Tips and tricks for filming video content independently
Video has become a prominent pillar of investor relations communications, as it can live on multiple platforms and has a myriad of purposes. irlabs works with clients on video content creation, and we have seen first-hand how it garners engagement and conversions (check out some independently filmed video content that we’ve worked on with Adastra on Instagram and Intrepid on LinkedIn). On-site videos provide a look into your world, which puts stakeholders at ease. Whether it’s behind the scenes, “get to know us”, or even something just for the fun of it, video content is the key to letting people into your digital spaces feel like they’re a part of your day. Independent video creation is easier than it may seem and doesn’t require a Hollywood-level budget to get done. Here is a quick step-by-step guide through the most important things to consider when filming video content independently.
Pre-production Planning
Planning before filming can help you avoid a lot of hiccups and delays along the way. Identifying your key messages and objectives and anticipating potential challenges will make the actual filming efforts run much more smoothly. Some planning practices that we recommend are to develop a storyboard for each individual video (and for campaigns if you are doing a multi-video shoot), creating a shot list and identifying filming locations, and securing any necessary permits and permissions for filming. This process will clearly outline the important points you want to express, the visuals you want to include, and the overall tone and style of the video. While it is critical to present information about your client, it is equally critical to create a captivating tale that engages and motivates investors. Concentrate on creating an emotionally powerful tale that resonates with your audience on a human level.
Equipment and Technical Considerations
One of our best pieces of advice for equipment and technical considerations is to ask for help or seek inspiration if you aren’t sure where to start. Your pre-production planning should lead you in the right direction regarding things like film dimensions (horizontal or vertical) or video length depending on what platform you intend to post on. The lighting will change between indoor and outdoor shoots, and the right equipment can help you keep a professional look across all filming locations. When filming in potentially noisy spaces, consider using Bluetooth microphones or other suitable audio equipment for the best possible sound, creating a well-rounded and professional feel to the videos.
Filming Techniques
Filming techniques often align with marketing intentions and are based off your storytelling and vision of the final product. Establishing what shots you will be using for what purpose in the video can help structure the content around the key messages, and filming B-roll footage for variety and visual interest can help lengthen content or add visual details. Including footage of your office, team, and surroundings in your video will provide context and depth, making it more appealing to investors. To make sure that your videos remain polished, utilize a tripod or stabilizer to guarantee smooth and stable footage. This will assist you in capturing professional-looking footage that investors would value.
Post-Production and Editing
Editing is the glue of storytelling when it comes to video content. It pieces together all ideas into a seamless effort to communicate to your viewers exactly what you intend to. Adding subtitles, lower thirds (the bar that pops up across the bottom of a screen providing context like someone’s name, a place, etc.), or music will take a video from good to great. You can do all of this with some basic editing techniques and tips and get inspiration from your favourite video content creators to make decisions on how you want your editing to read to your viewers.
The best way to get started creating independent video content is to get planning and start filming. You’ll start to learn your preferences along the way and can experiment with styles and content by keeping track of impressions and engagement on different types of videos. We encourage our clients to get started with video content ASAP as it continues to sweep the IR world with impactful metrics.
Lights, camera, action! irlabs can help you get your IR video strategy and planning on track with more hands-on resources and a team of investor relations experts by your side. Reach out to us at happyinvestors@irlabs.ca or visit irlabs.ca for more information.
