Capturing Compelling Behind-the-Scenes Content for Social Media: Tips for Videographers
We all know that part of being a videographer – especially one with run-and gun-style – is is wearing too many hats to count. Probably the last thing on your mind while on set is, “how can I leverage this awesome content, and maybe even capture more content, for use on social”?
But to be honest, this is an essential part of our creative process with every shoot we take on. People WANT to see the behind-the-scenes of what you do and we’ve realized that! While this leaves us in a cool position to be able to share more about what we do, it also requires us to put in a little more work. Behind-the-scenes (BTS) content offers a unique and engaging perspective on the video production process, providing your audience with a glimpse into the creative efforts that go into making a project.
For videographers, BTS content not only showcases our skills and workflow but also humanizes our brands and fosters a deeper connection with our audience. Here are a few ideas and tips for capturing compelling behind-the-scenes content for social media while working on set.
I’m going to preface the following by also suggesting that you take some pressure off yourself - your posts on social don’t need to be perfect. Both clients and your audience understand that this might not be an example of your finished and polished work, but rather your attempt to stay relevant and have some fun! Here are the ideas!
Show Off Your Gear
One of the most engaging ways to kick off your BTS content is by showcasing your gear. Audiences are often fascinated by the tools that professionals use, especially when it comes to a custom rig and set up. Take some time to highlight your cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and any other technical tools you employ. Briefly explain why you choose certain pieces of gear and how they contribute to the shoot. This not only educates your audience but also demonstrates your expertise and dedication to quality production. A well-composed shot of your setup can intrigue followers and generate interest in the technical aspects of your work.
Show Your Setup Process via a Timelapse
A time-lapse video of your setup process can be incredibly captivating. Setting up a time-lapse camera to capture the hustle and bustle of the crew arranging the set, lighting, and equipment offers a dynamic and condensed view of the preparation stage. This type of content is visually appealing and gives your audience a sense of the effort and coordination involved in a shoot. Time-lapse videos can be particularly effective on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where fast-paced and visually engaging content performs well. Better yet, add some text over those time-lapses to really pull the viewers in!
Take 5-10 Stills to Make a Templated Post
Still photographs are also powerful way to capture and share moments from your shoot. Take 5-10 stills that highlight different aspects of your production process—such as the set, equipment, crew, and candid moments. Using these images, create a templated post that you can use for consistent BTS updates. This approach not only helps in maintaining a cohesive visual style across your social media but also makes it easier to share behind-the-scenes content regularly. You can use design tools such as Canva to create appealing templates that frame your photos attractively and add brief descriptions or captions to provide context.
Pick Your Favorite Shot and Pair It with a BTS Shot of You Filming It
One engaging way to personalize your BTS content is to pick your favorite shot from the shoot and pair it with an image or video of you taking that shot. This method not only showcases a jaw-dropping hero shot, but also highlights your role in creating it. It adds a personal touch, allowing your audience to see the videographer behind the camera and the effort that goes into capturing the perfect shot. This dual perspective can make your content more relatable and engaging, as it humanizes the production process and provides a glimpse into your creative journey.
Capturing compelling behind-the-scenes content for social media is about showcasing the hard work, creativity, and technical prowess that go into video production. By showing your gear, creating time-lapse videos of your setup process, taking multiple stills for templated posts, and pairing your favorite shots with behind-the-camera moments, you can create engaging BTS content that not only entertains but also educates and inspires your audience. This approach not only enhances your social media presence but also builds a deeper connection with your followers, who appreciate seeing the artistry and effort behind the scenes.
