There are many elements and factors that go into making a great video. I can’t possibly share them all here, but I will show you how to think creatively and design your video to be a sales pitch. After all, the more selling your videos and presentation materials can do on the front end, the less selling you will have to do on the backend.
The Camera
The camera you use does not have to be an expensive “uppidy” camera, but it needs to be something high quality enough that can capture you clearly. You don’t want your video to be fuzzy or unsteady. That will come off looking very unprofessional and you might get misunderstood as not taking your artistry seriously.
The Environment/Background
Put some creativity into your backdrop. Will the video show you performing at a venue? Will you be in a park, or a warehouse, or possibly a theater? You don’t have much freedom at venues, but you can get creative if you film in other places. I’ve seen someone film a video in a backyard shed. It was dark and grimy but it went with the overall theme of the song and so it was awfully perfect. Simple backgrounds could work too, such as filming in front of a brightly colored wall. Whatever you choose, think about what it will look to the person seeing it from the other side. Make sure everything in the shot has a purpose. Another very important point to remember is light. Unless you have a good reason, your set should be well lit. There is nothing worse than seeing a promo video that is too dark and too hard to make out. You should portray yourself in the best possible light, pun intended.
The Song/Performance
More than likely you want to go with a medium to up tempo song. The idea here is to keep the person’s attention. A fast upbeat song can help encourage your viewers to clap, sing along, tap their feet, and dance along with you. Before long, they will realize they are enjoying you. It’s easier to sell someone when they are having a good time.
On the other hand, if you have really strong, sexy vocals and energy that can keep people’s attention, by all means go for the ballads. A slow song would work great in this instance.
The Editing
Editing can make or break your video. Editing can make or break your video. It wasn’t a mistake. I said it twice. A song is usually 2 to 3 minutes. That can be a really long time if you’re not entertained. Proper editing can help bring liveliness to your videos. Panning, zooming, cutaways, fades, and even title slides at the beginning and end can add energy to an otherwise boring video. A combination of wide shots and close-ups are a great way to bring a little diversity to your scenes. Don’t be afraid to use these features. Another way to add diversity is including still images with a Ken Burns effect.
Your Persona
This is not the time to be shy. This is the time to exaggerate your personality. Be funny. Be witty. Be energetic. Be bold. Energy is what your audience feeds on, and it is what your viewers feed on as well. Unfortunately, it is really difficult for the camera to pick up on energy so you have to work harder to convey it. For example, if you like to turn your head to the side at a certain part in the song, make sure to do it with more spunk and animation for the camera so your viewers can get the feeling of what you’re trying to say.
Consider your wardrobe when filming. Put some thought into it and wear something interesting that speaks to your brand. Your live performance is more than just the sounds you make. With your videos, you have sound and visuals to use to your advantage.
Other things worth mentioning
If you are filming yourself performing at a venue, it may be worth considering video testimonials from audience members. After your show, grab some folks from the audience and ask them to give a quick interview about their experience. They will be believable because hopefully by then you have wowed them and they will be able to share that on camera.
Creativity and uniqueness will take you a long way. Push the envelope and try new things.
Don’t miss any opportunities. Think about what you’re singing about and figure out a way to visually introduce those elements into the film artistically.
Here are some great promo video examples:
Film is an artistic medium and there are a lot of things you can do with it. The opportunities are endless. Don’t be afraid to showcase your creativity through your promo videos. The main objective is to make yourself look as professional as possible while being entertaining.
Need help with your video? Share your thoughts in the comment section or contact me here.
