Why choose animation for your corporate video?

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Keywest

If you’re looking for something different and innovative to spruce up your corporate video, perhaps animation might be an option. Animation is no longer confined to the realm of childish cartoons and silly shorts. Animation of the 2D and 3D kind is becoming widespread and an ever-evolving tool for those in the video production industry. It allows for a high quality product that provides the client with flexibility, efficiency, and full control over the creation and execution of their vision.

Firstly, you can get started much faster with animation than you can with live action video. This is especially helpful if you have fast-approaching deadlines and time constraints. Live action includes many elements, such as scripting, camera, lighting, sound, directing, talent, voiceover, editing, color correction, music, and any sort of logo animations or additional graphics. However, animation includes scripting, illustration, animation, voice-over, editing, music, and sound effects. Both have very similar elements, yet animation does not include the hassle of coordinating and booking talent and locations. Since there is much less pre-production involved, animation proves to be more efficient in terms of beginning the project much sooner than one including live action footage.

Animation also permits much more flexibility than live action productions. You can include any and all sorts of elements in animation that generally would not be possible in the instance of a live action production. There is also flexibility in terms of styles, depending on the content that you are interested in showcasing. You may choose to utilize the traditional cartoon-like animation, whiteboard animation, infographic animation, 2D and 3D animation, or even a combination of these.

Not only does animation permit flexibility in terms of the concept and initial stages of your corporate video production, the element of adaptability is present in all stages of the animation production. Animation allows for complete control over your vision. You can tweak and modify as much of your animation as you would like without having to re-coordinate and re-shoot your production (as in the case of a live action video). In the event that your product changes or you choose to remove or incorporate something new, animation allows you to perform such modifications much more easily than a live action production would. Nothing needs to be scheduled or arranged with other individuals as you are in complete control of the entire process.

It is important to keep up with the ever-changing technology in this world and many live action videos soon become outdated in terms of video quality. With animation, video quality is no longer a concern. Animation provides a high quality look and feel, especially with the incorporation of 3D elements, especially if executed correctly by an experienced motion graphics artist. Animation can even be combined with high definition live action footage if necessary, depending on the look and feel desired by the client.

The most advantageous feature of animation is that it allows you to showcase something that may not even be in existence as of yet. Animation can illustrate potential concepts, inventions, prototypes, procedures, etc. that would be otherwise nearly impossible to showcase in action/motion. Animation can provide a visual element that never existed before and hopefully better illustrate your product or concept than before. Since you control everything seen on screen, you are able to illustrate what you want in the exact method you desire.

Animation is an excellent tool, especially if utilized wisely. Check out our motion graphics artists here at Keywest to get started!

Here are some great examples of animation:

Whiteboard Animation

Live Action & 3D Animation

 

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The World’s Smallest Movie

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Keywest

Take a look at what IBM produced.  It’s pretty neat! It reminds me of the early years of video game graphics.  Enjoy!

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Case Study: Peel Halton Apprenticeship Career Connections

Posted on May 6, 2013 by Keywest

Challenge

Apprenticeship Career Connections hosts an annual event for anyone interested in the skilled trades. This includes, but is not limited to, students across the province, unions, as well as employers looking for new employees.

Peel Halton Apprenticeship Career Connections approached Keywest with high hopes that we would produce a video that would help them showcase their organization to an even broader audience, ensuring that they would receive an even greater outcome.

Before beginning the production process, we knew that it was crucial to understand the mindset of our target audience. We had to create a video that informed the youth about the lucrative opportunities offered within the trade sector. From that point onwards, we were to produce an informational video that appealed to this particular target audience.

At Keywest, we have had plenty of experience creating promotional videos. This is why we understand that an individual may become disengaged with a lengthy video; we knew that we would only hold our target audience’s attention by keeping the video short and sweet, but also informative and engaging.

In order to provide Apprenticeship Career Connections with an accurate visual representation of themselves, we first had to understand their dedication to what they do.

Solution

At the beginning of the video, the viewer learns that 2013 marks the fifth year that Apprenticeship Career Connections has been organizing trade shows. This information earns them some credibility as a consistent organization, and also shows their commitment to ensuring that information on skilled trades is accessible to everyone.

After the introduction, the video then delves into explaining the actual purpose of the event: showcasing the opportunities in trades so that young people can view this industry as a plausible career path. The speaker’s reasoning is complemented with b-roll footage, adding to the informational as well as engaging qualities of the video. With this, the viewer is now aware of what to expect if they choose to attend the trade show and why attending the trade show would in fact be beneficial to them

Next, the video outlines the variety of trades that the trade show has to offer. By showcasing the array of available trade opportunities, Apprenticeship Career Connections ensures most viewers that they are more than likely to find something that interests them, thereby motivating them to attend the trade show again in the future. The video also displays those that have already attended the event, consequently showcasing the trade show’s target market.

