Engage Video Production (2024)

04/07/2024

Whether you are deployed, working, or at home, I wish you all a happy 4th of July! Happy Independence Day, good ole' US of A! Stay strong red, white, and blue!!!

---

Photo by Christopher Skor on Unsplash

24/11/2023

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃

Hope you all have a great day of thanks, spending time with friends and family! Enjoy your holiday and try not to overdo it with the pumpkin pie, ya? 😅

(Photo by Diliara Garifullina on Unsplash)

18/11/2023

Movie Night Recco

I wanted to keep this post on the lighter side and offer a suggestion for a movie I watched recently that I really enjoyed and think some of you all out there would too! Some of you might know this about me already, but I'm a huge cinema nerd. As such, I'm always looking for a good watch.

On to the recco...I've been noticing a lot of buzz around multiple sectors and businesses about AI. If you are interested in discussions surrounding the ethics and morality of AI, I'd highly recommend watching the drama, "The Artifice Girl". I don't want to spoil anything in it for you. If you've got some free time coming up, give it a watch and let me know what you think!

16/11/2023

5 Tips for Hiring Actors for Your Training Videos

Sometimes, you may encounter a situation where your local experts or instructors aren't available - or be in a similar situation where you don't have access to someone you want on screen, in front of your audience. This is a situation where you should give consideration to bringing in some acting talent (actors). Having the right actors can turn your training video from "meh" to "wow." But, how do you find the perfect cast? Fear not, because I've got some down-to-earth tips for hiring actors that'll make your training video the blockbuster of your business! 🚀🎬

11/11/2023

Mini Studio Setup: Tips for Setting Up a Small Space for Video Production

Have you been tasked with creating some new content for your business's social media page but you weren’t given a studio space to shoot in? Regardless of your scenario, continue reading if you are one of those who are trying to shoot in non-traditional spaces or trying to modify workspaces to meet their needs. With some creativity and a little bit of magic, you can transform that cozy nook in the break room into your very own mini video studio. Here are some tips to help you set up your small space for video production and boost engagement in your video content.

💡 Lighting is Everything

Lighting can make or break your video quality, no matter the size of your space. Natural light is a great, free option (if it is available), so position your setup close to a window. If that's not an option, invest in softbox or ring lights to create even, flattering illumination. Good lighting makes your videos look more professional and engaging.

📝 Clear the Clutter

A tidy space is essential for video production, no matter how small. Remove any distracting or cluttered items from your background. A clean and uncluttered setting helps keep your audience's focus on the content rather than what's happening in the background.

🔊 Optimize Sound Quality

Good audio quality is crucial. Use a lavalier microphone or a shotgun microphone to ensure clear and crisp sound. Soundproofing your space with curtains or foam panels can also minimize echoes and external noise. I like to use sound blankets (they look like furniture moving blankets, but they are specially designed to help improve your audio quality). Quality audio keeps your viewers engaged without straining to hear.

👁️‍🗨️ Frame It Right

Pay attention to the composition and framing of your shots. Place your camera or smartphone at eye level and ensure you're centered in the frame. This creates a professional and visually appealing look for your videos. It's all about making that connection with your viewers through the lens.

🎭 Use Props Wisely

In a small space, props can add visual interest and engage your audience. But keep it simple and relevant to your content. Overloading your set with props can be distracting. Choose items that enhance the learning experience or make your content more relatable.

So, whether your video studio is in an unused conference room or a converted closet, these tips can help you make the most of your small space for video production. With some creativity, good lighting, and attention to detail, you can create engaging video content that captivates your audience, no matter the size of your studio. Happy filming! 🎥✨

(Photo by Dane Deaner on Unsplash)

08/11/2023

Video Production Pointers: 5 Tips for Better Audience Identification

G’day all! One of the first things in my pre-pro process is something I find a LOT of business videos missing the mark on – knowing your audience. While your video could be the most polished masterpiece in the world, it won't matter one bit if you don't know who you're making it for. It's what transforms a good video into a great one, and it's all about understanding who's on the other side of that screen. So, let's dive into these 5 tips that'll help you get to know your viewers like the back of your hand, and create videos that not only impress but truly resonate.

