Creating safety training videos that help keep workers safe

We really enjoy creating safety training videos for industrial and manufacturing clients. These safety videos have one purpose: keep employees safe from injury or worse on the job. For this recent shoot, we traveled to south Texas to film on location for a long-time client of ours.

This was one of those “challenging” shoots, where we just had to meet it head-on as each location presented itself. Tripod, light, and recorder/monitor were all on wheels; that was the right call on our set-up as we moved our "mobile studio" from machine to machine. Our set-up was key to get critical input from our safety training experts. Therefore, they could see everything we were shooting and we could shoot retakes as needed to show the process. 

Very quickly our crew expanded to turn the workers into “lighting guys” and “production assistants” for our safety video production. The jokes flew about new careers in Hollywood. The crew bonding always happens as we deal with each scenario- acquiring good quality footage that hits the professional standard while also showing the all-important details that could save lives and avoid injuries.

It was hot. We all wore masks. We drank a lot of water. And we kept at it. From 7 AM until 2 PM, we demonstrated multiple “do’s and don’ts” at each station in both English and Spanish. 

Creating safety training for products, processes and plants.

We were very lucky to be working with a great on-camera expert who handled the commentary and demonstrations with great skill. As always, the out-takes were really funny. There was a lot of verbal “slating” for each station and shot inserts. Without that, we could have gotten very lost in the editing room. We’ve learned to make verbal notes to ourselves while we’re recording the images. 

As a result, the editing process was relatively easy and straightforward. We identified each station with English and Spanish title card headers. Usually, the review process has at least SOME adjustments. But the overall shoot and edit process worked well enough so that we got everything right the first time.

As the memory fades from this challenging COVID era shoot, we are left with a sense of accomplishment. We had applied our production skills and experience toward a worthy enterprise. Our client was happy with the result. 

It’s going to communicate safe best practices to the hard-working people who are on the job every day. 

As Austin-based video producers, we love what we do, even when it’s hard. The glimpse into the industrial world gives us a perspective that we couldn’t have without first-hand experience.

The safety training video production subject matter may have been specialized, but our tried-and-true production techniques worked.

Capturing Compelling Interviews and Testimonials

Interviews with medical professionals at a major medical conference. Sounds interesting, right? Acquiring important content to educate and inspire, it’s what we do as video producers.

An international gathering at the huge San Antonio convention center provided an amazing showcase of experts and technology from the medical field.

As Austin-based video producers, we enjoy occasional sojourns to other Texas cities. San Antonio is a perfect example; it’s 80 miles to the south with a big city vibe that is very different from Austin.

Our New York City-based interviewer had his subjects and subject matter all lined up. We’ve worked with him before. It was our job to provide a consistent “look” and professional audio and video quality to each scenario.

A black backdrop matched other interviews from across the country. We know from experience to “double backlight” the subject to ensure separation from the background.

Even though we were in a relatively quiet area, we weren’t in an enclosed room. We had to listen closely for occasional background noises. A couple of question & answer “re-takes” were required.

Conferences and live events are perfect venues to gather testimonials from subject experts

We wanted to capture nuances from each interview, like expressive hand gestures. So we chose a lens that enabled that detail. We also alternated the “looking space” between left and right of the lens, to ensure variety for the final edit.

Our application of tried and true interview techniques worked well. We also tried to maintain an easy-going, relaxed vibe on the set. A friendly smile and question about their city or town got them talking and dissipated any nervousness.

The big hotel that’s connected to the convention center was a perfect home base between interview sessions. We explored the city and tried some new restaurants. We combined a little bit of fun with our professional tasks.

The interviews went well. Our client was happy and relieved after the last one. We packed-up and checked-out. Our medical interviews were successful- and we had widened our range to Austin’s sister city to the south.

Our drive back to Austin was a welcome final chapter to our road trip. San Antonio has a lot going on, especially at the gigantic convention center.

