Shooting a fashion video for your corporate blog can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a high-quality video that represents your brand in the best light possible.
Step 1: Discuss What Type of Video You Want to Make
Even if you already know that it is a fashion video, you still need to brainstorm the concept. What is the video all about? What is the goal? Who are you targeting?
To help you find out the answers, consider these questions:
- What is the main idea of your fashion video?
- Who are you targeting to watch the video and why do they need to watch it?
- How would this make them look good and feel more confident about themselves?
Invite all those involved in the video to participate or suggest. Working with a professional video production company can help significantly during this process because they are experienced in creating videos that appeal to target audiences.
Step 2: Write the Script and Create a Storyboard
The storyboard is a visual representation of what the video is about and how it will look like. It can be created using an online program such as Adobe Illustrator, Celtx, or any other software that enables you to create basic images.
If you are not sure of what it should look like, try drawing some sketches on paper first. It can be as simple as stick figures, but it will give you a better idea of the video.
Once you have the final image, work on the script and fill in the text. If you already have a good script written, try your best to convey your message with visuals alone – without sound or voiceover. It will help you determine what is actually needed in the video and what can be excluded.
Step 3: Scout for a Location
If your video is based on a particular story, then you may need to scout for more than one location. But even if it is an unscripted, live-action fashion video, scouting for the right location will get your creative juices flowing.
Scouting can either be done on foot or using Google Maps Street View, depending on how familiar you are with the area.
When scouting, consider these questions:
- How does this location fit this concept?
- What can be seen in the background that represents your brand and what is your target audience most likely to react to?
If there happens to be a large landmark in the background of your potential locations, ask for permission before you shoot or you might have a copyright issue on your hands.
Step 4: Determine the Equipment You Need
First, let’s talk about the camera. You’ll need a DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) or fixed-lens video camera. Because it has interchangeable lenses, you can achieve different effects with other lenses that are available and suited for different effects.
Next, we have lighting equipment. You’ll need one light (which will be placed as a backlight) and two fill lights (one on each side of your talent). Without these two, you won’t have enough light to properly see your model. It’s usually a good idea to use a tripod, but it can be done without one if you find yourself skilled in handholding the camera.
And here are the extras — some filters and lens flares for effects, though they’re primarily used as embellishments. You might also require a shotgun microphone and a monopod; both are optional depending on your preferences.
If you are planning to shoot more of these, then investing in these pieces of equipment makes sense. Otherwise, let the professional production team (if you’re hiring one) use theirs.
Step 5: Film the Fashion Video
The next step is to set up your shot. Unless you’re using two cameras, this means that one camera will be used as the primary recording device while the other one is used to get a close-up. If you’re not familiar with how to use these devices, just let the professional production team handle this step for you.
Once everything is set, then it’s time to shoot.
If you want your video to have movement in the background, ask everyone except for your model and camera person to stand still. Then, ask them to move at the same time that you start recording your video.
If you want extra drama, have your backlight shine brightly into the eyes of the camera person so they can’t see what is being recorded. Do this after asking everyone else not to move for a good second or two. This effect will certainly get people’s attention, and it will be a great way to start your video.
Step 6: Edit Your Fashion Video
If you’re using software, then you can simply upload the video into Adobe Premiere Pro and start working on the editing. If you need to add some effects such as filters or special titles, use Adobe Photoshop instead.
If you’re using a professional production team, then ask them if they can put all of your raw footage into one video and upload it onto your computer. Once everything is done, check for errors and blemishes (e.g. “watermarks”). Export your finished file into a high-quality format, upload it on YouTube or Vimeo, and you’re good to go!