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Home: Video University Forums: Marketing & Business:
Ideas for getting started

X-Bakari_Chavanu
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Nov 30, 2001, 2:19 AM

Post #1 of 5 (687 views)
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Ideas for getting started	Can't Post

Okay, I'm outta work right now and I have some time on my hands. I have a digital camera and an Apple iMovie program and some basic experience with camera shots and editing of home and school videos.
So now I'm looking for some ideas about possible businesses or organizations I could possibly approach that might let me do a training, orientation, or other type of video. I'm not too concerned about making any money right now. I figure I could gain some experience with video produciton and build up some quick demos at the same time--and then launch a small part-time business.
Does this sound feasiable or am I going about it all the wrong way?
I would appreciate any and all feedback I can get.
By the way, this site is awesome; it's really inspiring to go into the business.
Sincerely,
Bakari
Sacramento, CA

X-Doug_Graham
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Nov 30, 2001, 10:03 AM

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Re: Ideas for getting started	Can't Post

First off, there is an awful lot of competition for what you want to do in the Sacramento area. Lots of DV shooters, lots of Mac Final Cut Pro editors.
Second, no businessman is going to want to let you "play around" with producing a video. Even if you offer to do it for free, he still has to contribute the time of his employees...what if you can't deliver? Then he's wasted his valuable time.
What I'd do is make a documentary. Pick a subject that interests you. Script it, shoot it, edit it. Tell a compelling story. Then see if the local cable stations are interested in showing it. If you have success there, you now have something you can take to your potential client and say, "See? I made this video, and it was shown on KXYZ TV. Imagine what I could do for YOUR company!"
Meanwhile, don't stop looking for work in your current career field. The video thing is a long shot.
Regards,
Doug Graham

X-Amin
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Dec 9, 2001, 5:32 AM

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Re: Ideas for getting started [In reply to]	Can't Post

What do you think? if he submits his work to a film or vedeo
festival?
isn't a better chance?
Respects,
Amin.

X-Doug_Graham
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Dec 9, 2001, 10:20 PM

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Re: Ideas for getting started [In reply to]	Can't Post

If it wins a film festival award, that's also a nice credential to take to potential clients.
Regards,
Doug Graham

X-John_Kraft
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Dec 28, 2001, 3:09 PM

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Re: Ideas for getting started [In reply to]	Can't Post

Doug's right to be practical, but it's definitely worth giving it a good shot, especially if you approach it professionally...
I would suggest for starters a project along the lines that Doug has suggested, then if it gets a good response, I would definitely consider moving getting Final Cut Pro and eventually DVD Studio Pro for production of DVDs etc...
With regard to basic marketing, etc... Try to focus on one area. Training films for small businesses, inexpensive promotional videos, etc.
Once you have a focus find list of folks within that target market and send either direct mailings or personal letters highlighting your past work...
Once you get to that point, you should create a web site to promote your work and services...
Best of luck...
John Kraft, Founder
Primary Interactive
Web Design - Multimedia Solutions