Hooks
Hooks are super important to make your video relatable! In store shots, thrift store shots, befores, etc all set the stage of your video and *hook* people’s attention instantly!
Hooks should be relatable!
If it’s a before, film the before on a clear surface. (Example: film furniture makeover *befores* in front of a blank wall etc.)
In-store shots:
Dollar Tree, Walmart, Target, Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, etc. are all good examples of stores to do isle shots in!
These should be filmed *action* shots of your hand or full body grabbing the item off a shelf, putting it in a basket, in a cart, etc. I find for best results use your iPhone camera at the 0.5x setting to get a wide view so it’s not too close up and the audience can see what’s happening!
Other hook examples are thrift stores, “shop your home” etc.
For thrift stores - get a clip of your item as isolated as possible!
Example: for a furniture makeover it’s great if the item has a price tag on it! And it’s a clear shot of it away from as much extra clutter as possible so the audience can clearly see what the “before” piece of furniture is. Other examples are: putting the item in your trunk, showing a pallet on the side of the road, etc.
For “shop your home” get creative! If the project uses a fork, grab it from your silverware drawer. If you’re making over a sweater - pull it from your closet or drawer, etc.
Shot List
Before filming, think of ways to simplify the process - what are the most engaging parts of the project? Only show that!
Think of filming Reels as a “spark notes” version or summary of the project. You don’t have to show every piece for the audience to get it. Get creative with transitions!
For example: do a transition when adding paint or stain to an object or gluing something. People will understand the concept without you directly showing them. Or if it’s satisfying to watch- show a close -up!
Keep item contrast in mind when filming! Think of how the item will best show up on camera. For example: if your item is light wood - maybe film against a colored background or darker tone than your light wood surface, etc. Or if you’re filming something with a clear vase, break up the view with side shots to add some contrast!
Before filming – think of a few different angles of the process to show. This keeps the video moving and the audience’s interest throughout! It also helps to see exactly what’s going on. (For example: close ups of a detail and showing the side view and top view of a project). This will take moving your camera around a few times, but the outcome is worth it!
Afters
Afters are -- of course-- a SUPER important part of video creation! Think of the after as the most satisfying part of the video. After the project has come together, show it in the place it’s meant to be used. This allows the project to come to life and allows the viewer to imagine it in their own space or and give them a reason WHY they should make it for themselves! Or to just inspire them!
Examples: If it’s a dresser, show it staged with some plants in a bedroom. If it’s a side table, place it by a couch or bed with a lamp and candle on it. If it’s an organizer it’s great to show it one or more ways in your bathroom, kitchen, etc. If it’s outdoor decor, show it on a porch or patio, etc. The more relatable the spot - the better!
Click here for Part 3!
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