Visual Storytelling for Community Banks: The MVBofC Project

This trailer video introduces the project that includes a total of 4 videos and photography.

I worked on yet another inspiring Community Bank story with FHLBank of Topeka. As a photographer, videographer, and producer, there's nothing quite like the thrill of traveling across the country, connecting with local communities, and crafting stories that highlight a community bank's impact on its community. Over the years, I've completed dozens of these projects, each bringing a unique and rewarding experience. The project with Mountain View Bank of Commerce outside Denver, Colorado, was no exception.

The Story Behind the Story

Mountain View Bank of Commerce (MVBofC) stands out from the crowd with its dedicated focus on supporting small businesses. This isn't your typical bank that primarily lends to consumers—MVBofC's mission is deeply rooted in empowering local businesses and their entrepreneurial spirit, and we were tasked with telling this story in a way that truly resonated with the community.

Before we even set foot in Colorado, I had several planning meetings with FHLBank and MVBofC to ensure we were all aligned on the vision. This preparation phase is crucial; it's where we identify the key businesses and stories that will best illustrate the bank's impact, the two bank's brands, and the Westminster community. MVBofC serves a significant portion of Colorado, so we had plenty of ground to cover, but with the help of the bank, we zeroed in on a handful of businesses that perfectly captured the essence of MVBofC's role in the community.

Hitting the Ground Running in Colorado

With a solid plan in place, my team of three flew out to Colorado, ready to dive into three days of intensive filming and photography. The goal? To create a compelling 12-minute video, along with a dynamic trailer and two additional short videos. These would be used to promote FHLBank of Topeka and highlight why MVBofC was awarded the 2024 Community Leader Award.

We made sure to leave time in our schedule to capture what Colorado is known for, its breathtaking landscapes, and we made sure to capture that beauty as a backdrop to our story. Snow-capped mountains, vibrant trails, and outdoor activities provided a perfect setting to showcase the community. But it wasn't just about the scenery. We focused on the people and businesses that MVBofC supports—each with a unique story to tell.

One of the most powerful stories came from a local developer rebuilding homes lost in a devastating Marshall fire. His resilience and commitment to restoring his community were nothing short of inspiring, and it was clear that MVBofC's support played a crucial role in his efforts. This was precisely the kind of story we wanted to highlight—a story of recovery, rebuilding, and community spirit.

Another standout was the Communications and Media Manager of a local nonprofit, Fish of Westminster. She began volunteering there as a child and is now the Communications and Media Manager. Her passion for its mission is evident in every word she speaks. Capturing her story on video reminded me of why I love what I do. There's something incredibly fulfilling about documenting the drive and dedication of individuals who make a difference in their communities.

Rolling with the Punches

Of course, no project is without its challenges, but that's all part of the adventure. Whether it's a last-minute schedule change or stumbling upon an unexpected gem in the community that needs to be captured, my team and I always roll with the punches. The minor hiccups we encountered were easily navigated with a bit of creativity and flexibility, ensuring that the final product was nothing short of stellar.

Why Community Banking Stories Matter

Corporate videos for community banks hold a special place in my heart. These projects are more than just work for me—they're an opportunity to showcase the vitality of communities and the businesses that keep them thriving. I have a deep-seated passion for community and small business, one that's been with me since childhood. Hearing and capturing the success stories that make each community unique and vibrant is a joy.

If you're in the banking industry and looking to create a compelling narrative around your community efforts, I'd love to help. With experience spanning the country and a knack for storytelling, I can produce a project and deliver video and photography that captures the essence of your brand and resonates with your audience.

Let's connect and create something truly memorable for your bank, non-profit, corporation, or small business!

Deliverables

In addition to capturing the stunning landscapes and engaging community stories, our project deliverables for Mountain View Bank of Commerce included several key pieces:

• Photography: Each subject featured in our videos was also professionally photographed, providing a rich visual narrative that complements the video content.

 • Main Video: A comprehensive 15-minute video that tells the full story of the bank’s impact on the community and shares success stories from local small businesses.

 • Trailer Video: A dynamic trailer introducing the project.

 • Make a Difference Day Video: This focused video features the non-profit Fish of Westminster and highlights the bank’s community involvement.

 • Testimonial Video: A compilation of positive quotes from local business owners, showcasing their experiences with the bank and the community.

These deliverables provide a well-rounded media package that effectively communicates the bank’s contributions to the community and its lasting impact.