8 Vlogging Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Insights from Gary Vaynerchuk, Chris Ducker, and Marques Brownlee to boost your Vlogging skills and success

Gary Vaynerchuk
Chris Ducker
Jay Baer
Pat Flynn
Updated on June 28, 2025
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What if I told you that mastering vlogging isn't just about having the fanciest camera or the most elaborate editing skills? Instead, it's a nuanced craft combining authenticity, strategy, and an understanding of audience connection. In a world where video content reigns supreme, vlogging stands out as a powerful way to build your brand and voice online.

Take Gary Vaynerchuk, for instance, a social media pioneer and CEO of VaynerMedia, who credits Amy Schmittauer's Vlog Like a Boss for helping him grasp the subtle art of engaging viewers with consistent, authentic video content. Similarly, Chris Ducker, an entrepreneur and mentor, praises this book's blend of inspiration and practical advice. Meanwhile, Sean Cannell and Benji Travis's YouTube Secrets is lauded by Pat Flynn and Michael Stelzner for its strategic insights into growing and monetizing a YouTube channel.

These expert-curated books offer proven frameworks to elevate your vlogging journey. Yet, if you want a resource tailored specifically to your experience, niche, and goals—whether you’re a novice or scaling creator—you might consider creating a personalized Vlogging book that builds directly on these insights, fitting your unique path.

Best for authentic brand builders
Gary Vaynerchuk, a leading social media pioneer and CEO of VaynerMedia, praises Amy Schmittauer's book as a masterclass in vlogging strategy. He emphasizes how Amy's approach helped him understand the importance of subtle, consistent engagement through video, saying, "Mastering the art of the 'jab' through vlogging means learning from Amy Schmittauer. I don't consume a lot of video, but Amy knows how to crush it to get attention. She got mine. Take notes." This endorsement highlights the book's value for anyone looking to build genuine online presence. Additionally, Jay Baer, a best-selling author and digital marketing expert, calls it a perfect blend of inspiration and tactical advice, reinforcing its appeal to both newcomers and seasoned creators.
GV

Recommended by Gary Vaynerchuk

Social media pioneer, CEO of VaynerMedia

Mastering the art of the 'jab' through vlogging means learning from Amy Schmittauer. I don't consume a lot of video, but Amy knows how to crush it to get attention. She got mine. Take notes. (from Amazon)

2017·218 pages·Vlogging, YouTube, Marketing, Content Creation, Brand Building

Drawing from her success as a YouTube creator and keynote speaker, Amy Schmittauer lays out a clear path for anyone aiming to build a strong presence through vlogging. You’ll learn to overcome common fears that hold people back from video creation and master the Authority Video Formula, a framework for making engaging content every time. The book details how to develop on-camera confidence and build lasting brand awareness by connecting authentically with your audience. This guide suits aspiring vloggers and marketers ready to leverage online video without needing natural talent.

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Best for strategic channel growth
Gary Vaynerchuk, a social media pioneer and CEO of VaynerMedia, highlights the importance of this book for anyone serious about YouTube. He emphasizes, "Buy the book! I promise if you are doing YouTube [you need] YouTube Secrets," underscoring how the guide shaped his approach to video content. His endorsement reflects the book's practical value in navigating YouTube’s evolving landscape. Likewise, Pat Flynn, an entrepreneur and founder of Smart Passive Income, credits Sean and Benji with helping him craft engaging videos while mastering YouTube’s mechanics, making this a go-to resource for creators ready to elevate their channels.
GV

Recommended by Gary Vaynerchuk

Social media pioneer, CEO of VaynerMedia

Buy the book! I promise if you are doing YouTube [you need] YouTube Secrets. (from Amazon)

Sean Cannell and Benji Travis bring nearly two decades of experience as online video experts to this guide, drawing on interviews with over two hundred top creators. You’ll learn the seven essential ingredients for a profitable YouTube channel, fresh strategies to boost views and subscribers, and ten monetization methods tailored to video influencers. Chapters like the one on crafting engaging content and the business-building roadmap offer concrete steps whether you’re just starting or looking to scale. This book suits aspiring creators aiming to build a following and generate income through YouTube, though those seeking purely technical filming tips might find it less focused on gear specifics.

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Best for personal action plans
This AI-created book on vlogging mastery is tailored to your unique background and goals. It carefully considers your experience level and the specific vlogging skills you want to develop. By focusing on your personal interests and objectives, the book crafts a learning path that cuts through general advice to offer what truly matters for your success. This personalized guide helps you build on expert knowledge in a way that fits your style and ambitions, making your vlogging journey both efficient and rewarding.
2025·50-300 pages·Vlogging, Vlogging Basics, Content Creation, Audience Growth, Brand Development

This tailored book explores all key aspects of vlogging success, offering a personalized path that matches your background and targets your specific goals. It covers foundational topics like content creation and audience building, while also examining niche areas such as branding, monetization, and platform optimization. By focusing on your unique interests, it reveals insights into video production techniques, storytelling, and engagement strategies that align with your skill level. This personalized approach allows you to navigate the complex world of vlogging efficiently, bridging expert knowledge with your own journey. Whether you're starting out or scaling, this book provides a clear, tailored guide to mastering vlogging.

