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Creating Video Narratives Frame by Frame

Posted by MarCom2324 on Feb. 20, 2024  /  Subscribe 0

Stacey Weiss, Communications Manager for Urban Engineers, Inc., recaps Michael Mullin's October 2023 SMPS event Frame by Frame: Video Development Basics for Creating Compelling Stories.

In the fast-paced world of digital media, storytelling through video is a powerful and engaging medium. Professionals like Michael Mullin, videographer and producer for Urban Video Productions (UVP), play a pivotal role in crafting compelling narratives. Michael recently shared with SMPS members his process for creating engaging videos that captivate audiences. In this article, we will dive into Michael's expertise and explore the essential aspects of video storytelling.

Pre-Production

Before starting your video project, Michael has outlined essential steps to guarantee a seamless journey throughout the video creation process.

• Planning Project Goals and Timelines: Setting clear project goals and timelines is essential. It not only ensures that the team is on the same page but also provides a roadmap for the entire production. This step allows for a more organized and less stressful experience.
• Storyboarding and Sketches: Storyboarding involves creating a visual narrative outline, incorporating sketches to depict scenes, camera angles, and key elements.
• Schedule Creation: A well-structured schedule is a vital aspect of pre-production. It helps keep the project on track.
• Equipment Choice: Selecting the right equipment is essential for the success of any video project. Consider that the right cameras, lighting, and audio equipment are chosen to suit the project's specific needs.

Video Construction

Michael took us through his video construction process, from the simplicity of a single shot to the complexity of weaving together various elements to create powerful videos.

• Single Shot: A "single shot" is a continuous video recording that captures a scene without any cuts or edits. While single shots may seem simple, they require planning to ensure that the moment is captured correctly.
• B-roll: During every shoot, b-roll should be collected. It is supplemental footage. It is not the video's focus but serves to provide context, add visual interest, and help tell a complete and engaging story.
• Interviewing: Interviews serve as the backbone of many videos. Effective interviewing involves creating well-structured talking points that guide the narrative and deliver the desired message.
• Graphics: Graphics add an additional layer of messaging, allowing you to convey concepts that may be challenging to depict visually. This is particularly true for motion graphics; Michael shared a video of a dynamic logo animated to symbolize a commitment to a greater cause.
• Drone Footage: Drones have become a game-changer in video construction, providing unique angles and views. UVP introduced drone services this year, enhancing its storytelling capabilities.

Putting the elements together

Michael provided valuable insights on combining these elements to produce more advanced videos.

• Integrating Multiple Interviews: Weaving multiple voices into one video requires balance. Consider capturing more interviews than needed to ensure an array of voices and perspectives.
• Voice-Overs: Voice-overs serve as an effective tool, guiding viewers to understand what they see and how to emotionally connect. Use them thoughtfully, avoiding excessive use. Always record voice-overs on a quality microphone for the best results.
• Animation: Creating a captivating scene is the first step in the animation process.
• Develop the assets needed for the visual narrative.
• Ensure illustrations align with the chosen color scheme.
• Once the above elements are complete, merge them into the overall scene to bring the animation to life.
• Animation is a great way to emphasize the need for immediate investment in a project, even if its full realization is decades away.

Urban Video Productions (UVP) are services offered through Urban Engineers, Inc. UVP provides expert video services to individuals and organizations seeking to convey their stories through visual media. With more than a decade of experience, UVP has assisted clients in various sectors, including architecture, real estate, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and many more, in effectively Communicating their messages.

For more information about UVP and the video services they can provide your organization, contact Michael Mullin.

Michael Mullin
Videographer & Producer
Urban Engineers

By combining his skills and knowledge of fine art and music, Michael leads Urban Engineers’ Urban Video Productions. Through his own multidisciplinary process of interviewing, drawing, filming, editing, animating, and composing bespoke music soundtracks for each video, Michael clearly and creatively communicates stories no matter the audience or venue. His previous clientele has included museums, theaters, non-profits, start-ups, and design, architecture, and engineering firms. Michael is a graduate of the Tyler School of Art and received the Boris Blai Memorial Sculpture Award. 

Stacey Weiss
Communications Manager
Urban Engineers

Stacey is the Communications Manager for Urban Engineers, overseeing internal and external communications for the firm. Stacey has over eight years of experience providing communications and marketing within the transportation field.

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