The Production Studio in Your Pocket Might Just Save Your Business

The year 2020 will go down in history, without a doubt, as one of the weirdest times for probably 100% of all people.

As far as businesses go, it’s been devastating for many, thriving for others, and a surprising challenge to re-invent.

For us, it’s been a welcome opportunity to help clients reimagine what it means to build and maintain connections with their clients, using online media to stay connected and relevant.

While all the digital marketing and strategy work we do doesn’t necessarily require being in person – most film productions definitely do

Major productions have been forced to stay on hiatus due to Covid 19 surges devastating the TV & Movie industries.

However, a more scaled down approach for small businesses is currently a huge opportunity right now to pivot, and have big success.

For example, many of our clients require a great level of complexity with many moving parts (motion graphics, multiple locations, etc.) while others can make a significant impact using a single location and a solid message that gets right to the point.

During this shoot for Alquimia Wellness Center in Ojai, CA we incorporated a few safety compliance protocols to make sure everyone felt safe without compromising the quality or experience of the shoot.

TIP #1
Make Sure Everyone Feels Safe

Regardless of whats going on in the world, this is a must. A little bit will go a long way for everyone.

For example. We have several protocols and compliance rules that are subject to shifting according to California and federal laws.

1. We only work with pre-screened “Covid 19 negative” crew and talent
2. We humbly ask Honorable Client to pre-screen if possible
3. Masks are worn by crew at all times
4. Currently little to no direct physical contact with talent
5. Treat everyone with respect of the highest regard
6. Please mind Tom Cruise boundaries
7. Normal safety measures regarding heavy equipment and pointy things

The safer you feel when you enter the location, the more authentic you will come across on camera.

When you feel safe you are free. Free to create, free to go deeper, free to be comfortable talking about your passion, your message and your story.

This is the X factor to convey authority in your field express your message with clarity and confidence.

TIP #2
Being Safe Doesn’t Mean Being Boring.

Let’s face it , last year was stressful – and that stress can carry into the production if you are not careful.

There’s a fine balance between keeping it light and staying professional.

No one wants a negative person stinking up the set and making an already awkward situation even worse.

This does take a considerable skill and like anything it needs a bit of practice to work at optimal strength.

Meaning: Have a light banter on set with those who can gracefully partake. Others should listen and learn and join in when they feel confident to not “Crash and burn!”

First rule of improv is support each other, personified by “Yes and…” Same here. Self-deprivation in minuscule doses can be employed smartly. We can’t go deep into this right now, but subtly goes a loooooooooooooong way. Otherwise it seems forced.

Banter. Throwin the Bull(shit) around. BS’n. Whatever you call it, keep it light as a feather. Clients enjoying the day is platinum gold. I don’t think that’s a thing, but it sounds cool. Be that.

POLITICAL CARTOON HERE?

TIP #3
Don’t Talk About Politics on Set

We live in an incredibly polarizing time where politics is at the center of modern culture. You are there to create media, and unless the media is ABOUT politics, then leave it off the table and focus on creating something amazing.

“That’s all I gotta say ’bout that” – FG

TIP #4
Make Sure Your Whole Team is Ready to Rock

Your crew and talent being ready are critical to your success. This is the job of the producer. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning so you can avoid small mistakes that make a big difference.

Plan better, Produce better.
Measure three times and cut once. Once you have everybody on set, lights, camera… um… ahhh….

“Where’s that tiny thing that will take you 30 minutes to find and put together!!?”

Ok, two hours??? We need it? Really??? Yes. Ok.

If you don’t pre-plan, those conversations are in your future.

As you’re about to pull off that classy, yet honest moment and the sun is reflecting off the sunglasses… What!!?? Where are the sunglasses!!!????

Goodbye Platinum Gold Magical Moment.

You get it.

TIP #5
Audit Your Venue Before You Commit

Your venue can make or break the result of your media. Everything from sound, to lighting to the people will have HUGE impact on maximizing your investment. Having your production plan is obviously key, but making sure you can work with the venue owner or management is a really big deal.

You don’t want crew, talent, equipment and production in full swing only to have some major glitch happen because of poor communication.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the right venue for your project:

1. Make sure pictures and videos are current (enough)
2. Inquire if areas you intend to use are available
3. Check any reviews there may be on the owners/managers
4. If you are using extensive power, check to see what the location offers
5. Ask about any noise issues and restrictions
6. Do they offer restrooms and kitchen access?
7. Is there on-site security?
8. Determine venue flexibility.
   Some venues are open to negotiation, some are not.
9. Compare prices. You often get what you pay for, but some things
   are just overpriced.
10. Be mindful of the space and leave no trace. A great way to ensure
    this is to have adequate transportation lined up, an buffer your
    production with enough time to set up and tear down without stress.