Documenting Global Health: Filming at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Skillman Video Group recently collaborated with WebsEdge at The Bernard Lown Scholars in Cardiovascular Health Program, located at the prestigious Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Our task was to film and interview several scholars for the upcoming World Congress on Cardiology and Cardiovascular Health meeting in Mexico City, beginning on June 4.

Filming Groundbreaking Health Projects

The interviews highlighted various projects the scholars are involved in, including worksite interventions to improve cardiovascular health in India, initiatives to increase physical activity in Tanzania and Brazil, and research on HIV and cardiovascular disease risk factors in Uganda. WebsEdge, a previous partner, requested our return to capture these important discussions.

It was a privilege to work with such talented individuals dedicated to advancing global health. Their passion and expertise were evident throughout the interviews, making our role in documenting their work incredibly rewarding.

Navigating a Bustling Campus

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s picturesque campus provided an excellent backdrop for our shoot.

However, a full production schedule meant there was little time to waste. Efficient navigation of the campus was crucial to ensure timely arrivals at each interview location.

Understanding the layout and logistics of the campus beforehand was essential.

We had to not only arrive at the interview sites on time but also allocate sufficient time for setting up cameras, audio equipment, and lighting to capture the perfect shot. Coordination was key, especially when our schedule required moving from one side of the campus to the other.

Ensuring Smooth Operations

One challenge we faced was managing location changes on a busy campus. Clear communication within our crew and with the Harvard staff helped us resolve this efficiently. It’s vital to ensure that all team members are aware of any location changes and have a plan for effective transitions.

Additionally, filming at active locations like universities requires proper clearances and permissions. It’s important to inform people if they might be filmed and to respect their right to consent. We ensured that all necessary approvals were in place from the client, producer, and campus security team.

Creating a Positive Filming Environment

Producing a meaningful video for the Bernard Lown Scholars was an important task, given their significant contributions to global health.

A positive environment during filming can make a significant difference. Our producer’s role was crucial in making the interviewees comfortable, which in turn allowed them to confidently discuss their work on camera.

The scholars spoke passionately about their projects, and creating a relaxed atmosphere helped capture their enthusiasm and dedication. This not only made the interviews more engaging but also highlighted the impact of their work on improving lives worldwide.

Tips for Future University Productions

Reflecting on our experience, several key tips emerged for future university production sets:

• Pre-Production Planning: Understand the campus layout and schedule locations in advance. Allocate extra time for setup and transitions.
• Clear Communication: Keep the crew informed about location changes and ensure effective coordination.
• Proper Clearances: Obtain necessary permissions from the institution and inform individuals about the filming process.
• Positive Environment: Create a supportive atmosphere for interviewees to help them feel comfortable and confident on camera.

Final Thoughts

Working with the Bernard Lown Scholars at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health was an enriching experience.

Documenting their efforts to improve cardiovascular health globally was both inspiring and educational. The successful execution of this project was a testament to careful planning, clear communication, and creating a positive environment for all involved.