Why Hire a Professional Production Scheduler in NYC?

Having a professional production scheduler is the key to keeping projects on track and ensuring everything runs smoothly. By managing schedules, resources, and communication, a production scheduler ensures that every aspect of the production aligns seamlessly.

Red Summit Productions has experienced production scheduling as part of our comprehensive services. Our team is dedicated to helping brands create exceptional video content while adhering to tight deadlines and budgets. Let’s explore the vital role of production scheduling, their responsibilities, and how their expertise can make or break a production project. 

What Does a Production Scheduler Do?

A production scheduler’s expertise lies in managing the many moving parts of a production including the following: 

• Planning and Organizing: They create detailed shooting schedules that outline each phase of the project, from pre-production to final delivery. This ensures that every aspect, including location setups, crew availability, and equipment needs, is accounted for.

• Coordination: Acting as the central point of communication, a production scheduler ensures cast, crew, vendors, and other stakeholders are on the same page. This prevents delays caused by miscommunication or scheduling conflicts.

• Budget Management: They monitor the project’s budget and ensure resources are allocated effectively to avoid overspending while maintaining quality.

• Problem Solving: Anticipating potential challenges, such as weather or logistical hurdles, and creating contingency plans to keep the project on track.

A professional production scheduler doesn’t just manage a timeline—they enhance the overall efficiency of the production process, helping to bring creative visions to life without unnecessary stress or delays. Their role is essential to delivering polished, high-quality video projects that meet deadlines and client expectations.

Why Having Professional Production Scheduling Matters

Efficient production scheduling is the backbone of our work, especially in an environment like New York City. Their expertise makes sure that every aspect of the production process runs smoothly, saving time, money, and stress for everyone involved.

Professional producers and production schedulers bring years of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of video production. In a city like NYC, where logistical challenges like traffic, tight permits, and unpredictable weather are common, having an experienced producer can make all the difference. They anticipate potential obstacles and proactively address them, ensuring that the production stays on track.

Production scheduling is even more important when we produce projects with talent. We’ve had the privilege of working with celebrities like Eli Manning and Kevin O’Leary on some exciting projects. Our production scheduling was a key element that helped us stay organized throughout the process and make the experience not only less stressful, but fun for us and the talent, and the end product really shows that. 

Having someone experienced in production scheduling is an investment that guarantees smoother operations, better results, and ultimately, a more successful project.

Produce Stress-Free Projects with Red Summit Productions

Having professionals that are experienced when it comes to production scheduling plays a pivotal role in the success of any video project. From organizing complex logistics to ensuring seamless communication along the way, our expertise keeps productions running smoothly and efficiently. With us on your team, you can focus on creating impactful content while leaving the coordination and planning to a trusted expert.

Red Summit Productions is committed to providing exceptional productions tailored to meet your project’s needs. Our extensive experience and proven track record in NYC’s dynamic production environment showcases our ability to deliver effective projects with precision. 

Ready to streamline your next video production? Contact our team today to discuss how we can elevate your next production and provide outstanding results.

Pro Tips: How to Film a Car Commercial That Sells

Car buyers are heavily influenced by video ads when deciding which car to purchase. This underscores the importance of creating visually compelling, high-quality commercials that resonate with audiences.

To achieve this, a car commercial must combine technical expertise with creative storytelling. The result? A video that captures the car’s features, evokes emotions, and drives sales. Red Summit Productions specializes in creating impactful commercials that stand out. Let’s dive into the process of creating a car commercial that sells. 

Pre-Production: Setting the Stage for Success

Every great car commercial starts with meticulous planning. Pre-production is where the vision for the project is refined and all the critical details are ironed out.

• Scouting Locations: The choice of location can dramatically impact the tone and aesthetic of the commercial. For instance, urban settings might highlight sophistication, while open roads and scenic backdrops emphasize freedom and adventure.

• Timing and Lighting: Golden hour—the time just after sunrise or before sunset—is ideal for capturing warm, dramatic lighting. This natural light complements the car’s contours and enhances its visual appeal.

• Equipment Selection: High-quality cameras are essential for delivering crisp, professional visuals. Stabilization tools like gimbals ensure smooth movement during shots, which is especially important for car-to-car filming. Drones can also be valuable for capturing sweeping aerial views.

• Vehicle Preparation: A clean and detailed car is key. Every inch of the vehicle should sparkle, as imperfections will be magnified under the camera’s scrutiny.

• Storyboard Creation: Laying out a visual plan ensures that every shot contributes to the commercial’s narrative and aligns with the brand message.

Shooting Techniques: Capturing Dynamic Footage

Filming a car commercial requires a variety of advanced techniques to ensure the footage is visually stunning and engaging. The process demands creativity and precision, especially when using methods like car-to-car filming.

Car-to-Car Filming

• Filming cars from another car is one of the best ways to capture dynamic movement and convey speed.

• Using a camera mounted on a stabilized rig ensures smooth, cinematic shots while the car is in motion.

• Safety is paramount: Drivers and crew members need clear communication and synchronization to avoid mishaps during the shoot.

Cinematic Angles and Perspectives

• Low-angle shots are excellent for showcasing the car’s power and stature, making it appear dominant and sleek.

• High-angle drone shots provide a broader view, revealing how the car interacts with its surroundings, whether it’s cruising through a bustling city or gliding along a winding mountain road.

• Close-ups focus on the car’s key features—gleaming headlights, luxurious interiors, or aerodynamic curves—drawing attention to the details that make it unique.

Storytelling Through Movement

• Car commercials aren’t just about the vehicle; they tell a story. Whether it’s a family embarking on an adventure or a professional arriving in style, the narrative should highlight how the car enhances the experience.

Post-Production: Making the Footage Shine

Post-production is where the raw footage transforms into a polished commercial. This stage demands attention to detail to ensure that every visual element aligns perfectly with the overall vision.

Seamlessly editing footage ensures a smooth and cohesive narrative. Transitions should feel natural, and the pacing should align with the story being told. Adjusting the color tones of the footage enhances the car’s appearance and sets the mood. Whether the goal is sleek sophistication or rugged adventure, color grading plays a critical role.

A commercial isn’t complete without an audio component. Adding engine sounds, ambient noise, and a fitting music track amplifies the emotional impact of the visuals. Subtle effects, such as motion blurs or light flares, can add drama and elevate the production quality without overshadowing the car.

Click here to check out our car commercial project with GMC.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Car Commercial Filming

Avoiding common pitfalls ensures that the final product meets professional standards and effectively engages the audience. 

Don’t overload the video with effects. While effects can enhance visuals, they shouldn’t distract from the car itself.

Don’t neglect safety protocols. Especially during car-to-car filming, failing to prioritize safety can lead to accidents and delays.

Pay attention to natural lighting. Poorly planned shoots during harsh midday light or dim conditions can diminish the quality of the footage.

Remember the story. A commercial without a clear narrative risks feeling disconnected and unmemorable.

Steering clear of these missteps helps ensure a successful production process.

Get Car Commercials that Sell with Red Summit Productions

Creating a car commercial that resonates with audiences requires a combination of creativity, preparation, and technical expertise. From pre-production planning to post-production polishing, every step is crucial to producing a commercial that truly sells.

Whether it’s capturing smooth car-to-car shots, highlighting intricate details, or delivering dynamic storytelling, our team has the skills and equipment to bring any vision to life. Reach out today to get started. 

Elevate Your Next Project with Drone Videography Services

From dynamic aerial shots to comprehensive project monitoring, drone videography has become an essential tool across industries. A recent report revealed that the global drone services market is expected to grow at a remarkable 15.8% CAGR from 2023 to 2030. This growth reflects a demand for innovative, high-quality content that captures stunning perspectives. 

Red Summit Productions, based in New York City, specializes in delivering top-tier drone videography services. These services empower businesses to elevate their visual storytelling with breathtaking aerial imagery. Whether it’s for real estate, promotional videos, or high-level film projects, we can take your project to new heights. 

Why Is Drone Videography a Game-Changer?

Drone videography is more than just a trend; it’s a revolution in how projects are visualized and shared. The unique perspectives offered by aerial imagery and aerial photography are very difficult and expensive to achieve with traditional methods.

• Enhanced Visual Appeal: Aerial photos and videos provide dramatic and engaging visuals, making them a powerful tool for marketing and storytelling.

• Industry Applications:

• Real Estate: Real estate drone photography is a key tool for agents and developers, capturing properties with breathtaking aerial shots that highlight landscapes, amenities, and architectural details.

• Construction Progress: Construction managers use drone footage to document progress, identify potential issues, and share updates with stakeholders in real time.

• Marketing Campaigns: Aerial footage adds a cinematic flair to promotional videos, ensuring campaigns stand out and resonate with audiences.

Top Features of High-Quality Drone Footage

The quality of drone photography and videography can make or break a project. Here's what sets high-quality drone services apart:

• Advanced Equipment: The drones used by professional drone pilots are equipped with high-resolution cameras capable of producing stunning aerial shots. These tools ensure crisp, vibrant visuals that elevate any project.

• Skilled Professionals: Licensed and experienced pilots are essential for safely navigating drones and capturing the perfect angles. Their expertise ensures that every shot aligns with the client’s vision.

• Breathtaking Perspectives: Aerial imagery delivers unique views that create emotional connections. Whether it’s a sweeping landscape or an intricate architectural feature, the results are always visually compelling.

Our team delivers high-quality photos and videos tailored to every client’s needs. Our commitment to excellence ensures projects are completed efficiently and creatively. Explore our portfolio to get a bigger picture of the high-quality projects we can provide. 

Mastering Techniques for Capturing Drone Photography

Capturing stunning drone photography requires both technical know-how and creative skill. The right techniques can elevate aerial photos and videos from ordinary to extraordinary, making it essential to master the tools and approaches that deliver professional-quality results.

Understanding Your Equipment
The first step to exceptional drone photography is familiarizing yourself with your drone’s capabilities. Study the camera specifications, including resolution, frame rate, and adjustable settings like ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. Practice adjusting these parameters to suit different conditions, ensuring high-quality results every time.

Perfecting Flight Techniques
A smooth, steady hand is crucial when piloting a drone. Cinematic movements such as slow pans and gradual ascents create polished, professional footage. Hovering steadily is equally important for capturing sharp aerial photos. Pre-programmed flight paths, available on many drones, can ensure consistent shots while allowing the pilot to focus on composition.

