Location Challenges? Consider These Video Production Options

• Choose animation: One video option that eliminates location troubles entirely is animation. All-animated videos use hand-drawn or computer-generated graphics to tell your story, completely removing the challenges associated with scouting location, hiring talent and shooting live. These types of videos are cost-effective compared to live-action videos and can pack just as much of a punch with a great story.

• Go minimal: Not every video needs an elaborate set. Minimal backgrounds are perfectly acceptable for many video types (and may even be preferred in some cases). You can create a professional-looking “set” at your brand’s office or any open room by using a plain backdrop or wall with a few choice props in the background. You can also spruce up an otherwise “plain-looking” video using motion graphics to illustrate data, add visual flair and emphasize your story.

• Use green screens: If you have a larger budget, using green screens can give you the final product you want without needing to source that specific location. Green screens allow you to isolate actors and props and place a wide variety of backgrounds and special effects behind them during post-production. This might help you save time during the actual shoot and minimize pre-production logistics, but be aware that this will lengthen the post-production process.

• Add in B-roll: If your video calls for brief shots in a range of more specific locations, securing and shooting at them all can complicate production unnecessarily. An alternative is to shoot the bulk of your video in one or two locations and source B-roll for the remaining shorter shots. B-roll creates essential breakaway shots and adds visual intrigue without the challenge of shooting at many places for a single project.

Scouting location for your next video ad might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Many videos turn out great without an elaborate set or backdrop. Of course, location should be top of mind when you’re first drafting your video’s concept and script to ensure the shoot is feasible given your timeline and budget. However, challenges will inevitably occur during location scouting at some point, so some level of flexibility might be necessary. 

To streamline the location scouting process, consider working with a professional video production team like Spin Creative. With years of production experience, we’ve mastered the ability to find suitable locations (or their alternatives) for all kinds of marketing videos. Say hello to learn more!

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Spin Creative is a video production company and creative agency helping marketers create winning video and creative strategies that engage, inspire and activate targeted audiences. Spin is headquartered in Seattle with offices in San Francisco and London, serving brands around the globe.