While artificial intelligence won’t replace a seasoned scriptwriter or a creative camera operator, AI is a tool that enables you to have your own branded video or a podcast—in no time!

How easy is it to have a podcast?

In the link below, we entered our website https://avconsultants.com/  into an AI tool. Within minutes, synthesized voices of male and female commentators created a podcast—similar to a radio show. We just added an image so that it could be listened to on Youtube.

An AI generated explainer video made by entering our URL.

AI Narration for Video Production

Audio Visual Consultants recently produced a five-minute biography video for a client. We used an AI voice and manipulated it through several drafts. We chose a “male resonant voice.” We were able to adjust inflection and speed. The downside is that you can’t direct the robot. The script included an unusual name and despite several tries, the robot still did not pronounce the name correctly. Listen to 30-seconds of AI narration.

THE PROS AND CONS OF AI NARRATION

AVC’s AI program

We can teach you to make your own AI videos or podcasts. We can make them for you, and we can discuss options. We made a radio show type podcast with two AI “newscasters” discussing your website. Using similar artificial intelligence, we made a simple explainer video.  We saved a client nearly $1000 by using AI narration instead of a human. (Sorry voice actors who we usually audition and hire.)

But why not give it a try yourselves. In less than an hour of our time we can show you how.  We can use data from your website—simply by entering your website address (URL).  That is an inexpensive and quick way. Provide details about your project or goal, and we’ll write a script for you.   

AI is new. We all are learning how to use it effectively and efficiently.

Whether it is quick and simple podcast or a media production with specific language and imagery, let’s talk.  Are you ready to explore how AI can enhance your reach? We are ready to talk. And available to walk you through the process.

Podcasts for Promotion with AI

Special effects for a fast-paced “Save the Date” video for a nonprofit

Human intelligence, not AI, produced this video. AVC Video’s editor, Mitch Silver used client-provided images and licensed music to create this video.

Video without a camera

Mitch, who we call our “senior” video editor, put this mini documentary together for a client. Stu Sweetow (me), together with the client, wrote the script. Mitch created the motion graphics, and the client provided their video clips. Some stock images were selected together with the client.

Please call or email to discuss your ideas—AI or human intelligence. No pressure. No spam. Your ideas and our skills and experience can help your organization advance.

Stu Sweetow

Mobile: 510-682-1147 sweetow@avconsultants.com

Textbook examples of video usage in the second quarter of the 21st century. Stu Sweetow wrote the book!

Copyright 2017 by Taylor & Francis

MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Introduction

Video has been an essential tool for corporate marketing from the start. From TV commercials to sales support clips, video helps to show products and demonstrate the importance of services. With the advent of streaming video and the explosion of social media, corporate video use has increased dramatically. A 2014 study from cloud provider-Brightcove found that 76% of consumers cite video as their preferred content source for consuming brand information. 44% said video is the most “appealing” form of media, with such terms as “engaging, sharing, authentic and shareable” listed as reasons for trusting video content versus other forms of brand communication.

Peruse the websites of major corporations, and you’ll probably find a video link either on the home page or at most a click or two away. General Electric has a 1:56-minute video on smart grid technology that includes customer testimonials from both consumers and industrial clients. German electronics giant Siemens has five videos that document new gas turbine technology that the company says provides higher efficiency for a greener future. Home Depot has a 22-second Quick Project Tips video on how to use a potato to remove a broken light bulb from a socket. Users may click to share this video via e-mail, instant messaging, Facebook, and Twitter—mediums of communication that didn’t even exist a few years ago.

A 2014 University of Massachusetts study measured the engagement of corporations with customers via social media. The study showed that 67% of corporations had YouTube accounts. Twitter accounts were held by 83% and Facebook got 80% of corporations using their accounts.

According to eMarketer senior analyst Jeffrey Grau, “Retailers are making the case that videos boost their sales conversion rate, a measure of the increase in the percentage of shoppers who make a purchase after viewing a product video. Retailers also claim videos reduce shopping cart abandonment rates and diminish product return rates.”

Some corporations utilize innovative engagement tools for their website videos such as user-clickable overlays that lead to shopping cart purchases. User-generated content (UGC) web-sites let enthusiastic buyers tout products’ benefits with their homemade video testimonials. And nearly every corporation that produces TV commercials uses YouTube to widen their distribution of them and encourage sharing among their followers.

YouTube for the Enterprise

Have you visited YouTube lately? It’s more than just human skateboards and iPhones in blenders. Corporations have embraced this home-brewed social network and are gaining customers without paying for airtime. Some use the platform to publicize their social responsibility programs. Go through the list of the largest worldwide corporations, and nearly every one uses YouTube to engage with the public.

AT&T shows their TV commercials, but they also post videos of their employment diversity programs. Wal-Mart also shows commercials, and they have clips about organic produce and wind harvesting. BP ran a series of videos explaining their progress in containing the Gulf oil spill. Many of these companies have links to their YouTube clips right from their home pages.