Tailored Guide
Vlogging Optimization
3,000+ Books Created
Best for newcomers to YouTube vlogging
We The Unicorns is the voice of the YouTube generation, blending news, features, and insider tips from leading creators. Their firsthand experience producing Vlogging 101 videos and interviews positions them uniquely to guide you through the essentials of launching a YouTube channel. This book reflects their authoritative insight, helping you navigate content planning, filming, editing, and audience growth, all rooted in the vibrant YouTube community they know intimately.
2017·128 pages·Video Production, YouTube Marketing, Vlogging, YouTube, Marketing

Drawing from their deep immersion in the YouTube community, We The Unicorns deliver a focused guide that demystifies the path to becoming a successful vlogger. You'll find detailed insights on setting up your channel, crafting content strategies, and mastering filming and editing techniques, illustrated by case studies of prominent creators like PewDiePie and Zoella. This book breaks down audience-building tactics with practical examples, making it a solid resource for anyone serious about starting a presence on YouTube. However, if you're looking for advanced technical production skills, this primer keeps to foundational knowledge suited for newcomers and intermediates.

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Ann Eckhart is a writer, entrepreneur, and social media content creator based in Iowa with multiple home-based business books. Her hands-on experience managing two active YouTube channels informs this guide, offering practical insights on everything from filming to monetizing content. Eckhart's background in e-commerce and content creation uniquely qualifies her to walk you through building a profitable channel while enjoying the creative process.
2021·161 pages·YouTube, Vlogging, Marketing, Strategy, Content Creation

Ann Eckhart's extensive experience as a YouTube content creator shines through in this guide, crafted to demystify launching a channel from scratch. You get detailed guidance on setting up your YouTube and AdSense accounts, selecting filming equipment, and brainstorming channel themes, along with monetization options like sponsorships and affiliate income. Eckhart doesn't just outline theory; she shares a day-in-the-life glimpse of managing two channels, plus practical tools like video idea tags to spark creativity. Whether you aim to enjoy video creation as a hobby or build a home-based business, this book offers a clear roadmap tailored to your goals.

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Best for finding your unique voice
Andrea Valeria is a Remote Work Specialist and experienced content creator who transitioned from TV news reporting to full-time digital nomad life and online entrepreneurship. With her early success on YouTube and a Shorty Award nomination, she brings hands-on experience and passion for remote work and digital media to this book. Her approachable guidance on starting and growing a vlog draws from years of creating content and mentoring aspiring remote workers and creators.
2018·92 pages·Vlogging, Marketing, Strategy, Content Creation, Video Production

Andrea Valeria, a former TV news reporter turned digital nomad and content creator, approaches vlogging with a pragmatic yet encouraging tone that makes this book accessible to beginners. She breaks down how to start your vlog from scratch, guiding you through naming your channel, finding your unique voice, and learning the basics of shooting and editing videos. The book offers practical insights into storytelling through video, emphasizing how to engage viewers genuinely without overwhelming technical jargon. This book suits anyone eager to launch their own vlog and who appreciates mentorship-style guidance rather than complex production techniques.

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Best for rapid subscriber growth
This AI-created book on vlogging growth is crafted based on your experience level and specific goals. It focuses precisely on the areas you want to improve, whether that’s attracting more viewers or building a loyal subscriber base. By tailoring the content to your interests, this book helps you bypass generic advice and zero in on what will truly make a difference for your channel. It’s like having a personalized coach guiding you through the fast steps that fit your style, making growth both achievable and enjoyable.
2025·50-300 pages·Vlogging, Vlogging Basics, Content Planning, Audience Engagement, Video SEO

This tailored book explores a personalized 30-day roadmap designed to accelerate your vlogging channel's growth, focusing on increasing views and subscribers efficiently. It covers essential content creation techniques, audience engagement methods, and platform-specific growth tactics, all matched to your background and goals. By blending expert knowledge with your unique interests, the book reveals how to build momentum through rapid, actionable steps that fit your style and niche. Its tailored approach ensures that you focus on what truly matters for your channel’s success, making the learning experience both relevant and motivating. Dive into a customized journey that interprets complex vlogging dynamics into clear, practical guidance shaped just for you.

