Uh-Oh... Video Production Has Come to a Stop! What Should I Do?
Times are tough. In the world today, things are just weird. For video production professionals, it’s strange not being on location shooting the next product video, testimonial, safety video, HR orientation video.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t have nice videos. Never before has video been so important to not only business but to a nation. People are coming together via virtual happy hours. Musicians are hosting online concerts live from their living rooms. Jim (John Krasinski) from the Office even started up his own news network, SGN (Some Good News.) Check out his first newscast. I bet you can’t not cry. (Sorry mom for the double negative.)
So, you might ask yourself, how can I produce content without being able to do a video shoot. Here are three ways:
Use existing footage/still photos
Motion graphics
(Gasp!!) Use your phone
Use Existing Footage (or Photos)
Many companies have hundreds of hours of footage that hasn’t seen the light of day. A lot of this footage was cut for a reason. But usually there are nuggets of gold within this unused content. Why not utilize this content? Write a script using a professional voice talent (this is a blog for another day) and cover it using video you’ve already paid for. This is a cost effective way to produce an effective, professional video. I’ve seen dozens of examples of this sitting at home watching TV.
Grubhub took what I presume to be previously shot footage and created a tv commercial urging us to support our local restaurants. Yes it helps Grubhub but it’s also a great message to help family restaurants.
Motion Graphics
Maybe you don’t have extra footage or even still photos sitting on your virtual shelf. Motion graphics then become your friend. But wait, you think costs are going to be prohibitive. That isn’t necessarily the case. Again, this is a blog topic for a later date. Motion graphics are a great way to tell a story when you lack visuals. Is your content is a little dry? Motion graphics can add some movement and visual appeal to your story. Here is a recent commercial for Taco Bell (food seems to be a theme for this blog) where again, shooting footage isn’t really an option right now so they chose the motion graphics route.
Use Your Phone
Sometimes the message is more important than any fancy production work. As a professional video producer, I am telling you, your phone can be your friend. If you need to send short messages off to employees or clients, don’t be afraid of your mobile device! The camera is actually better than the cameras I worked with when I started in this crazy biz. My one piece of advice when using your phone, make sure you have a decent microphone. Nothing ruins a good video more than bad audio.
Here is an example of a video presumably shot with a phone (or another device). Maybe it wasn’t but it still has that effect. Take a look.
Bonus Info!
If you’re late to the game when it comes to video conferencing, here are some platforms to check out. Personally I love Zoom.
Also, don’t forget about Facetime, Facebook Messenger and, oh yeah, your phone actually allows you to make phone calls!
We’re all in the same boat. But one thing that is still needed is content. And video content is still the most powerful and effective way to spread your message. Just because we are isolated doesn’t mean you can’t have nice videos. Stay safe!