It’s a hot thing right now to have a formal “promo” video for your business/brand. I believe that a video done right can be very powerful and draw the viewer into a full experience and better understanding of your brand. It makes the online world seem offline in a way. It’s the same reason that people love Skype…. because you feel like you are there with the person.
I am really loving this new promo video for my sister and brother-in-law (Troy Grover Photographers). I think this video is fantastic all around and you really get a glimpse into their life and business as a photography duo. You really get to see what Troy and Aimee are like to work with, you see them interact with each other, and at the end you feel very confident that they have the experience, the passion, and the abilities to deliver what they promise. The video is professional but still *very* personal. And I especially love that we get to hear both of them speak. It’s amazing how much better you feel like you know them after you hear them talk, move, etc. Big props to 618 studios and Aimee and Troy Grover for this killer vid!!
On the other hand I have seen promo videos that completely miss the mark because the creators have not thought through the goals or the message they want to communicate through the video. The focus becomes on making the video “cool” and “different” and in the end it doesn’t communicate or help sell the product or service it’s attempting to promote. The video actually hurts the brand by turning people off because it’s off-topic, irrelevant, confusing, tacky, unprofessional, cheesy, poorly written, or the person is REALLY bad on camera. Have you seen those? haha. I am sure you have.
I don’t consider myself a video guru by any means *but in my personal opinion* a promo video should 1 // Communicate the heart of what and why they do what they do, 2 // Showcase the company’s culture/lifestyle, and 3 // Show a glimpse of what it’s like to work with that company as a client or customer.
What do you think are key components to creating a successful promo video? Seen any great ones lately that really sell you on an idea, service, or product? I would love to see them here in the comments.
+ - 12 comments
Aimee - It’s difficult to do a video with an interview component and not come off as cheesy. Aimee and Troy did very well! Being comfortable in-front of the camera is key. Plus, I just love how she spells her name
promisetangeman - Aimee- hahah cute!! i agree.
Abe - Totally agree. I have been saying for some time that the use of video would become an increasingly powerful branding tool. That being said, it should reflect the brand and it should give you something that other mediums cannot. I do think the use of it varies by content (product, service, event etc) and context (where and how it will be used). Regardless it should be quick, engaging, informative and entertaining. Just my .02
shaina longstreet - I really appreciated how they talked about each other instead of talking about themselves in the interview section. That’s powerful…to hear someone else talk about the strengths and personality you offer instead of of it feeling kinda “braggy.” Great video!! Thanks for sharing.
Dana L - you two are definitely sisters! love their new video. makes me want to redo mine. great post!
noomiy - I’m in love with these one!
They are super cute and they are great team like I can see!
Mailinh - Totally agree about this trend! And I think your sis and bro-in-law’s video is just one great example of what a video should be: personable, bright, true to themselves, and all that good stuff.
Ru in - Great post! We have a TON of photographers all over the world, but not enough great videographers. That’s sad, kind of. I think videography is more difficult…
nathanael - This is one of the best photog promo vids I’ve seen.
I love it. But for photographers who aren’t ready to make the the big investment it usually takes to acquire one of these snazzy promos – make your own. You have the tools and the creativity. I honestly think some of the best photog promos are made by the photographers themselves.
Leslie - Such a great post! I [hired a professional] and still wasn’t happy with my video. He didn’t understand the goals – and had to come and reshoot things he had missed … needless to say it’s not on my site … and needless to say my husband isn’t happy with that [since we paid for it]! ha ha …
Kelly Fly - I really enjoyed the video. I am looking to do a promo video of my own. But I was wondering as far as music goes for the background how do you know what is legal to use? Can you give any more information about copyright etc? Thanks for any help!
Kelly
Faith - I love the Grovers’ new promo video! It’s perfect!