Creative Shot Lists
Planning a variety of shots in advance ensures comprehensive coverage. Low-altitude angles are ideal for emphasizing detail and depth, while high-altitude views showcase expansive landscapes. Tracking and panning shots are particularly effective for dynamic subjects like moving vehicles or bustling cityscapes.

Lighting and Weather Considerations
Timing is everything in photography, and drone work is no exception. Flying during golden hour provides warm, diffused light, while midday can create harsh shadows. Always check weather conditions; high winds or rain can compromise safety and image quality.

Licensing, Permits, and Compliance

Operating a drone for photography isn’t just about skillful piloting; it also requires a clear understanding of legal regulations. Adhering to these rules ensures safety, compliance, and professionalism in every project.

Understanding Local and Federal Regulations
Drone operations are governed by regulations designed to maintain airspace safety. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enforces these rules under Part 107, which applies to commercial drone pilots. These guidelines include altitude limits (usually 400 feet), maintaining line-of-sight, and avoiding restricted airspace such as near airports or government facilities.

Becoming a Licensed Drone Pilot
To legally operate a drone for commercial purposes, aspiring pilots must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate under FAA Part 107. This involves passing a written test that covers airspace regulations, weather, and drone operation principles. Study resources, practice exams, and official FAA materials can help candidates prepare effectively.

Securing Flight Permits
Certain locations, such as national parks or private properties, require special permits for drone flights. Applying for these permits often involves demonstrating the purpose of the project, planned flight paths, and safety measures. This is especially crucial when filming near restricted or sensitive areas.

Staying Safe and Compliant
Drone pilots should carry liability insurance to cover potential damages and have all necessary documentation readily available during flights. Compliance not only prevents legal issues but also builds trust with clients.

At Red Summit Productions, every drone project is conducted with full adherence to legal requirements. This ensures smooth, worry-free execution while focusing on creating breathtaking aerial imagery.

Rise Above with Red Summit Productions

Drone videography services have redefined how projects are captured and shared. The ability to deliver breathtaking aerial shots, high-quality photos, and dynamic videos makes them a vital tool for businesses looking to stand out. Contact us today to learn how you can get professional drone footage for your next project.  

How to Slash Costs on Your Next Video Production Budget

Producing high-quality video content can be a powerful way to promote your brand, but managing the video production budget is often a challenge. Balancing costs while ensuring a professional result requires careful planning and decision-making. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help reduce the overall production expenses without sacrificing the quality of the final product. Red Summit Productions specializes in creating impactful videos while helping clients stay within their budgets. Here are some tips on how to manage costs effectively for your next video project.

Know Your Video’s Purpose and Goals

The first step in slashing your production budget is to clearly define the purpose and goals of the video project. Understanding what type of video you need—whether it's a product advertisement, corporate video, or social media content—will help prioritize spending in the right areas.

Different types of videos require different approaches. For instance, a product ad like the one we created for Gillette required multiple camera angles, whereas a simple interview video like the one we shot for the American Heart Association could be shot with minimal equipment and crew. Having a clear direction helps you avoid unnecessary elements that can increase the total cost of production.

Once the goals are outlined, it’s easier to allocate your budget effectively, ensuring that every dollar spent contributes to a successful project.

Work with an Experienced Video Production Company

Partnering with a professional video production company can save money in the long run. Experienced companies like Red Summit Productions streamline the video production process, reducing inefficiencies and avoiding costly mistakes.

An experienced production team offers expert guidance at every stage, from planning and pre-production to filming and post-production. They can help foresee potential cost overruns and suggest alternatives that maintain quality while staying within the production budget.

In addition, professional companies have access to filmmaking equipment, sometimes reducing the need to rent or purchase expensive gear. By working with a trusted team, you also avoid the need for multiple takes or reshoots, which can drive up costs. To see examples of how a professional production company can deliver excellent results within budget, view our portfolio here.

Optimize Your Production Crew

The size and expertise of the production crew can significantly affect video production costs. While large crews may be necessary for some projects, others can be completed with a smaller, more efficient team.

Smaller video production crews are more cost-effective, especially for simpler projects. However, it’s important to ensure that the crew members have the right skills for the specific type of video being produced. Hiring a small but versatile crew can cut costs without sacrificing quality.

For larger projects that require specialized roles, it’s essential to choose crew members with the expertise necessary for the job. Having an experienced director, camera operator, or lighting technician helps keep the video production process running smoothly, reducing the need for costly corrections later. Our team is highly experienced and skilled, ensuring your project runs smoothly and avoids unnecessary expenses wherever possible.  

Choose Filming Locations Wisely

Filming locations can have a significant impact on the total cost of your video production. Scouting for cost-effective or free locations is one way to reduce expenses. Public spaces, office environments, or even controlled studio spaces can help avoid the logistical costs associated with more elaborate locations.

Shooting in highly trafficked urban areas in New York City or requiring special permits for specific locations can add to your video production budget. To keep costs down, consider using fewer locations or multi-functional sets that allow for different looks without the need to relocate.

Studio spaces can also provide the controlled environment needed for high-quality video without the unpredictability of outdoor or location-based shoots. By choosing your locations wisely, you can save time and money during the shoot.

Maximize Efficiency on Shooting Days

Each shooting day adds to the overall video production cost, especially when additional days are required due to poor planning or unforeseen delays. One of the best ways to keep costs down is to maximize efficiency during filming.

Creating a detailed storyboard, shot list and production schedule is essential to making the most of your shooting days. Having everything organized in advance ensures that the production crew knows exactly what to do, minimizing downtime and reducing the likelihood of overtime costs.

This also includes preparing the set, equipment, and talent before the cameras start rolling to avoid wasting time on setup during filming. By keeping the production moving smoothly, you can minimize the number of shooting days required, reducing day rates for the crew and saving on additional expenses.

Keep Post-Production Costs in Check

Post-production is another area where video production costs vary. The amount of time and effort required during editing can significantly affect the overall budget. Planning ahead during the shoot can help minimize the amount of time spent in post-production.

When fewer takes are filmed and the footage is well-organized, the editing process becomes more efficient. The use of industry-standard editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro helps streamline the process and ensure high-quality results.

It’s also important to consider additional elements such as motion graphics and visual effects. While these enhancements can elevate a video, they also add to the total production cost. Balancing the need for these effects with your budget can help keep post-production costs under control.

Collaborating with an experienced post-production team that understands your vision can ensure that the video edit stays on track, delivering a polished final product on time and within budget.

Consider Video Marketing and Long-Term Value

When planning your video production budget, it’s important to consider the long-term value of the video content being created. A well-produced video can be a valuable asset for years, providing ongoing returns as part of a broader video marketing strategy.

While cutting costs is important, investing in quality ensures that the final product has a lasting impact. High-quality video content can be repurposed across multiple platforms and for various campaigns, maximizing the value of your production.

Working with a professional team like Red Summit Productions ensures that the video produced is tailored to meet both immediate marketing goals and long-term strategic needs, providing a better return on investment.

Produce High-Quality Projects and Stay on Budget with Red Summit Productions

Managing a video production budget doesn’t mean compromising on quality. By making smart choices it’s possible to produce professional videos while staying within your budget. For businesses looking to produce high-quality content without breaking the bank, working with a professional team like Red Summit Productions can be a game changer. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, our team will ensure that every project is delivered on time, on budget, and at the highest standard. Contact Red Summit Productions today to discuss your next project. 

Choosing the Best Videography Equipment for Your Project

Choosing the right videography equipment is essential to creating professional, high-quality content. Whether you're working on a short film, a corporate video, or a commercial project, the tools you use can significantly impact the final outcome. From cameras and lenses to audio and lighting gear, each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in achieving your creative vision. At Red Summit Productions, we specialize in delivering high-end video production services, using state-of-the-art equipment to help bring your project to life.

Essential Videography Equipment: Cameras and Lenses

The cornerstone of any video project is the camera, and choosing the right one is crucial to producing high-quality video. There are various camera types, from DSLRs and mirrorless models to professional-grade cinema cameras, and each offers different advantages depending on your project.

• DSLR and mirrorless cameras: These are popular choices for filmmakers on a budget or those looking for versatility. They provide excellent image quality and are relatively compact, making them ideal for smaller productions or projects that require mobility.

• Cinema cameras: For larger productions or when maximum image quality is a must, cinema cameras are the best option. These cameras provide higher resolution, more dynamic range, and are designed for professional use.

Equally important are the lenses. The choice of lens affects how a scene is captured, whether you’re looking for a wide-angle shot or a more intimate close-up. Investing in quality lenses can make a significant difference in achieving the desired look for your video. Wide-angle lenses are great for expansive shots, while prime lenses offer sharpness and depth for close-up work.

Check out some of our recent projects to see how our team uses top-tier filmmaking equipment to create high-quality videos.

High-Quality Audio: Don’t Overlook Sound Equipment

While stunning visuals are key to a successful video, high-quality audio is just as important. Poor sound quality can distract viewers and take away from the overall experience, even if the visuals are flawless.

There are several types of audio equipment commonly used in video production:

• Shotgun microphones: These are highly directional and are ideal for capturing sound in environments with a lot of background noise. They’re often mounted on boom poles or directly on the camera.

• Lavalier microphones: These small, clip-on mics are perfect for interviews or situations where the speaker needs to move freely while maintaining clear audio.

• External recorders: These are used to capture audio separately from the camera, offering more control over the sound quality and allowing for easier synchronization in post-production.

Ensuring that your audio equipment is of professional quality is crucial for capturing clean, crisp sound. During the editing process, syncing video files with high-quality audio ensures a seamless final product that enhances the overall viewing experience.

Lighting and Support Gear: Setting the Scene

Lighting is an essential aspect of creating high-quality videos. Professional lighting not only makes your subjects look better but also sets the mood and tone for your project. Different lighting setups offer unique advantages, and choosing the right one depends on the look you're trying to achieve.

• Softboxes: These create soft, diffused light that’s perfect for interviews or close-up shots where natural, even lighting is required.

• LED panels: Lightweight and portable, LED panels are great for location shoots where flexibility is needed. They offer adjustable brightness and color temperature, making them versatile for various environments.

• Reflectors: These are simple but effective tools for bouncing light onto your subject, helping to fill in shadows and create a more balanced image.

In addition to lighting, support gear such as tripods, gimbals, and sliders ensures that your footage is stable and smooth. Shaky or unsteady shots can detract from the professionalism of a video, so investing in the right support equipment is key to capturing steady, polished visuals. Our team uses the best lighting and support gear to create high-quality video productions that stand out from the competition.

