The YouTube Blueprint to Better Vlogs (+ YT Planning Milanote Template)

The YouTube Blueprint to Better Vlogs ⟢

This guide is my step-by-step blueprint for every YouTube video I’ve created.

Coming from exclusively short-form content, YouTube felt like a huge leap. But after starting my Dani’s Diaries Vlog Series, I decided to make the jump — and 32 episodes later, I’ve grown my channel by over 15K subscribers just through vlogging.

I created this guide because I know how frustrating it can feel to want to vlog and share your life, but end up waiting for something to “take off,” or feeling overwhelmed, unsure how to shape your videos into something people actually connect with.

Inside, you’ll find a detailed look at my full creative process — from planning and filming to editing, uploading, and reflecting — along with the exact tools, templates, and systems I use to stay consistent.

Think of it as the behind-the-scenes blueprint I wish I had when I first started on YouTube.

Whether you're launching your channel or trying to rebrand with more intention and structure, this guide is here to help you do it with clarity — one step at a time.

What’s Included:

• A 100+ Slide Guide breaking down each phase of my video process
• Hyperlinked Sections so you can navigate the entire guide with ease
• My Updated Milanote Template (the exact one I use to plan and guide every vlog), adapted to pair with this guide
• Real Examples pulled from my own videos to help you visualize and apply each section
• Easy-to-follow Action Steps so you can plan your next vlog while working through the guide
• A Complete List of Tools I Use: camera gear, editing software, creative fonts, camera settings, and more!
• My Full Content Workflow to create my Youtube videos: planning → filming → editing → uploading → reflecting
• My Exact Color Grading Process with a step by step walk-through with screenshots to follow along

What the Blueprint Covers

Build a thoughtful, flexible workflow that helps your vlog stand out

• Map your vlog from start to finish using my Milanote template
• Clarify your video’s core message so it actually says something
• Collect thumbnail/video inspo that aligns with your style
• Map out key scenes and thoughtful b-roll
• Know when to script vs. outline based on your voice
• Create simple shot lists to make filming smoother
• Design your filming space to reflect your vibe
• Set realistic timelines to avoid burnout and stay consistent

Make filming feel natural — not overwhelming

• My go-to filming setup that minimizes friction and saves time
• Extra gear I use (and when it’s actually helpful)
• Camera settings and tweaks that simplify the process
• How I capture thumbnails
• My step-by-step filming workflow

Shape your footage to reflect your personality and creative style

• My full editing workflow for every vlog
• How I organize and trim footage
• My favorite fonts, text styles, and where I use them
• My exact color grading process (with screenshots for every step)
• The tools I use — editing programs, design software, sound libraries — and how I use them to support my visual voice

End every video with intention — and turn it into momentum for the next

• My full upload checklist & process
• Thumbnail strategy & breakdown
• Reflection prompts that help you improve and evolve with every video

This Blueprint is for Creators Who Want To:

• Feel stuck between sharing your life and making content that actually resonates
• Want your vlogs to feel more intentional and true to how you live
• Are building a lifestyle or personal channel and struggle with storytelling structure
• Crave a more sustainable, thoughtful way to grow — without the burnout
• Want real examples, not just vague advice
• Are tired of winging it and want a repeatable workflow
• Care about aesthetics and storytelling — and want to balance both
• Want to vlog meaningful moments while still offering value to viewers
• Want to build a channel that’s rooted in your voice, not trends
• Believe slow, thoughtful growth > viral success
• Love structure — but still want room to be creative

Digital Product Disclaimer

Due to the nature of this digital product, all sales are final. Once the product has been delivered, we do not offer returns, exchanges, or refunds. By purchasing, you agree to these terms.