We like visiting and working there, as well as Dallas and Houston. Texas is a vibrant state for business. But it’s always good to get back home to Austin. 

We felt good about maintaining a professional standard for the medical web series. We’re proud of our role as reliable video producers for out-of-town clients

Capturing content with professional conference video production

It’s well-known that summers are hot in our hometown of Austin, Texas. So it was a welcome relief to have a shoot in Denver, Colorado, in mid-September. 

The subject matter was cool as well. This conference was for a group of physicians and therapists who specialize in healing. Their clientele are people who have experienced serious trauma or depression. We were inspired by the mission of the group and the sincerity of the individual members. 

We had covered their first annual conference in Austin, so we knew many of the key people. And our first coverage scenario informed our approach to this second annual gathering. We definitely wanted to help this group forward their mission through professional videos.

Multi-camera conference video production

An initial ice-breaker social event got things rolling as the sun set over the mountains. We collaborated with our locally-based still photographer to get some group shots as well as “candids” of people making contact with their colleagues.  One of our smaller "action" video cameras worked well to showcase the action without attracting too much attention.

Conferences are a great opportunity for learning and networking. Professional video production captures the content for your YouTube channel for anyone who couldn't attend, and footage can be used to promote next year's conference!

Creating videos of the keynotes, breakout sessions and more!

The next two days of serious conference coverage were made possible with assistance from the facility Audio/Visual staff for sound and lighting. Using multiple cameras, we followed the presenters, PowerPoint images, and audience cutaways. The transition from keynote address to the all-important Q&A sessions was seamless.

Promoting the event for next year was another priority. We looked for B-Roll illustrative footage opportunities and impromptu soundbites with our small camera. Coupled with the still photos, this is a fun edit job for us- a mini-documentary behind the scenes.

Bottom line: it all worked. The Austin-to-Denver direct flight, tried and true equipment combinations for the task at hand, communication with event organizers, and clear intent for all aspects of our video coverage made the entire enterprise a triumph.

We really oiled our conference coverage “hinges.” And each out-of-Texas experience makes us appreciate how our regular approach can be transferred across state lines. The cooler weather in Colorado was nice while it lasted, but we’re always glad to get back to Austin. The shoot was fun, and we met a lot of great people along the way.

Next year’s conference will be in another cool city. We can’t wait!

As we cut together the various elements, we’ll remember the important mission that this group is advancing. We’re glad to play our part as video producers. 

Every shoot is a new opportunity to help organizations promote their businesses, products and missions. We're proud to help our clients tell their stories through video.

Elevate your video production with drone video footage

Our adventures in the Austin video production world are going up, up, and away! The rise of drone videography is well-known, and it added some awesome production value to a recent project.

Unlike most programs, this one did not involve people on-camera. It was our task to showcase an absolutely beautiful childcare facility- especially the expansive and shaded playground. After scouting the location with the owners, we briefed our talented drone expert on the shot list and the overall intent of the final piece. 

Drone videography gives videos a fresh perspective

Shoot day involved three distinct points of view. One camera was on a wheeled tripod, acquiring classroom overall scenes, plus pans and zooms outside. 

Another action camera supplemented the “big” camera with a smaller “steady-shot” approach, getting fun “kid's eye view" footage.

And the drone flew majestically between play areas- like a winged Steadicam. It also provided a high-altitude perspective on the size of the facility.

Getting a new perspective on buildings and sites is a great use of drone photography.

Creating Austin drone video production magic in the edit suite

The editing challenge was to combine all three shooting styles into a two-minute montage set to music. It was a wealth of image and movement riches. But it was fun finding just the right music to set the right tone and bind the elements together. Adding occasional screen text helped to tell the story. 

As Austin-based video producers, we get to do some fun and crazy shoots. “The drone revolution” makes everything more fun. The drones are here to stay...

Every shoot is a new opportunity to help organizations promote their businesses, products and missions. We're proud to help our clients tell their stories through video.

