As I have mentioned in previous posts, I am working with Scottsdale Bible Church to help them develop the use of social media, and blogging technologies, within their church's website.
One of the things we determined, very early on, is that we wanted to use a great deal of video to capture the stories, events, and heart-felt glimpses of lives changed. Video can accomplish these things like no other medium.
We have been doing a fair amount of experimentation to obtain the quality of product we are looking for, yet keeping the expense, and the hassle factor low.
The video below was captured using:
- a Flip Video Ultra HD ($199)
- a tripod ($30)
- two photographic lights (not required)
- a photographic backdrop (not required)
Please understand, the lights and backdrop are not necessary, but given the amount of video that we plan to shoot, it was decided to set up a dedicated, unused office to house our little studio. I think, when you see the quality of video that we obtained through our little Flip Video, you will agree this was a good decision.
You will also notice that we are using a "phantom voice" type interview, where I am behind the camera asking questions. This type of interview allows for very easy setup, greatly reduces the need for additional microphone equipment, lighting, seating, and camera equipment. Although it may seem a little awkward to have this voice booming from the background, it does allow you to focus on your subject.
It is certainly possible to do these films with the subject simply speaking to the camera, and telling her story, but having the interviewer involved in the conversation, reduces a great deal of stress, on the part of the subject.
Marketing take-away: how could you use these types of video communications to better inform your patrons, and invite them into a deeper relationship with your organization?