The video ends off with an important message: there is going to be a serious shortage of trades in the near future. As a result of this, the video urges us to generate awareness of trades and ensure that the youth are informed of the available options out in the workforce. By closing on this strong and powerful note, the video is not only summed up, but it also illustrates why exactly it is necessary to create awareness about the skilled trades workforce.

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The Benefits of a Training Video

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Keywest

Using video for training purposes is a growing trend as companies are always trying to find new ways to engage their employees and make the training process easier on everyone.

Any employer knows that it is nothing but beneficial to possess a well-trained workforce. However, training is costly and time-consuming, requiring trainers (and their accommodations) as well as the venues and tools that are associated with the learning process. Many companies have become acquainted with the concept of online training courses, specifically the implementation of training videos. Keywest is fully adept at producing high quality, engaging training videos that employees will not only enjoy but also benefit from.

Fun and Interesting

Not all aspects of training your new or existing staff will be exciting since some of the content will almost always have to be bland and dull; however, video aims to make the training content as interesting as possible.

By introducing the medium of video, employees may be more inclined to engage with the training process since, in many cases, we would generally prefer to watch something instead of read it. Training videos can make the learning process fun and interesting for employees if the productions are executed the right way.

Provide Better Insight

Good training videos can not only effectively train and inform employees, but also provide better insight into the operations of the business. Training videos can include the basic requirements along with several other aspects of the position and company. These can be illustrated with the incorporation of various tools, such as demonstrations, hypothetical scenarios, dos and don’ts, “a day in the life”, etc. Such tools allow the trainers to place an emphasis on certain aspects/concepts and make them stand out more than others. Most individuals enjoy the types of training videos that include these tools as it provides them with a more realistic idea of what to expect in the future – these videos allow employees to discover what really happens at the company.

People prefer to learn by example so providing them with possible scenarios that they are able to watch aids in the learning and retention process. Training videos allow employees to not only be trained in whatever aspects are necessary for good performance and productivity, but also provide them with the ability to gain insight into the everyday processes and procedures associated with their occupations as well as that of others’ within the company.

Versatile

Versatility is of utmost importance in the ever-changing business world, and training videos allow for flexibility and leeway in order to achieve a customized product each time.

Although video allows for flexible content, the medium itself is rather versatile. For instance, video can be conveyed through different formats, such as online, DVD, USB, PowerPoint, etc. This allows for it to be viewed on several types of devices, thus adding portability to its many benefits. It is important that your business’ training content be adaptable not only to the needs of your business, but your staff as well.

Training videos allow for employees to learn at their own pace – companies may develop training programs that permit their staff to watch the training videos online. Such methods allow for employees to pause, restart, and even take notes if necessary. Companies may choose to implement assessment processes, such as tests and interviews, in order to determine the effectiveness of the training videos.

If a company were to implement their training program via the internet, their videos also have the potential to include interactive elements. These interactive elements, such as clickable content and simulations, are useful for understanding and learning how to deal with different complex scenarios that one may encounter. Employees will be able to see how these scenarios play out depending on their actions and what they choose to do. Such training tools are useful for helping employees gauge what to do and what not to do in certain situations that could potentially arise.

Training videos easily accommodate diversity and multiculturalism in the workplace. Although videos may be produced in one language, the medium allows for dubbing or subtitles in another language if need be. Since the video can be tweaked and adjusted for different languages through dubbing, translations, subtitles, etc., companies don’t need new trainers for those requiring training material in a new language.

Cost-effective

Producing training videos is generally a more cost-effective method than conventional methods of training employees. The production and distribution costs are generally the only fees associated with training videos. The training videos are available to all necessary members of staff without companies having to spend ridiculously on exorbitant training programs, instructors, venues, accommodations, etc. With a training video, everyone receives the same content – this ensures consistency since all employees will be learning the same concepts in the same way.

Training videos are not only fun and interesting for your employees, they are also an engaging and informative way to learn. Spice up your next training session with cost effective, dynamic, and versatile videos instead of boring textbooks and slideshows. Keywest is here to help!

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Case Study: Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc.

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Keywest

Challenge

Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc. came to Keywest in search of a new and innovative way to showcase their company. They wanted to show their clients, among others, exactly what services and products they provided in a captivating and creative way. The company was well aware of the fact that they could merely list their products and services on their website in hopes that people would read it, but they were ready to take their company’s image to another level and spice things up!