Editing Software: Shaping the Final Product

Once all the footage and audio have been captured, the magic of video production happens during the editing process. Editing software is where raw footage is transformed into a polished final product, complete with transitions, effects, and color grading.

• Adobe Premiere Pro: One of the industry standards, Adobe Premiere Pro is a versatile and powerful editing platform. It’s suitable for everything from short-form content to full-length films. Its robust features, like advanced color grading and multi-camera editing, make it a go-to choice for many professionals.

• Final Cut Pro: Another popular editing platform, Final Cut Pro, is favored by many for its user-friendly interface and fast rendering times. It’s a solid choice for those working on Apple devices and offers a wide range of features for creating professional-quality videos.

Both platforms allow editors to organize video files, apply effects, sync high-quality audio, and create a cohesive narrative from hours of footage. Choosing the right editing software depends on the project’s complexity and the editor’s familiarity with the platform.

Why Invest in Professional Filmmaking Equipment?

Investing in high-end filmmaking equipment is essential for those serious about creating professional-grade videos. While top-tier equipment can be expensive, it significantly impacts the quality of the final product.

Using professional gear ensures better image quality, more accurate color representation, and fewer technical problems during both production and post-production. High-quality audio equipment ensures that your sound is clean and clear, avoiding the need for costly and time-consuming audio fixes during editing.

For businesses or individuals who may not want to invest in their own equipment, working with a professional production company like Red Summit Productions gives you access to the best tools and expertise without the need to purchase gear. This allows clients to focus on their vision while leaving the technical aspects to professionals.

Create High-Quality Video Projects with Red Summit Productions

Choosing the right videography equipment is crucial for creating high-quality video content that captures attention and tells a story effectively. From cameras and audio gear to lighting and editing software, each piece plays an integral role in the production process.

For those unsure where to start, or if high-end equipment is beyond budget, partnering with a professional production company like us can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to produce a commercial, documentary, or corporate video, our production team offers the expertise and top-tier equipment to bring your vision to life. For more information on how Red Summit Productions can assist with your next project, contact us today.

Professional Food Photography Tips to Make Your Dishes Shine

Whether it's for a restaurant menu, a food blog, or social media, professional food photography can significantly enhance a brand's appeal and attract hungry customers. Stunning imagery not only showcases the flavors and textures of a dish but also tells a story that entices viewers. Getting professional food photography and videography from Red Summit Productions can elevate your brand, capturing every detail beautifully. With the right techniques and insights, anyone can create captivating food imagery that leaves a lasting impression.

Understanding the Basics of Food Photography

Mastering the fundamentals of food photography is crucial for capturing stunning images that truly reflect the quality of dishes. Key elements such as lighting, composition, and background play vital roles in creating mouth-watering visuals.

Lighting: 

Good lighting can make or break a food photo. Natural light is often preferred as it brings out the vibrant colors and textures of food without harsh shadows. However, soft artificial lighting can also be effective, especially when natural light isn’t available. The goal is to illuminate the dish in a way that highlights its best features.

Composition: 

How the elements are arranged within the frame greatly affects the image’s appeal. Utilizing techniques like the rule of thirds can create a balanced and engaging composition, drawing attention to the dish. Additionally, incorporating leading lines or framing elements can add depth and interest.

Background: 

The background sets the scene and enhances the overall aesthetic of the photo. Choosing a clean, uncluttered background allows the food to stand out. Textured surfaces or complementary colors can add character, but it’s essential to ensure they don’t distract from the main subject.

Choosing the Right Props and Backgrounds

Thoughtfully chosen elements create a cohesive look that draws the viewer’s eye and makes the food shine.

1. Props: The right props can elevate a food photo by adding interest and depth. Consider using plates, bowls, utensils, and linens that complement the colors and textures of the dish. For instance, rustic wooden boards can enhance a hearty meal, while sleek white plates might suit elegant dishes. Remember to keep the props minimal; they should enhance the food, not overpower it.

2. Backgrounds: The background plays a significant role in framing the dish. A simple, neutral background often works best to ensure the food takes center stage. However, textured backgrounds—like weathered wood or marble—can add dimension and character without distracting from the main subject.

3. Color Coordination: Aim for a color palette that harmonizes the dish with its surroundings. Contrasting colors can make the food pop, while complementary shades create a more sophisticated look. Experimenting with different combinations can help find the perfect balance.

4. Contextual Elements: Incorporating elements that relate to the dish can tell a story. For example, placing fresh herbs next to a pasta dish or a glass of wine next to a cheese platter adds context and enhances the overall composition.

The Role of Lighting in Food Photography

Lighting is one of the most critical elements in professional food photography, significantly influencing how a dish is perceived in an image. Our team can provide the right lighting to enhance colors, highlight textures, and create an inviting atmosphere, making food look irresistibly appetizing.

Natural Light

Whenever possible, utilize natural light, as it provides a soft and flattering glow that enhances the appeal of food. Positioning dishes near a window can create beautiful highlights and shadows, accentuating the textures of ingredients. The best times for shooting are during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is warm and diffused.

Avoiding Harsh Shadows

While natural light is advantageous, it’s important to avoid direct sunlight, which can create harsh shadows and unflattering highlights. If direct sunlight is unavoidable, consider using sheer curtains to diffuse the light, resulting in a softer, more even illumination.

Artificial Lighting

In situations where natural light isn’t available, using artificial lighting can still yield excellent results. Softbox lights or LED panels can mimic natural light by providing even illumination without harsh shadows. When using artificial lights, positioning them at a 45-degree angle to the food can create depth and dimension.

Experimenting with Light Sources

Different light sources can evoke different moods. Warm lights create a cozy, inviting feel, while cooler tones can lend a fresh, modern vibe. Experimenting with various light sources allows for creativity and can help achieve the desired look for specific dishes.

Reflectors and Flags

Utilizing reflectors can bounce light onto the food, filling in shadows and enhancing details. Conversely, flags can block unwanted light, helping to create a more controlled lighting environment. Simple materials, like white foam boards or black fabric, can serve as effective tools for these purposes.

Capturing the Perfect Shot

Once the food is styled and ready, it’s time to capture the perfect shot. The right camera settings, angles, and techniques can significantly enhance the quality of food photography, ensuring that dishes look as delicious as they taste. Here are essential tips for getting that ideal image. 

Different dishes shine from various angles. Overhead shots (90 degrees) work well for flat lays, showcasing colorful ingredients and intricate arrangements. Side angles (45 degrees) are great for capturing height and layers, particularly with stacked dishes like burgers or cakes. Experiment with multiple angles to find the most flattering view.

To ensure stability and prevent camera shake, especially in low-light situations, a tripod is invaluable. This allows for sharper images and the opportunity to play with long exposure times if needed. It also enables consistent framing, making it easier to capture multiple shots of the same dish.

Don’t forget to highlight specific details that make the dish unique. Zoom in on textures, such as the crispiness of fried food or the creaminess of a sauce. Capturing these details can evoke the senses and create a more compelling image.

Capture the Moment: Sometimes, the best shots come from capturing action—pouring sauce, sprinkling herbs, or slicing into a cake. These dynamic moments can create an inviting narrative, making the viewer feel as if they’re right there experiencing the food.

We have utilized these principles for many of our photo and video food projects including our work with Nasoya: Culinary Institute of America and Walmart: Game-time Nachos. 

Make Your Food Shine Online

Professional food photography and videography are vital for making dishes truly shine, enhancing their visual appeal, and inviting viewers to savor every detail. Investing in high-quality food photos and videos can elevate your brand’s presence, enticing customers and creating lasting impressions. If you’re looking to take your food photography to the next level, contact Red Summit Productions today. 

Boost Your Brand with Corporate Event Photography

Capturing high-quality images during events can showcase your company’s culture, values, and achievements, helping to engage both employees and clients alike. Whether it’s a conference, product launch, or team-building activity, professional event photography from Red Summit Production can help significantly boost your brand’s presence, especially on social media, making it an essential component of any corporate strategy.

The Value of Corporate Event Photography

Corporate event photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of a brand during key occasions. These photographs serve as a visual record of a company’s milestones, covering everything from conferences and product launches to team celebrations and networking events.

Investing in high-quality event photography can enhance a company’s image and reputation. Professional photos convey professionalism and attention to detail, reflecting positively on the brand. They help tell the story of the event, providing insights into the company culture and the experiences of attendees.

Moreover, well-executed corporate event photography creates opportunities for engaging content that can be shared across various platforms. This not only enhances brand visibility but also fosters connections with clients and partners. By showcasing the energy and enthusiasm of events, companies can create a strong narrative that resonates with their audience, ultimately boosting brand loyalty and recognition.

Capturing Corporate Events Effectively

High-quality event photography goes beyond posed shots; it tells a story by highlighting the atmosphere, interactions, and key moments that define the occasion.

Our skilled photographers and videographers know how to blend into the background, allowing authentic moments to unfold naturally. Whether it’s a speaker engaging with the audience, team members celebrating a milestone, or candid laughter among colleagues, we know how to capture the true spirit of the event. 

Capturing the essence of an event involves attention to detail. Elements such as lighting, venue decor, and attendee interactions all contribute to the overall feel. By thoughtfully framing these elements, corporate event photography creates a cohesive and compelling visual experience that can be utilized across various marketing channels, further solidifying the brand’s identity and message.

Enhancing Social Media Presence with Event Photography

A strong social media presence is vital for any brand, and corporate event photography plays a significant role in enhancing that presence. High-quality images from events can transform social media channels into vibrant showcases of a company’s culture and achievements.

To maximize engagement, businesses should focus on creating visually appealing content tailored to each platform. For instance, Instagram thrives on striking visuals, so posting captivating images that highlight the energy and interactions at events can attract likes and shares. LinkedIn, on the other hand, is ideal for showcasing professional achievements, making it the perfect platform to share photos from conferences or networking events that highlight thought leadership and industry connections.

Consistency is key. Using event photography to create a cohesive aesthetic across all social media channels reinforces brand identity. This can be achieved by adhering to a specific color palette, style, or theme that aligns with the brand's overall messaging.

Key Elements of High-Quality Corporate Event Photography

Professional corporate event photography hinges on several key elements in order to create compelling visuals. Understanding these components can significantly enhance the impact of event photos and ensure they align with brand messaging.

