Hudson Films

10/06/2024

There's nothing like putting all your heart and soul into a fundraising campaign....only to have it flop.

Where did we go wrong? The message, the visuals and the timing was so spot on!

You can create the most powerful fundraising video, but if nobody sees it, it won't have an impact.

I've learned a lot from dozens of successful fundraising campaigns over the years, and it involves really shifting how we think about video, and how to actually use it to bring in donations.

Check out this week's video series and you tell me - how are you using video for your campaigns?

I'd love to hear your thoughts

03/06/2024

Am I sharing their story, or manipulating it?

If you create content for a non-profit, or share testimonials, chances are, you've struggled with this.

It's a complicated thing, sharing stories. And if we care about the work we are doing, it is so important to make sure that the stories that we are sharing are not only true, and honest, but also true to our values as an organization.

That is ethical filmmaking.

In this week's video, I go through what ethical storytelling is, how it effects how your organization shares stories, and what you can do to ensure that you are telling stories in the most ethical way possible.

Do you experience challenges with storytelling with your organization or work? Let me know below!

27/05/2024

10/04/2024

Recent controversies surrounding the documentary "Quiet on Set," shedding light on the challenges faced by Nickelodeon child stars, have sparked crucial conversations about storytelling ethics.

One particular incident has raised concerns: Marc Summers (anyone else remember him from Double Dare??) reportedly walked off mid-filming, feeling misled about the interview's intentions.

While I haven't personally viewed the film, this incident underscores a fundamental truth.

When individuals feel they've been misled, cooperation evaporates. It's a reminder that transparency is paramount in storytelling, especially when sharing sensitive narratives.

At times, even with the best intentions, we may falter in fully disclosing our plans to our subjects. Whether due to logistical uncertainties or apprehension about their reaction, it's essential to recognize the impact of incomplete communication.

Let's learn from this misstep. Let's commit to transparent, honest dialogue with those we ask to share their stories. Providing a clear understanding of how their narrative will be used and presented is not just ethical—it's imperative.

Avoid the pitfalls encountered by these filmmakers. Prioritize open communication and ensure your subjects have the full picture.

Together, let's uphold integrity in storytelling and honor the voices of those we represent.



Image credit: Screenshot from film

07/04/2024

When I started my business, I eased myself in.

I know - not so dramatic or exciting 🙃

I knew for a long time that my next step would be to work independently, but I wasn’t ready to jump ship.

Or, if I’m really honest with myself, I didn’t trust myself fully and the skills I had acquired over the past decade.

I began freelancing while working a salaried job, while also raising 2 toddlers at home 😬

As time progressed, I began seeing, wow, there really is a need for this. And I finally took the jump and went full time.

Just before Covid.

I don’t think any of us could have foreseen the way the world would change, and honestly still is, to this day, especially if you live in Israel.

But despite all of this, I actually thrived.

I started seeing the benefit of working project based as opposed to hourly.

I started to see the gap in the promotional film world, and how my documentary style films could really transform that.

I often look back and think, “ugh, if I only I started my business before kids, before Covid, before xyz...”

But the reality is, it may not have thrived in the way it did, had I played out this “what if.”

I think for all of us, the world has shifted, and continues to shifts in ways that leaves many of us wondering, what will be?

We have two choices.

We can get sucked in by the anxiety and unknown, and let it drag us down.

Or - we can step into it. And see how we can play into it, and continue to serve our people in the best way we know how.

Who knows, maybe it’s really this challenge that will give you the opportunity to thrive.

07/04/2024

When I started my business, I eased myself in.

I know - not so dramatic or exciting 🙃

I knew for a long time that my next step would be to work independently, but I wasn't ready to jump ship.

Or, if I'm really honest with myself, I didn't trust myself fully and the skills I had acquired over the past decade.

I began freelancing while working a salaried job, while also raising 2 toddlers at home 😬

As time progressed, I began seeing, wow, there really is a need for this. And I finally took the jump and went full time.

Just before Covid.

I don't think any of us could have foreseen the way the world would change, and honestly still is, to this day, especially if you live in Israel.

But despite all of this, I actually thrived.

I started seeing the benefit of working project based as opposed to hourly.

I started to see the gap in the promotional film world, and how my documentary style films could really transform that.

I often look back and think, "ugh, if I only I started my business before kids, before Covid, before xyz..."

But the reality is, it may not have thrived in the way it did, had I played out this "what if."

I think for all of us, the world has shifted, and continues to shifts in ways that leaves many of us wondering, what will be?

