Tag Archives: Video post-production St. Louis

Proven Ways Service Businesses Cut Video Costs—Without Cutting Quality

As a seasoned professional in commercial video and photography, I understand that investing in high-quality visual content is crucial for service businesses to stand out. However, I also recognize that budget constraints are a primary concern for many decision-makers. The good news is that strategic planning and smart execution can significantly reduce the costs of your video shoots without compromising the final product’s quality or impact.

Here are the top, expert-vetted strategies for service businesses to save money on video production:

1. Maximize Location Efficiency: Group Shoots and Location Scouting

One of the largest variables in video production costs is the time spent on location. Minimize this by adopting a disciplined approach:

Batch Content Production: Instead of planning multiple separate shoots for different needs (website, social media, internal training), plan one or two comprehensive shoot days. Group interviews, B-roll, and employee testimonials together. This saves on crew travel time, setup/teardown, and equipment rental days.
Strategic Location Selection: Prioritize locations that are visually rich and require minimal dressing or lighting modification. Utilizing your existing office, facility, or a client-friendly space can eliminate expensive location fees. Conduct thorough scouting beforehand to ensure the location is quiet and conducive to professional sound recording.
Permit Prudence: Know when a permit is truly necessary. Shooting on private property (with permission) is often free. Public spaces, however, can incur costs. A quick, guerrilla-style shoot may be possible for brief B-roll, but be mindful of professional regulations.

2. Streamline Pre-Production: Planning is the Ultimate Cost-Saver

The time spent in planning directly translates to time (and money) saved on set.

Detailed Storyboarding and Shot Lists: A complete, approved shot list and storyboard are your map. They prevent costly delays on set due to confusion or last-minute creative changes. Every crew member should know exactly what is being captured and why.
Script and Interview Preparation: Ensure all interview subjects are briefed and have approved key talking points. Unscripted interviews that ramble require exponentially more time in the editing room, which increases post-production costs.
Talent Management: When possible, utilize internal company leaders or employees as talent. This eliminates talent agency fees, casting costs, and the day rate for professional actors. Employees often offer more authentic, relatable representation of your service.

3. Smart Equipment and Crew Utilization: Right-Sizing the Production

A large crew and the most expensive gear are not always necessary for commercial success.

Match Equipment to Need: Resist the urge for “over-production.” A simple, compelling interview might only require a two-person crew (videographer and sound tech) and a modest lighting setup. Do not pay for a cinema camera package when a high-end mirrorless setup is sufficient for your delivery medium (e.g., social media).
Combine Roles Where Appropriate: For smaller shoots, look for a “hybrid” producer-videographer who can manage logistics while operating the camera, or a drone pilot who can also operate a ground camera.

4. Maximize Post-Production Efficiency: Repurposing and AI

The true value of your content is realized after the shoot. Strategic post-production is key to stretching your investment.

Repurposing Content is Non-Negotiable: Plan the shoot with the intent to create multiple pieces of content. One long interview can be edited into a 2-minute “About Us” video, five 30-second social media clips, and ten audiograms/quote graphics. This is the single most effective way to save on content creation over time.
Leverage Existing Assets: Incorporate existing, high-quality stills or brand graphics into your video. This reduces the need for new B-roll.
Embrace Artificial Intelligence: AI tools are revolutionizing post-production. They can significantly speed up tasks like initial transcription, subtitle generation, basic color grading, and even rough cuts, translating directly into lower editing labor costs.

Decision Guide — When to Use Studio vs. Your Location

Choose Studio if: tight schedule, multiple stakeholders, need absolute audio control, or you want a repeatable “look” for a series.
Choose Your Location if: process visuals matter (equipment, workspace), you need authentic staff interactions, or you’re telling client-site stories.
Hybrid: Interviews in studio for speed + half-day b-roll at your location for texture.

Indoor Drone? Yes, When It Adds Value

Specialized micro-drones can safely fly indoors to create dynamic establishing shots across lobbies, warehouses, labs, and training centers. The key to cost control is pre-visualization: plan the path, clear walkways, limit extras, and coordinate with facilities to avoid resets.

Compliance, Risk, and Brand Protection (cheap insurance)

Releases for every on-camera person (and products/logos where needed).
Client data: sanitize screens/whiteboards, enable privacy blur in post.
Voice & claims: legal-approved phrasing for “results may vary,” no unsubstantiated outcomes.
Accessibility: captions, contrast, readable font sizes—vital for regulated industries and broader reach.

Partner with St Louis Commercial Video for Image Acquisition Success

For decision-makers seeking successful, cost-effective image acquisition, partnering with an experienced, full-service provider is the ultimate strategy for value.

