How to shoot a brand film now — Maxwell Frost // Simple Film School

Show Notes

• 02:28
  How to get started with brand films

  Most individuals today have access to the necessary tools to begin exploring filmmaking and storytelling. With just a smartphone, a modestly priced microphone, and free editing software like DaVinci Resolve, brands can get started with creating short films.
• 03:41
  Simplifying brand filmmaking tools and equipment for beginners

  DaVinci Resolve 18 is a user-friendly, free editing software for beginners offering basic functionalities. Furthermore, Amazon offers Bluetooth lapel mics priced as low as $30, simplifying the setup process by eliminating the need for multiple cables.
• 06:08
  Leveraging customer documentaries for brand films

  After acquiring the necessary equipment, create a "day in the life" documentary featuring a customer who has experienced a transformation due to your offering. Position your product as their guide, aiding them in overcoming challenges and stepping into their preferred future.
• 10:41
  The power of brand films

  Brand films provide an opportunity to connect emotionally with a target audience through shared interests, desires, and experiences. Theyre enduring, creating lifelong customer bonds, and generating additional marketing assets.
• 14:33
  Using day in the life videos for branding

  Patagonia excels by focusing its films on individuals who embody the brands mission and whose aspirations align with the audience's desires. Day-in-the-life content is effective when it defines the hero within the first few minutes, creating a personal connection with the audience.
• 17:53
  Going beyond product features and benefits with brand films

  By competing solely on benefits and features, we miss out on the opportunity to connect on an emotional level. Films like Microsoft's "Make What's Next" exhibit the impact of storytelling, showcasing the influence of empowering narratives in inspiring change and innovation.
• 21:13
  Mastering pacing in brand films

  The three-act play structure is a valuable template for pacing in brand films. Ensure that your pacing aligns with the way you tell the hero's journey, defining the obstacles your customers face and positioning the brand as the solution to get your customers beyond those obstacles.
• 23:02
  Leveraging the three act play structure for brand films

  Acts one through three should cover the inciting incident, the guide's introduction, unexpected plot twists, and the resolution. Stories should follow the hero through challenges, growth, and transformation, concluding with reflections on the journey and broader impacts on the community or world.
• 28:50
  Distributing and building momentum for brand films

  Assets like behind-the-scenes footage, quality screenshots from the film, and interviews build excitement for a brand film. Similarly, submitting brand films to festivals before launching to the public is a good way to build anticipation leading up to the launch.
• 30:33
  Launching a brand film

  Brand films should be launched at the brands headquarters or a location with a significant concentration of employees and supporters. Engaging local communities or networks can amplify the impact and garner support for the film's release.
• 31:15
  Unlocking the power of film festivals

  Being an award-winning filmmaker is a great way to grow your career and gain industry recognition. Online platforms like FilmFreeway enable brands to apply to multiple festivals at once, increase their chances of winning an award, and enhance brand credibility.
• 33:55
  Resources to get started in brand filmmaking

  Simplefilmschool.com offers a free crash course on how to make a brand film within 30 days. It covers storytelling, festival hacking, getting the shots you need, and the skills needed for successful brand film production.