I've recently been asked a few strange questions about video production...

"Do I pay more if I want the video longer?"

"Will I need lots of cameras for my webvideo?"

"Will you compete with Joe Bloggs down the road who has a camera and could knock something together for me?"

The answer to all of these questions is... No!

Do it right, or don't do it!

Video production is paramount to any marketing strategy. But, like everything else you do to market your company, it needs to be done right or not done at all.Long gone are the days where people have the patience to read about your company. They want to hear and see about your company. So video is perfect. But there is no use replacing text that would take 10 minutes to read with a video that takes 10 minutes to watch.

How long is a piece of string?

Videos can be used on a variety of platforms. Websites, TV, exhibitions, DVD as part of a mail campaign... The list is endless and there's a general rule of thumb to making each and every type of promotional video effective. For instance, webvideos should be no more than 20-60 seconds long and TV advertisements are generally 5-30 seconds long. DVDs are usually longer as are exhibition videos that are played on a loop but need to be longer and more interactively engaging.

Plan, plan, plan, do, review...

We take our clients through our detailed fact find to establish precisely the best way of marketing their company/product/service through video. We provide feedback on any existing concepts/scripts/storyboards and/or produce new ones. The planning of any video is the part that takes the longest and makes the production more effective.

So to explain the questions...

It's for this reason that our videos will not cost more if they are longer. For many of our videos we insist they're not that long anyway, but for those that are needing to be longer we still spend the majority of our time on the planning and project management to ensure the message is effective and clear.

Some of the biggest blockbusters are filmed using only one camera at any one time. This means that your standard commercial video needn't take more than one camera - unless it's something specific like an event or flash mob (that can only be done and captured once) that will definitely need more than one camera.

As for our competing with Joe Bloggs with a camera down the road, well we haven't built our brand and reputation for high quality video and film production by competing with that fella! It's guaranteed that 'Joe Bloggs' isn't going to plan, project manage, produce and give as much attention to detail as we are. For that reason we will never compete against his prices as our services are not 'like for like'. Nor will we compete against templated online video processes that again don't offer a 'like for like' service or product.

The benefits of getting a high quality video to compliment your marketing are tremendous, why not give us a call for a chat about how we can help your business grow?

This blog was written by our Commercial Director, Chrissa, to get in touch with Chrissa This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

When I came on board Light Films in 2008 I put together a strategy. A plan that would enable our business to grow over a 5 year period.

One of the early physical marketing activities was networking. I made my way around most of the events, if not all, in the local area. I audited the formats, the businesses and the people that were involved. I chose the clubs and events that I felt would benefit me most, and have always completed regular return on investment audits to ensure the clubs continue to be lucrative for me and my business.

Someone recently said to me “with networking, you get out what you put in” and they’re absolutely right but only if there are the right people in the room.

We all know the goodies and baddies of networking. There’s one in every club!

Sometimes even us experienced networkers get it wrong, though.

I pride myself on my ability to ascertain a person’s character quite quickly and whether it fits with the way I conduct myself in business. The useful questions I ask myself are:

• Would I use them should the need arise in my business?

• Would I refer my best client to them?

• If the above two are a “yes” then I ask myself how I can help them grow their business?

Of course this isn’t purely altruistic, as I can often reap the rewards of “getting out what I put in” in this situations.  

But sometimes although you can develop a strong business relationship with someone who has an excellent reputation and you refer business to them; helping them in any way that fits naturally with what you do on a day to day basis, it can still not be reciprocated in the way you’d hoped.  

I have a number of business contacts that over the years I’ve made referrals to. Business has been achieved at the end of a lot of the referrals and I’ve not even been thanked let alone had any reciprocal referrals in return. It’s been by coincidence that I’ve even found out that the business had been done, and don’t get me started on “referral kick back fees” – that ended badly too!  

These mistakes in judging characters to be as mutually helpful will continue. I’ve not seen my last mistake been made, and won’t for years to come! But I will still continue to refer business to good people because, guess what? It works.

