Video production books are a great resource in an ever-evolving industry. Equipment changes often due to technology upgrades, formats are in flux thanks to social media, and audience preferences are affected by trends. In an effort to stay sharp, we like to read up on a subject close to our hearts to be reminded of what will always work and what’s new in the world of video.
General Info
A good overall primer for corporate video production is this book from Stuart Sweetow. This industry veteran covers topics like writing, editing and interview techniques. With an emphasis on making videos more than just a boring talking head, this read will get your brain revving.
The Video Production Handbook is a soup to nuts guide to making videos. This book is in its Fifth Edition, which means the publishers and authors are careful to keep up with the latest techniques and concepts. Clear, direct and practical, it’s a good reminder of the basics of video production.
Scripting
Video Scriptwriting by Barry Hampe is a complete guide for writers. Not only does this book cover researching, writing and editing, but it also discusses working with everyone involved in the production. Learn how to write with visuals in mind and handle clients and producers. Hampe also has advice for the reader concerning the business side of writing, including contracts and payments.
Shooting
Boardroom Director will show you how to capitalize on the booming corporate video industry. Everyone wants a video these days, and author Ted Bridgwater’s book instructs the reader on how to sell, train, motivate, inform, recruit and inspire. Read this book for tips, industry resources and tools to help you thrive in the industry. Full of practical advice, Bridgwater openly explains how corporate video production is ripe for the picking.
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense guide to shooting digital video, this next book is for you. The author is ASC certified and ready to impart his wisdom when it comes to shooting digital video. Whether you’re making a documentary, a corporate video or a home video, this manual will come in handy.
Animation
An animation is a great tool to use in a corporate video. Liz Blazer’s book Animated Storytelling is part scripting guide and part animation guide. Blaze, an award-winning animator, lays out the process of concept development, pre-production, storyboarding, and design. She gives examples and provides exercises that make the idea of animated storytelling less intimidating and more achievable.
Social Media
Social media is a vital component of corporate video production. Most of our clients want to post their videos online, even if they weren’t originally intended for social media. The bottom line is, videos get views! And the best videos get likes and shares, which spreads brand awareness. Need more info on how to take advantage of the online market? Read on.
Likeable Social Media will teach you how to take a customer’s positive word-of-mouth and turn it into sales. This book references case studies that show just how you can take advantage of social media to boost business.
Two places to look for advice on social media marketing are Video Marketing Strategy and Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook. Both books discuss using social media to increase brand awareness and bolster a wider campaign. Read these for practical advice on how to create videos with effective, engaging content. Then get ready to reap the benefits of all those thumbs up!
Putting Our Reading List to Work
We put a lot of thought and effort into our productions and we’re proud of our the results. Call us today and let’s discuss how we can put what we’ve learned to work for you.
