We hear this concern from time to time:
“Will a green screen video look fake?”
Our answer? Not if it’s lit correctly.

Why Lighting Is the Secret Sauce

Green screen magic doesn’t happen in post-production alone. It starts on set. Without properly matched lighting, your background might look pristine while your subject feels off—misplaced shadows, a weird glow, or a lighting mismatch that viewers subconsciously notice.

The key to realism is this:
Your subject must be lit as if they’re in the environment you’re compositing into. If your digital backdrop features warm afternoon sunlight, you better believe your subject needs to be lit from that direction, with similar warmth and intensity. StudioBinder breaks this down with diagrams and lighting tips to help bridge the gap between virtual and believable.

3 Must-Know Tips for Realistic Green Screen Lighting

1. Even Lighting on the Screen

Uneven lighting causes hotspots and shadows—making it harder for software to key out the green cleanly.
Use softboxes or LED panels with diffusion to get an even wash across the background. Litepanels offers a great breakdown on using soft, consistent lighting to avoid keying headaches.

2. Separate the Subject

Don’t glue your subject to the screen. Keep at least 4–6 feet of distance to reduce green spill (that ghostly green glow on skin and hair). Backlights or rim lights can help define edges and make the person pop.

3. Match the “Scene” Lighting

You need to match the lighting of the fake scene to your real subject. If your background is a bright beach, you’ll need to mimic high, natural sunlight. If it’s an office, softer and diffused lights may be better. Check out PremiumBeat’s practical guide on chroma key fundamentals to see this principle in action.

When Green Screen Goes Right

Think green screen always looks fake? Tell that to Disney+. The Mandalorian famously uses virtual sets and LED backgrounds combined with strategic lighting to create some of the most visually stunning environments on TV—without leaving the studio.

The takeaway? Lighting sells the scene.

Partner with Pros Who Know the Difference

At Mad Men Marketing, we bring a film-first mindset to every green screen shoot. Whether you’re creating digital ads, corporate videos, or social media content, we understand how to light, shoot, and composite with precision—so your final product feels seamless.

Meet our team of video specialists, producers, and post pros.
Have a green screen idea in mind? Contact us to get your next video project rolling.

The post Will a Green Screen Video Shoot Look Fake? appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

The Power of Proper Lighting

Lighting is the secret weapon of a great headshot. It shapes the face, highlights your best features, and sets the tone for your image. Here are some key lighting techniques that make all the difference:

1. Three-Point Lighting: This classic technique uses three light sources—a key light, fill light, and backlight—to create depth and eliminate harsh shadows. The result? A balanced and polished look.
2. Natural Lighting: Soft, diffused natural light can produce a warm and approachable feel. Think golden hour—the hour after sunrise or before sunset—for a natural glow that flatters.
3. Rembrandt Lighting: Named after the Dutch painter, this technique uses a single light source to create a triangle of light on the cheek opposite the light. It’s perfect for adding drama and sophistication.
4. Butterfly Lighting: This setup places the light above and directly in front of the subject, casting a soft shadow under the nose that resembles a butterfly. It’s ideal for a glamorous, timeless look.
5. Ring Lighting: A favorite for its ability to evenly illuminate the face, ring lights reduce shadows and add a subtle sparkle to the eyes. It’s great for modern, clean headshots.

Why Hire an Agency for Your Headshots?

While anyone can point a camera and take a photo, creating a standout headshot requires expertise, creativity, and the right equipment. Here’s why hiring an agency like ours is worth the investment:

1. Professional Expertise
   • We know how to use lighting techniques to complement different face shapes, skin tones, and personal styles. Our team can identify the most flattering angles and adjust the lighting accordingly.
2. High-Quality Equipment
   • Agencies have access to advanced lighting setups, professional-grade cameras, and post-production tools to ensure your headshots are of the highest quality.
3. Custom Tailored Approach
   • A headshot isn’t one-size-fits-all. We tailor every session to align with your goals, whether it’s a polished corporate look, a creative vibe, or something in between.
4. Time and Efficiency
   • A professional agency streamlines the process, ensuring you get stunning results without spending hours experimenting with setups.
5. Post-Production Excellence
   • Editing and retouching can make or break a headshot. We carefully enhance each image to look natural and professional, ensuring you’re camera-ready for any opportunity.

