By Video production is an essential component to any successful business operation, today. Video is available everywhere, from video billboards within subways or elevators to the mobile phone in your pocket. The presence of video is ubiquitous.
The use of video in business is essential for success. YouTube has now become the second largest search engine on the planet, second only to Google. It is often the main source of information for a younger, technologically savvy generation. If a potential customer has a problem they will more-often-than-not turn to YouTube in search of a detailed video answer to their problem. As a person in business you must ensure that video production is a major component of your company’s marketing strategy. But where do you start? The production of video involves many different sub-specialties which need to be explored in detail.
Storyline or Concept Development:
This is where it all begins. All the best equipment and experienced videographers are useless to a video production without a foundation based on a solid storyline. Fact or fiction, this concept development does not have to be complex. There are even formulas available, which can be used to simplify the process, and create a basic, yet proficient idea.
Pre-production:
The planning stage of any event will often determine how successful a video production will be, in terms of ROI (Return on Investment). Let’s face it; we’re all in business to earn a decent living, so smart investments are essential.
Production:
This is where the choices of technical gear, like a portable camera jib come into play. Which camera to use? Which format to shoot in? Will there be a set, or is the project going to be shot on location? Do you need more lights? Filters for the sun? There have been many recent technical innovations which have given video producers a much greater array of choice to effectively illuminate scenes. Lastly, are you ready to be a filmmaker? Knowing the right angles and framing is tremendously important in order to keep an audience entertained. How about camera placement and operation? Will you need a special tripod, or a dslr stabilizer?
Audio:
The choices when capturing sound can be just as varied. What is the most suitable type of microphone to use? Which manufacturer; Sennheiser, Sony or AKG? Should it be a stick microphone or a lavaliere microphone? What’s the difference between a shotgun mic and a handheld mic? Is a wireless system necessary to capture the best quality of sound?
Post Production:
Another creative area which brings a video production to life is editing. Video editing today is all done on computer based platforms with an endless choice of manufactures for editing software. There is a large range; from top end systems like Final Cut Pro or Avid to much more affordable options. If you’re filming on a budget, visual special effects can be handled in post also. You don’t need actual explosives, or stunt personnel to enhance your message. Special effects definitely keep an all-too-often bored audience engaged with the added pizazz they offer.
Music and Graphics:
This is the icing on the cake. A video production needs to incorporate more than just narration or an audio track. Music and audio sound effects take your film project above and beyond. From a business perspective, a well-suited soundtrack can drive home your point or product, perfectly.
It’s now time for an audience. Once all the heavy lifting has been done, it’s time to sit back and let your project start working for you. But where is your audience and how do you reach them?
The question of video distribution is an important one. Of course there’s the traditional route of television but this is the most expensive of your choices. Internet distribution is by far the business industry’s number one choice for video distribution and probably the best and affordable way to promote your videos without breaking the bank.
