voice
Make the video uniquely yours. Swap out standard stock images and text just like you would on a normal slide, dropping in your own real, local photos from the field or county office. Then, give it a voice—literally and figuratively. You can record your own audio. Your script will be converted to ADA-compliant captions. - Share and Export
Because it's part of the Google ecosystem, sharing is a breeze. You can collaborate on a video with colleagues in real-time using a standard Google "Share" link.
Best practices:
- Mind your storage: Draft videos can quickly fill your Google Drive space.
- Connect locally: Swap basic stock templates with real-world pictures from the field. Keep your messaging direct, authentic, and targeted to North Carolina needs.