Mad Men Marketing: Your Partner in Headshot Perfection

We don’t just snap photos—we craft headshots that tell your story. With years of experience and a full arsenal of lighting and production equipment, we bring artistry and precision to every session. From selecting the perfect backdrop to ensuring flawless lighting, we’re here to make your headshot stand out.

Don’t leave your image to chance. Trust the professionals to capture your best self. Ready to elevate your personal brand with a stunning headshot? Contact us today to schedule your session!

The post Headshot Lighting Techniques: Why Hiring an Agency Makes All the Difference appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

Lighting the Scene, Setting the Stage

Great lighting sets the tone for any production, and we’re fully equipped to create everything from warm, inviting atmospheres to sleek, professional settings.

• Bluetooth GVM Light Kit: This set of three lights and adjustable stands offers precision control over brightness and color temperature. Thanks to its wireless functionality, we can fine-tune the lighting from anywhere on set.
• GVM Bulb Light & Stand: This incredibly mobile lighting setup provides soft, even illumination, perfect for interviews and product shoots. With adjustable brightness and a sturdy stand, it ensures flexibility and precision for even the most low-lit scenes.
• Green Screens and White Screens are perfect for versatile shoots. These screens allow us to effortlessly replace backgrounds or keep things clean and minimal.

Capturing Stunning Visuals

The quality of visuals can make or break a production, which is why we use cutting-edge cameras and tools to ensure every shot is flawless.

• Sony A7R IV Camera (x2): These high-performance cameras provide unparalleled image quality, perfect for capturing sharp details and vibrant colors, even during low-lit scenes.
• Canon 80D: A reliable DSLR for dynamic shoots, this camera offers versatility across different types of content and is great for outdoor & midday events.
• DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone: This drone is a favorite for adding breathtaking aerial views, giving our productions a cinematic edge, and quite simply getting places we can’t. 
  • PROTIP: Great for landscape, real estate, and long-distance tracking shots.

Achieving Crystal-Clear Audio

Sound is just as important as visuals. Our audio gear ensures every word and sound effect is captured with crystal-clear precision.

• Tascams (x2): Compact and dependable audio recorders that capture professional-quality sound for any project. A must-have for any audio engineer on the go!
• Rode Lav Mic Kits (x2): These wireless microphones are ideal for interviews. They allow our subjects to move freely while maintaining crystal-clear audio.
• Rode Shotgun Mic: This mic is designed to focus on the subject and filter out unwanted background noise, ensuring heightened audio clarity in even more chaotic scenarios.

Smooth, Cinematic Shots

Whether it’s a slow pan or dynamic movement, we have the tools to keep every shot steady and cinematic.

• Tripods (Various Sizes): Our tripods, from small tabletop models to full-sized options, provide stability for every type of shoot & angle you can imagine.
• Edelkrone Slider & HeadPlus: Together, these tools create smooth, professional sliding shots and dynamic movements for added drama and aesthetic appeal.
• Edelkrone Jib & Weights: Enables nuanced vertical and sweeping movements that add depth and perspective to our scenes.
• Curved Manual Slider: Perfect for creating arcing shots that draw viewers into the frame & its contents.
• Sony Camera Cage: Protects our cameras while offering maneuverability options for more dynamic movement within closer quarters.
• DJI Ronin & Instaflow Gimbal: These stabilizers ensure buttery-smooth footage, even during fast-paced or handheld shooting.

Tools for Polish and Versatility

The final touches can elevate a good production to a great one, and these tools help us deliver that professional edge.

• Teleprompter: Ensures on-camera talent looks confident and natural by keeping their focus forward while reading scripts seamlessly.
• Lightbox: Provides soft, diffused lighting, perfect for showcasing products in their best light.
• Cloth Backdrop Steamer: This low-key MVP is a MUST, especially when we’re on the go with our screens! Smooth out wrinkles in fabric backdrops for a clean, polished look.
• Epson Projector & Screen: Useful for creating dynamic presentations or adding unique effects to shoots.
• Tarion External Monitor: This monitor allows us to preview shots in real-time, ensuring the perfect framing and exposure every time.
• iPad: A multi-purpose tool for script playback, remote monitoring, and even live feedback during shoots.
  • PROTIP: Pair it with a Micro-HDMI to USB-C cable for an additional monitor for your shoots!