On the Ford Motor Company YouTube page, you can watch their commercials and some cute videos, such as the one comparing a Fiesta to a Lamborghini, and a silly series about a zombie. However, you can also see their own Scott Monty, who claims to be the “Head of Social Media” at Ford. He says on-camera, “The social media strategy at Ford is about humanizing the company by connecting our employees to our constituents and with each other when possible and providing value along the way.”

Ford’s Monty knows about YouTube’s captions tool because you have the option of turning on captions when you watch his video. YouTube employs voice recognition, technology from Google Voice, to create captions for the hearing impaired and to display text translations. As of this writing, the voice recognition display included some humorous inaccuracies, but their heart is in the right place. Captions are text that Google searches for when users enter keywords. Video producers can enter the script of the text as part of the metadata with a YouTube video, and potential customers who perform a keyword search could find the video.

According to YouTube, “YouTube overall, and even YouTube on mobile alone, reaches more 18-49 year-olds than any cable network in the U.S.”  Major corporations that once relished the exposure that broadcast television brought them are now moving their sights to YouTube’s vast audience. YouTube and other social media sites facilitate “narrow-casting,” where companies can target specific markets. Users with particular interests gravitate to those YouTube’s categories that pique their curiosity.

Look at the growing number of do-it-yourselfers. Users log 35 million searches a month on YouTube just for “how-to” videos. Most companies can find some area of interest to the do-it-yourselfer, whether it is how to remove a broken light bulb or how to invest your money wisely. How-to videos are the content that consumers crave, and they are a portal to the enterprise website with new brands to promote, the locations of the nearest stores, or community programs the company has adopted.

Some companies develop a community of customers and supporters by asking visitors to subscribe to their YouTube channels. This offers even more exposure to the company’s brand because each of the subscribers gets e-mails every time you post a new video.

Read more at https://avconsultants.com/corporate-video-production-book-second-edition/

Video streaming is an amazing technology that lets viewers virtually attend a San Francisco video production event or conference, from the comfort of their homes. Digital content may be streamed to the end users in three different ways:

1. On Demand (or video on demand–VOD),
2. Live streaming in real time
3. Hybrid, where remote participants can be seen at the site where the event or conference is presented.

On Demand

Netflix, Max and the other entertainment providers allow their subscribers to watch videos when they want to, rather than having to watch at prescribed times. That is their advantage over network and cable television, and they use the term On Demand, which is what we, in the video industry have called watching videotapes—video on demand (VOD).

Pros: Who wouldn’t want something “on demand?” We are all kings and queens of our living rooms, and the TV remote is our magic wand. Commercial and event video producers use YouTube, Vimeo and other services for their clients to click and view on demand.

Cons: This is not live. If there is a need for live video, such as when remote presenters need to be seen by the local viewers, video on demand does not fit the bill. For some events, you may want to extend the excitement to remote viewers. It can be engaging to watch an event at the same time as the local audience.

Live Streaming

The pandemic popularized live streaming, but it has been used by organizations such as Oakland Video Production company Audio Visual Consultants much earlier. Once broadband internet became ubiquitous, YouTube, Facebook and other social media offered online video channels, and everyone wanted their own TV show. Some of these adventurers became “influencers” and some got so many “followers” that they made money with ads sold by the social media companies.

Live streaming can be as simple as someone with a smartphone and a social media account. There may be limits to the sound quality, and the static “talking head” shot can bore viewers.

Professional live streaming frequently includes two or more cameras with live switching. In addition to switching between the cameras, a switcher can be loaded with photos, logo, graphics, animations—even music and narration. Much like a TV show, live streaming events are scripted and include a variety of visuals to maintain viewer engagement.

Pros: Viewers have learned to expect scripted programs with visual variety and clear audio. A professionally produced, live streaming webcast can have all the elements of a high-budget TV show. An experienced producer knows how to use newer technologies to deliver top notch programming, without the expense of studios and satellite transmitters. Cons: Viewers in different time zones may be inconvenienced by having to watch a program very late at night or very early in the morning. For example, if you schedule an event to start at 7:00 to 9:00 pm in San Francisco, viewers on the east coast will have to stay up until midnight to see it all. A 7:00 am breakfast seminar in New York would require San Franciscans to arise early enough to view it at 4:00 am Pacific Time.

Hybrid

Live streaming that includes remote presenters, even a keynote speaker, shown on a large screen to the audience, is considered a hybrid webcast. In many cases, participants have the option of either going to the venue or joining from their computers. The pros and cons of hybrid are much the same as live streaming.

Audio is a major consideration when planning a hybrid streaming event. It is easy for feedback to be introduced when a remote presenter is projected on a screen. The presenter’s audio goes through the house sound system, and a sound technician needs to adjust the audio to eliminate feedback. Additionally, anyone who may be using their laptop or mobile device in the room, may cause an echo if their speaker is on. That is why “Audio” is the first name in the Bay Area Video Production company, Audio Visual Consultants.