We have two choices.

We can get sucked in by the anxiety and unknown, and let it drag us down.

Or - we can step into it. And see how we can play into it, and continue to serve our people in the best way we know how.

Who knows, maybe it's really this challenge that will give you the opportunity to thrive.

03/04/2024

If I could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in the film industry, it would be to not just figure out if film is what you love. Also understand what the lifestyle means, and if you truly love that too.

I find so often in business, we study the craft itself without really taking time to understand what the craft takes, lifestyle wise, and if that lifestyle truly suits us.

I remember touring my school when on a college tour of schools with my dad. A man approached us, incredibly intimidating, yet strangely inspiring, and told us (I’m paraphrasing) that this work will be the hardest work, potentially in our lives. But if we love it, and we give it our all, that we can have a part in this world of filmmaking. [[Anyone that went to Emerson will know exactly who I'm talking about]]

He’s not wrong. Depending on what you do in the “industry” as people call it, it can be disheartening, long hours with little to no reward, and one of the most challenging occupations in the world.

But it can also be incredible, to tell people’s stories, and give audiences that sense of connection that they seek.

For myself, I don’t really consider myself as part of the “industry.”

I went into documentaries, which in itself avoids the “Hollywood” world. I also create films for organizations, as opposed to general audiences. I am not at the whim of funders or critics that seem to have a say in what is considered “good and bad.”

But my words of advice ring true for everyone, not just filmmakers.

Don’t just select a career based on individual attributes like how it looks from the outside, or the experience on the good days.

Understand the hours and the work involved, the people you could work with, the amount you interact with people, the list goes on and on.

We spend so much of time on this earth working, it should be something that you truly enjoy.

I know I do.

03/04/2024

If I could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in the film industry, it would be to not just figure out if film is what you love. Also understand what the lifestyle means, and if you truly love that too.

I find so often in business, we study the craft itself without really taking time to understand what the craft takes, lifestyle wise, and if that lifestyle truly suits us.

I remember touring my school when on a college tour of schools with my dad. A man approached us, incredibly intimidating, yet strangely inspiring, and told us (I’m paraphrasing) that this work will be the hardest work, potentially in our lives. But if we love it, and we give it our all, that we can have a part in this world of filmmaking. [[Anyone that went to Emerson will know exactly who I’m talking about]]

He’s not wrong. Depending on what you do in the “industry” as people call it, it can be disheartening, long hours with little to no reward, and one of the most challenging occupations in the world.

But it can also be incredible, to tell people’s stories, and give audiences that sense of connection that they seek.

For myself, I don’t really consider myself as part of the “industry.”

I went into documentaries, which in itself avoids the “Hollywood” world. I also create films for organizations, as opposed to general audiences. I am not at the whim of funders or critics that seem to have a say in what is considered “good and bad.”

But my words of advice ring true for everyone, not just filmmakers.

Don’t just select a career based on individual attributes like how it looks from the outside, or the experience on the good days.

Understand the hours and the work involved, the people you could work with, the amount you interact with people, the list goes on and on.

We spend so much of time on this earth working, it should be something that you truly enjoy.

I know I do.

Do you love what you do?

27/03/2024

When capturing raw human stories, authentic storytelling is non-negotiable.

As mission-driven organizations, your films aren't just marketing content - they are powerful narratives that inspire action and forge deep connections with your cause. But authentic storytelling requires the highest ethical standards.

What happens when someone feels regret over being on camera? Can that footage still be used? These are the moral dilemmas that separate professional filmmakers from amateurs.

Often, reluctance stems from understandable trepidations:
-Revealing intensely personal struggles
-Concerns over how they'll be portrayed
-Feeling pressured into participating

I've been in situations where non-profits eagerly try convincing hesitant individuals to go on camera. My response is always the same: A coerced or reluctant subject will never capture the raw, compelling emotion you're after.

It can be tempting to work with whoever is available. But creating those transcendent, heart-impact moments is already challenging enough without battling a subject's fundamental discomfort.

For organizations investing significant funds into philanthropic films, upholding rigorous ethical practices is paramount. Authentic storytelling necessitates an environment where participants freely choose to have their voices amplified.

That's why consent, trust, and prioritizing people over production schedules are non-negotiable.

Your film is a clarion call that will rally supporters and donors for years to come. Why risk undermining that by taking ethical shortcuts?

When you partner with an experienced team upholding the highest professional standards, you can create the influential, responsible narratives your cause deserves.