Why It Matters

The right gear isn’t just about creating beautiful content—it’s about creating content that connects, engages, and tells your story in a way that stands out & interacts with your audience without interrupting them. Our arsenal of professional equipment ensures we can meet any challenge, from corporate interviews to eye-catching social media campaigns.

Ready to make your brand’s vision a reality? Contact us today to bring your ideas to life with our cutting-edge production tools and expertise.

The post Inside Our Production Arsenal at Mad Men Marketing appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

Pre-Production: Laying the Groundwork for Success

Before any camera is switched on, thorough planning is essential. Pre-production is the phase where the blueprint for the video is created. Here’s what it entails:

• Concept Development: Every great video starts with a strong concept. This is where we brainstorm and develop creative ideas that align with your brand message, target audience, and campaign goals. Whether it’s a product demo, a story-driven ad, or a behind-the-scenes feature, the concept isn’t just driving the process; it’s the foundation for everything else.
• Scriptwriting: Once the concept is solidified, we craft a script that outlines the narrative, key messages, dialogue, and pacing. The script serves as the backbone of the video, providing clarity and direction.
• Storyboarding: Storyboards are visual representations of each shot. These sketches guide the camera angles, transitions, and scenes, ensuring everyone is on the same page about the video’s flow.
• Casting & Talent Selection: Depending on the project, casting might involve finding the perfect actors, voice-over artists, or even featuring real employees. We seek talent that authentically represents the brand in order to best resonate with your target audience.
• Location Scouting & Permits: We identify the ideal filming locations—whether it’s on-site at your business, in-studio, or in a scenic outdoor space—and handle any necessary permits or permissions.
• Equipment & Crew Coordination: Every successful shoot requires the right tools. We determine the necessary equipment—cameras, lighting, sound gear—and assemble a skilled crew, ranging from video directors, audio engineers, and post-production experts who will be putting together the final product.

Production: Bringing the Vision to Life

This is the “lights, camera, action” phase—the moment when all of our careful planning comes together in a live shoot. Production involves:

• Setup: Our team arrives beforehand to set up the equipment, including cameras, lighting rigs, audio recording devices, and props as needed. The setup ensures that every shot looks and sounds its best.
• Directing the Shoot: The director and crew guide the talent, capturing scenes based on the storyboard and script. We monitor lighting, sound, framing, and pacing to ensure we’re achieving the desired visual and emotional impact while remaining true to the over-arching concept.
• Multiple Takes & Adjustments: Perfection often requires multiple takes. We adjust lighting, angles, and performances to capture the best possible footage. Flexibility and creativity are key in this stage.
• On-the-Fly Problem Solving: No shoot is without surprises. Our experienced crew handles unexpected challenges, from weather changes & technical issues to last-minute staffing needs, ensuring we stay on track.

Post-Production: Crafting the Final Masterpiece

Once filming wraps, post-production begins. This is where we transform the raw footage into a cohesive, polished video. Key steps include:

• Editing: Our editors review and select the best takes, cut and sequence footage, and assemble an initial rough draft of the video. They fine-tune pacing, transitions, and overall structure to achieve the desired narrative flow.
• Sound Design & Audio Mixing: Clear, high-quality audio is crucial. We mix dialogue, add sound effects as needed, and integrate background music that complements the tone and emotion of the video.
• Visual Effects (VFX) & Graphics: If needed, we add visual effects, motion graphics, text overlays, or animations to enhance visual appeal and convey key information.
• Color Correction & Grading: We adjust the color balance, contrast, and saturation of the footage to create a consistent and professional look that matches your brand aesthetic.
• Revisions & Client Feedback: We collaborate with you to review the initial cut and make any requested changes. This iterative process ensures the final product meets your vision and campaign objectives.
• Final Delivery & Formats: Once approved, we export the video in the necessary formats, optimized for its intended platforms—whether it’s for social media, web, TV, or events.

Conclusion: A Winning Video Strategy

Creating an effective video involves creativity, technical expertise, and a clear strategy. Our team is dedicated to delivering videos that captivate audiences, elevate your brand, and drive results. Every step is handled with precision and care, from concept to final cut. Ready to bring your brand’s story to life? Contact us to get started on your next video masterpiece!

