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Lights, Camera, Action! What Goes Into a Video Shoot at Mad Men Marketing

In today’s content-driven world, high-quality video production can be the linchpin of a successful marketing strategy. Our video shoots are more than just hitting “record”—and yours should be, too! Here’s a deep dive into what goes into making a stellar video, from pre-production to post-production.

Pre-Production: Laying the Groundwork for Success

Before any camera is switched on, thorough planning is essential. Pre-production is the phase where the blueprint for the video is created. Here’s what it entails:

• Concept Development: Every great video starts with a strong concept. This is where we brainstorm and develop creative ideas that align with your brand message, target audience, and campaign goals. Whether it’s a product demo, a story-driven ad, or a behind-the-scenes feature, the concept isn’t just driving the process; it’s the foundation for everything else.
• Scriptwriting: Once the concept is solidified, we craft a script that outlines the narrative, key messages, dialogue, and pacing. The script serves as the backbone of the video, providing clarity and direction.
• Storyboarding: Storyboards are visual representations of each shot. These sketches guide the camera angles, transitions, and scenes, ensuring everyone is on the same page about the video’s flow.
• Casting & Talent Selection: Depending on the project, casting might involve finding the perfect actors, voice-over artists, or even featuring real employees. We seek talent that authentically represents the brand in order to best resonate with your target audience.
• Location Scouting & Permits: We identify the ideal filming locations—whether it’s on-site at your business, in-studio, or in a scenic outdoor space—and handle any necessary permits or permissions.
• Equipment & Crew Coordination: Every successful shoot requires the right tools. We determine the necessary equipment—cameras, lighting, sound gear—and assemble a skilled crew, ranging from video directors, audio engineers, and post-production experts who will be putting together the final product.

Production: Bringing the Vision to Life

This is the “lights, camera, action” phase—the moment when all of our careful planning comes together in a live shoot. Production involves:

• Setup: Our team arrives beforehand to set up the equipment, including cameras, lighting rigs, audio recording devices, and props as needed. The setup ensures that every shot looks and sounds its best.
• Directing the Shoot: The director and crew guide the talent, capturing scenes based on the storyboard and script. We monitor lighting, sound, framing, and pacing to ensure we’re achieving the desired visual and emotional impact while remaining true to the over-arching concept.
• Multiple Takes & Adjustments: Perfection often requires multiple takes. We adjust lighting, angles, and performances to capture the best possible footage. Flexibility and creativity are key in this stage.
• On-the-Fly Problem Solving: No shoot is without surprises. Our experienced crew handles unexpected challenges, from weather changes & technical issues to last-minute staffing needs, ensuring we stay on track.

Post-Production: Crafting the Final Masterpiece

Once filming wraps, post-production begins. This is where we transform the raw footage into a cohesive, polished video. Key steps include:

• Editing: Our editors review and select the best takes, cut and sequence footage, and assemble an initial rough draft of the video. They fine-tune pacing, transitions, and overall structure to achieve the desired narrative flow.
• Sound Design & Audio Mixing: Clear, high-quality audio is crucial. We mix dialogue, add sound effects as needed, and integrate background music that complements the tone and emotion of the video.
• Visual Effects (VFX) & Graphics: If needed, we add visual effects, motion graphics, text overlays, or animations to enhance visual appeal and convey key information.
• Color Correction & Grading: We adjust the color balance, contrast, and saturation of the footage to create a consistent and professional look that matches your brand aesthetic.
• Revisions & Client Feedback: We collaborate with you to review the initial cut and make any requested changes. This iterative process ensures the final product meets your vision and campaign objectives.
• Final Delivery & Formats: Once approved, we export the video in the necessary formats, optimized for its intended platforms—whether it’s for social media, web, TV, or events.

Conclusion: A Winning Video Strategy

Creating an effective video involves creativity, technical expertise, and a clear strategy. Our team is dedicated to delivering videos that captivate audiences, elevate your brand, and drive results. Every step is handled with precision and care, from concept to final cut. Ready to bring your brand’s story to life? Contact us to get started on your next video masterpiece!

What is the Difference Between Hulu and Amazon Prime Video for Advertising?

As digital advertising continues to evolve, more businesses are turning to streaming platforms to reach their target audience. Many of our clients ask about the differences between advertising on popular platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. While both platforms offer powerful ways to connect with viewers, they each have unique features that can affect your marketing strategy.