Downloadable Video

As an adjunct to live streaming, a high-resolution video and audio recording is usually produced. Sometimes, the producer will perform some editing to add graphics and music, and generally smooth over any rough spots.

Pros: The viewer has their own copy of the video, usually as an MP4 file. It resides on their computer, and they may make backup copies as an archive. While video and audio quality can sometimes be compromised during live streaming, a downloadable video is usually free of those anomalies. If needed, the video editor may employ some audio and video filters to make a high-quality video.

Cons: This is not live, as with on-demand streaming. Since the video gets downloaded to the users’ computers, it takes up storage space on those computers. Downloads can take a long time to complete, especially with slower internet connections.

Conclusion

Video streaming is a remarkable technology that lets users watch videos live, in real time, as if they are in the room with the presenters. Streaming eliminates the need to take up computer storage space, although some users may want to both stream and download. It saves on travel expenses and can help protect the environment from the byproducts of travel.

While live streaming offers the excitement of virtually attending an event from home, video on demand and downloadable files give the viewer choices on when to view the program. When the content is on your computer, it may be shared, revised, repurposed and distributed.

Oakland’s video production company, Audio Visual Consultants is rated as one of the top San Francisco Bay Area online video producers. Whether it is On Demand video production, Live Streaming or Hybrid video, AV Consultants has the experience and knowledge with internet video.

See samples of video streaming

Audio Visual Consultants 510-839-2020

Audio Visual Consultants’ San Francisco Bay Area video production services include scriptwriting or script consultation when clients write their own scripts. AVC Video offers Bay Area videography on location. Professional cameras, microphones and lighting are part of Audio Visual Consultants location filming package. 

For these videos, AVC Video contracted with a professional voice-over narrator. We send the client demos from narrators we like, and the client chooses which one they like. We direct the audio recording session.

Oakland video production editor, Mitch Silver, who provides video post production for Audio Visual Consultants, which includes the video special effects used in these video.

Video marketing in the San Francisco Bay Area is a service we provide, along with our partner digital marketing professionals. We post clients’ videos to our YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages. Our marketing partners can help with other social media platforms and targeted advertising.

Sandre Swanson for State Senate

Here is the campaign statement from Mr. Swanson’s website :

OUR COMMUNITY has a rich history of progressive politics and electing great community leaders that put the interest of the public first.  As an Assemblymember, Sandré R. Swanson has been a champion for social and economic justice.  His record of service to our community has helped the East Bay remain the progressive conscience of California.

About Sandré 

As a young activist, Sandré worked for Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm’s Presidential Campaign in California.  This was his introduction to the campaign experience.  As a result of joining this historic campaign, Sandré met another young activist — Barbara Lee.  They became and remain lifelong friends.

Before Sandré was elected to represent the cities of Oakland, Alameda and Piedmont in the California Assembly, he served five years as Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Barbara Lee.   Sandré started his government service as an entry‐level Legislative Aide, promoted to District Director and Senior Policy Advisor for Congressman Ronald V. Dellums during his 25 years of service.  Following his terms in the California Legislature, Sandré served as Deputy Mayor for the City of Oakland during the administration of Mayor Jean Quan.  He has held a number of civic and community leadership positions.  Sandré served as Chair of the Alameda County Employee’s Retirement Association, ACERA; Chair of the Oakland Civil Service Commission; Chair of the Oakland Re‐Use and Redevelopment Authority; Vice Chair of the City of Alameda Re‐Authority; and Chair of the City of Alameda Golf Commission.

Of all of his community experience, Sandré has stated that his most enjoyable and exciting assignment was serving as the coordinator for Nelson Mandela’s historic visit to Oakland.  He organized the celebration that brough 60,000 people to the Oakland Coliseum in 1990 to welcome Mr. Mandela following his release from a South African prison.

Sandré was born in Oakland California at Highland Hospital.  Sandré and his wife Anita live in Oakland and have four adult children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

https://www.sandreswanson.net/

Tyron Jordan for Oakland City Council

This video is an example of a campaign video production by Audio Visual Consultants Oakland Video Production company. This production included setting up a pro camera, microphone and lighting to professionally film Mr. Jordan speaking to the camera. We use highly-experienced videographers. During filming, we film several “takes” until we get the video that satisfies the client. The client supervises the video shoot as well as the video editing. 

AVC Video editing includes video enhancements to bring out the best color and contrast. We add lower-third titles that display the speaker’s name and other information. Viewers may turn on captioning while they watch the video.

The finished product is a high-resolution video that the client may upload to their YouTube page, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Here is Tyron Jordan’s campaign statement.

Tyron is running for Oakland City Council District 3 Seat, for the same reasons he ran for Mayor of Oakland in 2022. He sees a city with all the qualities necessary to be world class, but he believes stronger, responsive, proactive, and transparent government is essential in order to produce positive results.

