How Branding and Commercial Videographer Tyler Dooghan Makes a Promo Video | San Diego
As a branding and commercial videographer, I often have the opportunity to create promo videos for products and advertisements. A promo video is designed to quickly catch and keep the viewer’s attention. Sometimes it inspires and motivates; other times it piques curiosity and intrigues the viewer.
In other words, it’s not just another boring commercial. Many promo videos include fast transitions, intentional slow-mo, sound effects, energetic music, and large printed words which quickly engage the audience. Many sports teams use promo videos as well as product advertisements. However, it takes skill and experience to make a promo video that is effective and not overdone or cheesy.
Oftentimes, the simpler the better for promo videos. If you start getting too out of the box and go overboard on the abstract creativity it just gets weird—and confusing. The goal here is to highlight the details that make this brand or product so unique while sparking a sense of allure that makes the viewer want to learn more. For example, check out this Dutch Bros promo video which features the coffee process from farm to cup.
4 Tips on How to Make a Promo Video that Rocks
Leave Them Wanting More
When making a promo video, the goal is to make your audience say, “Dang! I want to see more!” They can’t look away. You want to give them just enough information so that they are still left with a little mystery. This follows the idea that we all want more of what we can’t have. It’s a brilliant marketing technique. Then, their curiosity will hopefully motivate them to learn more by visiting your site, purchasing a product, getting in touch—whatever your call to action (CTA) might be.
Think Through Edits
When I created my very first promo video years ago, it was all slow-motion, which made it a bit boring to watch. When it comes to editing a promo video, I recommend incorporating slow-mo with intention, such as inserting a few epic seconds in the middle of an intense scene.
You definitely don’t want to throw slow-mo into your video just to have it—it has to make sense. You want it to be powerful and intense, not slow and boring. If you feel like it’s dragging along, so will your audience. Go for natural placement. Alternately, you might mix it in with some 24 frames per second footage for a better balance.
Grab Attention with Music
Honestly, this is often one of the hardest parts. Find music that builds quickly so that the intensity grows by the second. You are looking for nice beats and hits so that you can easily cut the beat (again, check out the end of the coffee video). Remember you only have about 5 seconds to grab someone’s attention, so make it count!
Special Effects Are Key
SFX is a super useful too! If you want the audience to really feel a hit or transition, don’t be afraid to insert special effects and sound design. These effects can really make your video stand out as bold and innovative. For instance, check out some of the subtle yet effective effects in this Rogue Board Co. promo video.
Make Your Promo Video with Tyler Dooghan Videographer
The key to creating a promo video that rocks is to quickly grab your audience’s attention, and always leave them wanting more. Have more questions or want to collaborate on your next promo video? Let’s partner up. Visit tylerdooghan.com for more info.
Tyler Dooghan is a San Diego-based videographer. He specializes in cinematography and visual storytelling. Visit tylerdooghan.com to learn more about how he can help showcase your organization, express your passion, and connect with your audience. Check out his most recent work here, and find more inspiration on the Blog. Drop a line here to get started!