The post Lights, Camera, Action! What Goes Into a Video Shoot at Mad Men Marketing appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

Understand the Basics of Lighting

Before diving into specific techniques, it’s essential to understand the fundamentals of lighting:

• Intensity: The brightness of the light.
• Color Temperature: Measured in Kelvin (K), this describes the color of the light. Daylight with a clear sky is between 5000K-6500K, while tungsten lights are around 2500K-3500K.
• Direction: The angle at which light hits your subject affects shadows and highlights.
• Quality: Refers to how hard or soft the light is. Hard light creates sharp shadows, while soft light produces a gentle transition between light and shadow.

Use Three-Point Lighting

Three-point lighting is a standard method used in video and photo production. It involves three primary light sources:

• Key Light: The main light that shines directly on the subject, providing most of the illumination and defining the subject’s shape.
• Fill Light: A secondary light placed opposite the key light to fill in shadows created by the key light, ensuring the subject is evenly lit.
• Back Light (or Rim Light): Placed behind the subject, this light helps to separate the subject from the background, adding depth and dimension.

Choose the Right Equipment

Selecting the appropriate lighting equipment is crucial:

• LED Lights: Energy-efficient and versatile, LEDs allow you to adjust both intensity and color temperature.
• Softboxes: These diffuse light, creating a soft, even illumination that’s ideal for reducing harsh shadows.
• Reflectors: Use these to bounce light onto your subject, filling in shadows without the need for additional light sources.
• Light Stands and Clamps: Ensure your lights are securely positioned and easily adjustable.

Positioning Your Lights

Proper positioning of your lights is key to achieving the desired effect:

• Key Light: Position it at a 45-degree angle to the subject’s front and above eye level to create natural-looking shadows.
• Fill Light: Place it opposite the key light, at about the same height, but at a lower intensity to avoid creating competing shadows.
• Back Light: Set it up behind the subject, elevated, and angled towards their back. This light should be subtle but enough to outline the subject.

Control Your Environment

The environment in which you’re shooting also plays a significant role:

• Background: Choose a background that complements your subject. Keep it simple to avoid distractions.
• Ambient Light: Be aware of ambient light sources such as windows. To maintain control over your lighting setup, you might need to block or diffuse natural light.
• Color and Reflective Surfaces: Consider the colors and surfaces in your shooting area. Bright or reflective surfaces can bounce light unpredictably, affecting your setup.

Adjusting for Different Subjects

Different subjects require different lighting approaches:

• People: Soft, even lighting is generally more flattering. Use softboxes or umbrellas to diffuse the light.
• Products: Highlight the product’s features with harder light to create defined shadows and emphasize textures.
• Large Objects: Ensure even lighting across the entire object. To achieve this, you may need multiple key and fill lights.

Test and Adjust

Always test your setup before the actual shoot:

• Take Test Shots: Capture test images or footage and review them to check for unwanted shadows, hot spots, or color imbalances.
• Make Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to move lights, adjust intensity, or add diffusion materials until you achieve the desired look.

Proper lighting is an art that requires practice and experimentation. By understanding the basics, using the right equipment, and carefully positioning your lights, you can create visually stunning content that beautifully highlights your subject. Remember, the key to mastering lighting is to keep testing and adjusting until you achieve the perfect shot. Happy shooting!

Ready to take your video and photo production to the next level? Contact us today to learn more about how our expert team can help you create stunning visuals for your brand!

The post How to Properly Light a Stationary Subject for Video and Photo Production appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

Pre-Production: The Blueprint for Success

Concept Development

1. Originality: Your idea should be fresh and captivating. It could be a new perspective on a common theme or a story never told before. The uniqueness of your concept can set your video apart in a big way, though this also presents the biggest danger of getting bogged down in conceptualizing your project.
2. Research: Investigate your theme, subject matter, and audience. Understanding what has been done and what resonates with your intended audience can help refine your concept. Focus on the purpose of your video project, and how that purpose can best be brought to life.

Scriptwriting

1. Narrative Structure: A strong, clear structure that audiences can follow is crucial. Whether you’re telling a linear story or something more avant-garde, the sequence of events should build to a satisfying conclusion, regardless of the overall length and depth of the project.
2. Character Development: Relatable and well-developed characters can significantly impact your video’s effectiveness. Even if it’s a short video, viewers should be able to connect with what’s on screen, including the characters.

Storyboarding and Planning

1. Visualization: Storyboards are a great tool for visualizing scenes before filming. They can help save time and resources during production and are essential for planning shots, angles, and the overall look of the video. 
2. Logistics: Schedule shoots, scout locations, and secure permits if necessary. Meticulous planning in this stage can prevent costly mistakes, delays, or reshoots.

