The Skillman Video Group Process: Crafting Impactful Videos from Concept to Completion

In today’s visual-centric world, creating impactful videos requires more than just technical expertise—it demands a strategic, end-to-end approach.

Skillman Video Group (SVG) stands out as a true “video agency,” offering a unique six-step process that goes beyond traditional video production.

From in-depth discovery to meticulous post-production, SVG’s comprehensive methodology ensures that every video not only meets but exceeds client expectations.

This article delves into the intricate details of SVG’s process, revealing how they craft powerful visual narratives that resonate with audiences and effectively communicate brand messages.

Discovery

During the Discovery phase, it’s our job to learn as much as we can about the client.

We ask a lot of questions: What is your product or service? Who is your audience? What are the technical details of what you’re trying to explain?

We seek to get an overall sense of the task at hand, who the brand is, what they do, and why their audience needs them.

During the Skillman Video Group process, we focus on understanding the client’s product or service and identifying the target audience’s needs and preferences.

Client communication is key to grasping the essence of what they offer and how they want to portray it.

By engaging in open dialogue, we uncover crucial details that shape the video production strategy.

Audience analysis plays a significant role in tailoring the content to resonate with the viewers effectively. We delve deep into demographics, behaviors, and preferences to ensure the video speaks directly to the intended audience.

Through this process, we bridge the gap between the client’s objectives and the audience’s expectations, paving the way for a successful and impactful video production.

Strategy

In the Strategy phase, we work with the client to realize the key themes (overall values, ideas, visual cues, or moods) and key messages (what is directly communicated) of their video project.

We learn what the needs of the client are and what kind of video they want to produce. Is it explaining a specific process or giving an overall sense of the brand? Is it an animation or live action? Is it scripted?

This phase is crucial for ensuring that our videos not only tell a story but also visually captivate the audience through creative direction and visual storytelling.

By carefully mapping out the visual appearance, content delivery, and filming approach, we set the stage for a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers.

Creative Concept

The Creative phase is where we decide how to use video to visually reinforce the key themes and messages.

In other words, how is the video going to look, and what is the content going to be?

Who might be interviewed, and where?

Will we use a Steadicam or a tripod?

Is there a style of filmmaking—documentary style, for instance—that we’re trying to emulate?

We’ll also gather a shot list to help us make sure we’re capturing all of the right material on shoot day and set out a list of interview questions that will be asked, if relevant.

Our shot lists, interview questions, and technical considerations are all tailored to support the overarching themes and messages of the video, creating a cohesive and engaging viewing experience.

Planning and Pre-Production

The Planning phase comprises all the technical and logistical details our crew needs to make the shoot happen. Who needs to be where and when? Are people scheduled at the right times, and do we have the rooms booked that we need?

We strategically organize our crew and plan resources to ensure seamless execution and quality outcomes.

Logistics coordination and equipment allocation are key aspects we focus on to guarantee that everything runs smoothly.

Team scheduling and resource management play a vital role in the success of our projects. By efficiently coordinating crew schedules, assigning equipment, and managing resources effectively, we can optimize our production process.

This meticulous planning helps us stay on track, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality videos for our clients.

Our team’s commitment to organization and resource planning ensures that every project is executed with precision and professionalism.

This paves the way for a seamless transition into the critical Production phase of our video production process.

Production

For an animation project, “production” might look like an animator getting started on their work.

More often, production consists of one or more shoot days in which we capture the footage we planned in previous steps.

During this phase, we focus on execution efficiency, ensuring that each shot aligns with the creative direction established earlier.

Our team works diligently to capture the planned footage, paying close attention to detail while managing the filming process efficiently.

Editing and Finishing

Finally, the post-production process is where the narrative and final look of the video come together.

We’ll typically have four rounds of revisions in our videos.

First, we hone the footage from our interviews into a narrative that covers the key themes and messages we talked about in our Strategy phase—this will look like a “talking head” video—and get two rounds of revisions.

Next, we color correct, add the supporting footage called b-roll, music, and graphics according to brand standards. These also get two rounds of revisions.

During the final video narrative creation phase, we meticulously weave together the captured footage to craft a compelling visual story.

Utilizing storytelling techniques, we enhance the narrative flow and engage the audience emotionally.

In post-production, we apply various enhancements to elevate the video quality and impact.

Our process includes:

• Sequencing scenes to build tension and create a cohesive story arc
• Adding transitions and effects to enhance visual appeal
• Incorporating sound design to evoke specific emotions
• Implementing color grading for a consistent and polished look

Through these steps, we ensure that the final video effectively communicates the client’s message and resonates with the intended viewers.

To ensure the final video aligns seamlessly with the client’s brand, we meticulously review and refine every visual and auditory element. Maintaining brand consistency is crucial to creating a video that accurately represents the client’s identity and values.