The majority of good people will see what you’ve done for them, or attempted to do, and they’ll keep their eye out for opportunities for you.

Choosing my Club

I belong to an independent referral-based group that has worked wonders for my business as I’ve taken the time to understand my fellow club-members’ businesses and likewise they’ve done the same for me. There will always be a selection of people you find it hard to refer business to, but the fact that you’re willing to try to get them work can go a long way in gaining their trust.

The Synergy Network at Notts County Football Club	Photography by Paul Carroll Photography

What style of networking has worked for you? Have you come across a situation that hasn’t been reciprocal or even a referral that’s not been gratefully received?

This blog was written by our Commercial Director, Chrissa, to get in touch with Chrissa This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

It takes more than a bit of photography knowledge to be able to shoot professional video on a HDSLR.

So WHY do SLRs now shoot video?

The Nikon D90 was the first DSLR capable of shooting High Definition video. It was included as a feature so that paparazzi could capture video as well as photography. Only a few years have passed since the release of the D90 and now a whole new world of videography has been opened up thanks to the HD capabilities of DSLRs.

The Pros and Cons

The reason that these cameras (that are primarily photography tools) have revolutionised video cinematography is because of the many advantages they hold over traditional video cameras, there are some disadvantages too!

The size of the sensor in these cameras allow for a far shallower depth of field than those found in most video cameras. This is what gives that cinematic look and out of focus background! These cameras, even combined with external sound, big lenses and all the additional accessories that is required while shooting for video are smaller and lighter than most video cameras. Affordability is always a major factor, and you can get a brilliant DSLR, much like the Panasonic GH2 that we use for under £1000!

Me with my beloved Panasonic GH2

So could any photographer with a DSLR become a fantastic videographer?

Well, yes... But, understanding how video works is very different to standard photography and could take years to master. One advantage a photographer has is understanding composition, and understanding lenses. However unlike photography the world of video isn't static, and the camera doesn't need to be static either. Videography demands shot-to-shot consistency, continuity and understanding what shots would work together in the edit. Depending on the complexity of the shoot it could require a days filming to complete a 2-3 minute video or scene.

One technical aspect that a photographer would have no use for on a photo shoot, but one that is almost always a necessity on a video shoot is sound. DSLR cameras are not equipped with professional recording microphones that would capture clean audio. In most cases an external sound recorder & microphone is needed and understanding this equipment and how best to utilise them is essential. Working on a video shoot you are usually working with more people than on a photo shoot, as a camera operator you will also be providing someone else's vision and not your own personal style, so working in a team and collaborating together to achieve a specific outcome is just as important as gear and technical knowledge.

Other film equipment and kit can compliment the HDSLR if used correctly.

The Blunt Answer?

So can a photographer, with no filmmaking knowledge, make a quick transition into filmmaking with their HDSLR? The simple answer, no. So be sure that your videographer/cinematographer/filmmaker is just that before you hire them!

This blog was written by our Film Production Assistant, Chris Newman; to get in touch with Chris This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

tips, hints and things to consider

So many people get so excited or nervous about having a film produced for their company that they dive straight into the shoot itself, without thinking about the project it’s contained within. After many years of fully producing and project managing large film shoots over a number of weeks as well as small shoots that take place over a few hours, we have developed a few tips for you to help you get a good job done when producing a video; without giving away too many of our secrets! Whether you choose Light Films or any other quality film production company it's worth bearing the following points in mind.

Preparation

This is key. Without it your film shoot will not go very smoothly, and neither will the edit. Spend the most of your time allocated to the project on preparation and learning lines.

Message and target audience

Develop a good understanding of who you are targeting with your video. What will make them interested? What will engage them?

Storyboarding and planning

If you don’t know exactly how your video will look, how do you expect it to look? Leave nothing to chance, leave nothing to imagination. If you can’t plan exactly how your video will look, your video production company will.

