FREE tips for producing video that sells:

1) Planning. Definately No. 1 on any video producers list. Good video is the end result of a lot of careful planning. Assign a Producer (preferably with previous experience) to the project. He or she will be responsible for a long list of jobs. Here is an abbreviated list, for a full list read the Video section in our 'Marketing Techniques Which Work 2008' guide - email your request to me here (put 'Top Tips' in the subject line) and we will send it back to you asap.:

• A script, showing in written form what filming is required including camera angles and shot sizes and/or a storyboard, showing the intended shots in the form of drawings.
  
  
• Location - check out each location for suitability. Is there enough light? Is it quiet enough? Is there enough space? Do you need permission to film there?
  
  
• A checklist of equipment (no space for this here but contact me if you want to know more).

• Do you need anything else (eg props, set build, costumes etc)?
  
  
• Will you need transport, parking?
  
  
• A shooting schedule indicating what will be filmed, where, and when.

• Will the people, equipment and facilities you need will be available when you want to film?
  
  
• Have you planned for time to preview, select and edit clips?

For a more useful list, contact me and we can produce a bespoke Production Plan for your project.

2) Talent. Talent is the term the industry uses for actors. Wherever possible, if there is a speaking part, please consider using a professional actor. However fantastic your Head of Sales is in front of customers, there is something about a camera which turns human beings into planks of wood! The same applies to Crew. John in Accounts is brilliant at doing weddings and is enthusiastic, free and got a whizzy new camera for Xmas, but nothing beats the quality of a professional crew using professional gear - and yes, your customers will notice the difference.

3) Content. Keep it really simple. Stick to one or two core concepts per film. Repeat your key points at least three times in different ways - show it, say it write it. Get into the point of your film as quickly as possible - avoid long intro's. Be ruthless in the editing.

4) Length. Make it as short as it can be. Our first movie above is only 2 mins but gets the message across. If it must be long then break it down into chapters.