Here’s a breakdown of what sets these two platforms apart:

1. Ad-Supported vs. Ad-Free

One of the most significant differences between Hulu and Amazon Prime Video is their business models. Hulu offers ad-supported tiers, meaning viewers can access content at a lower subscription cost in exchange for watching ads. This creates a clear opportunity for us to reach a captive audience through targeted ads.

Amazon Prime Video, on the other hand, is largely ad-free for its Prime members, though this has begun to change. Advertisers can still get in front of viewers by using Amazon Freevee (formerly IMDb TV), which offers ad-supported streaming. In addition, Amazon’s ecosystem allows for ads across other platforms, such as their e-commerce site and Fire TV, providing more avenues to reach your audience.

2. Audience Targeting Capabilities

Hulu is known for its powerful targeting options. We can use first-party data along with demographic targeting options such as age, location, interests, and viewing habits. With Hulu’s connection to Disney’s audience data, we can create hyper-targeted campaigns that speak directly to the viewers you want to reach.

Amazon Prime Video takes a different approach, leveraging data from its e-commerce platform. This means we can target users based on their purchasing behavior and search history, making it possible to deliver personalized ads to consumers who are already primed for conversion.

3. Types of Ad Formats

Hulu offers several ad formats to engage viewers. These include traditional video ads, interactive ads where viewers can take direct action, and pause ads that appear when a user pauses their content. These formats allow us to get creative and interact with viewers in a more dynamic way.

Amazon Prime Video (through Freevee or Fire TV) also offers video ads, but Amazon’s strength lies in programmatic advertising and seamless integration across its platforms. This can include sponsored product ads and display ads on the Amazon site, allowing us to run cross-channel campaigns that follow the consumer journey.

4. Pricing Models

Hulu generally operates on a cost-per-thousand-impressions (CPM) model, making it accessible for businesses of various sizes. Whether you’re a small local business or a national brand, Hulu’s pricing structure allows us to create campaigns that fit your budget.

Amazon Prime Video’s ad offerings, particularly through Freevee or Fire TV, usually follow either a cost-per-click (CPC) or CPM model, depending on the campaign type. Amazon’s data-driven approach also allows us to tie campaigns directly to measurable outcomes, such as product sales or website visits, giving us a clear picture of return on investment. It is worth noting that Amazon’s minimum spend per month is vastly higher than Hulu’s. 

5. Viewer Engagement

Hulu has a natural advantage when it comes to viewer engagement because viewers expect ads in their viewing experience. This means your ad is more likely to be watched all the way through. Hulu also boasts strong viewer retention rates, helping ensure your message gets through.

Amazon Prime Video, meanwhile, caters to an audience that prefers an ad-free experience. However, when using Freevee or other ad-supported Amazon services, engagement is comparable to Hulu. Moreover, Amazon’s ability to link ad performance directly to e-commerce outcomes makes it a great option for campaigns with a clear call to action.

Which Platform is Right for Your Business?

Both Hulu and Amazon Prime Video offer unique advantages for advertisers. Hulu’s robust targeting and ad formats make it perfect for brand awareness and storytelling campaigns, while Amazon’s data-driven approach and integration across e-commerce provide an edge for businesses focused on direct conversions.

We can help you determine which platform best aligns with your goals and audience. Whether you’re looking to leverage Hulu’s video storytelling or tap into Amazon’s powerful data, we’ll work with you to create an effective and engaging campaign.

Ready to elevate your advertising strategy on Hulu or Amazon Prime Video? Contact us today, and let’s get started!

How To Create An Award-Winning Video

Creating an award-winning video is a marathon, not a race, and requires not just technical skills, planning, and creativity but also a deep understanding of storytelling, audience engagement, and meticulous planning. Whether you’re creating content for film festivals, industry awards, or online video platforms, here are the key components and steps involved in crafting a video that stands out amidst the crowd.

Pre-Production: The Blueprint for Success

Concept Development

1. Originality: Your idea should be fresh and captivating. It could be a new perspective on a common theme or a story never told before. The uniqueness of your concept can set your video apart in a big way, though this also presents the biggest danger of getting bogged down in conceptualizing your project.
2. Research: Investigate your theme, subject matter, and audience. Understanding what has been done and what resonates with your intended audience can help refine your concept. Focus on the purpose of your video project, and how that purpose can best be brought to life.