We pay close attention to details such as color schemes, logos, fonts, and messaging to ensure that the video resonates with the brand’s image.

By adhering to these brand guidelines, we guarantee that the video will effectively communicate the client’s message and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Our Difference

Most video production companies start at Step Four and leave companies to figure out everything before that themselves.

If you’re already there, that’s great, but for many businesses representing their brand with video for the first time, the guidance that a video agency like Skillman Video Group offers allows them to make content that is not only focused and purposeful but also shows the world who they uniquely are.

To get started with your project, contact us at [email protected]. We service companies in the greater Boston area and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire Skillman Video Group process typically take from start to finish?

The duration of the Skillman Video Group process can vary significantly depending on the complexity and scope of the project.

Typically, a standard video project might take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks from initial discovery to final delivery.

The discovery and strategy phases usually span 1-2 weeks, allowing for thorough research and planning.

The creative concept and pre-production stages might take another 2-3 weeks, ensuring all details are meticulously planned.

Production itself could range from a single day to several days of shooting.

Post-production, including editing and revisions, often takes the longest, typically 3-4 weeks for a standard project.

However, it’s important to note that these timelines can be adjusted based on client needs, project complexity, and any unforeseen circumstances. SVG prides itself on maintaining open communication throughout the process, keeping clients informed of progress and any potential timeline adjustments.

How does Skillman Video Group ensure that the final video aligns with a client’s brand identity?

Skillman Video Group places a strong emphasis on brand alignment throughout their entire process.

It begins in the Discovery phase, where they thoroughly research and understand the client’s brand identity, values, and target audience.

During the Strategy phase, SVG works closely with the client to identify key themes and messages that accurately represent the brand.

In the Creative Concept stage, they develop visual styles and storytelling approaches that resonate with the brand’s aesthetic and tone.

Throughout production and post-production, SVG continually refers back to the established brand guidelines, ensuring that every visual element, from color grading to graphics, aligns with the client’s brand identity.

They also maintain open lines of communication, encouraging client feedback during the revision rounds to ensure the final product truly embodies the brand.

This meticulous attention to brand consistency throughout the process results in videos that not only look professional but also feel authentically representative of the client’s brand.

What sets Skillman Video Group apart from other video production companies?

Skillman Video Group distinguishes itself by operating as a comprehensive “video agency” rather than just a production company.

Unlike many video production companies that begin their process at the planning stage, SVG starts much earlier with in-depth discovery and strategy phases.

This approach allows them to fully understand the client’s needs, target audience, and key messages before any filming begins. SVG’s process is designed to guide clients through every step, from concept development to final delivery, making them an ideal partner for businesses new to video marketing.

Their focus on pre-production strategy ensures that every video has a clear purpose and effectively represents the client’s brand.

Additionally, SVG’s commitment to client collaboration throughout the process, including multiple revision rounds, ensures that the final product aligns perfectly with the client’s vision.

This comprehensive, strategy-first approach results in videos that are not just visually appealing, but also purposeful and effective in achieving the client’s goals.

How does Skillman Video Group handle revisions and client feedback?

Skillman Video Group has built a robust revision and feedback process into their methodology to ensure client satisfaction. They typically offer four rounds of revisions throughout the post-production phase.

The first two rounds focus on refining the narrative structure of the video, allowing clients to provide input on how their key themes and messages are presented.

The subsequent two rounds address visual elements such as color correction, b-roll footage, music, and graphics.

This structured approach allows for thorough client input at each stage of post-production. SVG encourages open and honest feedback, viewing it as a crucial part of creating a video that truly meets the client’s needs.

They use client comments to guide their edits, ensuring that the final product aligns with the client’s vision while benefiting from SVG’s professional expertise.

This collaborative approach, combined with their willingness to make adjustments, demonstrates SVG’s commitment to client satisfaction and helps build long-term relationships with their clients.

Can Skillman Video Group accommodate rushed or time-sensitive projects?

While Skillman Video Group’s comprehensive process is designed to produce high-quality, strategic videos, they understand that some clients may have urgent needs or tight deadlines.

In such cases, SVG can adapt their process to accommodate time-sensitive projects. This might involve condensing certain phases or running some steps concurrently to speed up the overall timeline.

However, it’s important to note that rushing the process may impact the depth of strategy development or limit the number of revision rounds.

SVG always strives to maintain their high standards of quality and strategic thinking, even under tight deadlines. They recommend discussing any time constraints upfront during the initial consultation, allowing them to propose a customized timeline that balances speed with quality.

For clients with recurring video needs, SVG can also develop streamlined processes that maintain quality while meeting regular deadlines.

Ultimately, SVG’s goal is to be flexible and responsive to client needs while still delivering impactful, purposeful videos.