Archive for October, 2008

Akamai, a leader in delivering high-bandwidth rich media solutions, published a related white paper  demonstrating the results that online video can provide retailers. The paper provides real examples of how three major retailers have leveraged and deployed video as part of their online merchandising strategy. The white paper’s main objective seems to highlight how poor bandwidth performance and load times can be detrimental to the consumer experience, obviously an Akamai strength. More importantly, the study also cites longer page viewing times, increased value of sale, and improved conversion rates as definitive business results that product video can impact.

Akamai Online Video Report

The H.H. Backer Pet Show outside of Chicago, IL called upon every entrepreneur and company associated with the animal kingdom to come sporting their pet products. The Invodo crew was there in full force to meet with manufacturers and retailers as well as document all the new products hitting the market. By the end of the three day event, Invodo earned over 80 new customers and acquired over 2,500 new product videos to share with retailers. Check out some of the latest images from the show.

1. Plan Your Day: Know which way is up!

• For dramatic angles, set up your camera at waist or ground level with the snow and with the skier coming towards you.
• Position the camera facing away from the wind – this will reduce wind noise and debris blowing into your lens.
• For safety precautions, alert other skiers to the cameraman in the area. (ex. orange cones, crossed poles, etc.)

2. Use Knowledgeable People: But can they ski?

• Use a knowledgeable person: sales representatives and product managers typically speak most effectively to product benefits.
• Be prepared to have skilled models demonstrate your snow products or apparel on location.
• Sponsored athletes or expert testimonials go a long way with consumers.

3. Environment and Preparation: Don’t forget to plug’er in

• On the snow, try and provide a clean and clutter-free background as it will help viewers focus their attention.
• Presenters on video should wear solid, light company colors that aren’t busy and provide good contrast against products.
• Be sure your brand and product stand out on location – ie. signage, trade booth or clothing.      

4. Substance Over Style: Snow bunnies are not exempt

• Know the competitive features, benefits and any technologies used in your product.
• Avoid scripts; “off the cuff” presentations work best.
• Speak to each product individually and avoid comparing it to other products in your line.

5. Audio & Visual: Keep your mittens off the lens!

• Practice shooting a few test segments to check lighting calibration, white balance and sound – re-test when changing locations.
• On the snow, cameras will have difficulty adjusting between shade and sun so keep subjects in one or the other.
• At outside venues, be sure presenters have adequate microphones available as voices are more difficult to capture.