His website is https://www.tyronjordanforoakland.com

About Audio Visual Consultants

In the San Francisco Bay Area Audio Visual Consultants, also known as AVC Video has a long history of providing video production services in Oakland and the world. In San Francisco live streaming was requested and we live stream to Zoom and Facebook. Bay area videographers, video production directing, professional cameras and experienced camera operators are part of our team. 

Video post production and video editing creates a finished and polished video. AVC Video has tools to optimize the color, the sharpness and the contrast so the video almost pops out of the screen into the viewers’ mind. We let our clients see drafts of the edited videos, so we can work as a team to craft the best video possible.

This is an election year. If you know of a candidate, anywhere in the US, who is running for office, please let us know. You may email Stu Sweetow at sweetow@avconsultants.com

Visit Audio Visual Consultants’ website to see more samples and learn from our blogs and articles. https://avconsultants.com/

Threads, the new social app from Meta (Facebook), currently works only on mobile devices, and it requires an Instagram account. To use Threads, go to apps on your Android or iPhone or iPad and download the free Threads app. Open your Instagram account, then open the Threads app. The app is new, and additional features probably be added. The information here is current as of this writing.

Google’s Bard lets artificial intelligence write for you.

The following was written by Bard, Google’s AI Chatbot writing platform. I asked it to describe how to use video on Threads. I added my comments in bold.

Threads can be a great way to market your business or brand. Here are a few ideas:

• Share behind-the-scenes content. Give your followers a glimpse into your day-to-day operations, from brainstorming sessions to product development to customer service. This will help them feel more connected to your brand and build trust.
• Host Q&As. Answer your followers’ questions about your products, services, or industry. This is a great way to show off your expertise and build relationships with your audience.
• Run contests and giveaways. This is a fun way to generate excitement and engagement around your brand. Just be sure to have clear rules and guidelines, and make sure the prizes are relevant to your target audience.
• Promote your other social media channels. Share links to your Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other accounts to drive traffic to your other platforms. You need an Instagram account to sign up for Threads.

To post videos on Threads, you can either record them directly in the app or import them from your camera roll. When you’re creating a video post, you can add text, stickers, and filters. You can also choose to share the video with your followers on Instagram or keep it private.

Here are some tips for posting videos on Threads:

• Keep your videos short and sweet. People are more likely to watch a short video than a long one. Threads has a five-minute limit to videos posted directly, but you can post a link to your video on YouTube or a similar video hosting site.
• Use high-quality video. Make sure your videos are clear and well-lit.

From Stu: Don’t forget the audio. Use an external microphone or earbuds that have a microphone 

• Add text and stickers to your videos. This can help to make them more engaging and visually appealing.
• Share your videos with your followers on Instagram. This will help to reach a wider audience.

Here are some examples of how businesses are using Threads for marketing:

• Nike: Nike uses Threads to share behind-the-scenes content from its product photoshoots and to host Q&As with athletes.
• Glossier: Glossier uses Threads to share product tutorials, beauty tips, and stories from its customers.
• Airbnb: Airbnb uses Threads to share travel inspiration, tips, and stories from its hosts and guests.

Threads is a relatively new platform, so it’s still up for grabs. If you’re looking for a way to connect with your audience on a more personal level, Threads is a great option. 

If you are concerned about privacy, note that, Threads can collect personal information. While Threads states they are available in over 100 countries, the European Union currently does not allow Threads, due to strict data privacy rules. 

The following was written by a human, Stu Sweetow

Threads currently works only on mobile devices. If you want to see my Thread posts, please go to apps on your Android or iPhone or iPad and download the free Threads app. You will need an Instagram account to use Threads. My Threads name is stu_sweetow.

Threads links to your Instagram page where you have more tools

Instagram has more features than Threads and Threads currently works only with mobile. This is the link to my Instagram account, accessible on a PC or mobile device. https://www.instagram.com/stu_sweetow/?hl=en  You’ll have to use a mobile device to see my Threads account stu_sweetow

Instagram video was previously known as IGTV

In 2021, Instagram stopped using IGTV as a separate app. They incorporated video into the existing Instagram app. It is designed for mobile phones. While PC computers display at 16:9 widescreen, Instagram video is 9:16. Once you open the Instagram app on your phone, a video (or “reel”) will play right away.

How to import an existing 16:9 video from a pro camera, into an Instagram 9×16 image

Our client asked us to create Instagram videos from their exiting productions, shot with a widescreen 16:9 camera. We added a title on the top and added captions on the bottom of the screen. We also did a little cropping of the client’s video so it would fill the remaining middle section of the 9:16 image.

Rather than use auto-captioning, we typed the captions to make it easier to read. New sentences or phrases are shown on subsequent screens. Auto-captioning can be difficult to follow because it doesn’t care about the reader. It is just an AI robot. 

Return to Workplace or Work from Home?

The pandemic, for all its tragedies, enabled many employees, especially those working in technology, to do their jobs from home. IT departments ramped up their intranets with such tools as social media, video chat and project collaboration—with employees working in their pajamas with the refrigerator nearby. Or, for many, with their children at their feet.

