People planning a corporate video shoot
4 September 2023 Pre-production

How to Plan a Corporate Video Shoot

Plan a successful corporate video shoot: Set objectives, coordinate logistics, and follow best practices for a compelling result.

In today's fast-paced digital world, corporate videos play a pivotal role in branding, employee training, and stakeholder communication. These videos help narrate the company's journey, values, and vision, making them invaluable tools for engagement. The intricate dance of planning, shooting, and editing such content can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can translate into a video that resonates with its intended audience. As you gear up to create a piece of visual storytelling for your business, this detailed guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you leave no stone unturned.

1. Establish a Clear Objective

Every cinematic masterpiece starts with a purpose. Before venturing into the nitty-gritty of production, it’s crucial to pinpoint the primary aim of your corporate video. Is it a brand promotion, an instructional video, or perhaps a message from the CEO? Having a clear objective provides direction for the entire production process, ensuring that each decision made falls in line with the intended goal.

2. Set a Budget

Financial groundwork forms the backbone of your video shoot. Determining how much you're willing to invest helps in making informed choices about equipment, hiring professionals, and selecting locations. By allocating funds judiciously across pre-production, production, and post-production stages, you can strike a balance between quality and cost.

3. Assemble a Skilled Team

Behind the scenes of any top-tier corporate video is a dynamic team. This squad, a mix of creative and technical experts, will bring your vision to life. Whether it’s the insightful scriptwriter penning the narrative or the diligent sound engineer ensuring impeccable audio, each team member plays a unique, indispensable role.

4. Craft a Compelling Script

Your script is more than just spoken words—it's the narrative heart of your video. It should embody your brand's ethos, captivate your audience, and deliver the intended message seamlessly. If scriptwriting isn’t your forte, consider engaging a professional who can mould your ideas into a coherent and engaging storyline.

5. Plan the Logistics

Logistics serve as the bedrock of a seamless shoot. Settling on definite shoot dates, ensuring no clashes with company events, securing necessary location permits, and organising transportation—all these logistical elements demand attention and foresight.

6. Scout and Finalise the Location

The environment in which you film sets the video's ambiance. Whether it's the familiar backdrop of the office or an exotic external locale, scouting beforehand is crucial. Check for lighting conditions, potential noise disruptions, and ensure that the location mirrors the video's theme.

7. Organise Equipment and Props

From high-definition cameras to the minutest prop on set, everything contributes to the video’s quality. Ensure you source top-notch equipment, be it lighting fixtures, microphones, or stabilisers. Simultaneously, gather props that align with the narrative to enhance the video's authenticity.

8. Conduct Rehearsals

Rehearsals are the bridge between pre-production and the actual shoot. They give actors or company spokespersons a chance to internalise their roles, offering an opportunity to refine their delivery, perfect their timing, and become comfortable with the camera.

9. Design a Shooting Schedule

In the whirlwind of a video shoot, a shooting schedule is your anchor. By meticulously planning which scenes to shoot when and where, you ensure a structured filming process, allowing for better time management and reduced last-minute chaos.

10. Plan for the Unexpected

Despite meticulous preparations, video shoots are notorious for unexpected hitches. Whether it's an equipment malfunction or sudden weather changes, having contingency plans ensures you can adapt without compromising the shoot's quality.

11. Consider Post-Production

The essence of a video often emerges during post-production. Anticipate the edits: Do you envision motion graphics? Perhaps voice-overs or specific soundtracks? Knowing these in advance ensures you gather all necessary raw materials during the shoot.

12. Ensure Proper Storage and Backup

Digital assets are vulnerable. As you accumulate footage, it's imperative to store it securely. Invest in reliable storage solutions, and always have backups. One can never be too cautious with irreplaceable content.

Wrapping up

Planning a corporate video shoot is akin to orchestrating a symphony—every element, no matter how minor, plays a crucial role in the grand outcome. With meticulous planning, a touch of creativity, and unwavering commitment, you can produce a corporate video that not only meets objectives but also leaves a lasting imprint on its viewers.

Emily Malone

Written by Emily Malone Marketing Manager for Venture — a full-service video production agency that specialises in producing creative videos & campaigns that get real results.

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