1. Lighting: Proper lighting is fundamental in photography. Natural light can create warm and inviting images, while artificial lighting may be necessary for indoor events. A skilled photographer knows how to manipulate both to capture the best moments without compromising quality.

2. Composition: The arrangement of elements within a frame is crucial. Effective composition draws the viewer’s eye to important subjects and moments. Utilizing techniques such as the rule of thirds can create balanced and engaging images, highlighting key interactions and activities.

3. Candid Shots: Authentic moments resonate more than staged poses. Capturing attendees in genuine interactions—such as laughter, conversation, or engagement with speakers—brings the event to life and provides a deeper connection to the brand.

4. Attention to Detail: High-quality photography captures not just the people but also the atmosphere of the event. Details like venue decor, branding materials, and attendee expressions contribute to the overall story. These elements enhance the visual narrative and provide context.

5. Post-Production: Finally, editing is where the magic happens. High-quality corporate event photography often involves post-production work to enhance colors, adjust lighting, and ensure consistency across images. This final touch ensures that the photos reflect the professionalism and quality of the brand.

By focusing on these key elements, corporate event photography can effectively convey the spirit of an event, creating lasting impressions that support brand recognition and engagement.

Corporate Event Photography with Red Summit Productions

Selecting the right photographer for corporate event photography is crucial to capturing the essence of the occasion and representing the brand effectively. Here are some key considerations to ensure a successful partnership with Red Summit Productions. 

Our photographers and videographers are well-versed in corporate event photography. They understand the unique dynamics of these events and know how to capture both formal and candid moments effectively.

We have an extensive portfolio of projects that clients can review. Looking at our previous work can help you gain insight into our photographers’ style, quality, and ability to capture the essence of events similar to yours. 

Our team will communicate clearly and be open to discussing specific needs and expectations. This includes understanding the event’s goals, any key moments to capture, and the overall vision for the photography.

We use professional-grade cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment that make a significant difference in the quality of the final images and videos and can handle various conditions, whether indoors or outdoors.

Corporate events can be unpredictable. We are adaptable and able to think quickly on our feet, capturing essential moments even when the schedule changes or unexpected situations arise.

Capture Your Next Corporate Event 

Incorporating corporate event photography into a brand strategy offers numerous benefits, from enhancing brand visibility to creating lasting connections with clients and employees. High-quality images not only capture the essence of significant occasions but also provide valuable content for marketing efforts across various platforms. By choosing Red Summit Productions, companies can significantly boost their brand’s presence and narrative.

For professional videography and photography services that truly capture the spirit of corporate events, contact Red Summit Productions. With expertise in creating compelling visual stories, Red Summit Productions can help elevate any corporate event to new heights.

4K vs 8K Resolution: What’s Best for Your Video Project

When it comes to video production, the choice between 4K vs 8K resolution can significantly impact the final product. 4K resolution has become the standard for high-definition video, offering a noticeable upgrade over Full HD. However, 8K resolution takes picture quality to a whole new level, providing even greater detail and clarity. Understanding these differences is essential for selecting the right resolution for your video project. 

Let’s dive into the advantages of 4K vs 8K resolution to help determine which resolution best suits your needs and how each can enhance your next video project with Red Summit Productions.

Understanding the Difference: 4K vs 8K Resolution

When choosing between 4K vs 8K resolution, it’s important to understand what these terms mean and how they affect video quality.

4K Resolution: Also known as Ultra High Definition (UHD), 4K resolution refers to a display resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This means there are approximately 8.3 million pixels on the screen, offering four times the pixel count of Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels). This higher pixel count results in a picture quality that is significantly sharper and more detailed compared to Full HD, making it ideal for large screens and close viewing distances.

8K Resolution: 8K resolution takes the concept of high-definition even further with a display resolution of 7680 x 4320 pixels. This equates to around 33.2 million pixels, which is four times the pixel count of 4K resolution. The 8K display provides higher resolution and greater detail than its 4K counterpart, enhancing image quality and providing a more immersive viewing experience. The increased number of pixels means that even on very large screens, the picture quality remains crisp and clear, allowing viewers to appreciate finer details.

Benefits of 4K Resolution

Enhanced Picture Quality

With a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, 4K TVs offer approximately four times the pixel count of Full HD. This results in a sharper and more detailed image, making it ideal for close viewing distances and larger screens. The increased pixel density translates to more precise visuals and a clearer overall picture, which is particularly beneficial for high-resolution content.

Broad Availability and Compatibility 

4K TVs and 4K content are widely available and supported by a range of streaming services, Blu-ray players, and other media sources. This broad compatibility makes 4K resolution a practical choice for current video projects, as it ensures that the content will be viewable on most modern displays without the need for specialized equipment.

Cost-Effective

Compared to 8K resolution, 4K resolution is more affordable and offers a better balance between cost and performance for most video projects. The technology for 4K TVs and displays is more established and less expensive, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious productions that still want high-quality results.

Advantages of 8K Resolution

Superior Picture Quality

With a resolution of 7680 x 4320 pixels, 8K resolution provides an astonishing pixel count of approximately 33.2 million. This is four times the pixel density of 4K resolution and sixteen times that of Full HD. The result is higher resolution and greater detail, delivering an incredibly crisp and clear image that enhances the overall picture quality. This level of detail is particularly impressive on very large screens or when viewed up close.

Enhanced Immersion 

For projects requiring an immersive viewing experience, such as high-end films or premium content displays, 8K resolution offers a more engaging and lifelike visual experience. The increased pixel count allows for finer textures, more detailed visuals, and a more realistic depiction of scenes, making it ideal for applications where visual fidelity is a priority. 

Future-Proofing Content

As technology continues to advance, 8K displays and 8K content are expected to become more prevalent. Investing in 8K resolution can future-proof video projects, ensuring they remain relevant as 8K TVs and 8K content become more common. This forward-thinking approach helps ensure that content remains high-quality and relevant for years to come.

Potential for Large Displays

8K resolution is especially beneficial for very large displays, such as digital billboards, large-scale screens, or immersive viewing environments. The high pixel count maintains exceptional picture quality even at large sizes, where lower resolutions might appear pixelated or less detailed.

Enhanced Detail in Post-Production

For video projects that involve extensive post-production work, such as detailed visual effects or high-end editing, 8K resolution provides additional detail that can be useful for refining and perfecting content. The extra resolution allows for more precise adjustments and enhancements during editing.

4K vs 8K Resolution: Which is Right for Your Project?

Choosing between 4K vs 8K resolution for a video project involves several factors, each influencing the final decision. When deciding between 4K and 8K resolution for a video project, consider the project's goals, audience, budget, and future needs. 4K is ideal for most current projects, offering excellent quality at a lower cost, making it suitable for web content, streaming, and general consumer use. 

However, 8K is best for high-end productions where exceptional detail is crucial, such as cinematic video projects or large displays, but comes with higher production costs. For future-proofing and immersive experiences, 8K offers superior quality, though 4K remains a practical choice for many applications.

At Red Summit Productions, our team has used both 4k and 8k resolution for our video productions. Whether we use 4k or 8k resolution is decided on a case-by-case basis and largely depends on the project requirements and goals of a particular project. 

Get the Best Quality for Your Next Project

In the debate of 4K vs 8K resolution, both offer distinct advantages depending on the specific needs of a video project. 4K resolution provides a high-quality image that balances detail, cost, and compatibility with existing technologies, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. On the other hand, 8K resolution delivers superior picture quality and greater detail, making it ideal for high-end productions, large-scale displays, and future-proofing content. 

Understanding the strengths of each resolution helps in making an informed choice that aligns with project goals, audience expectations, and budget constraints. For expert guidance and top-quality video production tailored to your specific needs, contact Red Summit Productions to ensure that your video projects achieve the best possible results. 

Crafting the Perfect Ad Storyboard: The Complete Guide

Storyboarding is a key step in the pre-production process, particularly when creating advertisements that need to capture attention and communicate a message effectively. A storyboard serves as a visual blueprint for the video project, mapping out each scene and camera angle to ensure that the final product aligns with the creative vision. By visually organizing the sequence of events, a storyboard helps streamline production, maintain focus on the target audience, and anticipate potential challenges. 

This blog explores the essentials of crafting the perfect ad storyboard, offering some practical tips and insights into creating a clear and compelling visual guide for your next video project.

Key Components of a Successful Ad Storyboard

Creating an effective ad storyboard involves several key components that ensure a clear and coherent visual plan. Each element plays a crucial role in shaping the final advertisement and guiding the production process.

Camera Angle: The camera angle determines how each scene is framed and how the audience perceives the action. Whether it's a close-up to capture emotions or a wide shot to establish the setting, selecting the right angles is essential for conveying the intended message. A storyboard should clearly indicate camera angles to ensure that every shot aligns with the creative vision.

Sequence of Events: The sequence of events outlines the flow of the advertisement from start to finish. Organizing scenes in a logical and engaging order helps maintain narrative continuity and keeps the audience’s attention. A well-structured sequence ensures that the ad’s message is communicated effectively and that each scene transitions smoothly into the next.

Shot List: A detailed shot list specifies the exact shots required for each scene, including the type of shot (e.g., wide, medium, or close-up), camera movements, and any special effects. This level of detail helps the production team understand the specific needs for each shot, ensuring that no crucial elements are overlooked and that the filming process is efficient.

Storyboarding Tool: Choosing the right storyboarding tool or software is vital for creating a professional and functional storyboard. Options range from traditional pen-and-paper methods to digital storyboarding software that offers features like drag-and-drop functionality and online collaboration. Selecting a tool that fits the project’s needs can enhance the storyboard’s clarity and usability.

Creating a Storyboard: Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting a storyboard involves several steps, each crucial for translating ideas into a visual plan that guides the production process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating an effective ad storyboard:

Start Sketching

Begin the storyboarding process with rough sketches to outline the core ideas and scenes. These initial drawings don’t need to be detailed; their purpose is to capture the basic composition and flow of the advertisement. Rough sketches help in visualizing the overall sequence of events and make it easier to identify any major changes needed early on.

Use Stick Figures

Simplify the depiction of characters and actions by using stick figures in your sketches. While stick figures may seem basic, they effectively convey movement and interactions without getting bogged down in details. This approach allows for quick adjustments and focuses on the essential elements of each scene.