Script

Make it concise and precise. Forget long words that you feel will make you ‘look good’ as you’ll end up getting tongue twisted. Make it simple, easy and flowing.

Location

Ensure your location reflects the message you are trying to portray. Long gone are the plain studio shots as people don’t have the time to guess your identity; your audience wants to learn as much about you as possible in a short time.

Props

Will props make your video more personal and interesting? Remember, video is a visual aid, so utilise anything you can to help deliver a message.

Use of video

Where, how and when will it be used? How are you going to create awareness of it?  How often do you need video? Once every 5 years? Once a month?

It’s worth remembering that you are experts in what you do. We are experts in what we do too, and that's film and video. We are happy to take care of all film and video matters for you; as little or as much as you want or need. Contact us today to chat further about how we can help you reach wider audiences in a targeted and strategic matter by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone 0845 304 8646.

corporate promotions

From time to time we have some fantastic promotions and incentives on our corporate videography services.  We notify our contacts by Email of these promotions and discounts, if you'd like to be added to our contact list let us know by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Contact us today to chat about your video ideas and requirements by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone 0845 304 8646.

Disclaimer: All quoted prices are exclusive of VAT. Prices cover projects within a 25 mile radius of DE73 5SU, travel costs maybe applied for projects outside of this radius. Annual contracts are commenced with a set-up fee of £200 prior to monthly installments being made.  Entry into contract to access our services can only be made with payment of set-up fee and signed Terms & Conditions (by the client) being received by Light Films. Prices are subject to change at any time. Terms and Conditions apply to ALL promotions and incentives; these can be obtained from our consultants.

Chrissa Wadlow

Chrissa is our Commercial Director

Chrissa has extensive experience in business and project management having spent her early career managing large teams within retail and later moving on to a business solutions company where she successfully launched a new business division.  Chrissa joined Light Films in 2008 as an independent Business Consultant, where she rebranded the company on the strength of it's product and gained the awareness and financial revenue that it deserved.  Chrissa has brought Light Films into the limelight and her commercial acumen and expertise has provided the missing piece of the puzzle at Light Films.

Chrissa also produces all independent films for Light Films, where she oversees the project from script to the silver screen.  She has managed, co-ordinated, marketed and delivered 5 fantastic film premieres in 2009, 2010 and 2011 to which over 1,000 people have attended. She is well known on the networking scene locally, and runs her own networking club that meets once a month.

Behind the Business Card

Chrissa is a Mum, a wife and a homemaker at her home in South Derbyshire.  She has two beautiful daughters, Eryn and Marnie with whom she adores spending time and became married to Tom in 2012 on a beach in Barbados.  She was born and bred in Aberdare, South Wales and is proud of her humble connections to the beautiful Glamorganshire.  Like a real Welsh caricature, Chrissa has a great love for singing and can often be found performing a Tom Jones number!  Chrissa also provides vocals for films.  She loves all things creative, travelling and discovering new destinations as well as supporting her daughter's (Eryn) filmmaking talent (she has made over 18 films!) and sporting activities as well as attending baby clubs and classes with Marnie.  But what else has Chrissa got to say?

How long have you worked for Light Films?

"I came on board as a consultant and re-branded the company before it's relaunch in 2008.  I fell in love with the company and have been here ever since!"

What has been the highlight of your time at Light Films?

"There have been so many. The big film premieres have been overwhelming, the premieres held for our movie maker students have also been phenomenal.  Gaining contracts all over Europe as well as high profile research & development projects have also been some of my highlights along with winning a contract with a fortune 500 company. I had great plans for Light Films when I came onboard, and I am proud to have surpassed my personal expectations of myself and the company"

What is your favourite film?

"When I started at Light Films I didn't really have a clue as to what I was looking for in an enjoyable but well produced film.  Nowadays, my favourites include Schindler's List, The Wrestler, Catch Me If You Can, The 3 Bournes, Inception, Stranger Than Fiction, The Holiday, Benjamin Button, Heat, Crash, Apollo 13, The Birds, Vertigo, North by Northwest, Psycho and one of my all time favourites Marnie (cue the name of my daughter!)... I think I'll end it there for now!"

