What You Can Learn About Video Production by Visiting an Aquarium

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Does this topic seem incongruous? Despite the number of aquariums in the Orlando area, chances are you have never considered how visiting one could offer inspiration for your company’s next video production. The truth is, any type of visually stunning exhibit (or, in our case, video production) is the combination of many factors. Instead of watching competitor commercials for ideas, take a different approach in your next Orlando video production by thinking about these aspects of an aquarium:

 

Movement

The first thing that comes to mind: how do fish relate to my video production?

 

Large aquariums are homes to countless varieties of marine life, from coral to sharks and everything in between. As you view or image a fish moving through water, think about how they turn and dive. Smaller fish typically make quick turns, while larger fish employ more elaborate motions. In all cases, however, the fish move with a fluidity that is simultaneously graceful and captivating.

 

In terms of video production, the idea of fluidity is applicable in numerous aspects of your shoot. The way your actors move through space can range from subtle and natural to distracting and overdone. Fluidity is also important between shots, to avoid jarring transitions. As you put scenes side by side, do they make sense in succession? How can you make cuts and transitions smooth in the editing room? If you want a seamless, polished production, consider the idea of movement and how you can implement fluidity throughout the production.

 

Color

The argument: aquariums seem mostly monochromatic, but that’s not what I want for my company’s production.

 

The predominant colors of an aquarium are shades of blue, of course, but this is not to say blue is best for your production. You could, however, use a monochromatic or limited color palette to help set a tone or create a special atmosphere. Doing so will also help your production stand out against all of the other advertisements on television and the Internet.

 

Alternatively, think about using more exotic colors. Many fish are decked out in exotic shades to help them blend into their surroundings, but those striking colors truly “pop” against a pure background, such as open water. Muting your production’s background colors could help you highlight your actors or products to ensure they stand out.

 

Finally, however, consider which colors could stand out in your production in a negative way. White shirts or any pastels can wash out your actors while blouses with stripes or busy patterns may not translate well on screen. The right use of color, however, will pull your production together and make it memorable.

 

Lighting

The realization: aquariums are dark. How does that apply to my commercial?

 

Since many fish are sensitive to light, most aquariums do not use excess lighting around their displays. The way they do use light, however, is extremely powerful. By darkening each room, aquariums can establish a distinct mood and atmosphere throughout the entire building. At the same time, this keeps viewers engaged in the exhibits, where their eyes are automatically drawn as they enter a new room. The water’s natural, luminous quality makes any existing light reflect through the tank and around the room in stunning ways.

 

Think about how your video production can use light in new ways, to highlight certain areas or characters, or to lead a viewer’s eyes from one scene to another. Alternatively, consider the amount of natural light you want to include, or what special lighting effects could help make your production stand out.

 

Composition

The question: how is my production location like a fish tank?

 

By now, can you picture yourself visiting an aquarium? Imagine a large tank in your head, and try to describe what you see. In addition to fish, there may be a variety of plants, rock formations, and other decorations. Despite the tanks’ even shapes (typically perfectly rectangular), however, most tanks are not symmetrical. They are, however, well balanced and leave visitors with a sense of calm or stability.

 

While planning your Orlando video production, take a step back and look at the overall structure. Divide the screen into thirds to play with balance or go bold by centering your subject on the screen. Alternatively, create a sense of symmetry by mapping out the location and placing props accordingly. If you are interested, talk to your camera crew about trying different angles or experimenting with the depth of field to make your production more interesting or impactful.

 

Script and Call to Action

Excuse me: how does this relate?

 

Although fish do not talk, aquarium guides certainly do. Listen in on a tour sometime, and you may realize how helpful a speech about sea turtles can be. Guides are primed to offer succinct, detailed information. Training includes how to be concise and informative yet entertaining, in order to capture and sustain visitor attention while leaving attendees with memorable facts or ideas. A strong script should also carry a clear call to action, which is why, in this case, a visitor might swing by the gift shop for a sea turtle plush after the tour!

 

Aquariums often retain visitors with membership programs and special offers, but they also drawn in unique visitors with special deal days, discounts, and powerful marketing campaigns. Most aquariums have a strong mission statement, just as your production should have a clear goal, and you can learn from them how to grow through innovation. Draw your audience in, give them something to talk about or share with friends, and enjoy the success of your next production.

 

If you are starting to feel inspired by new possibilities for your next video production, contact NG Production Films to talk about your options. Our ideas will help your video stand out, and we have the experience to ensure your production is a success. For a free, no-obligation consultation, call us today at 877-203-2895 or fill out our simple contact form for a prompt reply.