What Video in 2026 Holds: Trends, Tech & Tactics for Brands
Welcome to 2026, the year video content shifts from “must‑have” to must‑master. If 2025 was about experimenting, then 2026 is about scaling, refining and leveraging video with smarter tech, sharper stories and production that works harder. At 84 Media, we’re already seeing how the landscape is evolving, from AI‑built sequences to smarter shoots and editing workflows that speed up impact. Here’s how your brand can stay ahead.
The AI Revolution in Video Isn’t Coming — It’s Here
In 2026, AI is no longer just an accessory in video production, it’s embedded in planning, filming and editing. Generative tools are helping write scripts, create storyboards, suggest shots, even assemble rough cuts of footage. boxmedia.tv+2BytePlus+2
AI‑driven editing suites will reduce post‑production time and cost.
Text‑to‑video or hybrid workflows will enable brands to produce more content faster.
But: authenticity still matters. As one trend piece notes, 2026 demands creativity and trust more than ever. thinklikeapublisher.com
What this means for your brand:
Introduce AI into your workflow now, even if just for editing, captions or rough cuts.
Don’t rely solely on tech, your story, human emotion and brand voice must remain the heart.
Think of content as systems and workflows, not one‑off videos.
Filming & Production: Smarter Shoots, Bigger Reach
Filming in 2026 isn’t just about bigger cameras or more lenses, it’s about efficiency, versatility and platform‑ready execution.
Hybrid production models (remote talent + local crew + virtual sets) will be more common. boxmedia.tv+1
Mobile‑first and vertical formats will dominate even more, if you’re not filming for portrait, you’re missing a chunk of social.
Sustainable, agile shoots: smaller crews, less waste, faster turnaround.
Actionable tips:
Always plan for multiple formats, horizontal (YouTube), square/vertical (social), short‑form (under 60s).
Use location and lighting setups that can adapt quickly for different platforms.
Capture behind‑the‑scenes or “raw” footage during your shoot, audiences in 2026 favour authenticity.
Editing & Post‑Production: The Secret Weapon
The best story needs the best edit. In 2026, editing is where magic meets efficiency.
Tools will increasingly automate mundane tasks (colour grading, transitions, captions) so editors can focus on story, pacing and emotion. cpluz.com+1
Platform‑specific edits will be the norm, one shoot, many versions: 6‑second social cut, 30‑second teaser, 2‑minute brand film.
Captioning, accessibility and no‑sound‑viewing readiness will be essential. Many viewers mute by default.
Your takeaway:
Build editing pipelines now that support multi‑format output.
Ensure every video you publish has a version optimised for silent viewing with captions.
Keep your brand’s visual and editorial style consistent, it helps with recognition and algorithmic preference.
Strategy: What Works in the 2026 Video Landscape
In 2026, it’s less about “let’s make a video” and more about “let’s build a video ecosystem”.
Storytelling with purpose wins: brands need to behave like creators. thinklikeapublisher.com
Audience data and personalisation will drive video content — AI will help deliver at scale. Delivered Social
Repurposing content across platforms isn’t optional, it’s expected.
Focus on measurable outcomes: engagement, retention, conversion. Video is no longer just “nice to have”.
Final Thoughts
2026 is a big year for video. If you’re serious about brand growth, you’ll treat video as strategy, not just asset.
At 84 Media, we’re ready to help you harness AI, streamline production, perfect editing and build a video strategy that connects, converts and scales.
📩 Let’s work together on your 2026 video roadmap. Contact 84 Media