Turn Off The Dark, but leave the video!

If you have not seen Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark on Broadway yet, what are you waiting for? For a life-long Broadway fan that has seen many shows over the years, I must say this was one of the most unique! It took traditional Broadway and pumped it up with U2's pounding music, amazing acrobatics, and of course, what caught my eye - amazingly choreographed video screens. As I watched the fabulous animations and graphics fly across the screens, I was immediately impressed by the production quality, but who would expect anything less from the Great White Way? But when I realized how the floor to ceiling screens were gliding across the floor, switching places with each other in a perfectly timed choreographed routine while the images remained in the correct order to show the full panoramic scene, I began thinking about the time and skill involved in creating this masterpiece. All this time, my 7 year old sat, mouth agape, mesmerized by his hero flying through the air, defeating the Green Goblin.

So this show has me thinking, what other ways  can we use video to enhance our every day activities? You might not be directing a show of Broadway caliber, but what about your company's annual dinner? Or perhaps, a local talent showcase? A trade show, conference or expo is a terrific opportunity to use video in unconventional ways! Your budget might not include choreographed, floor to ceiling video panels, but a creatively shot & edited video shown on a large flat screen TV might achieve the same affect for your audience. Try thinking outside the box when it comes to planning your next event. Think about how you can use video in a non-traditional way to deliver your message to your audience.

Video Focus: 1 Day MBA

People often tell us they're planning a big event and want to use video, but don't know how. What is the best way to use video to generate a buzz when it comes to events, seminars, fundraisers, etc.? We feel the post-event recap/promo video is the way to go. It is the most cost effective use of video in the event industry.

We have combined a recap of the event and a promotional video for future events into one piece. It serves both purposes very well and the event planner doesn't have to pay double the price.

What should a good recap/promo video include? While we typically encourage at least two-camera coverage of any major event, we find that one-camera coverage is sufficient in this case. The camera can be mobile and capture snippets of each presenter, crowd interactions, exhibition booths if needed and even testimonials from sponsors, exhibitors and attendees. All of these elements can be woven into a brief video featuring the story (how the event came together and the plans for the future), the "what's-in-it-for-me" factor (benefits, highlights, memorable moments) and can even include details on when the next event will be or where people can go to find out about future events.