Turning Rough Sketches into Final Drafts

Once the initial sketches are complete, refine them into a final storyboard draft. This involves adding more detail to each frame, including specific camera angles, shot types, and any text or dialogue. The final draft should clearly represent the planned shots and transitions, providing a detailed visual guide for the production team.

Get Feedback from Team Members

Collaboration is key in storyboarding. Share the storyboard with team members, including storyboard artists, directors, and other stakeholders, to gather feedback. Incorporating their insights and suggestions can help refine the storyboard and ensure it aligns with the overall vision for the advertisement.

Explore Online Storyboards and Tools

Utilize online storyboarding tools and free storyboarding resources to streamline the process. Digital tools offer features like templates, drag-and-drop functionality, and the ability to easily make revisions. These resources can enhance the efficiency and flexibility of creating and sharing storyboards.

Ad storyboards are used for a variety of video advertisements and can make or break a project. For example, we used these storyboarding principles to execute a successful video ad project with Walmart to promote a toy catalog for the hit movie, “Jurassic World Dominion.”

Important Elements to Include

Creating a comprehensive storyboard involves more than just sketching scenes and arranging shots. To fully capture the essence of the advertisement and ensure that all aspects of the production are covered, several additional elements should be incorporated. 

While storyboards primarily focus on visual elements, incorporating notes about sound effects can be incredibly useful. Indicate where specific sound effects should be placed in relation to the visual elements. This helps ensure that the audio complements the visuals and enhances the overall impact of the advertisement. Including sound effects in the storyboard can guide the sound design process and ensure synchronization with the visual narrative.

One of the critical elements of an advertisement is the call to action (CTA). Make sure the storyboard clearly shows where and how the CTA will be presented. Whether it’s a verbal prompt, text overlay, or visual cue, the CTA should be strategically placed to maximize its effectiveness and drive the desired response from the target audience. The storyboard should detail how the CTA integrates into the overall narrative and visual flow.

A storyboard is a visual guide that helps communicate the creative vision to the entire production team. It’s essential that the storyboard clearly represents the intended message, mood, and style of the advertisement. Ensure that each frame visually conveys the desired impact and aligns with the project’s goals. This visual representation helps align the efforts of directors, camera operators, and editors, making it easier to execute the creative vision effectively.

By incorporating these additional elements into the storyboard, the production team can better prepare for the various components of the advertisement. A well-rounded storyboard that includes details about sound effects, and the CTA, and serves as a comprehensive visual guide ensures a cohesive and effective ad, enhancing the overall production process and final outcome.

Additional Tips for Effective Storyboarding

Creating an effective storyboard is essential for a smooth production process and a successful advertisement. Here are some tips to ensure your storyboard is clear, detailed, and useful.

Each frame in the storyboard should be clear and detailed enough to convey the intended shot and action. Use concise annotations to describe camera angles, movements, and any specific elements within the scene. The goal is to provide a visual reference that accurately represents each part of the advertisement, minimizing confusion during production.

Maintain a consistent style and format throughout the storyboard. This includes uniformity in the way scenes are depicted, the style of sketches, and the labeling of shots. Consistency helps in understanding and following the storyboard more easily, ensuring that all team members are on the same page regarding the ad’s visual and narrative flow.

Be prepared to make adjustments as the project evolves. While a storyboard provides a solid foundation, allow for flexibility to accommodate changes based on feedback, budget constraints, or unforeseen challenges. Allow room for revisions and updates, and ensure that any changes are reflected in the storyboard to keep everyone aligned.

Regularly review the storyboard with key team members, such as directors, producers, and storyboard artists. Incorporating their feedback ensures that the storyboard meets the project’s needs and addresses any potential issues before production begins. Collaborative input can lead to a more refined and effective storyboard.

As mentioned earlier, take advantage of storyboarding software and tools to enhance the efficiency of the process. Digital tools often come with features like templates, easy editing options, and collaborative functions that can streamline the creation and sharing of storyboards. These tools can also help in organizing and revising the storyboard more effectively.

By following these tips, you can create a storyboard that not only guides the production team but also enhances the overall quality of the advertisement. A well-executed storyboard contributes to a more organized and successful production process, ultimately leading to a more impactful final product.

Get the Perfect Ad Storyboard for Your Next Project

Crafting an effective ad storyboard ensures that every detail aligns with the creative vision and goals of the advertisement. From initial rough sketches to the final polished draft, each stage plays a vital role in organizing the sequence of events, camera angles, and shot types. By incorporating additional elements such as sound effects and clear calls to action, and by following best practices in clarity, consistency, and flexibility, the storyboard becomes a powerful tool for guiding the production team and achieving a compelling final product.

For expert assistance in creating an impactful storyboard and executing a flawless video project, consider partnering with Red Summit Productions. With our comprehensive services and industry expertise, they can help turn your vision into a visually stunning and effective advertisement. Contact Red Summit Productions today to elevate your next video project. 

How to Light an Interview Like a Pro

Proper lighting is key when filming an interview and can significantly impact the overall video quality. Whether for social media, corporate videos, or documentaries, good lighting can enhance the subject’s appearance, highlight important details, and set the right mood. Poor lighting, on the other hand, can make the video look unprofessional, with harsh shadows or overexposed highlights. Understanding how to expertly execute lighting setups, including the basics like three-point lighting, and how to use various lighting sources effectively, is essential for achieving the best results in any interview setting. Let’s cover how to light an interview like a pro from Red Summit Productions. 

The Basics of Three-Point Lighting

Three-point lighting is the foundation of professional lighting setups for interviews. This technique involves using three main lighting sources: the key light, fill light, and backlight. Here’s how each light contributes to the overall look:

Key Light

The key light is the primary source of light and is placed at a 45-degree angle to the subject. It provides the main lighting for the subject, highlighting their features and creating shadows that add depth. Key lights offer a bright, direct light.

Fill Light

The fill light is positioned on the opposite side of the key light to reduce the shadows created by the key light. This light is usually softer and less intense, ensuring the shadows are not too harsh while maintaining some depth in the lighting. Using a reflector or a second light source can achieve the desired fill effect, balancing the overall illumination.

Backlight

The backlight, or rim light, is placed behind the subject, aimed at the back of their head and shoulders. This light helps to separate the subject from the background, adding dimension and preventing the subject from blending into the backdrop. Proper backlighting creates a subtle halo effect that enhances the visual appeal of the interview.

Choosing the Right Key Light

Selecting the right key light is essential for achieving a professional-quality interview video. The key light is the primary source of illumination and sets the overall tone of the shot. Here’s how to choose and position it effectively:

• Types of Key Lights: There are various lighting sources to consider, such as softboxes, LED panels, and traditional tungsten lights. Softboxes and LED panels are popular choices for interviews because they provide a soft, even light that reduces harsh shadows.

• Positioning the Key Light: Place the key light at a 45-degree angle to the subject's face and slightly above eye level. This positioning creates a natural look by casting soft shadows on one side of the face, adding depth and dimension.

• Using Light Stands: Ensure the key light is securely mounted on a stable light stand. Adjustable light stands allow for precise positioning, which is crucial for achieving the desired lighting effect. Make sure the stand is stable and can hold the weight of the light fixture securely.

• Adjusting Intensity: The intensity of the key light should be adjusted based on the environment and the desired look. Dimming the light can create a more intimate atmosphere, while a brighter setting can convey a sense of openness and energy.

How to Use a Fill Light to Soften Shadows

Fill light balance the shadows created by the key light, ensuring the subject’s face is evenly illuminated. Here’s how our professional video production team effectively uses fill lights during an interview:

Purpose of Fill Light: The fill light is essential for softening shadows on the subject’s face, creating a more natural and flattering appearance. It reduces the contrast and harshness of the key light, ensuring the subject's features are clearly visible without deep shadows.

Choosing the Right Fill Light: Various lighting sources can serve as fill lights, including softboxes, LED panels, and reflectors. The goal is to use a light source that provides a softer, more diffused light compared to the key light. Reflectors can be especially useful for bouncing natural light onto the subject, serving as an effective fill light in outdoor settings or well-lit indoor areas.

Positioning the Fill Light: Position the fill light at an angle opposite to the key light, typically at a lower intensity. The distance between the fill light and the subject should be adjusted to achieve the desired level of shadow reduction. Experimenting with different distances and angles can help find the perfect balance.

Using Natural Light as Fill Light: Natural light can be an excellent fill light source. Position the subject near a window or use a reflector to bounce natural light onto the subject's face. However, be mindful of changes in natural light throughout the shoot, as they can affect the consistency of the lighting setup.

Adding Depth with Backlighting

Backlighting, also known as rim or hair lighting, adds depth and dimension to interview shots. By placing a light source behind the subject, this technique helps to separate them from the background, creating a more three-dimensional look. The backlight should be positioned at an angle behind the subject, out of the camera’s view, and can be elevated slightly to create a subtle halo effect around the head and shoulders.

When setting up the backlight, it's important to ensure it doesn’t cause lens flare or glare, which can distract from the interview. Using barn doors or diffusers can help control the spread and intensity of the backlight. The goal is to achieve a gentle highlight that enhances the overall lighting setup, making the subject stand out crisply against the background. This added depth contributes significantly to a polished and professional interview appearance.

Film Your Next Interview with Red Summit Productions

Expertly lit interviews can significantly elevate the quality of your video productions. By understanding and implementing the fundamentals of three-point lighting, utilizing key lights, fill lights, and backlighting effectively, and leveraging natural light when available, you can create a professional and visually appealing setup. 

Don't be afraid to experiment to find the perfect lighting balance. With these techniques, your interviews will not only look more polished but also convey a sense of professionalism and expertise that can enhance your brand's image. Make every interview you film stand out with Red Summit Productions today. 

Video Script Writing Services Made Easy

How to Write a Video Script That Works

Creating a compelling video starts with a strong foundation, and that foundation is the video script. Video script writing services play a key role in the production process, transforming ideas into structured, engaging narratives that captivate the target audience. Whether for an explainer video, corporate presentation, or animated explainer, a well-crafted script ensures the message is clear and impactful. High-quality video scripts not only guide the production team but also enhance the overall viewing experience, making it essential for any successful video project. Let’s explore how professional video script-writing services from Red Summit Productions can make the process easy and efficient to create effective results for any video project. 

The Importance of a Well-Written Video Script

A well-written video script is the backbone of any successful video production. It serves as a blueprint, guiding every aspect of the project from concept to final cut. A clear and engaging script ensures that the intended message is communicated effectively to the target audience, making it an essential component of high-quality video content.

