Tips & Tools

Want more tips, tools and techniques? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. We search the web for anything that will interest the media professional. Take a look at what we find.

Excuse Letter for Bad Wedding Video

September 22, 2017 4

Jarrod asks: I screwed up shooting an outdoor wedding video. My equipment was having a hard time in the heat and simply kept overheating and shutting down. When my camera was able to get back on again I was able to shoot some salvageable video but it’s not what the bride expected. What do I do now? I never had this happen before.

The Elite Videographer Business Model

September 21, 2017 2

We could get into a full business model for a video production business but we’re not. A business plan is a heavy ball around your foot, tangling you in options, projections and dreams on how you’re going to make money – a detailed plan is necessary but we have that plan all laid out for you already. In this tutorial, we’re going to give you the foundation (or focus) for your Elite business. You are going to do one thing and do it well!

Video Production Creative Briefs

September 20, 2017 1

Ansel asks:: I would like to gather project ideas, budgets and goals from my clients for video productions we produce for them. Is there a faster way to do this other than an initial production meeting? I want to spark some creativity from my clients and ensure confidence in the direction of the production. Thanks for a great website and podcast!

How Much Should I Charge for Video

September 19, 2017 3

Scott asks: How much do I charge for producing video? How do we give a right charge that will compromise both sides? How do we charge ourselves worthy for our skills, time, and dedication? How do we charge our video editing services that are justifiable to our client?

Stock Footage Video and Copyrights

September 17, 2017 3

Tami asks: I was listening to your podcast about making some side cash selling stock video footage of your own and have questions. What rights issues apply for things you shoot to sell as stock footage? What do you do to ensure you’re not violating intellectual property rights? Do we have to request permission with releases for every item, building, person or property we shoot?

Why you should be using Zebra Stripes

September 14, 2017 0

Adam asks: I’m trying to understand how to use the zebra stripes. I have read several places on what it’s for, but never seen what I’m supposed to do about it.

Video Storage on Google Drive is Changing

September 13, 2017 1

Amy asks: I just heard Google Drive is being killed off. Ahhh! I store most of my videos and scripts on the service and collaborate with clients. I don’t believe Google is doing this. What is the next step? Is this true?

How to Photograph the Northern Lights

September 13, 2017 0

Steve asks: I listen to your podcast often and especially enjoyed listening to the tips offered on shooting the Northern lights with Gary Boyle (September 7, 2017 podcast ) I have a Canon DSLR and would like to just shoot photographs and possibly stitch them together into a timelapse. Any additional advice would be helpful. Thanks!