As the pandemic eases, many employers are demanding that their employees get their butts back into the building or risk their jobs. Meetings that were all virtual are now all in-person. Fortunately, most enterprises have adopted a hybrid model; staffers may work from home some days and go into the office on others.

The question of conducting meetings in-house, all online or hybrid has yet to be answered. Let’s take a look at some research that may help us understand some directions that companies may be moving to in the use of hybrid video streaming.

Report on the Future of Hybrid Video Streaming

The use of video rose dramatically between 2021 and 2022, according to the “Enterprise Video Trends” studies. Video for internal communications was used only 15% of the time in 2021. It rose to 41% in 2022.

The pandemic spawned virtual meetings, such as Zoom, and expanded the word “hybrid” to define meetings that were both in person and streamed. Now that workers are returning to the office, will conferences continue their hybrid moniker?

The Help Me Stream Research Foundation, together with StreamingMedia.com, conducted studies in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Tim Siglin reported in Streaming Media Magazine the results of the study, titled “Enterprise Video Trends 2022.” According to Siglin, 40% of employee survey respondents stated that they anticipated attending more virtual meetings in the coming 18 months. 

As for the intent of the employers, Siglin writes “companies were pushing their workforce to return the office full time and therefore downplayed the option of hybrid meetings.” This disparity aligns with news reports of employees wishing to work from home while their companies are asking them to return to the office.

Live Streaming or Video on Demand

Video On Demand (VOD) simply refers to viewing video recordings of meetings after the event, rather than via live streaming. While the excitement of an event showcasing a new product prompts viewers to want to watch a meeting in real time, the more prosaic business meetings, with reports and figures, can be equally as effective if viewed days later. While the term, Video on Demand, seems dictatorial, it started with playing a videotape in a VCR. Now, viewers get their videos online.

Should employees be required to attend a meeting at a specific time, even if it is live streamed virtually? Would workers be more efficient if they could watch a video at a time that suits them? Inevitably, there will be times when an employee cannot be in two places at once. Offering the option of VOD reduces the chance that staffers may have to cancel a meeting with an important client because their employer has required them to join a meeting, whether in person or live streamed.

Survey Results of Live Streaming Versus Video on Demand (VOD)

According to the “Enterprise Video Trends 2022” study on video use for internal communication, companies preferred live streaming (59%) over video on demand ( 41%). The stats for external communication were not much different: 57% for live streaming and 43% for VOD. According to Siglin, “The growth in on-demand consumption of enterprise video may explain why companies like Zoom…are shrinking.”

The report added that some survey respondents cited frustration with virtual meeting platforms. Rather than considering a hybrid or an all-virtual meeting, they would rather attend in person to benefit from individual conversations with other attendees and panelists. Video on demand gives them the opportunity to watch the sessions at their convenience.

Zooming Up and Zooming Down

An IPO in 2019, Zoom tripled in size in two years. Started by former Webex manager Eric Yuan, the meteoric rise in its use required the company to quickly mobilize to handle the increase in demand. Zoom developed a platform to remove the hurdles that kept users away from the existing virtual video platforms. Online video got a boost when both consumers and enterprises adopted Zoom as their go-to virtual meeting mechanism.

As the pandemic eases and workers return to the office, Zoom is suffering a downturn. With declining ad sales and expanding interest rates, the company reported a 15% reduction in its workforce. 

Will Online Platforms Provide Advanced Features That Mimic Live Meetings

To keep employees and consumers connecting virtually, we may see platforms like Zoom offer such features as side conversations, ad-hoc meetings, and advanced green rooms. To bring back users to virtual and hybrid meetings, the online platforms could offer such features as the ability for users to jump from breakout room to breakout room, conduct private conversations with other individuals, and review earlier segments of a virtual meeting.

Stu Sweetow is the author of Corporate Video Production and owner of California’s Audio Visual Consultants.

Laura chose East Bay video production company, Audio Visual Consultants, to help her produce a video blog of her journey through life after she received her cancer diagnosis. Laura initially contracted with AVC to visit her San Rafael studio for consultation on equipment purchase and to teach her how to make her own videos. We also produced video blogs for her, using our pro camera with our lights and microphones. AV Consultants’, Mitch Silver, performed the video editing and post production. Laura also contracted with a makeup artist and set designer.

Video Blogs—Engaging Outreach

As a psychotherapist, Laura worked with cancer survivors to help them live fully, to express themselves through various art mediums and to recognize the lessons they could deepen their paths to self-discovery. Facing cancer herself, Laura shared the work she did with herself in this video blog. Over the course of a year, Oakland video production company, Audio Visual Consultants, performed on-location videography and digital video editing to produce several videos for her video blog.

A video blog includes periodic video recording of your work. Through the absorbing medium of video, your story engages your viewers. Video marketing with blogs is an effective tool, and it can be used with individuals, small businesses and nonprofits. Storytelling with a video blog is an easy and fun way to engage your audience.

