Hotspot Element

The hotspot element in Cinema8 lets you create interactive points in your videos to engage viewers. Hotspots can perform actions like opening a link, displaying additional information, or navigating to a specific part of the video. They are perfect for enhancing engagement in shoppable videos, e-learning, or interactive storytelling.

Types of Hotspots

Static Hotspots: Fixed in one position on the video.
Sticky Hotspots: Track and follow an object or area in the video using the motion tracker.

How to Add a Hotspot to Your Video

Option 1: Add a Static Hotspot

Step 1: Open Your Video in Cinema8 Creative Studio

Step 2: Add a Hotspot Element

From the Elements Panel, drag the Hotspot Element onto your timeline at the desired position.

Step 3: Name the Hotspot

When prompted, give your hotspot a unique name (required field) and click Save.

Step 4: Customize the Hotspot

Open the Properties Panel and adjust the settings:

Timing: Set the start and end times for the hotspot.
Positioning: Adjust top, left, width, and height values to place the hotspot.
Appearance: Add a background, border color, and text.
Actions: Define what happens when the hotspot is clicked (e.g., open a URL or jump to another section).

Step 5: Preview and Save

Use the Preview mode to test the hotspot and save your changes.

Option 2: Add a Sticky Hotspot

Step 1: Open Your Video in Cinema8 Creative Studio

Follow the same steps to open the video in Creative Studio.

Step 2: Add a Sticky Hotspot

From the Elements Panel, drag the Sticky Hotspot Element onto your timeline.

Step 3: Enable Motion Tracking

In the Properties Panel, click Click to Run Motion Tracker.
Select the object or area you want the hotspot to track, and Cinema8 will follow it throughout the video.

Step 4: Customize the Hotspot

Adjust the following settings in the Properties Panel:

Text: Add a title or description to the hotspot.
Style: Adjust the font, color, and border settings to match your branding.
Actions: Assign actions like opening a link, jumping to another section, or showing a tooltip.

Step 5: Preview and Save

Test the sticky hotspot’s tracking and behavior in preview mode. Make sure it aligns properly with the moving object.
Save your changes when done.

Examples of Using Hotspots Best Practices for Effective Hotspots

Use sticky hotspots for dynamic content: Ideal for tracking moving objects in shoppable or explainer videos.
Test motion tracking: Ensure the hotspot stays aligned with the object, especially in longer videos.
Customize actions: Make hotspots interactive by linking them to URLs, videos, or tooltips.
Stay visually consistent: Align hotspot designs (colors, borders, and fonts) with your overall branding.

Next Steps

Start adding hotspots to your videos today and create more interactive experiences for your viewers!