Production: Bringing Your Vision to Life

Cinematography

1. Visual Style: The choice of camera angles, movement, and composition all contribute to the storytelling. Your visual style should complement the narrative, mood of the video.
2. Lighting: Good lighting can enhance the atmosphere, depth, and emotion of your scenes. Whether you’re using natural light or studio setups, lighting should be carefully planned to support the visual tone.

Direction

1. Performance: Directing actors involves guiding them to convey the story’s emotions and characters authentically. Even in non-fiction videos, the way subjects are presented and interviewed can make a big difference.
2. Pacing: The rhythm of the video is key to keeping the audience engaged. Pacing involves the duration of scenes, the timing of dialogue, and the flow of the narrative.

Post-Production: Polishing Your Masterpiece

Editing

1. Cohesion: Editing is where your video truly comes together. It’s about choosing the right takes, cutting scenes together smoothly, and ensuring the story flows both logically and seamlessly.
2. Effects and Color Grading: Visual effects and color grading can enhance the mood, emphasize key moments, and correct any inconsistencies in the footage.

Sound Design

1. Music and Sound Effects: The right soundtrack and sound effects can profoundly affect the video’s impact. They should underscore the narrative and evoke the intended emotions.
2. Dialogue: Clean, clear dialogue is crucial. Post-production is the time to address any audio issues, add voiceovers, or incorporate ADR (automated dialogue replacement) if needed.

Distribution and Promotion: Sharing Your Story

Targeted Submission

1. Choose the right platforms and festivals that best fit your video’s genre and style. Tailoring your submissions can increase your chances of recognition.

Marketing

1. Promote your video using social media, press releases, and networking. Creating a buzz around your project can attract viewers and judges alike.

Creating an award-winning video is an ambitious endeavor that demands passion, creativity, and attention to detail. It’s a collaborative effort that blends art and science, storytelling and technique. While the journey can be challenging, the reward of crafting a video that resonates with audiences and earns accolades is incomparable. Remember, each project is a learning opportunity, pushing you closer to that next award-winning creation.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand’s Story?

At Mad Men Marketing, we specialize in turning your visions into captivating, award-worthy videos. Let’s craft a narrative that resonates with your audience and sets your brand apart.

Join forces with us for your next project! Contact us or give us a call at 904-355-1766 today & start crafting the legendary brand stories that your business deserves.

The post How To Create An Award-Winning Video appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

We’re going to delve into the factors that can affect video production costs, campaign planning, and overall marketing strategy.

Pre-Production Expenses

Concept Development and Scriptwriting

The first step in any video production is concept development and scriptwriting. This stage sets the foundation for your video and involves brainstorming sessions, scriptwriting, and storyboard creation. Depending on the complexity of the concept and the length of the video, costs can vary significantly.

Location Scouting and Permits

If your video requires shooting at external locations, scouting and securing these locations, along with necessary permits, can add to the cost. Some locations are free, while others may charge a fee. This is important to research and hammer out from the beginning, as a mistake at this stage can increase costs, time, and complexity.

Production Costs

Equipment and Crew

The quality of your video largely depends on the equipment used and the expertise of the crew. High-definition cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and drones for aerial shots can increase production value but also the cost. Additionally, hiring a professional crew including a director, cameraperson, sound technicians, and other specialists is a significant expense depending on your vision.

Talent Fees

If your video features actors, models, or presenters, their fees will contribute to the overall cost. The rates can vary widely based on the talent’s experience and the demands of the role, and it is best to select a variety of people to protect against an unexpected cancellation.

Location Costs

Shooting on location may involve rental fees, especially if you need to close a business for the day or require a specialized setting.

Post-Production Expenses

Editing

The post-production phase, which includes editing, is crucial for crafting the final product. This process can be time-consuming and requires skilled editors to ensure the video flows smoothly, aligns with the script, and includes any necessary effects or graphics.

Sound Design and Music Licensing

Background music, sound effects, and voice-over work are essential components that enhance the video’s impact. Licensing music and hiring voice-over artists add to the cost, but they are vital for a professional finish.

Graphics and Animations

Depending on the video’s style, adding graphics or animations can significantly enhance its appeal. These elements, however, require specialized skills and software, which may come at an added cost from the professionals you’ve hired to produce your video.