St Louis Commercial Video is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with the right equipment and creative crew service experience for successful image acquisition. As a full-service video and photography production corporation since 1982, we have worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies in the St. Louis area for their marketing photography and video needs.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. St Louis Commercial Video can customize your productions for diverse types of media requirements. Repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction is another specialty. We are well-versed in all file types and styles of media and accompanying software, and we use the latest in Artificial Intelligence for all our media services, ensuring peak efficiency and modern results.

Our private studio lighting and visual setup is perfect for small productions and interview scenes, and our studio is large enough to incorporate props to round out your set. We support every aspect of your production—from setting up a private, custom interview studio to supplying professional sound and camera operators, as well as providing the right equipment—ensuring your next video production is seamless and successful. We can even fly our specialized drones indoors for unique, dynamic shots.

Ready to maximize your visual content investment?

Would you like to schedule a consultation to discuss how we can customize a cost-effective video and photography package for your next campaign?

stlouiscommercialvideo@gmail.com

314-913-5626

Lights, Camera, Engagement! Proven Production Techniques to Make Your Marketing Videos More Fun and Memorable.

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In today’s fast-moving digital marketplace, grabbing and holding your audience’s attention is more challenging than ever. Whether you’re creating brand awareness content, a product explainer, or a social media promo, the key to success lies in producing marketing videos that are not only informative but also entertaining and emotionally resonant.

At St Louis Commercial Video, we understand that engagement is the new currency of video marketing. Fun doesn’t mean sacrificing professionalism — it means infusing your video with energy, personality, and thoughtful execution. Here are production techniques that can help elevate your next marketing video from average to unforgettable.

1. Use Relatable Scenarios and Real People

Audiences connect with stories they recognize. Filming real customers, employees, or clients in authentic scenarios creates a human connection that scripted actors sometimes can’t replicate. Candid interviews, testimonials, or behind-the-scenes glimpses build trust and show the personality of your brand.

Pro Tip: Keep it conversational. Overly scripted dialogue can come off as stiff or insincere. Encourage natural responses and edit for clarity and brevity later.

2. Incorporate Motion Graphics and Animation

Dynamic text overlays, animated icons, and kinetic typography can add visual interest and clarify complex ideas. Motion graphics are especially useful in explainer videos, where they help retain attention and reinforce key messaging.

Pro Tip: Use animation to transition between scenes instead of static cuts — it keeps the pace light and energetic.

3. Add Playful Elements Without Distracting from the Message

Subtle humor, visual metaphors, clever transitions, or fun props can liven up your video while still aligning with your brand identity. Think of small moments — a wink from a customer, a sudden camera zoom, or a pop-up fun fact — that make the viewer smile.

Pro Tip: Timing is everything. Keep humor punchy and brief to avoid undercutting the message.

4. Utilize Multiple Camera Angles and Creative Shots

Static talking heads can wear out your audience quickly. Using a variety of camera angles — wide shots, close-ups, over-the-shoulder — adds visual diversity. Drone footage, gimbals, and slider shots offer smooth motion and cinematic quality that elevates your production.

Pro Tip: Match your visual style to the energy of your message. A high-energy campaign may benefit from quick cuts and sweeping shots, while an intimate brand story may shine with slower, steadier footage.

5. Leverage Music and Sound Design

Music sets the tone. A good soundtrack can evoke emotion, emphasize pacing, and guide viewers through your story. Sound effects, when used subtly, also enhance engagement by adding a tactile realism or reinforcing on-screen action.

Pro Tip: Always license music legally, and adjust volume levels so music supports — not competes with — your narration or dialogue.

6. Break the Fourth Wall

One of the fastest ways to create an engaging video is to have your subject directly address the viewer. This “breaking the fourth wall” technique feels personal and invites the audience into the conversation.

Pro Tip: Pair this technique with tight close-ups and direct eye contact for maximum impact.

7. End with a Strong Call to Action

Even the most engaging video falls flat if it lacks a purpose. Encourage viewers to take the next step — whether that’s visiting your website, signing up for a service, or contacting your team. A clear and upbeat CTA keeps the momentum going.

Why Work With St Louis Commercial Video?

Since 1982, St Louis Commercial Video has partnered with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies across the St. Louis region to create fun, impactful, and brand-boosting marketing videos. We are a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with deep experience in both studio and location shoots. Our private studio offers customizable lighting, space for props, and interview setups that enhance every scene.