A concise and focused script can help maintain viewer engagement and ensure the message is easily understood. Our team uses storytelling techniques to create narratives that resonate with the audience, making the content more relatable and memorable.

Incorporating elements such as a strong opening, clear structure, and a compelling call to action, a well-crafted script can transform an ordinary video into a powerful communication tool. It sets the tone, pace, and style of the video, ensuring consistency and coherence throughout the production.

Ultimately, investing in professional video script writing services can elevate the quality of the final product, making it more likely to achieve its intended purpose, whether that’s to educate, inform, or entertain.

Types of Video Scripts 

At Red Summit Productions, we provide a variety of video scripts depending on the project, each tailored to meet specific goals and target audiences. The most common types include:

• Explainer Videos: These scripts break down complex concepts into easily digestible information. Often used for product launches or educational content, explainer videos simplify and clarify the message.

• Corporate Videos: Designed to communicate a company's values, culture, and achievements, these scripts help build brand identity and trust among stakeholders.

• Marketing Videos: Focused on promoting products or services, marketing video scripts are crafted to persuade and drive customer action. They highlight key benefits and include compelling calls to action.

• Animated Explainers: These scripts are similar to explainer videos but are specifically designed for animated formats. They often incorporate visual storytelling elements to engage viewers.

• Training Videos: Used for employee onboarding or customer education, these scripts ensure information is conveyed clearly and effectively.

Each type of video script serves a unique purpose and requires a specific approach to scriptwriting to achieve the desired goal.

Key Elements of an Effective Video Script

Creating an impactful video script involves several critical components that work together to captivate the target audience and convey the intended message clearly. Firstly, a strong opening is essential to grab attention right away. This can be an intriguing question, a bold statement, or an engaging visual that sets the tone for the video.

Next, maintaining a clear structure throughout the script ensures that the content flows logically. This includes an introduction, body, and conclusion, with each section serving a specific purpose in the narrative.The script should be concise, relatable, and tailored to the audience’s interests and needs. Incorporating storytelling elements can make the message more memorable.

Lastly, a compelling call to action is necessary to guide the audience on what to do next, whether it’s visiting a website, subscribing to a service, or making a purchase. Our professional video scriptwriters excel in blending these elements to create high-quality projects that resonate with viewers and achieve the desired results.

The Process of Video Script Writing

Creating a video script involves a structured and collaborative process. First, we take a deep dive into understanding the target audience and the video's purpose. Our scriptwriters then develop a concept and outline, ensuring the message aligns with the client's goals. 

The next step is drafting the script, incorporating key elements to create engaging content, and a clear call to action. Revisions follow, with feedback to refine the script. This iterative process ensures the final script is polished and effective, ready to be transformed into a high-quality video that resonates with viewers and achieves its intended impact.

Get Professional Video Script Writing with Red Summit Productions

Investing in professional video script writing services can significantly enhance the quality and effectiveness of your video production. From the opening hook to the end credits, we can help you engage and inform your target audience. Our professional scriptwriters help create videos that stand out. High-quality scripts are the backbone of a wide range of video formats. Partnering with experienced scriptwriters allows you to transform your ideas into compelling narratives that drive results. Consider utilizing expert video script writing services to elevate your video projects and achieve your goals with Red Summit Productions today. 

Customer Testimonial Videos Done Right

In today's competitive business landscape, potential customers are looking for more than just the features and benefits of a product or service. They want to hear from other customers who have had positive experiences and can vouch for the brand. That's where customer testimonial videos come in. They offer a powerful way to showcase satisfied customers and their experiences with your product or service. In this article, we'll show you how to create customer testimonial videos that will drive sales, boost your online reputation, and increase customer loyalty.

Table of Contents

- Step 1: Identify the Right Customers - - Step 2: Plan Your Video - - Step 3: Shoot Your Video - Camera Lighting Microphone Tripod Optional Items - Step 4: Edit Your Video - - Step 5: Share Your Video - Conclusion

Step 1: Identify the Right Customers

Selecting the right customers is an important first step in crafting an effective customer testimonial video. The ideal customers will be those who are passionate about your brand and have experienced tangible, irrefutable benefits from your product or service. Nothing better than a heartfelt success story!

When selecting customers to feature, it's also important to consider their communication skills. You may already know how frequently people will freeze once a camera is in front of them. Having the skill to make your subjects comfortable, and choosing customers who can speak confidently on camera, will go a long way to ensuring they are sharing their experiences in a clear, concise manner.

Diversity is also key when selecting customers for your testimonial video. Featuring a range of customers from different industries, backgrounds, and demographics can demonstrate the versatility of your product or service and build credibility with potential customers.

Step 2: Plan Your Video

Once you have identified the right customers, it's time to plan your video. After all, failure to plan is planning to fail!

To plan your video, start by creating a script that outlines the key points you want your customer to cover (previous pain points, the solution you offered, etc.). This script will help ensure that your testimonial video stays on message and delivers a clear and compelling story. Consider asking open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses, allowing your customers to speak authentically about their experiences.

Using a storyboard to map out the visuals you want to include can make your video more engaging and visually appealing. Storyboarding helps you plan the shots and sequences that will bring your customer's story to life, adding context and interest. Consider using B-roll footage to showcase your product or service in action, as well as relevant images or animations that help illustrate your customer's experience.

When planning your video, it's important to keep the length in mind. The ideal length of a testimonial video is between 1-2 minutes, which allows you to deliver a clear and compelling message without overwhelming your audience. By planning your video carefully, you can create a powerful customer testimonial that resonates with your target audience and helps drive growth for your brand.

Step 3: Shoot Your Video

When shooting your video, it's essential to choose a location that is well-lit and visually interesting (you can learn more about lighting the set here). It's also important to use a high-quality camera and microphone to ensure that your video looks and sounds professional. Here’s the list of some of the basic video production equipment you’d likely need:

Camera

A high-quality camera is essential for filming professional-looking testimonial videos. While a smartphone camera can be sufficient in some cases, investing in a Professional 4K camera or a mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities will provide the best results.

Lighting

Good lighting is crucial to making your video look professional. Invest in lighting equipment such as softbox lights or LED panels to ensure that your subject is well-lit.

Microphone

Good audio is just as important as good video. Invest in a high-quality microphone to capture clear and crisp audio, such as a shotgun microphone or a lapel microphone.

Tripod

A stable camera is essential for creating a professional-looking video. Use a tripod to keep your camera steady and prevent shaky footage.

Optional Items

If you want to add more visual interest to your video, consider investing in a slider or gimbal to create smooth camera movements, or a drone for aerial shots.

When shooting a great testimonial video, you want to make your customer feel comfortable and relaxed on camera. This can help them communicate their experiences in a more authentic and compelling way.

Our team of experienced video production experts at Red Summit Productions can help create a welcoming and supportive environment for your customer, making the filming process as stress-free as possible.

Consider the composition of your shots when filming your client testimonial video. Framing your customer in a way that showcases their emotions and passion for your product or service can help bring their story to life and make the video more engaging. If appropriate, use B-roll footage to add context and interest to your customer's story. This can include shots of your product or service in action, as well as relevant images or animations (the standard materials you’d include in a case study).

Step 4: Edit Your Video

Once you've shot your video, it's time to edit it. Make sure you take the time to review the footage and select the best moments to include in your final video. Good editing can make or break powerful customer testimonial videos, and you’ll need to ensure the final product is engaging, polished, and professional. Your prospective customers will thank you!

Then, you’ll need to use a video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro (there are many free options out there, too), to trim down the footage to the best moments and add transitions and music. Make sure to keep the video concise, focusing on the key messages and moments that are most relevant to your audience.

When editing your video, consider using captions or subtitles to make it more accessible to viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing. This can also be helpful for viewers who prefer to watch videos with the sound turned off.

During the editing process, it's important to maintain the authenticity and credibility of your customer testimonial. Avoid adding overly flashy effects or manipulating the footage in a way that could be seen as deceptive or misleading. The goal is to present an honest and compelling story that showcases the value of your product or service.

By taking the time to carefully edit your customer testimonial video, you can create a final product that effectively communicates the value of your product or service and helps build trust with your audience.

Step 5: Share Your Video

Once you have completed the editing process, it's finally time to share your customer testimonial video with the world. Unless you want to keep it hidden, for some peculiar reason.

One of the most effective ways to share your video is to post it directly on your website, where potential customers can easily find it. Embed the video on a landing page that is relevant to your product or service, and make sure to include a call-to-action button that directs viewers to learn more or purchase your product.

You can also share your video on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Consider using paid social media ads to reach a wider audience and target specific demographics. Encourage your satisfied customers to share the video with their friends and family, helping to amplify your message and reach new potential customers.

Make sure to track the performance of your video using analytics tools, such as Google Analytics or social media insights. This can help you understand how your audience is engaging with the video and where you may need to make improvements to your video marketing strategy.

Conclusion

Creating customer testimonial videos is a powerful way to promote your brand and build trust with potential customers. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can create testimonial videos that are engaging, authentic, and effective at driving sales. Remember to identify the right customers, plan your video, shoot high-quality footage, edit your video, and share it with the world. And if you need help creating a compelling customer testimonial video, don't hesitate to partner with a high-quality video production team like Red Summit Productions.

Movies of 2021 that are Worth Watching Before the Oscars

 By Carlo Fine

Oh boy another letterboxd user who thinks his opinion matters, I’m sure we’ll be surprised by these hot takes! Alright I know I’m not reinventing the wheel with this format or the movies I’m including, but since Oscar season is approaching and I have strong opinions I might as well. I mean just in case, JUST in case, someone is interested in movies but doesn’t trust the academy or any of the big award shows, this will exist as an alternative. And yes, I know these are all quite popular but if you haven’t seen any then Check. Them. Out. I suppose I’ll label if they have any Oscar nominations in case you’d like to catch up before the awards. Assume If I put “best picture nominee” it’s got other nominations too, if I don’t mention best picture, I’ll mention what it got.

I’m not sure how to format this, if it should be a worst to best, most relevant to least, or just a sprawl of movies I liked. Eh I’ll have my favorites at the end to keep it suspenseful. Ooo I’m gonna annoy some people bwahahaha. Alright without further ado.

Honorable Mentions (all snubs) :

These are extremely different movies that I think deserve recognition but didn’t wow me enough to make the official cut.