Scheduled Video Blogs Engage Your Audience

As part of the series of professional videos that Bay Area video production company, Audio Visual Consultants produced for Laura, the video starts by explaining the intense pain she experienced that morning–it almost cancelled this video. She recovered, and we arrived at her home to film this. She says, “every time I shoot a video, the energy arrives!”

Between our professional video recording sessions in her San Rafael home studio, Laura sometimes recorded videos with her own equipment while she was alone, sometimes in the middle of the night. At her home, Stu Sweetow, owner and videographer at AVC Video, set up a room with her camera, lighting, microphones and a background so she could video record sessions on her own. Sometimes in the middle of the night, she would turn on the lights and camera and record a video documenting her condition at that moment.

Set Director, Makeup Artist, Professional Lighting and Wireless Microphone

East Bay video producer, Stu Sweetow, set up flattering lighting to complement the art direction. He also asked Laura to wear a wireless microphone and hide the cable. This all contributed to the viewer experience of being there with Laura. You don’t want your audience to be distracted by backgrounds or poorly planned composition.

In this video, Laura discusses the diagnosis of further cancers discovered in her body and the treatments she is receiving. According to Laura, “I don’t believe there is a universal cure for cancer. I believe each person and situation is unique. What works for one person, may not work for another. I share my journey because I have a need to, and because I hope it may benefit others in some way.”

Audio is Number One in Blogs

At Audio Visual Consultants, audio is our first name.  Video blogs focus on spoken content—rich information. What if your viewer missed a critical statement—one that might have an impact on their lives? It is important video blogs incorporate professional audio equipment and techniques so the viewer can clearly hear the presenter. One of the reasons that Oakland’s Audio Visual Consultants is one of the best video production companies is that we make sure that the audio is crisp and clear.

Laura talks about cancer being her teacher, and she shares how she appreciates life–something most of us take for granted. These are valuable statements; we don’t want any viewers to miss something she says or be distracted by background noise.

We use a high-quality clip-on wireless microphone, and we hide the cable and the belt-pack. We monitor the audio continuously during filming. When Laura does yoga or performs some movements that might interfere with the clip-on mic, we set up a shotgun microphone on a stand and place it just outside of camera range.

In this video, Laura discusses symptom management through medication, massage and salt baths. She demonstrates various movement therapies, including dance, yoga and rebounding on a mini trampoline. Laura explored alternative treatments that complement standard medical practices.

We used a shotgun microphone on a stand when Laura performed some yoga postures. We bring a kit of tools including AVC’s professional video camera, lighting and microphones for both interior and exterior filming.

When filming outside, we don’t just rely on the sun for illumination. As it dips behind clouds or trees, or as the day ends, the quality of natural light diminishes. We carry long extension cords and set up one or two professional video lights outside.  Sometimes we use reflectors to bounce the sunlight and a large diffuser screen called a “silk” to filter sunlight. We want smooth, even light with minimum shadows.

Laura discusses her treatment, and the camera follows her outside where she tries on different hats and dresses that reflect her feelings at the time. As both an artist and a psychotherapist, Laura appreciates color in her life, and that is reflected in her attire.

Sadly, this was Laura’s last video blog that we filmed. During nearly two years of treatment, Laura also recorded some video blogs on her own, sometimes in the middle of the night, while experiencing pain.  Her days switched between feeling well and energetic, to experiencing such extreme pain that she needed an ambulance to take her to the hospital. After her hard work and dedication to creating a video blog for people facing their own cancers, she died–at age 52.

Laura produced these video blogs so that other people facing cancer diagnoses could experience the value of life, explore art and movement as complementary therapies, and recognize that cancer can be a teacher.

Laura’s family called me to let me know of her passing. I went to their home to express my condolences, and they said that Laura wrote in her will that she wanted to give me her video equipment. Most of it I donated, but I keep a few items as a connection to her spirit.

Stu Sweetow

—-

According to Laura, “All of the content featured in these videos represents the views and opinions of Laura Rennard. Laura is not a doctor, and she does not claim to be. She is not providing medical advice. She simply aims to discuss her journey in dealing with cancer and hopes to provide some light for those going through something similar.”

To learn more about Laura’s journey, go to http://cancer-theteacher.com

“It’s not how much time you have—
It’s how you live the time you have.”

—Laura Rennard

Research

Walters said that her research is so extensive that she sometimes knows more about the interview subjects than they know about themselves. While corporate video interviews need not be confrontational, the conversation will have impact if the questions are based on research about the subject.

Read what has already been written about the interview subject. Go to their LinkedIn page, Google them, perhaps they have their own website or their organization’s website may have their bio. Search other social media such as YouTube and Facebook. Perhaps they have written journal articles or even wrote their own book. Colleagues may be available for a brief phone call or email to learn more about your interview subject.

Write the Right Questions

Walters says that she uses index cards with printed questions. You can organize your cards or notepad around subjects and themes. You are creating a story with your questions and the answers. Just as you want to capture the attention of your viewers in an article or a video script, consider starting the interview with a question or two that hooks your audience to want more.