☑️ 1. Define Your Ideal Viewer
Before you hit record, you have to know who you're talking to. Get the basics down – who are they? What do they do? Are they highly technical engineers and scientists? Or maybe they are office executives? Understanding the demographics of your audience helps you tailor your content to speak their language.

☑️ 2. Perfect Personas
Now, go another step further and create what is called "personas." These are like super-detailed profiles of your dream audience members. Dive into their likes, dislikes, challenges, and goals. You'll be amazed at how this helps you create content that really hits the bullseye.

☑️ 3. Data Detective
Time to put on your Sherlock Holmes hat! Dig into research and analytics to gain insights into your current audience and to identify potential new viewers. Analyze data from your website, social media, and previous video content to uncover trends and preferences. By understanding the demographics and behaviors of your existing audience, you can refine your video strategies to cater to their interests while also seeking opportunities to reach new demographics.

☑️ 4. Get Talkative
You know who loves talking about themselves? Your audience! So, ask them! Surveys and feedback forms are good potential approaches here. Find out what they want, what they struggle with, and what they love. Listen to their words, and you'll be speaking their language in no time.

☑️ 5. Testing and Tweaking (No, not that type of tweaking)

Identifying your audience isn't a one-time gig. It's an ongoing journey. Keep an eye on how your videos perform. Check out those view counts, likes, and comments. Which videos are rockstars? Which ones are falling flat? Use the feedback to fine-tune your understanding of your audience and keep making videos that hit the mark.

In comms and educational video production, audience identification is your secret sauce to success. So, define your audience, create those personas, dig into your data, chat with your viewers, and never stop tweaking your content. When you know who you're talking to, you'll create videos that connect, engage, and leave a lasting impression! 📽️🚀

(Photo by Davide Ragusa on Unsplash)

04/11/2023

Spooky Locations? 👻 Yes, please!

Have you ever filmed in a scary location? Or maybe a spooky old ghost town?

When I was shooting my thesis film for my master’s degree, I secured permission to shoot in this amazingly creepy, old mine building. This thing was straight out of a horror genre writer’s dream list in terms of ambiance and visuals! While it may not always be easy to find a great location, it can often add more production value than you think.

🎃 What are some of the scariest or spookiest locations you’ve ever been to? Share a photo and story in the comments below. 👻

(Behind-the-scenes [BTS] photo while shooting my thesis film, shot at the location mentioned above)

27/10/2023

Crafting Your Shotlist for Video Production

You're all set to create a video for your company, but first things first - you need a shotlist. What's a shotlist, you ask? Well, it's like a roadmap for your video, guiding you through the scenes, angles, and shots you need to capture to make you hit the mark when producing your videos. Creating a shotlist might sound like a tough task, but I find it to be quite enjoyable. Here are a few, no-nonsense tips to make the process a piece of cake for you and your production.

✅ Start with Your Script
Before diving into shotlists, you must have a script, or at least a clear concept of what your video is about. The script sets the stage, helping you identify the essential shots you'll need to bring your story to life. Whether it's a training video, an employee interview, or a company tour, the script is your North Star.

✅ Divide and Conquer
Now that you know what you're filming, break it down into scenes or segments. Each scene gets its own shotlist, making it way less overwhelming. This step-by-step approach keeps your creativity flowing without feeling like you're juggling too many things at once. Once you become accustomed to doing shotlists, you can try doing the entire shoot in one go.

✅ Specificity is Your Friend
Don't just write "interview with CEO" on your shotlist and call it a day. Be ultra-specific about what you want to capture. Think about the camera angles, the location, and any specific shots you need for B-roll. If you don’t get specific you will likely forget something! Do yourself a favor, and do it right the first time. You’ll thank yourself later.

✅ Time it Right
Think about the timing for each shot. How long do you want the CEO's close-up? When should the drone capture that majestic aerial shot of your company headquarters? Timing can make or break a shot (and video), so jot down the estimated duration for each shot. Also, your post-production team will be grateful for this.

✅ Check Your Gear
Don't forget to include the necessary equipment for each shot. Do you need a tripod for stability, a drone for aerial shots, or a specific lens for that cinematic look? Listing your gear helps you stay organized on the shoot day.

