Video Production
Point, Click, Shoot…not so fast
Content that’s worth watching
Sure. We shoot. We edit. We create content. And we’re pretty good at it; that’s the easy part. The problem is, these days we’re inundated with content…everywhere we look, every time we turn on any device, there’s some form of content being pushed in our faces; and most times we tune it out. When creating content, you need to be aware of this possible reaction and find ways to overcome it. Simply put, you need to make sure your content is worth watching.
You might have a great product, idea, or widget, and that’s awesome, but if you can’t tell a compelling story about said widget, nobody is going to care. The key is connecting with your audience and helping them come to the same conclusion as you; Your widget is awesome! This is accomplished via the art of Storytelling. Yeah, that might sound like a load of pompous, ego-inflated, agency gibberish, but we promise, it’s legit. Storytelling isn’t as simple as telling someone all the facts about a product that make it so amazing. That will dry out your message and make it unwatchable. Instead, weave those facts into a story that walks the viewer down a path heading towards your conclusion. We’re not making arthouse films at Strive and we’re not looking to inflate egos; we’re looking to promote our clients widgets and help them tell their story in a way that makes people pay attention.
The 5 Ws: Elementary Basics
Hope you paid attention in school because, brace yourself…your teachers were right! Who, What, When, Where, Why. These are the basic fundamentals of storytelling. We know it sounds “elementary” and that’s because, well…it is. Part of the discovery process at Strive is to review those facts, as simple as they may be, to ensure we understand your story and can help tell it effectively.
What makes them tick?
Part of great storytelling isn’t just understanding and telling your story, but it’s also thinking about the person listening and what they’re looking for.
We need to remember who is going to watch your content, how they’re going to interpret it, and ultimately what they’re going to do after watching.
Cost conscious, but don’t suck
Today, your campaign needs to be crafted for individual audiences. If it’s a new production for every interaction, your budget will be gone before you even start promoting it. At Strive, we leverage our vertical integration along with our efficiencies in shooting and editing to make sure we can change and repurpose your content without reinventing it.
Don’t Shout, Shout, let it all out.
Nobody likes being yelled at. Ever. But a “tried and true” approach has always been to do just that. Companies sometimes feel like their message won’t be heard unless they emphasize the offer or make it too good to pass up. “Offer ends soon!” “While supplies last!” and our favorite “Limited time only, act now!” While creating a sense of urgency and scarcity can be a beneficial tactic in persuasive communication, it can also be overused. Instead of shouting at someone, try talking to them first. After all, you’re not going to pick up someone at a party by telling them, “You better move fast, I’m not gonna be here for too long…ACT NOW!”
Be Aware, Be Authentic
The most successful storytellers are those who believe in the story they’re telling. It’s not the absence or presence of facts that allow you to believe…it’s the truth behind them. The best advice we can give when telling yours is to know the story you’re telling, think about who you’re telling it to, and be authentic. Your widget is awesome and there are plenty of people who will agree; we want to help you convince them.