Tips for Travel Video: The Elements of a Story
Character: When we watch a movie or read a book, we are engaged by the characters and the circumstances they find themselves in.
Think of yourself as a character in a good book.
- What would you like to know about the character?
- What are you doing and why?
- What do you hope to gain from your travel experience?
When you give the audience a look into how you are being affected they can better live vicariously through your trip.
Story Arch: Even simple travel footage benefits from being presented with a beginning, middle and end. Creatively organize your photos and video footage in an order that gives the footage movement
Cut the Fat: Look for moments when you or your subjects are actively engaged into what’s unfolding, and take out the rest. A good rule of thumb is if it doesn’t add to the story, take it out. People like digestible content; three minutes is a good goal for your video. If you have really engaging content, you may be able to grab their attention for five.
Be Consistent: If you have enough footage for several videos, create a style and be consistent. Decide on a title for your series and add some royalty free music. Using the same opening each time will create continuity for each of your videos.
Community Connection
Contemplate yourself as a better travel writer.