✅ Be Open to Spontaneity & Creativity
While a shotlist is essential, don't be afraid to improvise. Sometimes, the best shots happen when you go off-script. Be open to those “creative” moments that can take your video from great to legendary.

Creating a shotlist for video production doesn't have to be a headache. With these tips, you'll be well-prepared to capture the heart and soul of your business in every frame. 🎥💥

Do you have any tips for shotlisting? Feel free to share in the comments below.

(Photo by Jason Goodman on Unsplash)

24/10/2023

Successful Solar Circumnavigation

While it may not be standard practice for one celebrating their annual solar circumnavigation to make it about others (at least where I grew up it wasn’t), I just wanted to take a quick moment to post something light-hearted for today. A big “thank you” to all of my family, friends, colleagues, and contacts for all the time, help, and support throughout the previous year and into the next, as I start another journey around the fiery globe!

(Me and my kid getting some time in the autumn sun)

21/10/2023

Look for the "funny" - 3 Ways to add humor to your training videos

In the world of video training, it's no secret that some topics can be incredibly dry and boring. I mean, REALLY boring. Having suffered through all sorts of video training in my military training pipelines that I can only guess were created in the 70s (or maybe earlier), I can totally empathize with those of you who die a little bit on the inside when the training department tells you its time for training. I know that there is no shortage of yawn-inducing content in the private sector either. From compliance training to technical tutorials, these subjects often leave you and your employees feeling uninspired and disengaged. However, there is a secret weapon that can transform even the dullest of topics into engaging and memorable content – humor.

Humor has the power to captivate, entertain, and ultimately educate your viewers. By injecting a dose of levity into your educational videos, you can create an atmosphere that is both entertaining and informative. So how can you find humor in dry subjects? Here are three ways you can try in your educational videos:

1. Embrace storytelling: Instead of presenting information in a dry and monotonous manner, weave it into a compelling narrative. By creating relatable characters and situations, you can inject humor into your videos and make them more engaging for your audience. Keep in mind, that no one is expecting you to create epics that will span the ages.

2. Use visual aids: Visuals can be a powerful tool for adding humor to your videos. Incorporate funny images, animations, or even memes that relate to the topic at hand. These visuals will not only entertain your viewers but also reinforce the key points you are trying to convey. When I would be forced to create some squadron training presentations, I’d often weave my extremely dry sense of humor into the mix, by using visual aids.

3. Don't be afraid to laugh at yourself: Self-deprecating humor can be a great way to lighten the mood and create a more relaxed atmosphere. In the military, a lot of trainers tend to do this naturally as it helps show your audience you are just another human like them, right from the get-go. By poking fun at the challenges or misconceptions surrounding the topic, you can make your viewers feel more at ease and open to learning.

Remember, the goal is not to turn your educational videos into stand-up comedy shows, but rather to use humor strategically to enhance engagement and retention. By finding the right balance between entertainment and education, you can create educational videos that are both enjoyable and impactful. Give it a go and see if it helps your training videos!

What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen in a training video? Share your stories and experiences in the comments below!

(Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash)

20/10/2023

The Advantages of "Bite-Sized" Training Videos

I'd like to share some tips to help with the creation and production of training videos. Though creating shorter videos can present its own challenges, it is usually better to stay away from long-form content for training purposes. By adopting the practice of creating bite-sized training videos, businesses can unlock numerous benefits that facilitate improved learning outcomes and engagement levels among viewers.

Let me know if you've found success with shorter-form content when it comes to training videos.

12/10/2023

The Finale (with a bonus!)