Scriptwriting

1. Narrative Structure: A strong, clear structure that audiences can follow is crucial. Whether you’re telling a linear story or something more avant-garde, the sequence of events should build to a satisfying conclusion, regardless of the overall length and depth of the project.
2. Character Development: Relatable and well-developed characters can significantly impact your video’s effectiveness. Even if it’s a short video, viewers should be able to connect with what’s on screen, including the characters.

Storyboarding and Planning

1. Visualization: Storyboards are a great tool for visualizing scenes before filming. They can help save time and resources during production and are essential for planning shots, angles, and the overall look of the video. 
2. Logistics: Schedule shoots, scout locations, and secure permits if necessary. Meticulous planning in this stage can prevent costly mistakes, delays, or reshoots.

Production: Bringing Your Vision to Life

Cinematography

1. Visual Style: The choice of camera angles, movement, and composition all contribute to the storytelling. Your visual style should complement the narrative, mood of the video.
2. Lighting: Good lighting can enhance the atmosphere, depth, and emotion of your scenes. Whether you’re using natural light or studio setups, lighting should be carefully planned to support the visual tone.

Direction

1. Performance: Directing actors involves guiding them to convey the story’s emotions and characters authentically. Even in non-fiction videos, the way subjects are presented and interviewed can make a big difference.
2. Pacing: The rhythm of the video is key to keeping the audience engaged. Pacing involves the duration of scenes, the timing of dialogue, and the flow of the narrative.

Post-Production: Polishing Your Masterpiece

Editing

1. Cohesion: Editing is where your video truly comes together. It’s about choosing the right takes, cutting scenes together smoothly, and ensuring the story flows both logically and seamlessly.
2. Effects and Color Grading: Visual effects and color grading can enhance the mood, emphasize key moments, and correct any inconsistencies in the footage.

Sound Design

1. Music and Sound Effects: The right soundtrack and sound effects can profoundly affect the video’s impact. They should underscore the narrative and evoke the intended emotions.
2. Dialogue: Clean, clear dialogue is crucial. Post-production is the time to address any audio issues, add voiceovers, or incorporate ADR (automated dialogue replacement) if needed.

Distribution and Promotion: Sharing Your Story

Targeted Submission

1. Choose the right platforms and festivals that best fit your video’s genre and style. Tailoring your submissions can increase your chances of recognition.

Marketing

1. Promote your video using social media, press releases, and networking. Creating a buzz around your project can attract viewers and judges alike.

Creating an award-winning video is an ambitious endeavor that demands passion, creativity, and attention to detail. It’s a collaborative effort that blends art and science, storytelling and technique. While the journey can be challenging, the reward of crafting a video that resonates with audiences and earns accolades is incomparable. Remember, each project is a learning opportunity, pushing you closer to that next award-winning creation.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand’s Story?

At Mad Men Marketing, we specialize in turning your visions into captivating, award-worthy videos. Let’s craft a narrative that resonates with your audience and sets your brand apart.

🎬 Join forces with us for your next project! Contact us or give us a call at 904-355-1766 today & start crafting the legendary brand stories that your business deserves. 🎥

Understanding the Cost of Video Production for Commercials and Internal Marketing Videos

In today’s digital age, video content has become a cornerstone of effective marketing strategies for businesses of all sizes. Whether it’s a series of commercials aimed at capturing the audience’s attention or internal marketing videos designed to engage and inform employees, the impact of high-quality video production cannot be overstated. However, one of the first questions that arises when venturing into video marketing is: “What’s the cost?”

We’re going to delve into the factors that can affect video production costs, campaign planning, and overall marketing strategy.

Pre-Production Expenses

Concept Development and Scriptwriting

The first step in any video production is concept development and scriptwriting. This stage sets the foundation for your video and involves brainstorming sessions, scriptwriting, and storyboard creation. Depending on the complexity of the concept and the length of the video, costs can vary significantly.

Location Scouting and Permits

If your video requires shooting at external locations, scouting and securing these locations, along with necessary permits, can add to the cost. Some locations are free, while others may charge a fee. This is important to research and hammer out from the beginning, as a mistake at this stage can increase costs, time, and complexity.

Production Costs

Equipment and Crew

The quality of your video largely depends on the equipment used and the expertise of the crew. High-definition cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and drones for aerial shots can increase production value but also the cost. Additionally, hiring a professional crew including a director, cameraperson, sound technicians, and other specialists is a significant expense depending on your vision.

