Quick tips for the social sector

Fundraising video bundle

A curated bundle of tips to elevate fundraising videos with impactful storytelling, emotional engagement, and professional techniques—ideal for nonprofits and fundraising teams aiming to maximize donations.

Historic preservation bundle

A curated bundle of basic-setup tips for capturing the beauty and integrity of historical sites and landmarks, with techniques designed specifically for preservationists and filmmakers.

Basic setup production tips

Optimize Video Length for Platform

Optimize Video Length for Platform

Adjust the length of your video depending on where it's being published. Shorten for social media and extend for platforms like YouTube or your website.

For best results, research platform-specific best practices and use tools like Vidyard or Wistia for length optimization.

Lower Thirds for Key Information

Graphics & Text

Lower Thirds for Key Information

Add lower thirds to introduce key speakers and display important information such as donation details.

For best results, use simple, readable fonts and include donation links or QR codes in the lower thirds.

Wide Shot Composition

Wide Shot Composition

Use wide shots to establish context and show the environment around your subject.

For best results, use a wide-angle lens or step back to capture more of the scene.

Intermediate production tips

Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)

Audience Engagement

Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)

Encourage your audience to create videos featuring your brand, and integrate this user-generated content into your campaigns for authenticity and broader reach.

Use tools like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to promote UGC, and use platforms like TINT to curate and display user content.

A/B Test Thumbnails and Titles

A/B Test Thumbnails and Titles

Experiment with different thumbnails and titles, then A/B test them to see which generates higher click-through rates and engagement.

For best results, use platforms like YouTube’s A/B testing feature or TubeBuddy to compare and analyze thumbnail and title performance.

Behind-the-Scenes Footage

Behind-the-Scenes Footage

Show behind-the-scenes footage of your organization in action to build transparency and trust with potential donors.

For best results, use handheld or gimbal shots to capture authentic, real-time interactions.

Advanced production tips

Split-Screen for Comparisons

Split-Screen for Comparisons

Use split-screen visuals to compare before-and-after results or show two perspectives simultaneously.

For best results, use split-screen editing to show the impact of donations or simultaneous event coverage.

Emotion-Driven Close-Ups

Emotion-Driven Close-Ups

Use close-up shots of faces during emotional moments to connect viewers to the cause on a personal level.

For best results, use a lens with a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject and capture emotion.

Top-Down Shot

Use a top-down shot to show overhead perspectives or emphasize scale and distance in a scene.

For best results, use a drone or a jib crane for steady, elevated shots.

Expert production tips

Slow Motion Effect

Slow Motion Effect

Use slow motion to emphasize action or create a dramatic, emotional moment in your scene.

For best results, shoot at a high frame rate, like 120fps, and adjust the playback speed.

Dolly Zoom Effect

Camera Movement

Dolly Zoom Effect

Use a dolly zoom to create a surreal and disorienting effect by zooming while moving the camera.

For best results, use a dolly track and a zoom lens to execute this technique.

Split Diopter Technique

Split Diopter Technique

Use a split diopter lens to keep both foreground and background elements in sharp focus.

For best results, use a split diopter filter on your camera lens.

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Master video production with our easy-to-follow tips. Improve lighting, camera angles, sound, and more to create captivating marketing videos.

September 3, 2024

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