The Case for Online Video

July 16, 2010 by Robyn · Leave a Comment 

For businesses or organizations who haven’t yet embraced online video to promote themselves, the question is often very simply, “Why should we?”   A terrific article at ReelSEO lays out the case clearly and simply.  While I recommend reading the whole thing, it boils down to the fact that video if the present and the future on the web and if you don’t jump on the bandwagon, you’re going to miss out.

Did you see the online Old Spice viral videos that just took the internet by storm yesterday?   Video engages viewers in a way that text simply cannot. Internet users are watching video, sharing it with friends, and using it to make purchasing and business decisions.

So are you intrigued? Want to figure out how online video can work for your website? We’d love to talk with you and show you what online video can do for you.

Powering the MOB (mom-owned-businesses)

May 13, 2010 by Robyn · Leave a Comment 

Folklore Media just completed production of a web video for The Power MOB, a terrific networking organization for mom-owned businesses.  We had the opportunity to see first-hand the positive influence of this community as we spoke with their founder, Marlynn Schotland, and shot footage at their meetings, workshops, conferences and social gatherings. Take a peek:

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration

February 5, 2010 by Robyn · Leave a Comment 

We had the privilege of videotaping an inspiring Martin Luther King, Jr. Day service a few weeks ago at Congregation Beth Israel here in Portland. The congregation’s choir was joined by the members of the Northwest Gospel Choir and we had the opportunity to capture the spirit of the celebration.

Tips for taking better photographs

December 31, 2009 by Robyn · Leave a Comment 

It’s New Year’s Eve and you want to capture all the action as we head into 2010. If you’re heading to a party or spending the evening at home, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you point your camera and make some memories:

1. Your best shots will usually happen if people aren’t so aware that you’re taking photos, so consider shooting a bit from a distance (zoom in with your lens to capture close-ups).

2. Whenever possible try to shoot at eye level or slightly above eye level. If someone is sitting down, for example, get down to his or her eye level for best results.

3. When photographing a wide shot to show activity in an entire room, consider having a stepstool or sturdy chair nearby for you to stand upon in order to see all of the activity (be careful!).

4. Try to position your subject where he or she has plenty of light falling on them, but avoid shooting anyone against a bright window, as the resulting photo will be a silhouette.

5. When taking photos outdoors, try to have the sun behind you (make certain your shadow does not fall on the subject, though). Use a flash outdoors to fill in shadows.

6. Don’t hesitate to take multiple shots. The difference between a so-so picture and a stunning picture can be a fraction of a second so shoot, shoot, and shoot! Unlike shooting with film, digital cameras allow you to shoot lots, so if you think it might be good, go ahead and press the button!

7. Try to photograph people in the center area of the room, not flat against a wall (or the photo will look like it was taken at the DMV!)

8. If you set up some posed shots, play with eye contact. Perhaps have your subject look away from the camera. Or with two people, have them look at each other or off to the side of the camera lens.

9. Most importantly, have fun and don’t worry about taking the perfect photograph. If your subjects are smiling and enjoying themselves, your photos — and the memories they’ll capture — will most certainly be perfect!

Have a safe and happy New Year’s Eve. All of us at Folklore Media wish you a wonderful and magical 2010!

Thanks

November 26, 2009 by Robyn · Leave a Comment 

On Thanksgiving and every day, we at Folklore Media give thanks for all the special connections we have made and your inspiring stories that we’ve had the privilege to help tell.

From our families to yours, have a wonderful Thanksgiving day filled with love and laughter.