Tailored Content
Growth Acceleration
1,000+ Happy Readers
Robin Berkeley is a seasoned author and expert in digital content creation, specializing in YouTube strategies. With a passion for helping aspiring creators, she provides actionable insights and practical advice to guide individuals in launching and growing their YouTube channels. Her extensive knowledge of the platform's algorithms and marketing techniques empowers readers to turn their passions into profitable ventures.
2020·114 pages·YouTube, Vlogging, Marketing, Strategy, Branding

What sets this book apart is Robin Berkeley's hands-on expertise in digital content creation, especially her deep understanding of YouTube's evolving landscape. She guides you through everything from channel setup and branding to mastering the algorithm and growing your audience, with clear chapters on thumbnails, metadata, and technology choices like cameras and editing software. You gain insights into how to shape your brand identity effectively and practical knowledge about navigating YouTube’s rules and promotional strategies. This book suits aspiring YouTubers ready to invest effort in building a genuine, sustainable channel rather than those seeking shortcuts.

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This book stands out by focusing on the practical steps to become a vlogging success, drawing on the author's personal experience of turning early YouTube videos into a full-time job. It offers a detailed look at everything from choosing your subject and building your brand to mastering video editing and monetization. If you're considering starting a vlog or looking to grow your existing channel, this guide breaks down the essentials clearly and accessibly, making it a useful resource for anyone serious about making an impact in social media video content.
2021·178 pages·Vlogging, Marketing, Strategy, Social Media, Branding

Rebecca O'Neal draws from her own journey as an early YouTube vlogger to provide a straightforward guide on launching and growing a vlog that can generate real income. You’ll learn how to identify a niche that suits your interests, craft a compelling camera persona, and navigate the tech side of video production using accessible tools like phone editing apps. The book walks you through building a brand, optimizing your presence across platforms like YouTube and Instagram, and monetizing your content through proven methods. If you want a clear roadmap rooted in someone who turned vlogging into a full-time career, this book offers practical insights without fluff.

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Best for monetization strategies
Zoe Griffin is a former Sunday Mirror gossip columnist and the founder and editor of Live Like a VIP, a lifestyle blog for women. Her experience navigating media and lifestyle sectors uniquely positions her to guide aspiring vloggers through the business side of online fame. Drawing on insider knowledge and interviews with top YouTube personalities, she reveals how passion can turn into profit beyond just posting videos.
Get Rich Vlogging book cover

by Zoe Griffin··You?

2017·304 pages·Vlogging, Marketing, Strategy, Brand Building, Content Creation

Unlike most vlogging guides that focus solely on technical tips, Zoe Griffin draws from her background as a Sunday Mirror columnist and lifestyle blogger to explore the broader business of online fame. You’ll learn not just how to film and edit but how to build a personal brand, work with managers, and negotiate with big-name brands. With insights from prominent vloggers like Jim Chapman and KSI, plus advice from YouTube’s CBO and industry insiders, this book maps out the pathway from passionate creator to monetized influencer. If you want to understand the full ecosystem behind vlogging success, this book offers a clear-eyed look at the mechanics behind the millions.

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Conclusion

The eight books featured here collectively highlight three clear themes: authenticity in personal branding, strategic growth on platforms like YouTube, and savvy monetization approaches. Whether you’re just starting or eager to take your channel to new heights, these works provide roadmaps grounded in real-world creator success.

If you’re facing the challenge of finding your unique voice, start with So You Want to Vlog? paired with Vlog Like a Boss for confidence and storytelling. For rapid audience growth, combine YouTube Secrets with YOU can be a YouTube Star! to master algorithms and branding. And if monetization is your goal, Get Rich Vlogging and Be a Vlogging Superstar! offer practical strategies.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Vlogging book to bridge general principles with your individual situation. These books can accelerate your learning journey and help you carve out your space in the vibrant world of online video.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with Vlog Like a Boss for practical guidance on building confidence and authentic connection. It’s a great foundation before diving into strategy-focused books like YouTube Secrets.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Vlogging?

Not at all. Titles like We The Unicorns and So You Want to Vlog? are designed specifically for beginners, offering clear steps without overwhelming jargon.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with books that build your confidence and foundational skills, like So You Want to Vlog? Then move to strategic growth titles such as YouTube Secrets, and finish with monetization-focused guides like Get Rich Vlogging.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your goals. For brand building, choose Vlog Like a Boss. For growth tactics, YouTube Secrets is key. Each book serves a specific purpose.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast Vlogging changes?

While platforms evolve, core principles in these books—such as authentic storytelling and audience engagement—remain relevant. YouTube Secrets, for example, balances evergreen advice with platform updates.

Can personalized books help if these expert ones don’t fit my exact needs?

Yes! Personalized Vlogging books complement expert insights by tailoring strategies to your experience, niche, and goals. They bridge theory and practice uniquely for you. Learn more here.

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