Corporate video projects can vary in scope and may include broadcast commercials, interviews, product launches, and even behind the scenes preparations. Through your corporate video you’re sending subtle brand messages to your audience, so you have to ensure that the videos are produced professionally, and convey your message properly.
Plan in Advance of the Shoot Date
In preparing for corporate video shoots, the Refined Impact production team plans well in advance…sometimes months ahead of the shoot date(s). Our team will work with you to create a timeline for the video production, choosing scenes and must-capture shots. Important milestones include finalizing the script, planning the shoot date, on-location shooting, and post-production/editing. Proper planning often saves you from missing a critical step, or having to rush at the last minute!
Who is going to view the video?
Determining your target audience and platform (for example, social media) will set the tone for the production of your corporate video. A training video for employees will differ from a video that your company plans to share on social media. Determine who you want to reach, and their characteristics, before producing your final product.
Script your Interviews
When it comes to interviews, there are often topics and key talking point that need to be said during the interview to drive your message home. It also matters how these things are said on camera. Unlike an open documentary, you’ll want to stick to given topics. The best way to ensure that you stay on track is to script what you will ask and answers that you expect. However, you can just have your script and lead the subject on particular areas of the interview.
Consider a Two-Camera Shoot
A two-camera setup gives you a broad opportunity to piece the best parts of the session together in post production, often improving the production value of your corporate video. In the case of an interview, you can change angles and provide a different view of the subject while ensuring the message is not cut off.
Ask On-Camera Subjects to Bring Additional Clothing
It is a good idea to ask any subjects or actors that will be in your corporate video to arrive at the shoot with an extra set of shirts, ties, and/or jackets. In the event that the colors they show up wearing do not work well on camera, it saves you from having a poor video where the outfit draws too much attention.
Get Proper Releases and Licensing
It’s always important to avoid any potential legal problems when shooting a corporate video. These include obtaining licenses for the use of any copyrighted materials such as soundtracks or product logos. You may mean well, but including other brands or using music without the proper license could land you in hot water. For actors or subjects on camera, you should also obtain releases that allow you to use their image and likeness in your video. Be aware of these potential issues, and take the right steps in advance to prevent legal issues later.
Make the Shoot Fun!
Ensure that the video shoot breaks from the usual customer routine. Most people are usually nervous and feel awkward in front of a camera. Ensure these people are engaged and relaxed, and having a good time. For interviews, tell a joke. For other videos, consider including a few goofy moments or something fun during the video shoot to lighten the mood.
A great corporate video is the product of quality planning, best practices in video production, and preparing your subjects for excellent performance. Remember that the goals of the production determine everything from the wardrobe, to the tone of the video!
If you’re ready to get your own video, contact us today and let our production team create something amazing for you!
