Last week we presented what candidates should expect while at their film shoot. Touching on the same topic – and given that right now is the time to be filming campaign videos – we are providing insight into how candidates and their teams should prepare ahead of a video shoot.
Review the Script
At Victory Enterprises, it is our team’s practice to write and present several video scripts to our clients at least a week before their shoot. Not only does this allow the candidate to familiarize themselves with the lines and message, it gives them a chance to edit and customize the script to their liking.
We don’t expect anyone to memorize full scripts, but we want you to review the lines at least a few times. We’re always prepared with a teleprompter so that candidates can read their lines into the camera. We realize candidates will have varying degrees of comfort in front of the bright lights, and we’ll always do our part to make you feel at ease.
Scout Out Locations
The locations of your film shoot should be a reflection of your message. Imagery at farms, main street small businesses, parks, diners and schools or playgrounds all help reinforce your underlying message. The point of location shots is to help tell a visual story that the narration may not. Put together some ideas and plan ahead to stop by those spots on the day of your shoot.
Recruit Extras
Having extras on hand adds substance to your visualizations. You’ve laid out the locations, so now you need to consider people who can stand with you to help tell your story. If you’re at a farm, it makes sense to invite the farm owner to be part of your shoot. If you are talking about safety issues, invite a police officer or fireman in uniform to join you, or if you’re at a playground ask friends or family with children to meet you for an hour.
It is not necessary to have a large cast of extras – just a few people at each location that can lend support to the message and background.
Get Permission
Locations like parks or down a community main street are publically accessible to all and don’t require permission to film, but be SURE to have permission if you are planning on being at a specific location. For example, don’t use the likeness of a family farm or local police station if you do not have permission from the farmer or police department to use a shot of a barn or a squad car. Always err on the side of caution and seek out friends or acquaintances who are willing to let you have complete access to their location.
If you’re making last-minute plans to film a tv or digital ad, reach out to Ben Muehleisen, our head of production, via e-mail at: ben@victoryenterprises.com