Miscellaneous Costs

Marketing and Distribution

Once your video is ready, it needs to reach your target audience. Costs associated with marketing and distribution channels should not be overlooked. Whether it’s for social media, television, or internal channels, each platform may involve different costs, ranging from free, to potentially hundreds or thousands of dollars depending on your desired campaign.

How Much Should You Budget?

The cost of producing a commercial or an internal marketing video can range widely, from a few hundred dollars for a simple in-house production designed for your business’s workforce, to thousands of dollars for high-end commercials produced by top agencies. Generally, businesses should consider their marketing objectives, target audience, and the message they wish to convey when budgeting for video production. A well-planned video can yield a significant return on investment, making it a worthwhile expenditure.

In conclusion, understanding the various elements that contribute to video production costs can help businesses plan effectively and make informed decisions. While quality video production is not cheap, it’s an invaluable tool in today’s visually driven market.

In search of the perfect video production crew to work with you on any and all campaigns? Visit our website or give us a call at 904-355-1766 today!

The post Understanding the Cost of Video Production for Commercials and Internal Marketing Videos appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

In this blog post, we will discuss five key tips for successful video production on social media platforms. And by following these best practices, you can ensure that your videos are up to industry standards — as well as your audience’s expectations. So let’s get started!

#1 — Proper Timing

In today’s world of technology, it is important for video production teams to be mindful of time lengths when creating social media content. Limited attention spans mean that viewers are less likely to stay engaged with content that runs too long.

Recent studies have found that shorter videos tend to perform better on social media platforms, with the ideal length varying from platform to platform. For example, YouTube videos typically perform best with videos that are around two minutes long, according to Hootsuite, while Instagram reels can be as short as 15 seconds and perform well so long as they fall under one minute.

#2 — Aspect Ratios and Platforms

When it comes to aspect ratios, video production teams or content creators should also be aware of the differences between vertical and horizontal formats.

Specifically, vertical videos are best suited for social platforms such as Reels and TikTok, which feature content specifically designed for mobile devices. Horizontal videos are better suited for more traditional platforms such as YouTube and Facebook, which feature content optimized for computers and other larger screens.

#3 — Appropriate Lighting

Lighting is an essential part of any video production. When shooting on location, it is important to ensure that your subject is well-lit and not backlit, otherwise their features — and the quality of your focus — will be obscured in shadows.

A good way to prevent this is by using a ring light, which produces soft and even lighting that helps bring out the details of your subject’s face. Additionally, you should try to keep your lighting setup consistent throughout the entire production.

#4 — Sound Recording

Sound is an integral part of any video production and it should be considered just as carefully as lighting and aspect ratios. Quality sound design can make even the simplest video come alive, while poor sound can make even the best video seem amateurish and unprofessional.

Remember: When recording audio for a project, it is important to use a high-quality microphone that is able to capture a wide range of frequencies. Additionally, it is also important to ensure that your audio levels are balanced correctly and not too loud or too quiet.

#5 — Filters and Edits

The use of filters and color/lighting correction can be important tools in video production for social media. Filters can be used to enhance the look and feel of a video, creating a more engaging experience for viewers. Additionally, color correction is crucial for ensuring that colors look consistent across all devices, creating a more professional appearance.

“There are a lot of tools within apps like Instagram to edit videos, but also I’ve come to realize Google Photos has some really great editing tools,” recommends Tamara Dileo, the Director of Production with Mad Men Marketing. “But it’s also important not to overdo it with the filters unless it’s a deliberate style choice.”

Honorable Mention — The Right Music

When it comes to picking the right music for a Reel or TikTok, it’s important to match the tone of the video. Music can be used to evoke emotion and create a mood that resonates with viewers. Depending on the type of content, different styles of music may be more effective in creating the desired atmosphere.

For example, upbeat music may be more suitable for an inspirational video, while a slower piece is better suited for a reflective moment. Music can also be used to add energy and dynamism to a clip, or even just provide background ambience.

Overall, by following these best practices, video production teams — or individual content creators — can achieve greater success while developing content for social media platforms.

Then again, if all of this feels just a tad overwhelming, it’s important to know that you don’t have to go it alone.

