Many small businesses avoid video marketing because they either think it's too difficult or they haven't got any inspiration.

Take a look at the Youtube video below. It's a homemade video from a maternity clothes website. The owner, Joanne, is showing off one of her products - a baby change bag.

Ok, so it's not a feature film, but it's firstly more than good enough to show a prospective customer what they're getting for their money, and secondly, Joanne is putting a face to the brand in a very effective manner. Short videos like these can be used on a website, blog as well as being placed on video directories and YouTube to generate some traffic.

Many small businesses avoid video marketing because they either think it's too difficult or they haven't got any inspiration. -- Alison Rothwell

If you aren't starting to use video as part of your internet marketing strategy, then, imho, you're missing a quick way to set yourself apart from the pack. And it doesn't have to be hard either.

If you've got a Mac, then Imovie and Photobooth makes recording a "piece to camera" an absolute doddle. But there are also some quick and dirty camcorder options around. I have a Flip camcorder myself - it's tiny but packs a fair punch and is ridiculously cheap for the spec. Use a gorillapod for stability if needed and you're away.

What will you video for your customers today?