We provide expert editing, post-production, and licensed drone operations — including indoor drone capabilities. From creative concepting to sound and camera operators, we have everything you need to bring your vision to life. Plus, we use the latest in Artificial Intelligence tools to repurpose your media across platforms and increase ROI on every project.

Whether you’re producing a corporate sizzle reel, a social media short, or a testimonial campaign, St Louis Commercial Video has the right gear, team, and creativity to make it fun — and successful.

Let’s make your next marketing video not just seen, but remembered.

stlouiscommercialvideo@gmail.com

314-913-5626

Exploring Short-Form Video Content

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In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, short-form video content has emerged as a powerful tool for businesses and organizations to engage their audiences effectively. As decision-makers in photography and video production, understanding the nuances of short-form content can significantly impact your marketing strategies and overall brand messaging.

Tailor your content to fit the platform’s specific requirements and audience preferences. Each platform has its unique culture and best practices.

The Rise of Short-Form Video

Short-form video, typically ranging from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, has gained immense popularity due to the rise of social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. These platforms cater to consumers’ diminishing attention spans, providing quick, digestible content that resonates with viewers.

Why Short-Form Video Works

Increased Engagement: Short videos are designed to capture attention quickly, making them more likely to be viewed and shared. The brevity encourages creativity, allowing brands to convey their message succinctly.
Cost-Effective Production: Creating short-form videos often requires less time and fewer resources than longer formats. This allows businesses to produce more content and adapt quickly to changing trends.
Versatility: Short videos can serve multiple purposes—from promotional snippets to behind-the-scenes glimpses and customer testimonials. This versatility enables brands to diversify their content strategy effectively.
Enhanced Brand Awareness: With engaging short videos, companies can build brand recognition and loyalty by delivering consistent messaging across various platforms.

Best Practices for Creating Short-Form Video Content

Hook Your Audience Early: The first few seconds are crucial. Use compelling visuals or intriguing questions to capture interest immediately.
Keep It Simple: Focus on a single message or theme. Overloading viewers with information can dilute your message and decrease engagement.
Leverage Captions: Many viewers watch videos without sound. Adding captions ensures your message is understood regardless of audio settings.
Call to Action (CTA): Encourage viewers to take action after watching your video. Whether it’s visiting your website, following your social media, or purchasing a product, a clear CTA can drive engagement.
Optimize for Each Platform: Tailor your content to fit the platform’s specific requirements and audience preferences. Each platform has its unique culture and best practices.

Conclusion

At St. Louis Commercial Video, we understand the impact of short-form video content in today’s marketing strategies. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with over 40 years of experience, we have the right equipment and creative crew to ensure successful image acquisition for your projects.

We offer comprehensive services, including studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. Our expertise allows us to customize productions to meet diverse media requirements, ensuring that your branding gains the traction it deserves. We specialize in repurposing your photography and video assets to maximize their impact.

Our private studio features advanced lighting and visual setups, perfect for small productions and interview scenes. We can accommodate props to enhance your set, and our experienced team can provide everything from custom interview studio setups to sound and camera operators. Additionally, our specialized drones can be flown indoors, offering unique perspectives for your content.

Since 1982, St. Louis Commercial Video has collaborated with numerous businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area, delivering top-notch corporate photography and video solutions. Trust us to help you navigate the world of short-form video content and elevate your brand’s presence in the digital space.

stlouiscommercialvideo@gmail.com

314-913-5626

Editing Techniques for Company Training Videos

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Company training videos have emerged as a powerful tool to impart knowledge and skills to employees, clients, and partners. These videos can streamline the training process, ensuring consistency and scalability. However, creating compelling and engaging training videos requires more than just recording footage; it demands effective editing techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of editing techniques for company training videos. As an experienced video production company based in St. Louis, St Louis Commercial Video Production is here to share its knowledge and expertise in creating impactful training videos.

Scalability: Videos can be used for training large groups of employees without significant increases in resources.

Why Are Training Videos Important?

Before we dive into editing techniques, let’s understand why training videos are crucial for businesses today. Training videos offer several advantages over traditional training methods:

Consistency: With video, you can ensure that every employee receives the same information in the same format, eliminating discrepancies in training delivery.
Accessibility: Training videos can be accessed anytime, anywhere, making them ideal for remote and on-demand learning.
Engagement: Well-produced videos are more engaging than text-heavy manuals or presentations, increasing knowledge retention.
Scalability: Videos can be used for training large groups of employees without significant increases in resources.
Cost-Efficiency: While the initial investment in video production may seem high, it pays off in the long run by reducing training costs and improving efficiency.