We love helping non profits forward their mission with video production

As Austin-based video producers, we get to work with inspiring non-profits from across the country.  From local associations and initiatives, to national organizations, we pride ourselves on the care and talent we bring to every non profit video production..

A Texas non profit video production story

We recently helped a Texas-wide grant-based program with video production for an inspiring overview video.. This school based leadership program is designed to encourage and inspire student leaders, while also building relationships between the students, school resource officers, and school counselors. Students are challenged with conversations on important topics and trust is built over time. Through the program, students are able to have a positive interaction with law enforcement officers, and mentoring grows.

How best to tell the story of the program and inspire other school districts to sign up and get started?

Creating non profit video magic...in less than 3 minutes!

We used a testimonial footage of the students, school resource officers and ISD chief of police, along with great photos taken throughout the school year, to get a true picture of just how successful and important this initiative is in the ISDs that have adopted it.

The editing flows from idea to design to execution. We tailored the footage and photos to give a great overview of the program.. The passion and difference this non profit is making is obvious in the final video.

Every shoot is a new opportunity to learn about the many dedicated, inspiring non-profit organizations we have here in Austin and throughout Texas. We're proud to help our clients tell their stories through video.

Austin area videos for manufacturing and design

As Austin-based video producers, we get to work with interesting businesses throughout our awesome city. From startups to well-established brands, we're always amazed at the variety of industry that's growing in Austin, Texas, including home grown manufacturing and design.

An Austin industrial video production story

We were contacted to capture b-roll and illustrative footage at a local industrial company. We had never heard the term "slip rings." But this is an important manufacturing product and there is a whole industry out there for them. A slip ring is an electromechanical device that allows the transmission of power and signals to a rotating structure.

The production for each slip ring is very hands-on. And the skilled people we met take great pride in their work. They were all awesome and had a great camaraderie.

Our coverage went from one work station to another, throughout the manufacturing floor. We showcased the operation for an overview to be seen on their web site. 

The final shot was the whole group together. That one took a few tries. We finally got them all to quit laughing and joking with each other by take four. 

Video editing and delivery

The editing flows from idea to design to execution. Utilizing our skills to tell the story of the slip ring group was a good match. Their skill and dedication are obvious in the footage.

Every shoot is a new opportunity to learn about the rapidly growing business community here in Austin, TX. We're proud to help our clients tell their stories through video.

Video production in Austin, TX

Marketing new and existing products makes up a lot of our Austin video production business. We've worked with startups, entrepreneurs and established companies over the years to come up with creative ways to reach their target markets. From Kickstarter videos to step-by-step product explainer videos, corporate overviews to testimonial-driven stories, we've crafted productions for every type of product and company!

Reach your target market through creative video production

As a video production company in Austin, TX, we never know what our great city of entrepreneurs is going to invent next. We had a fun afternoon recently showcasing a genius solution to a common problem.

"Necessity is the mother of invention"

We've all heard that adage, and it's true. Many great ideas spring forth because the world NEEDS something. Like the wheel. Or smartphones. Or something that keeps critters out of your trash.

This entrepreneur has designed an ingenious device to keep animals out of trash cans that still allowed standard garbage trucks to pickup and empty the cans. Genius! 

After collaborating with our client and streamlining the script, and reading it out loud for timing and exact wording, we set up a studio scene for the on-camera pitch and demonstration.

The first run-through was a little nervous, but full of energy and passion for the new product. Take one was upbeat and energetic. Take two was more matter-of-fact. Between the two, we edited an effective basic track for the on-camera narration. Then we read off-camera while our inventor/client did the actual step-by-step demonstration. There were a few funny out-takes. (There always are.)  We shot nice "beauty shots" of the simple product details.

Post production brings it all together

Editing combined live demonstration video of the product in use with cool 3D animation of the product in action, stock photos and the studio demonstration footage. Two music pieces set just the right tone, and a few screen text details enhanced the message. 