26/03/2024

Let’s talk about that time that I totally bombed at an interview.

I was working with an organization that had hand-picked the interviewees, and for some of them, I didn’t even speak to them in advance.

The organization was really “holding the keys” in this case, and while they did their homework as far as things that they were concerned about (the message they wanted to share etc) they didn’t select people based on things that translate well into video.

I prepared as well as I could in a situation where I was slightly removed.

The result?

A nervous interviewee that didn’t fully grasp what it would be like to be in camera, footage that didn’t fully cover what we needed, and a less than thrilled team, anxious about what would be with the final product.

The reality is, finding a character is not just about someone that says what you want, or the closest possible option.

It’s about this intersection of someone who is passionate about what you do, how you helped them, and is willing to share that story in an honest and truthful way.

By keeping a few key things in mind, you can actually remove that worry and anxiety of how to select the right person to tell your non-profit’s story, and move into your next campaign with ease.

I’ll be sharing all of this in more in a free webinar tomorrow night, and I hope you’ll join me!

If you work at a non-profit or work on fundraising campaigns, this one is for you. There will even be time for an open Q and A at the end.

Comment below, and I’ll send you the link directly.

Wednesday, March 27th, 8:30pm IL

07/03/2024

Whose job is it to get our people to open up?

100 percent on me.

Whether it’s you and your business, or testimonials or people you’re asking to give of their time, part of putting together the story is about facilitating an experience where people can actually open up.

And that’s on me.

It can be overwhelming to come on camera. Let’s not make it harder by putting more pressure on and expecting perfection from people in the process.

Trust the process - you may even have fun 😎

06/03/2024

What makes a compelling character?

This is the million dollar question.

Many times, people tend to go for the easiest or more accessible person willing to be on camera.

That’s a great start - but what if they tense up on camera? What if they aren’t actually passionate in the final version? Or what if it just comes out...okay?

Selecting a character to tell your stories can be one of the most vital things that make your story go from good to incredible.

So how can you do it?

🔷 Willingness
Do they like telling their story? Are they open and actually enjoyable to listen to?

🔷Uniqueness
Are they unique in some way? Nowadays, people have access to all types of stories. What about this person is unique?

🔷Passion
Do they have passion when they tell their story? Is there a chance they will get emotional? Can they express either excitement or sadness?

Don’t underestimate the power of not just WHAT story you tell but WHO tells it.

18/01/2024

We continue to fight in a war here we did not ask for.

And yet, many people are also fighting their own wars.

Fighting cancer - fighting for their lives.

Filming yesterday at Zichron Menachem, honored to tell the stories of those who are far too familiar with this horrific disease.

Full film coming soon.

03/12/2023

One of the most stressful and anxiety inducing experiences is putting together a huge funding campaign, unsure if all of your investments will really pay off.

While there is no "one method" that works for all videos for all campaigns, there are a few key factors that can really help not only create a successful campaign video, but help it actually reach your goals (fundraising, growing an audience or gathering support for your cause).

1. Select an emotionally engaging & RELATABLE character.
Many people make the mistake of telling information, over showing it. And even if you do show information, sometimes we aren't highlighting our most relatable characters.

2. Package the video for the format
You can have an incredibly film, but if it's edited and created for your website, it's not going to great as an instagram reel, and vice versa. Almost as important as the film, is the context in which the audience is watching.

3. Prep your audience
Campaigns can't happen in vacuums. Tease the idea, let your audience know that something BIG is coming, and let them get excited. Maybe it's sharing short clips in prep, but be sure that your audience is waiting, and excited.

While there are no surefire guarantees, there are keys things you can do to ensure that your investments you make in your next campaign will go the extra mile.

29/11/2023

Not every film is as easy as it looks 😎

In fact in almost every project, there’s always a series of challenges that only make the work more interesting.

Today I’d love to share this case study I did of a film that was incredibly successful.

No matter what the challenge, there’s always a way to create something unique and powerful.

Would love to hear your thoughts and challenges you face! How can I help?

26/11/2023

Does "story" really matter when you want to sell a product or app?

Well yes, I'd argue even more so.

A lot of people think when you have to give over something technical, it's more important to WOW people with the technological advancements, or cutting edge aspect of the app.

But even for the most technical of apps or products, there's always some sort of buyer, and that buyer is human. They may have different motivations, wants and needs, but they are a human all the same.

I absolutely loved working on this video campaign for PetPace - where we were able to show how that incredibly bond between dog and owner can be improved even more with the help of this wonderful smart collar.