After all, here at Mad Men Marketing, we are rooted in the belief that brands should interact with their customers, not interrupt them. Thus, our in-house production team is equipped with the right tools, technology, and expertise to help you take your visual media to the next level!

So, are you ready to interact? If so, contact Mad Men Marketing today by calling (904) 355-1766!

The post The Top 5 Best Video Production Practices for Social Media appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

If you’re curious to learn more about our enhanced capabilities and newest tech, simply read on and we’ll walk you through our newest set-up:

Camera: Sony a7rIV

With a BSI-CMOS sensor that produces 60.2MP images, Sony’s Alpha 7R IV can shoot up to 10 frames per second… even with full autofocus turned on. And we definitely liked the sound of that.

Additionally, as Sony’s 4th-generation version of its high-resolution full-frame mirrorless camera, this technology features…

• 5.76M dot OLED viewfinder
• 4Kp30 video
• High ISO performance
• Real-Time Eye AF tracking
• And more

Audio: RØDE Wireless Go II Lav Mics

Referred to by RØDE itself as “the world’s smallest and first truly wireless microphone,” these sleek and compact lav mics boast both a dual channel receiver and two transmitters each.

You could say we’re pretty happy to have this equipment, which features…

• Universal compatibility with cameras, mobile devices, and computers
• 3.5mm TRS analog output and microphone input
• Twist-and-lock furry windshields
• A transmission range of 200m (line of sight)
• And more

Slider: Edelkrone SliderONE

Offering the best of both portability and power all in one, this slider isn’t just capable of a backlash-free performance — therefore making it VFX and macro-ready — but it’s also wirelessly controlled through an app.

Let us wax poetic about a few more of its features…

• A horizontal load capacity of 20 lbs and vertical load capacity of 5 lbs
• Can attach to any ball head or fluid head with its 3/8” mounting screw
• ​​Is built to last, as it was designed with 100% CNC machined aluminum and stainless steel components
• Has a maximum speed of 0.52 in/sec
• And more

Jib: Edelkrone JibONE

We wanted the world’s most compact and motorized jib. So we got it. Capable of sitting in a team member’s backpack, the JibONE is only 24 in., albeit it offers 50 cm of vertical or horizontal camera travel when fully extended.

But we also love that the app-controlled JibONE…

• Can be mounted on any tripod with its 3/8”-16 mounting port
• Can be turned into a 2-axis system that controls both horizontal and vertical motions simultaneously
• Can easily carry up to 11 lb camera setups and comes with counterbalances
• Has the ability to flip the carrying plate so that a camera head may be mounted upside-down
• And more

Stabilizer: Ronin S

It’s smooth, it’s sleek, it’s easy to use, and it brings us joy. Really, what more could we ask for in a gimbal? Well, besides its ergonomic grip and integrated follow-focus knob, at least.

Simple: these features…

• 3-axis motorized gimbal head
• Auto-tune feature for quick gimbal calibration
• 8 lb load capacity
• Fully configurable via app
• 12-hour battery life
• And more

Lights: GVM RGB LED Video Lighting Kit 

Perfect for quickly adjusting any of our shoots that require different settings, this efficient and comprehensive kit features 3200 to 5600K plus RGB control, 0 to 100% dimming control, and a beam angle of 120°.

Additionally, this kit comes with…

• Two 800D-RGB panels with barn doors
• Two soft diffusers
• Two AC adapters
• Two 7’ light stands
• And more

Drone: DJI Mavic 2

DJI reportedly dreamed of designing a drone that existed where “engineering, technology, and the needs of the aerial photographer converge,” and they certainly achieved as much when the created the DJI Mavic 2.

After all, this drone features…

• Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance sensors
• Hasselblad L1D-20c camera
• 4K video resolution
• A 1080p live video feed
• Is foldable and compact
• And more

Tripod: Manfrotto 502AH

“Features variable fluid drag system for pan and tilt movements.” Ah, now that’s what we’re talking about when it comes to a tripod. But it doesn’t stop there, of course.

In fact, our newest tripod also…

• Has a maximum capacity of 22 lbs
• Has a counterbalance that supports 8.8 lbs
• Features 3/8” Easy Link attachment points for an external monitor or other accessories
• Includes pan bar and sliding plate
• And more

But what does all this new tech mean for you? Well, that’s easy: it means we’re able to produce content even more efficiently at an even higher quality than before.

