SVG on Set: Tips for Filming at a University

This past Friday Skillman Video Group, a Boston video production company, provided video production services for WebsEdge at The Bernard Lown Scholars in Cardiovascular Health Program at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. We were tasked to film and interview several scholars for the World Congress on Cardiology and Cardiovascular Health meeting that is taking place in Mexico City beginning on June 4. These interviews discussed the various projects that the scholars have worked on including worksite interventions to improve cardiovascular health (India), improving physical activity (Tanzania, Brazil), and HIV and cardiovascular disease risk factors (Uganda). WebEdge has previously worked with us and asked again to come back and film these important interviews. It was a pleasure to be in the presence of such gifted minds and people who are doing so much good from all around the world.

While filming for this organization, we recognized a few key tips that would help and be applicable to future university production sets.

1. Know Your Location

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a beautiful campus with many wonderful buildings that contributed to this Boston video production shoot. With a full schedule for the production, there wasn’t much time to waste. Knowing where we needed to be ahead of time was essential for getting to the interviews promptly. Keep in mind that not only do you have to show up at the interview location on time, but you need to have ample time before to set up the camera, audio, and lighting to make the shot perfect. If the schedule calls for you to be on one side of campus in the morning and the other side in the afternoon, make sure the crew is aware of the location change and how to effectively get there.

2. Security Clearance

This was a conflict that our crew faced while on the Harvard campus, but both parties resolved it timely and efficiently. When filming at universities or other very active set locations, make sure that you have clearance to film various sites. People have a right to know if they are going to be filmed and specifically a right to not be in the scene. As a Boston production company, we know the importance of having all factors covered before going onto a production site. Make sure to check with the client or producer to ensure that the filmed material can be used and the campus security team has approved these locations.

Filming in the scholars office

3. Show Interest

This was a very important video to make for these Bernard Lown Scholars because they were talking about the work they do to improve the lives of so many. It made a big difference to have a producer who creates a positive environment. We made sure the individuals being interviewed were comfortable to speak about their work, which showed their confidence on camera. SVG provides Boston video production services along with making memorable connections with the clients and staff. Not only are we working on this production as a job but also serving as a bridge for these individuals to get their story across effectively.

It was wonderful working with WebsEdge again as their Boston video production company. SVG prepared for this production shoot while continuing our professional and reliable relationship with the client.

Skillman Video Group, LLC specializes in Boston video production.  Please call 1-800-784-0140 to learn more.