In three minutes, our on-camera inventor explains the problem, demonstrates the solution, and then asks the viewers to visit the web site. All of the elements work together. Our video production techniques produced an effective product demonstration with high-quality production values.

Taking a problem and offering an ingenious solution is at the heart of every great product. This entrepreneur has solved the messy problem of litter in a very elegant way. We enjoyed working with the team to really show the benefits of the product.

Video production is a perfect way to reach your target market and educate them on your product's key features. Here are some tips:

Reach your social media audience with compelling video production

Ah yes. Those smart entrepreneurs. Changing the world with their new ideas. 

As Austin, Texas based video producers, we meet our fair share of them. Such was the case for a pretty epic recent green screen shoot. This video production was well scripted, with heavy use of the teleprompter. Our standard two-camera approach enables us to do pick-ups for flubbed lines and keep going. 

The product is a nationally marketed unique dietary supplement with cutting edge ingredients that improves mental clarity and focus while fighting fatigue. The target markets are busy moms, stressed college students, business professionals, entrepreneurs and more. I mean, who doesn't need better focus and clarity?

Social media video production is a perfect way to reach your target market and educate them on your product's key features. Here are some tips:

Capturing interview videos to tell a story or drive an initiative

As Austin video producers, we get to meet a lot of interesting people from all walks of life. Sometimes we meet the actual movers and shakers in our awesome city. Such was the case for a recent project that had us moving around town to capture eleven compelling interview videos.

Many parts of the community, businesses and city government are working together to train and "up skill" the Austin area workforce in key areas: medical, IT, manufacturing, and skilled trades. As our city grows (and grows and grows), we'll need a skilled workforce to keep up with demand and fill these crucial "middle skill" jobs.

Use testimonial and interview videos to speak to the "heart" of the matter

For this interview video production project, we talked to Austin Mayor Steve Adler, Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt, the CEO of Workforce Solutions, the president of Goodwill Industries Central Texas, the president of Austin Community College, and many other community workforce training leaders as they come together for this initiative.

Some of the interview spaces were big and enabled us to set up and light the scene like a TV interview. But some spaces were fairly cramped and we had to be minimalist in our approach to the scene.

The interview videos from each unique perspective were the most important element in telling the collective story. The same three questions yielded very different answers from our eleven on-camera subjects.

Our two-camera approach gave us an option of a medium shot or a close-up. The seamless cutting between soundbites crafted the overall message.

The collective initiative to educate, train, and place workers yielded three separate programs that featured the community leader testimonial videos. The final results were shown on the big screen at a local movie theater during a gala event celebrating the first year of the initiative.

Video is a perfect way to train your workforce and spread your mission to your stakeholders

Best results always come from a professional, but low-key vibe on-set. We accomplished that by getting to each location early and pre-lighting the scene. The subjects could sit down, get mic'ed up and GO. Our preparation made the process simple.

Pushing the Limits: Austin Kickstarter Video Production

Ever been in the back of the beyond or off the grid having an adventure and wished you could take a hot shower? We recently produced a Kickstarter video for a company who has solved that exact problem.

Need help with your Kickstarter video production? We'd be glad to help craft your message and "kick" it out for successful crowdsourced funding! 

Video production sometimes seems to make dreams possible. Such was the case with our recent fundraising video for a Kickstarter campaign. As Austin-based video producers, we are blessed to be in a vibrant community where many local entrepreneurs are in need of media support. It's our job to bring their vision to life for a product or idea. As usual, it all starts with the script. And, as usual, it takes time and effort to make the script RIGHT. What's on the page doesn't always work on the stage.

Use video to spread your mission and message to the masses!

We pushed the on-location envelope by setting up our teleprompter, cameras, equipment and crew OUTSIDE in the Austin summer heat. Working in bright sunlight is never easy, but it worked out splendidly. 

Our female on-camera talent wasn't a professional actress, but she had a lot of media experience and she nailed the content. Huge win for the client's gut instinct that she would be a great choice.

Non-Profit Video Production