Earlier this year, I set out to make a corporate bio video, discussing what Indermaur Media is all about. I started the project before the Pandemic (with no beard) and ended up finalizing it with a much-needed haircut and a beard. :) But more importantly, I learned so much from the experience of sitting in front of the camera, instead of my usual position behind it.

In a nutshell, it is hard being a subject!!! I have been an interview subject before, and that seemed to be somewhat easy for me. Probably because it’s much easier to be in conversation with someone else. I have also done a lot of public speaking over the years, and that has helped me communicate more clearly. Put me in front of a camera, as a “client,” using a thoughtfully produced script, then speaking the main points into a camera, was not easy for me.

  1. First, I wrote my script and had it edited by my Producer. Then I used a teleprompter and read my script word-for-word into the camera. This seems easy, right? I’ve used this strategy many times with many subjects and for corporate video projects. But I was not happy with my own outcome. I shared it with a few friends, and some people felt that while I got the words and messages across, it didn’t feel like I was speaking with emotion, from my heart. To me, it felt cold and as if I was reading it from a teleprompter. Well, I was reading from a teleprompter. With mixed ratings, I shelved it for months.

    • I learned that reading from a teleprompter does take practice to make it look and feel natural - with emotion and energy. I have always been a fan of speaking from the heart. Some clients will do better with a teleprompter, some without it. The length of the prepared messaging and the subject's comfort level are two items to consider when creating a video.

  2. For me, I realized that remembering the points I wanted to make, and speaking openly without the use of a teleprompter felt more natural. During this Pandemic, and at home for weeks (without a haircut), I decided to give it a try solo. No assistant, no producer, no teleprompter, and staying on message with my handwritten outline. I took a million takes and gave up very frustrated. Creating a video solo was not going to happen.

    • This experience was a big reminder that having the production crew support - even a very small one - was worth a lot! Being the subject, producer, director of photography, assistant, and the sound engineer was not easy. When what I needed to focus on was my being on camera and delivering my message, and it wasn’t working well. There was too much going on in my head while I was attempting to speak on camera. I must admit I am a perfectionist when it comes to production (one of the finest reasons clients hire me). However, I became even more critical, seeing myself talk on video. Most YouTubers create videos with their computers, but to create videos on their own, I now realize, takes lots of time and practice!

  3. I then asked my producer to assist. A few weeks had passed (my hair got longer) but we finally pushed through! Having a producer/coach really helped me stay on topic, feeling good about directing clear messaging with feeling. Bingo, it worked!

    • A reminder that creating a successful corporate video helps when a focused crew isn't juggling too many balls. Having the production support for staying on message, hitting the highlights, using my energy, and being the focused director I am, ultimately brought the message forward!

The importance of a good video production crew - even a crew of one - can make or break your video. Making the subject feel at ease and assisting them through proper messaging, vision, set, lighting, and expectations before a production begins will streamline the entire process. I can now plan on doing more solo videos, but I won’t do it without assistance!

If you’ve been thinking about your own skillset, or creating some cool videos, let’s do it together.

Scott Indermaur

At Indermaur Media, we specialize in supporting small businesses with tailored creative services that make a big impact. From website development and professional photography to engaging video production, we offer a comprehensive suite of media solutions designed specifically for small business needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your social media presence, elevate your brand visuals, or develop targeted marketing content, we work closely with you to achieve your goals. With a vast international background in creative and marketing services, we bring a unique perspective and expertise that helps small businesses stand out and thrive in any market.

http://www.indermaurmedia.com
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Still Creating During a Pandemic