💡 “The flame is not as bright to itself as it is to those it illuminates: so too the sage.” -- Friedrich Nietzsche

Here’s a quick recap of the previous sections before we close out this storytelling framework mini-series which you can use and adapt for your corporate videos:

📌 First, we had to identify who our hero is - Who’s Your Hero?
📌 Then, the first step - The Call to Adventure
📌 Next, the climax - The Road of Trials
📌 Then, the resolution - The Return with Gift

There is so much more to the storytelling framework that Joseph Campbell wrote about, but it is my sincere hope that this condensed version will help you out when you go to develop your stories for use in corporate video content. As a bonus, I want to share one more piece with you all. This isn’t a “what” or section in the journey, but a “who”. The Hero’s Journey has many different characters, but the Sage Mentor archetype can be especially useful. Incorporating the sage can further enhance your corporate video storytelling. This mentor provides the hero guidance, support, and wisdom on their journey. Here’s what it might look like for your videos:

🔶 Introduce Industry Experts
Feature industry experts or thought leaders who can provide insights and advice on navigating challenges within your audience's field. Position your brand as a trusted mentor that offers valuable knowledge and expertise.

🔶 Establish Thought Leadership
Create educational or training videos that position your organization as a reliable source of information in your industry. By sharing valuable insights and best practices, you establish yourself as a mentor guiding viewers toward success.

In closing, incorporating the Hero's Journey framework into your corporate video storytelling can revolutionize how you engage with your audience. By capturing their attention with a compelling call to adventure, guiding them through trials and offering solutions, and inspiring action upon their return, you create narratives that resonate deeply. Remember to leverage the sage mentor archetype for added impact. Now you are ready to go forth and unleash the power of storytelling in your corporate videos!

Do you have a corporate storytelling arc that you or your business used and found successful? I’d be keen to hear about it - please leave a comment below.

(Photo by Nong on Unsplash)

07/10/2023

The Hero Returns, Changed and Transformed

💡 “There’s no reward without work, no victory without effort, no battle won without risk.” -- Nora Roberts

In the previous section, The Road of Trails, we looked at the climax of the Hero’s Journey. The hero had to face obstacles and adversity and has now emerged on the other side - changed and transformed by the challenges that have been overcome. The Return with Gift, the third phase of the Hero's Journey, your audience will want to see the conclusion of the journey. This involves the hero returning to their “ordinary world”, transformed, and armed with newfound wisdom. In your corporate video storytelling, this is an opportunity to inspire action and leave a lasting impression on your viewers. Here are the next steps you should consider taking:

🏁 Showcase Success Stories
Highlight success stories of individuals, groups, or even companies who have embraced your products or services and experienced significant positive outcomes. These stories serve as testaments to the transformative power of what you offer.

🏁 Encourage Action
Motivate viewers to take action by clearly articulating the benefits they will gain from implementing your solutions. Use persuasive language and compelling visuals that evoke a sense of urgency and that will connect emotionally with your audience.

🏁 Call-to-Action
End your video with a strong call-to-action that prompts viewers to engage further with your brand - whether it's visiting a website, subscribing to a newsletter, or contacting you for more information. Make it easy for them to take the next step towards their own transformational journey.

Do you know how to illustrate the conclusion of the Hero’s Journey in your own videos? What has been your most successful story conclusion? Leave a comment and let me know.

(Photo by Zac Durant on Unsplash)

04/10/2023

Long is the Way

💡 “It may sound strange, but many champions are made champions by setbacks.” -- Bob Richards

Last week we ended at the Call to Adventure - looking at how having a strong motivation and hook to draw the hero, and your audience, into the adventure is a fundamental step! Next on the path in this shortened series about the Hero's Journey, is "The Road of Trials". Remember, I’m condensing down a substantial swath of the full journey, and that is especially true in this step. This is the point in the story where our hero will encounter obstacles, face adversity, and ultimately grow stronger. In video storytelling for businesses and organizations, this phase presents an opportunity to showcase your audience's journey toward achieving their goals. Here's how you can do it in your own video:

☑️Demonstrate Challenges
Highlight the obstacles or roadblocks that your target audience commonly encounters. This could be in the form of reenactments, animated sequences, or interviews with individuals from your workforce who have faced similar hurdles.

☑️Provide Solutions
Once you've showcased the challenges, present your viewers with solutions and strategies to overcome them. This is where you can introduce your products or services as valuable tools that will help them navigate their own trials and emerge triumphant, just like the hero!

☑️Incorporate Visual Metaphors
Utilize the strength of video by using a powerful storytelling tool - Visual metaphors. Use imagery that symbolizes the challenges your audience faces and depict how they can transcend these hurdles using your offerings.