Avoid “yes” or “no” questions; keep them open-ended. You can use a phrase such as “tell me about…” or “what do you think about….”  Have backup questions if the answer is not clear or becomes long-winded. If you are producing a short video, you may want to ask for a “sound bite” which is a brief, concise sentence. Do the video editor a favor by asking for an answer in a complete sentence. Your final video may not include your interview questions—only the answers.

You are creating a story with your questions and answers. Your audience gets a deeper understanding of the interview subjects if they answer your questions in the form of a narrative. You may get lucky, and they will continue with their stories without you having to ask all your questions. If they go off on a tangent, you can gently guide them back to the subject. If they go blank, first try to sit with the silence with the hope that their memory will jump in. Or go on to the next question. 

Conducting the Interview on Camera

 (From Stu Sweetow’s book, Corporate Video Production, Chapter 12, Interview Techniques)

If you have a chance to meet with the guest in advance, offer a little coaching (with his or her agreement) on how to answer questions in complete sentences. Explain that in postproduction your questions may be removed, and the guests’ answers need to stand alone. 

Before you both walk onto the set, try to loosen up your guest with some small talk. Make sure the crew has offered him or her a noncarbonated soft drink or a light snack. Confirm that the guest does not have a crooked tie or that their hair is out of place. Do what you can to help him or her feel comfortable.

Ask them to avoid technical terminology unless the viewers will understand it. Show your interest in the topic; smile, raise your eyebrows and nod your head. Sincere visual cues from you can set the tone for the guest to express his or her own enthusiasm.

At the start of the interview, you may have an opportunity to introduce the guest and the topic of discussion. Rehearse this prior to the scheduled time of the interview and before the guest arrives; you don’t want to draw attention away from your guest. Let the guest know in advance that you will start the interview by looking at the camera and introducing him or her. Explain time constraints, if any, and let the guest know if the interview will be divided into segments where he or she may take breaks.

Your first question to your guest could be a simple one or about an element of the subject that the guest is passionate about. He or she will enjoy answering that question, and it could help establish rapport. Gradually introduce more difficult questions and eventually, if appropriate, controversial questions. Avoid any questions that are too long, too detailed, or are really two or more questions in one. Make sure your guest understands the question; if he or she appears confused, stop the camera and clarify the query. Offer to go to another question that he or she is more familiar with.

During the interview, try to maintain as much eye contact as comfortable. When your guest answers your question, rather than looking at your notes for the next question, look at and listen to your guest. Employ such active listening techniques as summarizing and restating key points, as well as giving nods and smiles. Your animated reactions to the guest’s comments help make the interview a dynamic dialog that further involves the audience.

Elevating Your Computer

If you are using a laptop, please elevate it on books or something, so the camera is close to eye level. Here is a link to a laptop stand.

Video Settings

You can find virtual backgrounds at the bottom left of the screen next to “start video.”  Click on the caret (^). Select “video settings” where you may “adjust for low light.” Try the “touch up my appearance” selection; it reduces contrast a little. Here is a link to Zoom Video Settings.

Audio Settings

At the bottom left, next to “mute” click the caret and you may increase the volume of your microphone.

Here is a link to Zoom Audio Settings which has other zoom tips as well.

Consider getting an external microphone or using earbuds that have a built-in microphone. If you use an external microphone, within settings select the microphone you are using. Within audio settings, you may also need to select the speaker. Here a link for a highly-reviewed microphone that plugs into a computer.

Using a Smartphone as an External Camera

Laptop cameras have some limitations, but smartphone cameras have advanced to give nearly professional-quality pictures. You can mount your smartphone on books and aim it at yourself, or purchase a tabletop tripod. You place it behind your computer and attach your phone to the mount that comes with it. You will need software to enable the camera to work with your laptop. Camo Studio has a free version that works with iPhones and Android. You will need to get their app for your phone and download their software for your computer. It works with Macs or PCs. At the bottom right of the Zoom screen you can select the external camera, and an external microphone if you choose to use one. Be sure to select “do not disturb” on your phone so you won’t get calls or notifications in the middle of your Zoom call.

Lighting for Zoom

A table lamp behind your computer can work just fine. Or position your computer so you are facing a window when you are zooming during the day. If you want to purchase a light, ring lights are inexpensive or look into the Logitech Litra Glow light. It mounts on the top of a computer screen and is said to provide a soft, rather than harsh, illumination. If you wear glasses, you may need to mount a light above and to the side, to avoid reflections.

Speaking of Eyeglasses

If you wear glasses, consider dimming your computer display. Otherwise, if the display may reflect a blue glow in your glasses. If you use external lighting or have a bright room, this may not be a problem, but if the room is not bright, the computer screen might reflect in your glasses.

