Music videos on a budget – can it be done?
Releasing music videos is another way to bring attention to a song that you think deserves a bit more of a push. Being able to promote one of your tracks, while also showing people more of your creative spirit is like an epic two for one deal. Knowing that a music video will cause more conversation around your career is something that is vital along with releasing music. A popular music video can cost up to thousands of dollars, but don’t let that knock your hustle. Just like you can spend a grand amount, you can also create a phenomenal video with a lower budget. Acknowledging that you may face a lot more other costs, let’s talk about how we can save you a decent amount of money and also create an impressive music video.
Entrepreneurs link together
With almost everyone using social media and posting about what they’re passionate about, find some entrepreneurs also just starting out in their respective fields. Ask around if there are any aspiring photographers, videographers, stylists, and more. Maybe even send out a tweet asking if people are free to stop by for a brief cameo in your video. You can even create an opportunity to engage more with your audience and hold a contest where the winner can be in your music video. Getting your audience involved in the madness will only strengthen your relationship with them. Get the ball rolling for all of you, as just one video can propel everyone involved into a realm you never imagined. The lack of film equipment may come up as a problem but worry not because you have your smartphone. Get some friends to simply take some fascinating clips of various angles and edit it together to create a dynamic video. If Beyonce can shoot her exuberant 7/11 video using just her iPhone and some edits, what’s stopping you?
Location
An ideal location is one of the most important elements for making your music video the best it can be. Your location will set up the ambience for your whole video. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to ask some of your favourite spots if you can include them in your music video. Head over to the management of that establishment and a lot of times they will be honoured as your video will offer promotion for them as well. From your favourite restaurants to museums and monuments, don’t be afraid to ask for access. The worst thing that can happen is them saying no and you having to find a more ideal location. Some tips to keep in mind while looking for a location is looking for lights that flatter you, make sure it isn’t too over the top, and If you are making the video at a specific location, make sure everyone on your team that will help you make the video is able to get there in terms of transportation and having a clear schedule.
Preparation
It’s the set of your music video, so it’s evident that you’re going to have to prepare more than other people on set. Lay out a storyboard that you’re most fond of. You must have some ideas, either while making the song or even now as to what direction you would take the music video. Now is the time to create a list of what you would like to do, then piece them together for a video that is unbelievably seamless. If you would like to have a dance scene, make sure that you leave yourself and the dancers enough time to practice and get familiar with the choreography. Maybe even do a practice shoot with the ideas you’ve written down to see what needs to be refined, what you can add in, who and what best suits the video. Make sure you’re preparing for the big day so you can go through with the video in the most confident manner. Don’t forget to treat and appreciate those who helped you create the video. Keep some drinks, food on the side and don’t forget to have fun. Along with the actual music video, you can hire someone to film behind the scenes and drop a short clip before the music video to prepare your audience for the real thing.
Be ready to edit the video or have a lot of input with the editing to finalize how you would like to release it. After releasing the video, don’t forget to credit everyone who helped you make it. Tease it on social media, send out emails to everyone in your database, mention it at shows, and more to make sure your video gets the right attention. Remember, don’t let a low budget hold you back from bringing your music to visual life. Much like Beyonce, set up your smartphone if need be and get ready to show off your creations.