Can you recall a “Road of Trials” story segment that you strongly connected with? What was the secret sauce that motivated the bond? Don’t be shy - leave a comment below and let me know!

(Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash)

29/09/2023

Adventure Calls! Get Your Audience Ready for the Journey

💡 “I decided that adventure was the best way to learn about writing.” – Lloyd Alexander

In my previous post, I discussed finding a hero and now that we have that, let’s continue! Next is something that is at the heart of every Hero's Journey…The Call to Adventure. It is an enticing invitation for our hero to step out of their comfort zone and embark on a transformative journey. When it comes to corporate video storytelling, this concept translates into capturing your audience's attention right from the start. Here are some techniques you can employ:

🔶 Hook Your Viewers from the Get-Go 🔶
Begin your video with an attention-grabbing opening that piques curiosity and establishes an emotional connection with your audience. This could be a thought-provoking question, an intriguing statement, or a captivating visual imagery that immediately draws viewers into your narrative.

🔶 Identify Pain Points and Issues 🔶
To truly engage your audience, address their pain points early on. Identify common challenges or obstacles they face within their industry or specific roles and present these issues as opportunities for growth and transformation. Remember the power of transformation!!!

🔶 Showcase Real-Life Examples 🔶
Nothing resonates more with viewers than relatable stories of real people who have overcome challenges similar to those faced by your target audience. Incorporate testimonials or case studies that highlight successful journeys within their professional realm. If they can’t relate, you’ll never connect.

What is your favorite example of an excellently crafted Call to Adventure in a corporate video? Comment and share your opinion. I’d love to hear it!

(Photo by Alexander Milo on Unsplash)

29/09/2023

Who’s the Hero in Your Story?

“People forget facts, but they remember stories.” – Joseph Campbell

Joseph Campbell was an American writer who wrote about mythology and how the power of storytelling has transcended through the ages. Storytelling, especially when viewed through Campbell’s “Hero’s Journey”, describes a path that nearly all people have experienced in some medium or format…whether they know it or not. Over my next few posts, I’m going to share a few sections of the Hero’s Journey. By applying the principles of the Hero's Journey to your videos, whether they be executive interviews, testimonials, or any other sort of video where you need to tell a story, you can create compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Now, I think it is important to note here that you don’t need to be a storytelling savant or know the Hero’s Journey in intricate detail to be able to use storytelling to your advantage in your video content. Even the meekest or most unassuming of voices has the ability to offer a gripping tale that you can share with your audience. However, before the structure of the journey is to be built and traveled upon, you have to identify your hero!

Here are some points to consider when selecting a protagonist for a story:

➡ Relevant to the Audience You Want to Speak To
The hero should be someone your target audience can relate to. Consider their demographics, interests, and challenges they may face within your industry or business. By aligning the hero's characteristics with those of your audience, you increase the chances of creating an emotional connection when the hero tells their story.

➡ Authenticity and Credibility
Choose a hero who embodies authenticity and credibility. Whether it's an employee, customer, or industry expert, ensure that their story is genuine and resonates with your audience. People will know the real deal when they see it. Use authenticity to build trust and enhance the impact of the story!

➡ Transformation Potential
A crucial element of the Hero's Journey is transformation. Look for a hero whose journey involves personal growth or professional development. Remember, this potential can come in many different forms. This allows viewers to witness a compelling character arc that inspires them to embark on their own transformative journeys.

With these points in mind, take time to explore different options for your “hero”. Conduct interviews, gather testimonials, or collaborate with internal teams to find individuals who embody the qualities necessary for a powerful storytelling experience.

❓ Do you have any experience finding heroes for your video content? What are your tips?

(A visual diagram of the full, Hero’s Journey)

Monday	08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 18:00
Thursday	08:00 - 18:00
Friday	08:00 - 18:00

Engage Video Production

04/07/2024

24/11/2023

18/11/2023

16/11/2023

11/11/2023

08/11/2023

04/11/2023

27/10/2023

24/10/2023

21/10/2023

20/10/2023

12/10/2023

07/10/2023

04/10/2023

29/09/2023

29/09/2023

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share