After all, here at Mad Men Marketing, we are rooted in the belief that brands should interact with their customers, not interrupt them. And let’s not forget that the visual appeal of photography and videography are key in achieving this interaction.

So, are you ready to interact? If so, contact Mad Men Marketing today by calling (904) 355-1766!

The post Introducing Mad Men’s New Line-Up of Production Equipment and Technology appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.

We don’t need expensive cameras to take quality photos. Our cell phones can take such high-quality photos, and most people can’t tell if they are taken with a phone or professional photography equipment. The camera can’t do all the work, though.

There are a few key tips to keep in mind while you’re trying to capture that Kodak moment.

#1 — Light it Right

Lighting is one of the most important tools you can utilize when taking photos. An easy tip to remember is to ensure your subject isn’t backlit, and that the light is shining down on it directly or coming at it from an upper-diagonal angle. If the light hits it from the back, you’ll be left with a dark, indiscernible green smoothie bowl, which is social media blasphemy.

You can combat this in a few ways:

• The first way is to make sure your light source is coming from behind you (facing the subject).
• You can also take the photo in HDR mode.
• The third option is to fix it in post-production.

#2 — Shoot in HDR Mode

HDR stands for High Dynamic Range. In HDR mode, the camera will typically take two, three, or more photos at different exposures in quick succession, and then blend them together into one image with detail in both highlights and shadow.

Smartphone cameras that have the HDR feature usually offer the option to switch the HDR setting to On, Off, or to set it to Auto-HDR. Having HDR set to “On” tells your phone to capture a high dynamic range image every time a photo is taken.

#3 — Understand Depth of Field

Creating depth of field with your phone camera is a really cool way to up your Instagram photo game. When you’re shooting, always take into consideration the foreground, middle ground, and background in relation to the subject of the photo.

Let’s say you’re taking a picture of a subject some distance away from you and you want the subject in focus and the background blurry — simply tap your subject and wait for a yellow square to appear. Shooting in portrait mode on your phone is a great way to effectively highlight the depth of field, too.

#4 — Learn the Rule of Thirds

Rule of thirds, also known as the golden grid rule, is a technique where a composition is aligned to a three-by-three grid.

By dividing a composition into three grids, we section it into nine imaginary rectangles with four intersections. The focus subject is aligned at one of the intersecting points or close to them. This creates an asymmetry in the composition.

In Settings, tap Camera, and then enable the Grid option. That’s all you have to do to turn the feature on! Your next step is to apply the concept: remember to put important things along the lines.

#5 — Have Fun With Camera Angles

Playing with unique angles can help your photos stand out and offer you a variety of options to choose from when it comes time to post. Angles can create the illusion of depth and height, making your images more interesting to look at, thereby generating more views.

TIP: Try lowering the angle to create a new perspective instead of shooting straight down.

#6 — Use Negative Space Appropriately

Negative space is the area surrounding the main subject in a photograph that is left unoccupied. Basically, it’s the space around the subject that helps define the positive space (or main focus).

Leaving a large amount of negative space in the photo can emphasize scale and simplicity, but make sure you are using it correctly.

TIP: If you’re trying to highlight the subject in the photo, make sure you’re taking the photo close up and filling the frame with the subject. This will reduce the surrounding negative space.

#7 — Tasteful Phone Editing

We could break down each category of editing you can utilize on your phone, but for simplicity’s sake, we want to highlight the three tools that can really elevate your photo:

1. Brightness: It’s always a safe bet to bump up the brightness a bit unless your photo is already over-exposed. Indoor lighting rarely provides you with adequate illumination for a decent photo.
2. Contrast: Adjusting the contrast ever so slightly helps to make the darks darker and the lights lighter. This can help your image appear less “flat.”
3. Saturation: Delicately increasing the saturation will help to bring out some of those vivid colors that poor lightning may have counterbalanced. Make sure to not overdo this one or you will end up with some radioactive colors.

With over 4.6 billion people around the world using social media, online engagement is higher than ever. That is why it is so important to have content that is not only engaging but aesthetically pleasing. Take each one of these tips into consideration the next time you are taking a photo with the intention to post and you’ll look like a pro in no time.

And the Mad Men Marketing production crews are always ready to step in and help elevate your content for you! So, are you ready to interact? If so, reach out to our team today by calling 904-355-1766!

The post 7 tips on taking better photos for social media appeared first on Mad Men Marketing.