With the foundational story in place, we could then wow audiences with some of the cutting edge technology involved in their product and app.

Oh, and it doesn't hurt that I do actually think that this is the best smart collar on the market.

Take a look and let me know - how do you think story could improve your product or service?

29/10/2023

Thinking today of this incredible story created for .

Ziad is a Druze man whose comes from a long line of dedicated soldiers, that have given their lives so that Israeli and Jews could live freely.

Todays war is not just about Jews. It’s about humanity, and fighting for what his right.

I think about him and his story today, as we literally fight for our lives.

19/10/2023

The power of “real” media and what we can do about it.

04/09/2023

To studio or not?

Where do we film, and why?

Deciding where to film, and what the "backdrop" are very important decisions.

Yes, we can usually make almost any location work, but why leave something to just be "ok" when the background and context, as I like to say, can have a huge impact on the overall finished video?

Backgrounds allow us to communicate lots of different things:

The mood
The energy
A sneak peak into the lives of people we're listening to

So, should we film in a studio or your home? An office, or outside?

The answer: it depends.

What different things are you getting from the backgrounds of the images you see?

04/09/2023

To studio or not?

Where do we film, and why?

Deciding where to film, and what the "backdrop" is are very important decisions.

Yes, we can usually make almost any location work, but why leave something to just be "ok" when the background and context, as I like to say, can have a huge impact on the overall finished video?

Backgrounds allow us to communicate lots of different things:

The mood

The energy

A sneak peak into the lives of people we're listening to

So, should we film in a studio or your home? An office, or outside?

The answer: it depends.

What different things are you getting from the backgrounds of the images below?

26/07/2023

Had a lot of fun speaking with Aaron Katsman, Lighthouse Capital!

We chatted about running a business in Israel, my journey, and the unique experience of living as an olah in Israel.

Check it out!

19/07/2023

Each client I work with, I consider to be a collaborative process.

What does that mean?

I may be the expert in video, but they are the expert in their brand, their industry, whatever it is that they do.

In order to have a truly successful campaign, it's really about having a collaboration with trust.

In every relationship, there's a push and pull. Sometimes it's important for me to recognize that while a decision may be best for the video, it may not be best for the audience. And vice versa.

You have to know when to take a step back and be humble and also know when to stand up for the decision because you feel it is the right one.

But I really feel this balance can only be achieved when there's real trust and collaboration.

So if you're about to embark on creating some sort of content, be it copy, graphics, video, or otherwise, it's important to remember:

It's not just about finding the person with the best portfolio, the best stats, or the biggest name out there.

Find the person that you resonate with, that you can really trust and enjoy working with.

18/07/2023

As a non-profit, how can I give my video longevity or a longer shelf-life?

Many non-profits tend to create video campaigns, but it can be a fair investment, and while the ROI is great, why not also think about how it can be used for the long term?

Here are some small things that you can do in any video campaign to ensure that your video goes on past the immediate campaign

1. Don't use dates, use descriptions
When you use dates, like "In 2022 we helped 40,000 people out of debt," that number can change and become irrelevant. Instead, try to describe the impact in a way that doesn't pidgeon-hole you. "Every year, our impact has doubled, helping over 25% of the population from debilitating debt."

2. Use case studies that won't change.
In storytelling, being specific is great. But let's be specific with a type of client or story that won't change. Make sure they represent a target audience that you help and one that really resonates with your audience.

3. Create something truly high-quality
This may be obvious to many, but as long as you are investing in a video campaign, don't fall victim to cutting corners, even when budget is a concern. The videos that truly stand the test of time don't just have proper messaging but look and feel high-quality as well.

Do your video campaigns stay relevant beyond the campaign?

If not, I'd love to help!

03/07/2023

Interview-based/character driven vs. Scripted

Which approach is better for you and why?

Recently, in a conversation with a client about our promotional video, we talked about the pros and cons of creating a more scripted approach, or doing a more conversational, character-driven tone.

What's the difference and why do I care?

To begin, this is for videos where we are hearing from real people in the organization, not actors or skits.

All videos, to a certain extent, need to be "scripted." But the question is, are we letting the interviewees tell their story, or are they reading scripted lines to give over a very specific message?

There are a few considerations for each type:

Scripted:

1. If you have a very specific message or a very short amount of time, this can be a great way to ensure that you get the message across clearly.