Here at Keywest, we knew that we had to deliver an exceptional and interesting production to Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc. while ensuring that their company’s message was clear and unhindered. We met with them and got to know their brand on a personal level since we know all too well that it is crucial to understand exactly what our clients do, especially if we’re the ones in charge of relaying the message to the audience.

We quickly learned that we were not only showcasing Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc.’s unique products and services, but also their employees, values, and, most importantly, their philanthropic work. We took it upon ourselves to come up with an exciting and captivating production that showcased every single aspect of Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc.

Solution

First things first: products and services. We had to inform the audience of the products and services in an interesting way that was not only educational, but also engaging. We showcased Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc.’s warehouse space, locations, top manufacturers, reputable clientele. In addition, the video illustrated that the company sold industrial and hydraulic hose products, and that they specialized in rubber and stainless hoses, fittings, gauges, and clamps. There was plenty of dynamic and interesting footage of the actual products, the manufacturing process, and the specific industries in which their products were utilized.

Next, we showcased the company’s more valuable assets, such as the fact that they are full service. It is important that their customers know that they are a full service company, carrying specialty products and offering customized solutions to their clients. It was also important to include information about the company’s experienced staff, excellent customer service, and long list of certifications. The video included footage depicting the interactions between employees in all aspects of the business, as well as their relationships with clients, providing the audience with a more personal connection to the business and the way in which they function.

The final production also included a more personal side to Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc. by showcasing their philanthropic work – it ends with a segment on their involvement with the Diabetes Hope Foundation and what their generous contributions have led to.

Finally, the video ends off strong by stating that Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc. is dedicated to delivering the best product with superior technical and sales support to their clients.

Keywest provided these services for:
Bobby Pasternak
Senior Outside Sales Representative
Fluid Hose & Coupling Inc.

 

 

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Qualities to look for in a corporate video producer

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Keywest

It’s easy to think there’s no real challenge in producing a corporate video all on your own. However, in order to obtain a professional video for your company, you will need to put your trust in a professional video producer. Corporate videos are very important when it comes to marketing and how other people view your company. You want to make sure that your company is represented the best way possible in your corporate video. Keep in mind this video may be the deciding factor on whether or not a client chooses to work with you. A video producer’s job is to create and follow a budget that works for you while making sure all your needs are met. You can also expect a professional producer to review your script and make any necessary changes in order to ensure that the video comes out top notch. A good producer should have the ability to blend both yours and their visions of the project into one masterpiece that leaves you feeling confident and content with the final product.

Organized
Organization is very important when producing a video. The producer should be able to juggle all aspects of your production along with all the other projects they are working on. They should know what is going on at all times and stay up to date with the progress of your video production.

Efficient
Your time is money. When choosing a video producer, make sure they are competent when it comes to time management. A video producer will work within your time schedule and make sure deadlines are met on time. If there are any sudden alterations, it is the producer’s job to accommodate last minute changes without having it set your schedule back. Communication is vital when working on a video. Your producer should be on call and ready to assist you whenever you need them. If you contact them, they should get back to you in a timely fashion—especially when trying to meet a tight deadline.

Hardworking
A good producer should show the same amount of commitment to your project as you would. Ideally, he or she would be ready to take on any challenges that may come up while working on your project. It should be important for your producer to work hard and achieve the highest possible quality video he or she can for you and your company.

Experienced
When choosing a video producer, make sure he or she has experience in all aspects of video production. They should know each person’s role and exactly how that person can aid them in creating a better production.

A professional producer should be capable of making important decisions regarding your video without taking over the project. He or she should trust the members of their staff (such as the camera operator and editor) to provide helpful feedback and their own personal input.

Our professional video producers here at Keywest are capable of working with all members of our team in a manner that guarantees our clients the best product each and every time.

Visit “How to make a corporate video” for more information.

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What makes a good editor?

Posted on April 26, 2013 by Keywest

One who is a good storyteller:

A good editor knows how to tell a story. Once a production is shot, it’s up to the editor to compile all of the raw elements. In the instance of corporate video, editors are responsible for making decisions from take to take. Although they will have notes from others, such as the director and/or camera operator, the editor is generally responsible for choosing the best take. Editors have to make judgment calls on a constant basis… and with these judgment calls come the justification of their choices. Editors have to know the placement and determine what is best: in some cases, taking a particular section of a script and placing it somewhere else may end up telling a better story – it’s up the editor to decide on such matters.