The Art of Editing in Training Videos

Editing is the cornerstone of creating effective training videos. It’s not just about trimming unnecessary footage; it’s about crafting a seamless and engaging narrative that keeps viewers’ attention. Let’s explore some editing techniques that can elevate your company training videos.

1. Storyboarding and Planning

Before you start editing, it’s essential to have a clear plan in place. Storyboarding helps you outline the structure of your video, including the main topics, subtopics, and how they flow together. It’s like creating a roadmap for your video editing journey.

Pro Tip: Use this planning phase to identify any gaps in your content or areas where additional footage or explanations are needed.

2. Cutting Unnecessary Content

One of the primary goals of editing is to trim the fat and remove any unnecessary content. This includes long pauses, mistakes, or off-topic discussions. Keep in mind that attention spans are limited, especially in training environments. Your editing should focus on delivering the essential information efficiently.

Pro Tip: When cutting content, use smooth transitions to avoid abrupt jumps in the video.

3. Adding Graphics and Text

Visual aids can enhance understanding and engagement in training videos. Consider incorporating graphics, text overlays, and animations to emphasize key points or highlight important information.

Pro Tip: Ensure that any text or graphics used are consistent with your company’s branding and style guidelines.

4. Using Multiple Camera Angles

If you have multiple camera angles available, using them strategically can make your training video more dynamic. Switching between angles during demonstrations or interviews can provide a more comprehensive view of the subject matter.

Pro Tip: Plan camera angle changes during the storyboard phase to ensure they align with the content flow.

5. Applying Transitions

Transitions help smooth the shift between different scenes or topics in your training video. Common transitions include cuts, fades, wipes, and dissolves. Choosing the right transition style can enhance the overall viewing experience.

Pro Tip: Avoid overusing flashy transitions, as they can distract from the content.

6. Adding Background Music

Background music can set the tone and mood for your training video. It can make the content more engaging and enjoyable to watch. However, be mindful of the volume and genre of music, ensuring it complements the subject matter.

Pro Tip: Use royalty-free music to avoid copyright issues.

7. Incorporating B-Roll Footage

B-Roll footage consists of additional shots that are not the primary focus but complement the main content. It can include close-ups, cutaways, or relevant visuals that add depth and context to your training video.

Pro Tip: Plan and gather B-Roll footage during the video production stage to ensure you have relevant shots for editing.

8. Optimizing Audio Quality

Clear and crisp audio is crucial in training videos. Ensure that the voiceovers or narrations are well-recorded and free from background noise. Use audio editing tools to enhance and normalize audio levels.

Pro Tip: Invest in quality microphones and recording equipment for better audio quality from the start.

9. Adding Captions and Subtitles

Including captions or subtitles in your training videos can make them more accessible to a broader audience, including those with hearing impairments or those watching without sound.

Pro Tip: Use accurate and error-free transcriptions for captioning.

10. Quality Control and Review

After completing the initial edit, it’s essential to review your training video carefully. Look for any inconsistencies, errors, or areas that may need improvement. Consider gathering feedback from a test audience or colleagues to ensure the video meets its training objectives.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush the review process; take the time to make necessary adjustments.

How St Louis Commercial Video Production Can Help

As a creative video production company, St Louis Commercial Video Production has been serving businesses and organizations in the St. Louis area since 1982. Our extensive experience in video production, including training videos, makes us the ideal partner for your training needs.

Here’s how we can assist your business with training video production:

Expertise in Shooting and Editing Training Videos: With decades of experience, we understand the nuances of creating effective training videos. We excel in capturing the right shots and editing them into cohesive, engaging narratives.
B-Roll Mastery: We know the importance of B-Roll footage in enhancing the training process. Our team is skilled at gathering relevant B-Roll shots that complement your content seamlessly.
Full-Service Video Production: St Louis Commercial Video Production is a full-service video production company. We handle all aspects of video production, from concept development and scripting to shooting, editing, and post-production.
Tailored Solutions: We understand that every business has unique training needs. Our approach is customized to meet your specific goals, ensuring that your training videos align with your company culture and objectives.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: We utilize the latest video production equipment and technologies to deliver high-quality training videos that resonate with your audience.

Partnering with St Louis Commercial Video Production means gaining a dedicated team of professionals committed to helping your business succeed through effective training videos.

Conclusion

Effective training videos are the result of careful planning and skilled video editing. By employing the editing techniques discussed in this guide, you can create training videos that engage, inform, and empower your audience. Remember that St Louis Commercial Video Production is here to assist you with all your training video needs. Our experience and expertise in the field can elevate your training materials and contribute to the success of your business.

stlouiscommercialvideo@gmail.com

314-913-5626

Why Teleprompter Coaching is Essential for Non-Professional Talent.

