Read time: 4-minutes
The Covid-19 pandemic has forced the events industry to completely re-imagine their strategies. Businesses are navigating the unfamiliar technology of virtual events, while trying to create an immersive digital experience for their networks. But as online events surge in 2020, the distinction between virtual events and webinars has started to become more defined. This means attendee expectations are rising and audiences are now expecting an increase in production value. Just look at Apple’s WWDC event this year as an example of how big brands are raising the bar by incorporating video production (see video below).
Although it may not seem like it, event video production and virtual event video strategies are very different. When it comes to converting your live event into a virtual one, there are many ways to create a digitally immersive experience into your show. In order to help increase production value at your next event, we have listed 5 ways to incorporate video production into your next virtual event experience:
1. Event Trailer
It’s a competitive landscape for people’s attention online, so when promoting your event it’s important to peak interest. Stunning graphic design and branding are very important, but it’s equally important to give your audience a glimpse into the digital experience you’re planning for them. That’s where the event trailer comes in. An event trailer is the perfect way to boost your reach and engagement for viewership and attendance. But don’t give away too much! We suggest keeping the video short – just long enough to peak interest. You can add animated titles to showcase the topics you’ll be discussing or even include a narration to carry the message across. Just reference your favourite move trailers for inspiration 🙂
2. Hook Your Audience with a Show Opener Video
Congrats, your audience has arrived! But it doesn’t stop there. Once your community has logged into the event, they are immediately trying to determine what to expect of the next 1-3 hours. This is when you need to grab their attention! A show opener video is a great way to keep your attendees hooked while setting the tone for the entire duration of the event. What kind of production value should they expect? What is the tone and structure of the day? There are so many ways to grab your audience’s attention, and this is a must have for any events company looking to retain attendance through the duration of the event.
3. Speaker Intro Videos
Most online events feature special guests, panel discussions and breakout rooms for more specific topics. When introducing a new speaker it’s often done by reading a piece of paper that outlines their areas of expertise, job role and what to expect about their presentation. But transitioning between speakers doesn’t have to be an awkward or dry segway anymore! This is a great opportunity to play a high energy video which outlines the speaker’s backstory and what they intend to discuss while incorporating your branding and flair. These videos are always helpful in promoting your event as well, as the presenters will gladly share the videos with their networks.
4. Stinger Videos
Things are going great. You’re at the midway point of your event, but your speaker has been talking for 30 minutes. Your audience is starting to fade. You can see them checking their phones and putting their cameras on mute. It’s time for a stinger video! Stingers are great 7-15 second videos which can be used to introduce a new topic, or simply grab a breather midway through a presentation. This is very effective in maintaining a fluid and high energy virtual event. This is an opportunity to break all the rules. Give it a try!
4. Virtual Event Closing Video
Your event is now coming to an end. A closing video is a great way to summarize what was learned while ensuring your audience leaves feeling impressed and inspired. Drive home your mission objective and create a lasting impact. The closing video is also a great way to get your audience to take action as well. Whether you’re looking for donations for your non-profit organization or hoping for mailing list subscribers, closing videos are a very effective call to action tool. So instead of simply ending the event with a message from the host, close your virtual event with an inspiring and effective close the day video.
Conclusion
As more events pivot to an online model, we are really starting to see the creativity and innovation shine through. There are so many ways to create immersive and impactful experiences, and many companies like Fluid Events are doing just that.
When choosing to incorporate virtual event video production, it’s important to think about the entire digital experience from your audience’s perspective. Videos are great way to enhance the attendee/speaker experience while also supporting the behind the scenes team working tirelessly to put together a memorable show. Incorporating video production should be a fun and creative way to help you stand out from the pack because there’s one thing for certain – virtual events are here to stay.