C’mon C’mon: Mike Mills

C’mon C’mon is sweet, honest, wholesome, and as a friend pitched it to me, “a perfect movie to watch with my mom”. Mills is a sucker for coming-of-age stories and though this story was messy, unconventional, and honest in real life ways, it was a reality that lacks a certain edge. It came off as a watered down French New Wave type of movie. Maybe it’s the lack of immoral characters that exist in Mike Mills movies that interferes with my buying his realities or maybe I’m just too cynical, but I thought this could’ve packed a heavier punch.

Annette: Leos Carax

Annette is the exact opposite of C’mon C’mon. It is strictly risky in every aspect and completely original in a way in which it almost wants you to not like it. Unfortunately, I did watch this with my mother, so the vivid sex scenes were ~fun~ to say the least. Although I appreciated the originality, it was so out there that after a certain point I found it hard to connect with anything. I respect this film immensely but wouldn’t feel right recommending it to most people.

The French Dispatch: Wes Anderson

The French Dispatch is both Wes Andersons best and worst film. It’s the peak of his visual storytelling, completely mastering every aspect of what makes a Wes Anderson film a Wes Anderson film. It’s quite comforting to know a movie like this can be made today. But in saying that, the story is not only confusing but it’s sort of… uninteresting. I don’t think I’d be alone in saying I didn’t care what happened and never felt much connection to any character. It’s impressive but was more potential than anything.

Pig: Michael Sarnoski

And finally, Pig. It’s the closest to making the list but is just short. It’s paced quite well and emotionally potent when it needs to be, but something about it felt predictable. It was a small story and did everything it was trying to do (which I really appreciate in movies), but even with its unique plot and characters, the way it revealed itself felt a bit on the nose. A bit too perfect.

Alright time for the real stuff: (It’s a top ten who knew?!)

Power of the Dog: Jane Campion: Best Picture Nominee

Power of the dog is a film that I couldn’t not include. It will most certainly win best picture, quote me on that after it happens, and it deserves it. I’m not saying it’s the best, or my favorite but it’s so competent in achieving the mood it sets to convey, so I won’t be mad when it wins. It’s tastefully slow, reveals itself subtly, contains some stellar performances, is visually stunning, and pays off by the end. Campion forces you to learn the standard of relationships and character types from the early twentieth century setting. It’s not too foreign from the America we know but is different enough to intrigue and immerse viewers. As for my gripes, at times I thought it was predictable, overly melodramatic, was distracted by some ill-fitting music, and felt how painfully classic American novel adjacent it was. Generally, I’m attracted to something a bit more realistic and applicable to my life, but I still appreciated this for what it was.

Don’t Look Up: Adam McKay: Best Picture Nominee

Here’s the part where I annoy people off and lose all credibility. Yes, I’m putting this above Power of the Dog. Don’t Look Up is so widely disliked for reasons I understand. It’s painfully not subtle and is politically preachy in one direction while trying to comment on the country’s political divide. A walking contradiction. But I…enjoyed it. Yes, it’s hypocritical in its big vague message, critiquing billionaires despite being made and starring notoriously out of touch multi-millionaires (Leo). But! In watching this (two times to see if I was crazy for liking it) I realized it’s not trying to be subtle. It made every joke, every millennial quip, and over the top analogy it could, being a gross exaggeration of our sociopolitical climate. From making fun of Trump, his staff, and family, to social media, clickbait, and fame, this absolute blockbuster doesn’t exactly play it safe. Even though it’s not a very realistic representation of our country, I think the fact that this movie exists and stirred the debates it did makes it a must watch for the year. If nothing else, it’s a cultural landmark, that in commenting on our country’s divide became the most divisive movie of the year. And if I’m being honest, I laughed out loud at multiple points, was fascinated by the plot, enjoyed the risks it took in editing, and really loved the ending. So there.

Spencer: Pablo Larraín: Best Actress Nominee

Tough to follow Don’t Look Up with anything, but here goes. Spencer is a subtle, gorgeous, moderately unbiased window into Princess Diana’s existence. It takes after hyper realistic movies in its weekend long, non plot, plot, and does not give into the Hollywood packaging with a bow on top. You don’t have to be particularly interested in Royal family lore or Diana to enjoy this; I know I’m not. It exists well as an interesting psychological portrait of a very iconic troubled mind. It’s not reinventing any wheels, but the combination of the tinted film cinematography, Kristen Stewart breakout performance, the brilliantly haunting classical score, and elements of horror, set it apart from most films to come out today.

Judas and the Black Messiah: Shaka King: 2020 Best Picture Nominee?

This one isn’t even fun to talk about. It’s just so solid and well put together that I have no jaw dropping things to say. The performances are phenomenal, it employs the Warner Bros big budget filmmaking look tastefully, flows well, has a great score, and there was a great balance between intense spectacle and small intimate moments. There’s also a lot of moral ambiguity where you can judge for yourself and draw the line at certain decisions/statements. It ventures far beyond the obvious “racism is bad” themes and showed lot of situations where questionable decisions were made and debated between people all striving for the same goal. The film did a great job of showing what happened without pushing any one agenda more than others. It's got suspense, action, heart, history, and realism, what more could you ask for. Probably the easiest film to recommend of all of these.

Licorice Pizza: Paul Thomas Anderson: Best Picture Nominee

Ok this is a bit more controversial. Centered around a relationship between a 15-year-old boy and a 25-year-old girl, Licorice Pizza is charmingly unconventional. I won’t get into why the age gap of that size existed or speculate theories of the title’s meaning, but I’ll say this: Licorice Pizza is a classic Paul Thomas Anderson weird character driven portrait of the 70s and does its job well. I won’t lie, the hype for this movie got to me and I was slightly let down given PTA just came off doing the masterful Phantom Thread, but this still fills a comfortable place in his catalog. It’s directionless and immersive in a very Robert Altman kind of way, emulative of Andersons early films like Boogie Nights or Magnolia, but with a fresh spin on them. The lack of direction forces you to focus on performance, character dynamics, and simply lose yourself in the world of San Fernando in the 70s. It’s not too heavy but doesn’t shy away from real and dark moments, and because of its zany plot, kept me on the edge of my seat. Like The French Dispatch, it’s very comforting knowing a movie like this could get made today. Timeless, pure cinema.

Red Rocket: Sean Baker: Snubbed!

I’m surprised by how little I heard from this movie. Maybe it was the limited release, or just because it was competing with every best picture nominee, but I thought this was fantastic. In my very humble opinion, I’d say this is a step up from Baker’s critically acclaimed previous effort, The Florida Project. While enjoyable and very well made, at times I thought The Florida Project was exploitive of the impoverished lives it followed and pulled heart strings just for the sake of it. Something about showing and casting actual poor people in a fiction film about sad poor people felt like a low blow. Red Rocket on the other hand has the same salt of the earth, poor, underbelly characters (and like Florida Project uses a lot of non-actors whose life is probably similar to the characters they play), but unlike The Florida Project, it allows the viewer to laugh and relax. It’s equally intellectual, morally ambiguous and can be heavy if you’d like to look at it that way, but it can also be a more casual watch. The filmmaking is stylish and quirky, performances all superb, story unique and captivating, and the whole thing is honest! I’m so glad this wasn’t a tragic overdramatic A24 type movie. It’s tone of brutal honesty and comedy was daring and puts it in a lane of its own. Sort of a tragic comedy with more tragedy shown but more humor felt. It’s realistically crude and follows a very unlikable character, but I was able to laugh at him and with him, which is a very impressive feat. I really think this deserves more recognition as a unique, genre bending piece of genuine filmmaking! I hope it develops a cult following, but I have a feeling that a movie about an ex-adult film star and current male manipulator who falls in love with a high schooler isn’t exactly what today’s audience are looking for. All of Baker’s films have something to do with sex work but given this one is from the perspective of “the bad guy”, I don’t think fans of his previous work will have the same empathetic opinion of this. Personally, I see it as a modern French New Wave film in a good, boundary pushing way however: If you think the age gap from Licorice Pizza might disturb you, definitely don’t watch this. But if you’re ok with watching a pretty terrible (but fascinatingly unique!) guy flounder around for two hours, check this out.

Inside: Bo Burnham: Snubbed!

As an active stand-up comedy fan, I’ve always felt disconnected from Bo’s work because it felt so theatrical and planned. It was clear he’s a wildly talented guy, but his dark or vulnerable jokes were always delivered in a way that hid his identity. His self-aware, witty observations of the digital world spoke to gen- z kids, and while I am “a gen-z kid” who appreciated him being the first comedian to do this, it also embodied the gen-z style of “everything’s awful but we’ll still laugh about it”. It didn’t show any real vulnerability. Some of my favorite elements of stand up are personal stories, and candid conversation in a way where it feels like you know them. Bo never did that... Until now.

Inside is the magnum opus of gen-z content, embodying the feelings of a generation in a style that makes perfect sense. Bo is forced to show his relationship with himself through the narrative of being stuck inside during the pandemic. While it’s guided by songs that poke fun of the pointless trends, and reality we’ve come to accept in the last year, there are snippets of very real, heart wrenching moments that allowed me to fall in love with him. As it progressed it became more and more meta and the narrative became clear, separating itself from any standup special, or film ever made. I loved 8th grade so much and was hoping he’d go back to movies given how intimate and real it was in showing mental health struggles, but he does it here just as well, so I can’t complain. In many ways this is a sequel to 8th grade with a different structure but similar themes. Because of its brutal honesty, Inside showed me sides of life I wanted to know but have been avoiding coming to terms with. It had very vivid representations of disassociation, anxiety, depression and the disappointment that one who over romanticizes life ultimately faces. I was shocked to find myself crying near the end of it because of how much I felt for Bo and his deteriorating mental state. The production value, music, editing, relevancy, relatability and structure were better than anything I could’ve imagined and what separates this from all his comedy is how real it is. I love Bo Burnham and I wish him blissful ignorance.

Titane: Julia Ducournau: Snubbed! (but won the Palme d’Or so..)