Who is your favourite film director?

"Well, it's got to be Alfred Hitchcock mainly because he always ensures you never quite know what's going to happen next! Plus, I absoutely adore his marketing techniques.  Have you ever seen his movie trailers? They're tremendous! If you ever get chance look at the trailers for 'Psycho' and 'The Birds' at the very least. I also have a soft spot for Peter Jackson and Steven Spielberg, they're such lovely guys and incredibly ambitious directors."

What are you most looking forward to in 2012?

"Returning to work from my maternity leave and getting married.  But also implementing the strategies I have carefully planned for each quarter.  This is going to be a fundamental year in our development as we really mature and stabilise our growth."

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corporate prices

Your business is unique; so are your video requirements. Our film services are priced according to your needs and budget. We are delighted to offer the following packages, however if you have something that differs to our packages we are more than happy to tailor make a package to suit your needs.

Low Budget Corporate Videos

Plan your video with the guidance of our specialist video marketing team, get your film directed by our Universal Studios film director at a location of your choice.  Let our award winning filmmakers shoot and edit your 1-3 minute video and deliver it to you in a format of your choice.

Mid Budget Corporate Videos

Receive full assistance in the planning of your video from our specialist video marketing team.  Let us organise any actors or voiceover artists you may require, along with the props and locations for your video.  Our Universal Studios director will manage your film shoot with our crew of experts before you come to our studios and watch our team of editors put the magical touches to your video, and make it come to life.

High Budget Corporate Videos

You will hire our project managers to plan, develop and schedule your video; making full use of their film production skills and expertise whilst they take control of bringing your ideas to life.  We will organise all cast, crew, props and locations as well as anything else needed on set, such as refreshments. Get more access to our post-production team, who will allow you to watch them create your video from the footage taken at the shoot by our Universal Studios Director and his film crew.  Want a few more changes to the end result? Not a problem, you have at least five times more opportunity to change your video to make it perfect for your needs.

Monthly Videos from £300 per month

For the media-savvy who understand the need for video for SEO, communication and marketing purposes we have developed a fabulous monthly video package that allows you to produce 6-12 corporate films over the course of a year.    Each month we will plan your video with you before filming and editing with your supervision, to ensure it's delivered on time for your marketing needs.  Uses for these sorts of videos? Well, they include blogs, updates to legislations, promotions & offers - the list is endless!  You can display them in windows, foyers, receptions, websites, exhibition spaces... Again, the list is endless!

Media Packages

If you have a need for a range of videos in your business, it maybe worthwhile considering one of our media packages whereby you can mix and match our video services for an affordable monthly fee over the course of a year.  These packages are completely bespoke to your business or initiative, and prices range accordingly.

Events Annual Packages

Do you run a lot of events? Maybe you're an events management company? We have the perfect package to ensure all your hard work is captured and remembered on DVD whilst providing you with highlights that can be uploaded to the web for promotional use.  Gaining access to our project management team who will plan and inspire every video for you (the above price covers 6 standard event videos per year), your events will be filmed by our award winning film crew and you will also have the opportunity to sit with our editing team whilst your film is brought to life in our editing suite.

There is something for everyone in the packages listed above, but if you can not find what you're looking for please contact us as there is no videography project too big, nor too small, for us to manage.  We look forward to hearing from you.

For a consultation with one of our experts, or for a no-obligation quote contact us by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone 0845 304 8646.

Disclaimer: All prices above are exclusive of VAT. Prices cover projects within a 25 mile radius of DE73 5SU, travel costs maybe applied for projects outside of this radius.  Entry into contract to access our services can only be made with payment of set-up fee and signed Terms & Conditions (by the client) being received by Light Films. Prices are subject to change at any time.