2. When it's scripted, you know what you're getting! Less room for surprises :)

3. It can come off as less authentic. Generally, audiences know when sometimes has been pre-scripted.

Interview/Character Driven:

1. It can be more engaging (when done correctly) and feel more entertaining

2. Audiences feel closer to the characters in this format, as they feel they are hearing from real people.

3. While this approach is still planned out, you have to be more flexible, as not all people will come off exactly in the way you might have predicted.

Each has its pros and cons, and much can depend on what your style and tone is, and what works best for you.

Which style speaks to you more?

08/06/2023

If you could dream anything for your business, what would it be?

Maybe you’d be scaling and growing into the stratosphere.

Maybe you’d be travelling all over, working with clients globally.

Or maybe you’d just put yourself out there, fully confident and unapologetic.

If you could take that next big step in your business, what would it be?

I’ll start in the comments 😎

📸 .sarusi

04/06/2023

5 Ways to Prepare for a Video Launch 🔥🔥🔥

Ever struggled with how to get your video out?

Check out my list for the best ways to prepare for a video launch.


1. Have all versions of the video formatted for different platforms. Don't wait until the day or even the week of to prep it. Whether it's horizontal, vertical, or otherwise, get it ready.


2. Consider posting different lengths to different platforms. Think about where you ultimately want people to go, and ONLY post the full video there. Everywhere else can be a trailer or teaser for the full version.


3. Timing. Is there a special date coming up that will help your video gain traction? Don't underestimate the power of holidays and awareness months! And be wary of any days that may "steal the spotlight" from your launch.


4. Get your team and fans on board! Specifically on social media, the more you can reach out to your team and followers to try and push the video out for you, the better the results can be. Something it just takes that extra push to really make it reach that wider audience.


5. Focus on the launch, not the results. Yes, you want to be pushing it out, sending it around, and responding to all engagement. But wait before doing any analytics. Give it time to breathe, and then come back with a fresh mind, ready to review.

What questions do you have about launching your videos?

14/03/2023

Meet Noa Gertz.

She is a fashion blogger, and a pioneer.

Noa created "I Can Too" which works to integrate and create inclusion for people with disabilities, illnesses or special needs in the world of fashion.

I was so grateful to be able to create this piece for ויצו - WIZO WIZO USA, to raise awareness and highlight the incredible work that they do.

Thanks to the wonderful team that brought it to life:

Producer/Director: Elisheva Hudson
DP: Aviv Vana
Editor: Polina Ruth Remez

13/02/2023

"Wow, I ACTUALLY had such a great time today."

Funny as it may seem to hear it, a client telling me that putting them on camera was a (surprisingly) good experience, can be just as big of a compliment, if not more, than them loving the final product.

Whether it's the founder of a non-profit or entrepreneur branding videos, I often find myself putting people on camera, and usually, people are quite reluctant to do so.

It's not easy to represent your work and your business and do so in a way that is exactly what you have in mind.

So to me, yes my job is to create a compelling story, to think strategically about the audience and goals of the video, but it's also to ensure that the individuals I am putting on camera are relaxed, and possibly even have fun!

Have you had to be on camera for your business? What was your experience like?

07/02/2023

I never meant to be a business owner.

In many ways, I still deny I am one.

I don't run a business, I'm a filmmaker.

Oh, I don't do that, I just create films for non-profits and companies.

Why do I brush it off?

To me, a business owner, an entrepreneur, is someone whose always looking for the latest way to make cash fast, to come up with a new product or idea, and really revolutionize the industry they are in.

Maybe I'm highly influenced by the start-up hi-tech nation, but to me, that really doesn't describe me.

I just wanted to make films. And turns out, the best way for me to do that was through my business.

But if I look at myself today, I really am all those things I thought I never was.

I'm constantly looking for new ways to serve my audience with film packages that really help them.

I'm always looking for ways to streamline my process so I'm making more money doing what I love.

My goal really is to revolutionize the way people see documentary, and how it's used to energize your audience.

I guess the main difference between me and my idea of what a business owner needs to be, is that while money is important, it's not my bottom line.

As long as I'm making a living doing what I love, and am excited by my work, that's a win for me.

And in the end, I guess I really am a business owner.

📸 .sarusi

25/01/2023

As business owners, we are often left with this critical voice in our head

You’re too much
You’re not enough
If only I could be….

STOP.

Real success comes in business when you stop trying to shift into what you think everyone wants you to be, and step into what makes your business the most unique: YOU.

I love this video I just finished for Nicole Oren Coaching's upcoming Women's Group starting February 20th.

Great energy, exciting, and authentic. Just like Nicole :)