One with a straightforward approach:

Essentially, a good editor should be able to watch a video and immediately know what is unnecessary. They are able to determine exactly how long it will take to tell a story. Sometimes, a client may request a ten minute video; an editor may decide that, based on the script, the client’s needs, and the story they are trying to tell, five minutes may indeed be a more suitable length. Editors must be able to tell their clients exactly what footage is not needed within the video and why – there is no point in saying what needs to be done without justifying it to the client to help them better understand.

One with “many hats”:

A good editor is not merely able to cut and paste the footage in front of them. There is much more to post-production than this. An excellent editor must be able to perform all the tasks associated with producing the final video for their client. In some cases, these tasks may include: colour correction, adjusting the audio, and even possessing an in-depth knowledge of software such as Adobe After Effects in the event that graphics or animation are required.

One with a personable and friendly attitude:

Although a good editor may not be your best friend – bear in mind that editors generally spend most of their time editing alone in a dark room for extended periods of time – he or she definitely needs to be personable enough to have a friendly discussion with their client. Since most of the editing process can be done solely online these days, not every editor may believe that possessing a good attitude is an asset to their job. However, some companies (including ourselves here at Keywest) offer in-office editing opportunities where clients are able to sit down with the editor in the edit suite and voice their changes and opinions in regards to the final product. A good editor needs to be able to listen to and understand their client’s requirements and vision; however, he or she should also be capable of voicing an opinion and justifying these decisions without hesitation.

One with a good technical knowledge:

An editor’s technical knowledge and ability should not end at post-production software. He or she should be familiar with all aspects of computing technology. For instance, a good editor must be well-versed in the multitude of video codecs and file types so that they are able to provide their client with the most appropriate format of their video and meet their needs. They must also be able to troubleshoot – there are many situations in which a client is having technical difficulties and their videos just simply will not play. Editors should be capable of determining the fastest and most efficient way of helping their client view their video.

Check out our editors here at Keywest:

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What should I look for in a videographer?

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Keywest

Need a videographer for your next corporate video production?

You may think that anyone with a video camera can shoot your next video; however there’s more to a videographer than what meets the eye. Here are a few qualities to look out for when choosing a videographer for your next production.

Relevant Experience
It is important that your videographer is knowledgeable in the field of corporate video production. You want to make sure your videographer has experience producing the type of video you want since it is comforting to know that he or she understands and is competent at what they are doing. This not only puts your mind at ease, but also assures you a professional quality product.

Professional Attitude
Being professional is important in every aspect of the working world; video production is no exception. It is important that your videographer exhibit professionalism both on and off the set. Their experience and knowledge should always be complemented with a professional and friendly attitude.

Customer Service
When it comes to dealing with clients, customer service should never be overlooked. You want your videographer to listen to your needs and meet them as best as possible. He or she must be respectful while dealing with you and anyone else involved in the production. Here at Keywest, we value customer service and will go above and beyond what is required of us in order to please our clients.

Preparedness
Your videographer should be well informed and adequately prepared; this includes knowledge of the shoot schedules and shot lists. You want your videographer to know what they are doing well before they arrive on set. He or she should be organized, punctual, and have a clear vision of how the shoot should unfold.

Passion and Creative Vision
Although you may have communicated your needs to your videographer, they should be able to offer their own creative vision in addition to yours. The mark of a passionate videographer lies in their ability to communicate their ideas effectively; if they are really passionate about their job, they will be bursting with creativity. You should feel comfortable relying on your videographer’s vision and creative judgment.

Quality
Your videographer should possess a commitment to excellence; he or she should strive to produce the best product possible for their client. It is imperative that your corporate video be of the highest quality so as to contend with the ever-evolving competition out there.

Efficient Troubleshooter
In the event of an obstacle, you want your videographer to be an excellent troubleshooter. Since you may not always be on set, it is important that your videographer be reliable and able to overcome any issues that arise. In addition to being an adequate problem solver, your videographer should be efficient – accomplishing tasks in a timely fashion is always an asset.

Right Equipment
All of the above mentioned qualities are null and void without the use of the right equipment. Make sure your videographer has the latest and best gear the field has to offer. It is also crucial that they tailor their equipment to meet the needs of your particular shoot, such as bringing a teleprompter, green screen, etc. You don’t want to skimp on quality.

Our videographers here at Keywest possess all of these attributes and more. We will produce a top quality corporate video that not only meets your needs, but also blows your competition out of the water. Visit www.keywestvideo.com.

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The darker side to viral videos and the audience’s participation.