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Teleprompters are an essential tool for on-camera talent, but they can be intimidating for those who lack experience. Non-professional talent, such as business owners, politicians, and public speakers, often have to use teleprompters to deliver speeches and presentations, but they may not have the necessary training to do so effectively. That’s where teleprompter coaching comes in. In this article, we’ll explore why teleprompter coaching is essential for non-professional talent and how it can help them to deliver their message with confidence and clarity.

Teleprompter coaching can help non-professional talent to develop the skills needed to use the teleprompter effectively.

What is a Teleprompter?

A teleprompter is a device that displays a script or speech to the person speaking. The text is displayed on a screen that is located near the camera lens, allowing the speaker to read their lines without looking away from the camera. This makes it possible for them to maintain eye contact with the audience while still delivering their message flawlessly.

Why is Teleprompter Coaching Important for Non-Professional Talent?

Non-professional talent often lacks experience in public speaking and presenting, which can make using a teleprompter even more challenging. Teleprompter coaching is essential for several reasons:

1. Improved Delivery

Using a teleprompter can help non-professional talent to deliver their message with more clarity and precision. However, without proper coaching, they may struggle to read the script naturally and without sounding robotic. Teleprompter coaching can help them to develop the skills needed to deliver their lines in a way that is both effective and engaging.

2. Increased Confidence

Using a teleprompter can be nerve-wracking, especially for those who are new to public speaking. Teleprompter coaching can help non-professional talent to feel more confident in their ability to deliver their message, reducing the likelihood of nervousness or stage fright.

3. Enhanced Audience Engagement

When a speaker is reading from a teleprompter, it can be easy for them to become disconnected from their audience. Teleprompter coaching can help non-professional talent to maintain eye contact with their audience while still using the teleprompter effectively.

4. Better Time Management

When delivering a speech or presentation, timing is crucial. Teleprompter coaching can help non-professional talent to learn how to pace themselves effectively, ensuring that they stay on track and within their allotted time.

5. Increased Credibility

Using a teleprompter effectively can make a speaker appear more professional and credible. Teleprompter coaching can help non-professional talent to achieve this level of professionalism, boosting their credibility in the eyes of their audience.

What Does Teleprompter Coaching Involve?

Teleprompter coaching typically involves a combination of training and practice sessions. The coach will work with the non-professional talent to develop the skills needed to use the teleprompter effectively, including:

1. Reading Speed

The coach will work with the talent to develop their reading speed, ensuring that they can keep up with the pace of the teleprompter. They will also help them to learn how to pause and emphasize certain words and phrases, enhancing the impact of their message.

2. Body Language

Using a teleprompter effectively requires the speaker to maintain good posture and use appropriate body language. The coach will work with the talent to develop these skills, helping them to appear confident and professional on camera.

3. Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact with the audience is crucial for engaging them and building trust. The coach will help the talent to learn how to read from the teleprompter while still maintaining eye contact with the audience.

4. Script Writing

The coach may also work with the talent to develop the script or speech that

will be displayed on the teleprompter. This can include editing the script to ensure that it flows well and is easy to read, as well as incorporating visual cues to help the talent stay on track.

5. Technical Training

Finally, the coach will provide technical training on how to use the teleprompter itself. This can include familiarizing the talent with the software used to control the teleprompter and teaching them how to troubleshoot common issues that may arise during a shoot.

How to Choose a Teleprompter Coach

When choosing a teleprompter coach, it’s important to look for someone who has experience working with non-professional talent. They should be able to explain the process clearly and in a way that is easy to understand, and they should be patient and encouraging when working with the talent.

It’s also important to choose a coach who is knowledgeable about the technical aspects of teleprompters. They should be able to troubleshoot any issues that arise during a shoot and ensure that the teleprompter is functioning properly.

Conclusion

Using a teleprompter can be a valuable tool for non-professional talent who need to deliver speeches or presentations on camera. However, it can also be challenging without the proper training and coaching. Teleprompter coaching can help non-professional talent to develop the skills needed to use the teleprompter effectively, improving their delivery, increasing their confidence, enhancing audience engagement, improving time management, and boosting their credibility. When choosing a teleprompter coach, it’s important to look for someone who has experience working with non-professional talent and who is knowledgeable about the technical aspects of teleprompters. With the right coach and the right training, non-professional talent can deliver their message with confidence and clarity, engaging their audience and achieving their goals.

stlouiscommercialvideo@gmail.com

314-913-5626