How To Make An ASMR Video on YouTube

ASMR, short for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, is a tingling feeling triggered by hearing specific sounds. ASMR videos are now a popular content type on YouTube, giving viewers a unique way to relax, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.

Creating an ASMR video isn't just about whispering into a mic — you must set up a tranquil environment and choose the right sound triggers to affect your audience. Read on to learn how to make an ASMR video for YouTube.

What’s an ASMR Video?

An ASMR video is content that helps viewers feel calm or pleasantly "tingly" through specific sounds and visuals. ASMR videos feature soft, repetitive sounds like whispering, tapping, and crinkling, which trigger a unique response that many people find soothing. Instead of flashy effects or attention-grabbing visuals, ASMR videos create a gentle, intimate experience that feels almost like a personal interaction.

These videos come in many forms, from simple sound-focused clips to elaborate role-plays like spa sessions or cozy cooking scenes. No matter the delivery, the goal remains the same — to provide a sensory experience that helps viewers unwind and find comfort.

ASMR Equipment To Get Started

Making ASMR doesn't mean you need to invest in high-end gear. If you're a part-time content creator, you can start with a basic setup — like an iPhone and ring light — and gradually add tools as you grow your channel or focus more on ASMR content. 

However, if you want to step up your ASMR game immediately, here are some essential items that can enhance your video quality and provide a more immersive experience.

ASMR microphone

A high-quality microphone makes a huge difference in your ASMR videos. Condenser microphones like the Blue Yeti or Tascam’s DR-05X stereo handheld are sensitive to low frequencies, capturing the subtle sounds and details that trigger ASMR responses.

If a new mic isn't in your budget, you can still get clear ASMR sounds with Captions' AI Denoise feature. AI reduces background noise and improves sound quality even with basic recording equipment.

Camera

While sound is the core of any ASMR video, visuals are still crucial for creating an immersive experience. You don’t need a professional camera — a good smartphone camera with HD or 4K recording capabilities will work well. 

As you progress, consider a DSLR or mirrorless camera for higher-quality visuals, especially if you want to include close-up shots like hands tapping or props. A high-resolution, steady visual reduces unwanted movements like jerks, helping viewers focus on the sound and feel more connected to your content.

Lights

Soft lighting can set the right mood for your ASMR video, creating a relaxing atmosphere that helps viewers relax. A ring light or LED panel provides soft, diffused light without harsh shadows. If you’re going for a cozy vibe, try experimenting with dimmable lights or color-changing bulbs to adjust the tone.

Props

Incorporating physical items can help you create sensory experiences through different properties and textures. Some popular props include brushes (for soft brushing sounds), crinkling paper or foil (for gentle rustling), and glass containers (for tapping or clinking). Each item offers a unique sound and sensation, making the viewer’s ASMR experience more unique.

For example, a feather brush creates a soft, sweeping sound, while tapping on glass produces sharp noises. Everyday objects work as practical props in ASMR, so look around and get creative with anything around your house.

Popular ASMR Triggers

ASMR triggers are the particular sounds or actions that evoke this soothing. Triggers vary from person to person, but here are some popular options to work into your content:

• Whispering — Soft, close-up whispers recreate the intimacy of shared moments to relax viewers.
• Blowing — Gentle blowing sounds mimic the sensation of a breeze, offering a calming effect that many people find soothing.
• Scratching and tapping — The repetitive sounds of fingers scratching or tapping on various surfaces, such as wood, glass, or plastic, create satisfying auditory textures that stimulate ASMR responses.
• Brushing — Whether brushing a microphone, fabric, or camera lens, sweeping sounds mimic soft, comforting movements that people associate with care and relaxation.
• Turning pages — The gentle rustling of turning pages or flipping through a book evokes nostalgia, creating a warm and comforting experience for the listener.
• Crinkling — The creasing sound of paper, foil, or plastic creates rhythmic sounds that many people find satisfying.

How To Make an ASMR YouTube Video in 5 Steps

Creating an ASMR video might seem like an elaborate process, but basic equipment and the right approach can make it simple. Here's a five-step guide to get started.

1. Choose Your Subject

First, decide what ASMR triggers to include in your video. Will it be soft whispering, tapping, or brushing? After choosing triggers, start creating a loose script or outline to guide you. Having a plan makes sure the video flows naturally. 

For example, if you’re making a role-playing video, draft your dialogue and prop-related actions to produce a soothing audiovisual narrative.

2. Set Up the Recording Area

Environment plays a big role in the quality of an ASMR video. Choose a quiet space where you can reduce background noise and arrange your equipment for easy access. Adjust the lighting, preferably to warm tones, to create a calming ambiance. 

While sound is the main proponent of ASMR videos, syncing your audio with aesthetic footage can enhance the sensory experience and make the video more satisfying.

3. Test the Audio and Video

Take time to test your equipment before hitting the record button. Check if your mic captures sounds clearly without distortion or background noise. Similarly, test your camera angles and lighting to see if the visuals are clear and pleasant. Minor adjustments now can save you time when editing later. 

4. Record Your ASMR Video

After setting up and testing your equipment, it's time to start recording. Speak softly into your mic or phone, move gently with your props, and keep your actions deliberate to create the most immersive audiovisual experience. Don't worry about getting everything perfect in one take — try to stay relaxed so your voice and actions feel natural.

5. Edit and Share

Editing is where your ASMR video comes to life. With Captions' YouTube Video Editor, you can trim unwanted sections, fine-tune the audio, and use the AI Teleprompter tool for voiceovers.

You can also denoise your audio or add subtitles, making your ASMR videos more accessible to wider audiences. Once you're happy with the final result, export the video in a YouTube-optimized format and share it directly from Captions.

Tips for the Perfect ASMR Sound

The best ASMR videos have high-quality, precise sounds. Even subtle imperfections can distract your audience, so consider these factors to deliver an error-free ASMR experience.

Breathing

Breathing right into the microphone can unintentionally overpower the delicate sounds in ASMR recordings. Position yourself slightly to the side of the mic and exhale softly to prevent harsh breathing noises. This small adjustment makes your audio sound clearer and more professional.

Sibilance

Sibilance refers to the sharp, hissing sound from pronouncing "s" or "sh" phonics. Sensitive microphones capture and exaggerate these sounds, making them unpleasant for viewers. To reduce sibilance, position your microphone slightly off-axis and consider using a pop filter to soften the sounds.

Plosives

Plosives are the bursts of air caused by pronouncing letters like "p" and "b." These phonics create unpleasant popping sounds in your audio. To avoid them, speak slightly off-center from the microphone and use a pop filter to diffuse the airflow. Testing your pronunciation during setup can help you catch potential issues before recording.

Clothing

You may not realize it, but the clothing you wear can affect your ASMR video's sound quality. Avoid fabrics that rustle or make noise as you move, such as polyester or certain synthetics. Instead, wear soft materials like cotton. This detail ensures no unintended background sounds interrupt your recording.

Become an ASMRtist With Captions

Becoming a pro at ASMR — or an ASMRtist — doesn't require a perfect setup or costly gear. It starts with creativity, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment with triggers that intrigue your audience.

With Captions, you can quickly enhance your ASMR audiovisuals and create sensory-rich videos. Whether you're just starting or looking to improve, Captions can help you bring your ASMRtist vision to life, one soothing sound at a time. Try it today.