Write this down: Get the most out of your video shoot

Whether you’re doing a quick Facebook Live or an in-depth branding video shoot, having a script will save you time and money. It communicates your vision to a client, organizes your shoot, and supplies structure.

In my time writing video scripts, I’ve had a lot of positive experience formatting the script with VIDEO and AUDIO columns.

It looks something like this:

EXAMPLE SCRIPT:

VIDEO

Colin is on camera talking to audience

*GRAPHIC TRANSITIONS IN*

Depicts: COMPANY LOGO, COMPANY EMAIL, COMPANY WEBSITE

AUDIO

“AT UPROOT CREATIVE SERVICES, WE HELP BUSINESSES TELL THEIR STORY AND BUILD THEIR BRAND THROUGH VIDEO MARKETING.  VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT UPROOT C S DOT COM OR EMAIL US AT UPROOT C S AT GMAIL DOT COM”

This format communicates the vision to the client by breaking down the senses you experience in a video. It also organizes how the elements work together at the same time. You can really dive into the details in the video column, and if the client doesn’t love the audio, they’re free to make revisions. This sets expectations, communicates a vision, and makes sure you’re all on the same page. You can also communicate your vision through story boarding, treatments, and sharing source material, but there is plenty to include that fits neatly in the script.

Scripts can also organize your shoot. By taking the time to fill out your video column, you are essentially making a shot list. This can save you time because then you can break down your shoot into sections, finding the best order to shoot, and then maximizing on your available time. For example, if you have a stand up shot at the beginning of your shoot and again at the end, then your shot list can help you realize that to save time on set up and execution. Simply shoot them at the same time and edit them apart later.

Even something as simple as a bulleted list can give you talking points, freshen up your material and help you maximize your practice time to nail the execution. You certainly don’t want to forget your call to action at the end of a social story or posting. Having structure will show organization and build your trust in your audience.

Everyone’s time is valuable. As a director and videographer, it’s my job to make sure my clients get the video they want and need in an efficient time. If the client is paying for actors, crew members, rentals or location, then I need to make sure they’re getting the most of their budget and they’re not wasting it by being unprepared.

Scripts and shot lists give you direction. Use them so you can make the best video possible.