You’re at a trade show, and you’ve met a client face-to-face for the first time. In the process of conversation, you discover they are not just a client. They are your cheerleader – among that top percentage of people who are strong advocates for your company. Wouldn’t that make a great testimonial? Too bad they are in California, you’re in Atlanta and you’re both leaving at the end of the day. Fade to a black-and-white screen from the old serials that says “The End” and suddenly there’s a question mark.
But wait – the solution is likely already in your pocket. Android phones and iPhones have some serious multimedia tools, with newer phones even capable of shooting 720p HD video. For an on-the-spot interview, you can always use your phone to capture the video and load it directly to your company’s YouTube channel. There is no production or editing involved, and it can be on the web in seconds – oftentimes, this just adds to the impromptu, on-the-scene feel. (Of course you can also save the video and edit it later to add in some branding elements.)
Even better are the newest crop of Flip-style pocket recorders, which are capable of HD recording. Cisco’s Flip UltraHD has added a new accessory port that allows for expansion, and wireless clip-on microphones have already been announced, or simple stereo microphones with a plug-in port for an external or handheld microphone. The Kodak ZI-8 is also in this class of recording device and is capable of HD recording. However, it has an external microphone jack.
Audio is important, especially online where clear voices and clean audio can make up for any lack of video quality. Most people are willing to forgive a video for being slightly dark or overly compressed online. However, most will move on quickly if they can’t understand what is being said! Having the option for an external microphone on these portable devices is a big boon.
Add a small portable tripod and an inexpensive handheld mic, and you’re ready to do on-the-spot interviews or testimonials for well under $300. (Not to mention community events, company meetings, outings, etc.) A small microphone, tripod and camera could easily fit in a pocket or purse. These types of video recorders have a built in USB that allows anyone with a Wi-Fi connected device to upload your recordings to YouTube or send to a studio for editing with your brand.
There are times when you want to have the perfect lighting and production in a studio, but portable video devices give you flexibility when you can’t. More importantly, it enables you to capture what you need – even when you didn’t know you were going to need to. Content is king, and you’ll be able to capture it when it is the most important.