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Keywest

The other day, Keywest blogged about why videos go viral. The discussion mainly centered on the positive aspects of viral videos, as well as their humorous side. The audience and its interaction is key for a video to go viral, and in a lot of instances, funny videos get the most views. But what about the darker side of viral videos?

What we didn’t touch upon is how the audience, with pretty much everyone having access to smartphones and video cameras these days, is constantly recording their day to day events – everything from a friend’s party to public events.

On Monday, April 15th, 2013 there were two explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. As of the date of this entry, information is still being analyzed and nobody knows yet who or what the motivation was. This incident, along with several others, is a tragedy that has been recorded by average people, in addition to the regular broadcast news organizations, and uploaded to YouTube. As of the date of this entry, the Boston Marathon explosion has over 15 million views.

Youtube and other video sharing sites have allowed people from around the world to experience humanity’s joys and simple pleasures, as well as humanity’s pains. The internet also has its darker side, and videos such as beheadings, and women being raped, find their audience as well. These videos might not get millions of views, but they do have an audience that I would think is large enough. Even on YouTube, you can find videos of political or religious extremism, along with comments from the audience that tend to fall into arguments filled with hate and disdain for one type of group and their beliefs. YouTube tries its best to remove content that causes a significant uproar, but they don’t want to act as a censorship board, and try not to; although they waffle back and forth depending on whom they are trying to please.

Let’s take the example of an earthquake. At one time, it was only possible to view footage of the aftermath via a news organization. However, we are now accustomed to viewing footage taken by everyday people using their smartphones to record the earthquake at it is in progress. People don’t need a news anchor anymore; they want to see it first hand, the way it is being experienced by the people going through it. We need to see it, to understand it, and to try to comprehend exactly how such disastrous things can happen. Seeing it through the eyes of someone who was there makes it more real and brings us in closer to feel what it’s like, and to make us ask ourselves “What if I was there? What would I do? Would I be scared? Would I be brave and run towards the danger in attempts to help others?”

These are important questions to ask ourselves when we see unbelievable events. From natural to manmade disasters, recording devices are everywhere. Humanity all comes together online to experience the good and the bad we have to offer. From the joy of watching a video of a newborn to the senseless acts of violence, such as what happened at the Boston Marathon, we experience it all.

We are all watching, some for good, and some for bad.

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Why do videos go viral?

Posted on April 15, 2013 by Keywest

Ever wondered why PSY’s Gangnam Style music video has over a billion and a half views? Yes, a BILLION and a half. Of course it’s entertaining and funny, but how on earth can a single clip be watched so many times and by so many people?

Well, it’s no secret that we live in an ever-changing time. This is a time where we all have the potential ability to make ourselves celebrities. Although everybody wants to be famous, this hasn’t always been a feasible reality. However, with the current media technologies, especially the advent of web video, fame is a possibility for every single individual.

According to Kevin Allocca, YouTube’s trends manager, there are three methods by which a video can go viral: tastemakers, communities of participation, and unexpectedness.

What are tastemakers you ask? These are celebrities, such as talk show hosts, that take a point of view on a particular subject and share it with a larger audience. For instance, if Conan O’Brien were to tweet a link to a hilarious YouTube video, it would probably go viral just because of the reach that a celebrity like Conan has. In essence, the tastemakers are the ones that introduce us to these videos, thus serving as the catalyst for them to become viral.

Another method by which videos become viral is the element of participation, or creative participating communities. Allocca states, “We don’t just enjoy, we participate.” For instance, many of us have seen viral videos and then the millions of parodies that accompany them – in some cases, these parodies actually end up getting more views than the initial videos themselves. Although a video may become popular “on its own”, as an audience, our participation and re-shaping of the video may be what increases its popularity and actually causes it to become viral.

The final method by which a video becomes viral is probably what you expected: unexpectedness. Sometimes, videos happen to become viral. They just do. Someone out there decides to share a video, and they decide to share with someone else, and so on, and so on. That’s all there is to it. This is why it is practically impossible to “create a viral video”.

We all have access to web video, giving each and every one of us the potential to become online celebrities. As the audience, it is up to us to define what is and isn’t popular because we have become the judges; we now have ownership in our own popular culture.

Since the audience is able to determine what goes viral and what doesn’t, this technically means we know what content is worth the fame and what isn’t. That is why here at Keywest, we strive to give you the best product possible – you are the very same audience that judges all of the other content out there. With the right elements and exposure, your corporate video has the potential to become the next big thing!

Don’t believe us? Just look at the Old Spice commercial:

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