Talent Fees

If your video features actors, models, or presenters, their fees will contribute to the overall cost. The rates can vary widely based on the talent’s experience and the demands of the role, and it is best to select a variety of people to protect against an unexpected cancellation.

Location Costs

Shooting on location may involve rental fees, especially if you need to close a business for the day or require a specialized setting.

Post-Production Expenses

Editing

The post-production phase, which includes editing, is crucial for crafting the final product. This process can be time-consuming and requires skilled editors to ensure the video flows smoothly, aligns with the script, and includes any necessary effects or graphics.

Sound Design and Music Licensing

Background music, sound effects, and voice-over work are essential components that enhance the video’s impact. Licensing music and hiring voice-over artists add to the cost, but they are vital for a professional finish.

Graphics and Animations

Depending on the video’s style, adding graphics or animations can significantly enhance its appeal. These elements, however, require specialized skills and software, which may come at an added cost from the professionals you’ve hired to produce your video.

Miscellaneous Costs

Marketing and Distribution

Once your video is ready, it needs to reach your target audience. Costs associated with marketing and distribution channels should not be overlooked. Whether it’s for social media, television, or internal channels, each platform may involve different costs, ranging from free, to potentially hundreds or thousands of dollars depending on your desired campaign.

How Much Should You Budget?

The cost of producing a commercial or an internal marketing video can range widely, from a few hundred dollars for a simple in-house production designed for your business’s workforce, to thousands of dollars for high-end commercials produced by top agencies. Generally, businesses should consider their marketing objectives, target audience, and the message they wish to convey when budgeting for video production. A well-planned video can yield a significant return on investment, making it a worthwhile expenditure.

In conclusion, understanding the various elements that contribute to video production costs can help businesses plan effectively and make informed decisions. While quality video production is not cheap, it’s an invaluable tool in today’s visually driven market.

In search of the perfect video production crew to work with you on any and all campaigns? Visit our website or give us a call at 904-355-1766 today!

How Can a Hype Video Help You Sell Your Product or Service?

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of digital marketing, capturing the attention of your target audience is important while being increasingly challenging. One of the most effective tools you can use to break through the noise is a hype video. 

But what exactly is a hype video, and how can it help in selling your product or service? Let’s dig in!

The Power of Hype Videos in Marketing

Hype videos are short, dynamic videos designed to generate excitement and anticipation for a product or service. They are more than just advertisements; they are a storytelling medium that combines interesting visuals, compelling narratives, and, often, an emotive soundtrack to create a buzz around the offer being presented.

1. Creating an Emotional Connection

As emotional beings, we often make purchasing decisions based on how a product or service makes us feel. A well-crafted hype video taps into these emotions, creating a connection between the brand and the audience. Whether through excitement, joy, inspiration, or even nostalgia, an effective hype video speaks directly to the hearts of its viewers.

2. Showcasing Your Product in Action

Hype videos provide the perfect platform to showcase your product or service in action. Unlike static images or text, a video can demonstrate the functionality, features, and benefits of what you’re offering in a dynamic and engaging way. This not only informs potential customers but also helps in building trust & authenticity.

3. Increasing Brand Visibility and Reach

In the age of social media, engaging, shareable content is king. Hype videos, with their high-energy and engaging content, are more likely to be shared across social platforms, thereby increasing your brand’s visibility, awareness, and organic reach. A viral hype video can put your product in front of millions of potential customers with minimal cost to yourself and your business.

4. Standing Out from the Competition

In a crowded market, differentiation is key. A creative and well-produced hype video can set your product or service apart from your competitors, allowing for an opportunity to highlight what makes your offering unique and why it’s the best choice for your customers.

5. Driving Action and Conversion

The ultimate goal of any marketing effort is to drive action – be it visits to your website, inquiries about your service, or direct sales. A compelling hype video not only raises awareness but also encourages viewers to take the next step. By including a clear call to action, your hype video can significantly increase conversion rates in ways that are interactive and not intrusive.

Conclusion

A hype video is a powerful tool in your marketing arsenal. It can create emotional connections, showcase your product, enhance brand visibility, differentiate you from competitors, and drive conversions. In a digital world where attention is the most valuable currency, a well-made hype video can be just what you need to elevate your product or service above the noise.

Remember, the key to a successful hype video is understanding your audience, crafting a compelling narrative, and maintaining high production quality. With these elements in place, your hype video can be an influential factor in boosting your sales and growing your brand.

Want to get HYPED? Give us a call at 904-355-1766 or contact us today!