To be taught in gender and film classes for decades! More focused than Ducournau’s fascinating debut Raw, Titane is an improvement in every way. Titane doesn’t pander to any audience, being unapologetic in its unconventional genres, story, and visuals. Despite being classified as a Body Horror, I somehow found it to be incredibly heartwarming. The film serves as a metaphor for countless themes in the world of gender equality/expectations/pressures, sex, transgender issues, and the unfairness of womanhood. Building off the legendary body horrors of David Cronenberg and John Carpenter, it's a completely fresh take on the genre. The plot doesn’t wait for you, and if you can’t get behind its surreal and absurd nature, you’ll be lost. Saying that, as someone who doesn’t care for David Lynch surreal metaphor movies, I surprisingly found myself glued to the screen. Maybe because of the realistic acting and dialogue, maybe it’s the incredible visuals, but it just worked for me. While I did sit there theorizing and attempting to attach meanings for what was on the screen, it was still entertaining at face value. It’s stunningly shot, contains beautiful performances, has uniquely detailed characters and was paced so perfectly that I could’ve sat there for hours. Ducournau is an absolute force who I now regard among the ranks of young filmmakers like the Safdie brothers, Greta Girwig, Barry Jenkins, and Trey Edward Shults. It’s been months since I saw this film and I still think about it and what it could mean. My only complaint is that it didn’t go on longer. I didn’t expect to like it, not being a big fan of any sort of horror, but it charmed me beyond belief. If the level of manic rambling of this description hasn’t indicated this statement, I’ll just come out and say it: please see this film. Like it or not, it’s impossible to say Titane isn’t one of a kind. Go in blind and have fun for an insane viewing experience.

The Worst Person in the World: Joachim Trier: Best Original Screenplay Nomination

Now this is my kind of movie. Even with incredible expectations because of the director, genre, and trailer, I was still blown away. The Worst Person in the World is a fresh take on the coming-of-age film, which as a hopeless romantic I’ll always welcome. Split into 12 chapters serving as a collection of intimate chronological vignettes, it had a fascinating flow to it. Sort of like a dream but also imitative of memory, it provided for a great viewing experience. As far as stand out qualities went, it had a fantastic score/soundtrack, a very romantic naturally lit 35mm film look, was outstandingly written, performed, and did what it set out to do.

A specific quality I loved was how none of the characters were painted as entirely good or bad. Everyone had likable and unlikable qualities and you can form your own opinion on them. An Eric Rohmer movie is less intimate and more like spectating whereas a Richard Linklater film makes you fall in love with the characters. This was an interesting mix where you are very attached to her as if she's supposed to be a normal protagonist that you love and entirely empathize with but she's obviously flawed. You feel with her not for her. I never felt bad for her or particularly happy for her, I felt happy when she was and sad when she was. The themes of restlessness and indecision in adult life weren’t shoved in your face, being at the forefront but rarely addressed verbally. I wouldn’t say it said anything that hasn’t been said, but that’s because of how reflective of life it is. It was just great.

As a fan of this type of film, a romantic, realistic, movie, the type of movie I would like to make, it would be easy for me to put this as my favorite. It would be safe. I knew I would love it and I loved it. But I’d be lying to myself if I didn’t do what I’m about to do.

Drive My Car: Ryusuke Hamaguchi: Best Picture Nominee!

This film broke me. Removed from any experience I’ve come close to having, it gave me a new perspective on tragedy. Drive my Car to me is an updated, extended, and more fleshed out version of Three Colors: Blue (my favorite of the trilogy). At first, I was skeptical. I wasn't sure what was happening, what the movie was trying to say, or if it would just be some slow sappy melodrama. Eventually it started to unravel, revealing itself as something completely unique. It took the film school rule of "show don't tell" to uncharted territories, silently showing characters’ lives and letting the audience figure out what was happening (internally and externally) without making that a focal point of the film. It was so subtle and organic in presenting the world with no bias, no emotionally manipulative music, no zooms, not even tracking shots. Just a camera pointed at the characters, so strategically placed that it alone could send me down a spiral of thought. The story built so organically at its own pace, and when you finally figure out what the motivation/internal feelings the character is going through, it is eternally satisfying.

The characters were complex in a subtle way, changed in front of you in a subtle way, and were flawed in subtle ways. It’s just so subtle! One of my favorite themes was silence. Inaction was the big theme, but silence was the practice of it. The powerful silence spoke more than any words could. Throughout the film silence could mean restraint, fear, sadness, or love. It didn't need to make sense or tell a story, and didn't feel like it was, but it did, and it was beautiful.

The only gripe I have is that I'm not familiar with the play that ends up being a prominent guiding point for the plot.  I want to watch that, learn it's significance and then re-watch this to fully understand it.

This is possibly the most subtle movie I've ever seen. I still can't believe that it came out in the age we're in and that I saw it in theaters. There were moments that would’ve been melodramatic or even cheesy in any other movie but in Drive My Car they were devastating. Can’t think of the last time a movie like this came out. 

 I’m crying because they’re not crying.

So that’s it, Power of the Dog is winning it all, Don’t Look Up is better but Drive my Car is the best. Thanks for reading my nonfiction, non-opinion, factual list.

What's So Weird About ASMR?

ASMR, or autonomous sensory meridian response, is a relaxing, tingly sensation, usually triggered by auditory or visual stimuli. ASMR also refers to the genre of online content made to evoke this sensation. Early ASMR content creators, also known as ASMRtists, started out on YouTube in 2009, making whispered videos with cellphone cameras and earbud microphones. While this was the start of intentional ASMR, the sensation itself is nothing new. I distinctly remember the wonderful head tingles I got playing school with friends when I was a little kid. I didn’t know it at the time, but that was probably one of the first times I experienced ASMR. In sixth grade, I was drowning in stress and anxiety so I turned to the internet for help—I began listening to relaxing music and guided meditations on YouTube. Eventually, an ASMR video popped up in my YouTube feed. After unwittingly seeking out all of this unintentional ASMR, I finally found what I really wanted—content specifically designed to trigger that tingly sensation I had felt so many times as a kid. I was hooked immediately—I dove head first into a world of diverse ASMRtists and infinite tingly triggers. Since those early days in middle school, I have used ASMR almost daily to calm my anxiety, boost my mood, relax before bed and to keep me focused while doing schoolwork. ASMR has truly improved my quality of life, so why was I so afraid to tell anyone about it? 

Like many online communities, there is a more “adult” side to ASMR, which fuels many of the misconceptions surrounding the concept. Certain ASMRtists have found a profitable niche in creating ASMR with sexual undertones. Other “ASMRtists” favor sexually explicit content with just a hint of ASMR. What started as an entirely wholesome genre of content has gained a misleadingly sexual reputation. A vast range of innocent and sexual content can be found on YouTube. For inexperienced viewers, navigating this dichotomy can be tricky, with potentially scarring consequences. I have learned the hard way to avoid certain triggers, which have been adopted by this more adult side of the ASMR community. My love for ASMR came before this convergence of sexual content and relaxation, so these instances failed to disuade me. But for a new viewer, one wrong click could completely color their perspective on ASMR. Negative comments often come from viewers like these, and others who haven’t bothered to give the genre a chance. Misinformation spreads like wildfire and a shocking percentage of the internet seems to believe that ASMR is inherently sexual if not also creepy. 

In reality, the majority of ASMR content is not remotely sexual—most ASMRtists strictly promote relaxation, anxiety relief, sleep aid, positive thinking and other non-sexual topics. While select viewers still sexualize this content, it is reflective of their own misconceptions, rather than the actions of these ASMRtists. In fact, many of these content creators filter their comment sections to keep their community safe for minors and adults like me who are just here to relax. It’s also important to note that this is not unique to ASMR—the gaming community, for example, has plenty of creators who sexualize their content. There is nothing wrong with creating ASMR content with sexual appeal, but ASMR as a whole should not be branded as such. 

The intimate nature of ASMR contributes to these misconceptions. Stumbling onto your first ASMR video is an unfortunately jarring experience for the typical internet user. As I had eased into ASMR from watching adjacent content, like guided meditations, I never experienced the shock that new viewers must feel. Most YouTube content is completely impersonal, and it’s hard to forget that you are just one subscriber among many. Entertainment doesn’t need to be personal, and in most cases, the virtual crowd contributes to the excitement. ASMR, on the other hand, is curated towards relaxation, rather than entertainment. Think back to your most relaxing memories—you were probably somewhere peaceful, where you felt comforted and cared for by close friends and family. This is the exact sort of environment that ASMRtists seek to create. Many ASMRtists simulate one-on-one settings where they address the viewer as an individual, rather than a member of the audience. Many of the most popular triggers fall under the category of “personal attention,” which contributes to the sense of intimacy. Intimate experiences with strangers are generally uncomfortable and unwelcome. This is especially true online, where our interactions with others are the most anonymous, and the most public. This discomfort, coupled with the drastic shift from typical internet content, turns many potential viewers away from ASMR.

ASMR might be different from what you’re used to finding on the internet, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. I think of ASMR as a virtual massage—it’s an intimate experience with someone who is likely a stranger, and yet it can be incredibly relaxing. Being unexpectedly caressed by a stranger would surely be uncomfortable, if not outright terrifying, but most people do enjoy receiving treatments from massage therapists. Likewise, people who are put off by unexpected experiences with ASMR, might find that they enjoy it if they are willing and informed. In my experience, ASMR videos can come very close to replicating the experience of receiving an actual massage, reiki session, or facial. If you’ve been wanting a spa treatment for a while, but can’t spare funds or time, listening to ASMR might tide you over for a while.

Even in ideal contexts, not everyone enjoys massages—some people are too ticklish and others are justifiably uncomfortable with that level of intimacy, even from people they know personally. ASMR isn’t for everyone either, and that’s okay. Some people are physically incapable of experiencing ASMR, which is completely out of their control. Some people prefer offline methods of relaxation, and others might just find all ASMR unpleasant. Even I dislike certain ASMR triggers—I am really bothered by eating sounds, for example. But it’s important to remember that this is subjective—I dislike this trigger, but other people enjoy it and that’s fine with me. Even if ASMR isn’t your thing, it’s not okay to spread misinformation or to put down ASMRtists and listeners who just want to spread good vibes. Ultimately, the stigma surrounding ASMR is uncalled for and unfortunate. If ASMR wasn’t so misunderstood, a lot of people would be a lot more relaxed. 

The ASMR community is as diverse as any other corner of the internet. There are creators of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, with a variety of different styles. From classic triggers like tapping, whispering, and raindrops, to obscure historical roleplays, the creativity of the ASMR community never fails to impress and relax me. Nobody should feel obligated to give ASMR a chance, but I do believe there’s something out there for almost everyone. I’m grateful for having found ASMR and I’m sure that a lot of people would benefit from giving it a try.