Composing and Posing

Composition includes you together with your background. Viewers expect TV studio quality. A cluttered background may be eliminated with a virtual background, or with a blurred background. (More on this later) However, your audience may prefer a background with specific book titles neatly arranged with art pieces and flowers.

Another of our favorite Zoom tips: make sure the camera is looking straight on. Too low, and we see your nostrils. Too high, and you have to be looking up. “Headroom” is the amount of blank space above your head in the frame. If you pay attention, you’ll know when there is too much or too little.

Clothing styles will match your message and your audience. Unless your message is to emphasize a wild outfit, minimize patterns and try for solid fabrics. Limit makeup, especially excess blush and mascara. Video cameras are high-contrast devices; they can make dark areas look too dark and light areas bleached out.

Virtual backgrounds

Zoom has a collection of virtual backgrounds like the Golden Gate Bridge and leaves, and there are options to blur your background, so you pop out. However, some computers do not support zoom virtual backgrounds.  If you plan to use a background, perform a trial run so you can see how they work.

Sometimes when you move, the virtual background can add a black extension to your head. In cases where you move your hands or try to show something to the camera, the virtual background may cause part of it to disappear.

Pre-Recording Your Upcoming Zoom Presentations

Zoom lets you record onto your computer, even with the free version, or on the cloud with a paid version. If you have a presentation coming up, consider recording it in advance and playing it, as a screen share, during the live presentation. That way, you can make changes and re-record it until you are satisfied. You can even include your slides and PowerPoint presentation in the recording.

Computers, USB-C and Hubs

If you are planning an event with your computer or someone else’s, it is a good idea to get an adapter so that a newer computer with USB-C connectors will work with an older computer with the standard USB connector. In addition, get a hub where you can plug in more than one device. Some computers have only a single USB-C connection, and you may have an external camera and an external microphone and a hard drive, and a flash drive—you get the picture.

I hope these Zoom tips help to elevate your online video presence. If you need more help with video production or editing, please reach out to your friendly Oakland video production team. We are here to make you look great!

Oakland video production company, Audio Visual Consultants, was selected to make a video production of the groundbreaking ceremony. Mayor Libby Schaaf and several other City of Oakland representatives grabbed shovels and dug in. Audio Visual Consultants, AVC Video, videotaped the corporate event with the direction of client—Full Court Press.

Oakland commercial leasing company, Ellis Partners, was instrumental in this property development. Oakland video production company, avconsultants, provided on-location video production using two Sony professional video cameras and digital video editing to complete the Oakland video production.

The client provided drawings and photos to AVC’s video editor, Mitch Silver. Mitch used special effects, animated text graphics and cool music to create a marketing video to boost commercial leasing at the Key. Drawings depicting future use of the building show employees and residents enjoying the open space design elements. 

Oakland’s green state-of-the-art office tower, features an efficient side core floor plan that maximizes light and air in both open and traditional workspaces. With retail space at the ground floor, the top floors feature an innovative sky deck with direct access to the sky deck of the adjacent building.

The 12^th street BART station is adjacent to the entrance of The Key and is the hub of the Bay Area’s transit system. At one time, commuter trains, called the Key System had its hub in Oakland. In 1943, the building became the headquarters for the Key System transit line, which at the time ran all of the local streetcar systems in the East Bay and a line across the Bay Bridge. The building continues to be an important contributor to the Downtown Oakland Historic District and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Full Court Press, produced the two corporate events to help market commercial leasing. They chose Oakland video production company, Audio Visual Consultants to document these Oakland events. The video became the center point of the video marketing plan for commercial leasing in Oakland.

Their client, Ellis Partners is one of Northern California’s leading commercial real estate investors and developers with a focus on the acquisition, entitlement, development, renovation and repositioning of office, retail, industrial, residential and mixed-use properties.

Completing the real estate marketing team was Intercontinental real estate corporation Intercontinental’s mission is to provide institutional quality, client-mandated real estate investment management strategies structured to protect and grow capital with risk-adjusted returns–provided with transparency, pro-active communication, excellent service, and continuous improvement.

Oakland Video of the Topping Off Ceremony

This marketing video combines the groundbreaking event and the topping off event into a single promotional video to help commercial leasing. Ellis Partners’ Will Miller said, “We’re not just building beautiful buildings, we’re not just renovating historic buildings, we’re investing in the community. And at the same time, we’re creating a phenomenal workplace opportunity for tenants who are getting the Oakland story.”

About a year after the groundbreaking event, Oakland’s Audio Visual Consultants, was chosen to document the traditional corporate event of topping off the building with the final beam. Again, Mayor Libby Schaaf and others who helped make the Key at 12^th a reality, were there. The mayor thanked the workers who built the innovative building.

AVC’s video crew ran a long video cable from the roof down to the main floor where attendees could watch the topping off ceremony in real time. 

According to Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, “We are one of the most sustainable, vital, exciting, diverse cities on the planet. This project exemplifies that.

Companies involved in this project:

• Audio Visual Consultants
• Full Court Press
• Ellis Partners
• Intercontential Real Estate Corporation