We really like this video about pizza restaurant Wazee (and no, we are not food-obsessed at TurnHere, though we are continually amazed by the incredible and unique restaurants throughout the country). The filmmaker is Megan Cotler. As you'll see from the video, she really knows how to get and put together the elements to tell a rich visual story. The variety and quality of the shooting inside and outside the Wazee is outstanding. We like the shots of the street signs, the pizza, the shot at the end with the clouds blowing past. I really like the pre-soundbite candid shot of Shannon near the top. Megan took advantage of the upstairs and downstairs vantage points. How about that dumbwaiter? That is a unique element that we are always looking for.
There is one moment in the video that really makes it stand out -- the superfast pizza box folding. That is an element that can only be told through video, not through words alone. And it sticks in your mind long after the video has ended. That is the essence of what we are trying to capture in these videos. It is the special or "a-ha" moment. Try to find one thing everywhere you shoot that accomplishes this. Sometimes we are so focused on getting the narrative and illustrating what is being discussed. That is important of course. But just for a few moments, try to find a unique visual element that will work its magic on the brain of the person watching.
Megan, we will be sending you a $50 Amazon gift card. Glad to have you on the TurnHere team!
Megan Cotler is the best thing to happen to video since the Betamax. Keep on rockin' the free world.
Posted by: Clint Schaff | March 18, 2008 at 07:25 PM