Expert Tips to Make Your Marketing Videos Look More Professional.

Creating polished, high-quality marketing videos is essential for today’s businesses that want to stand out, drive engagement, and elevate their brand presence. Whether you’re launching a product, sharing a client success story, or explaining your services, professional-looking video content can dramatically increase viewer retention and trust. At St Louis Video Production Crews, we’ve worked with businesses of all sizes since 1982 to deliver videos that connect and convert. Here are eight expert strategies to ensure your marketing videos look as professional as your brand deserves.


1. Start with a Strategic Plan

Before cameras roll, begin with a clear objective. What is the message? Who is the target audience? What action should they take after watching? A detailed pre-production plan—including scripting, storyboarding, and scheduling—lays the groundwork for a professional shoot. This avoids costly reshoots and keeps your message focused and compelling.


2. Invest in High-Quality Lighting

Lighting can make or break a video. Uneven, harsh, or poorly placed lighting makes even the best camera footage look amateurish. At St Louis Video Production Crews, we use private studio lighting setups optimized for interview scenes and brand storytelling. Whether on-location or in-studio, controlled lighting highlights your subject and reinforces your professional brand image.


3. Use the Right Equipment

Professional-grade cameras, stabilizers, sound equipment, and drones contribute to video quality that’s crisp, stable, and broadcast-ready. Relying on smartphones or consumer-level gear often results in shaky, pixelated footage. Our crews bring cinematic tools and deep experience to every shoot, ensuring top-tier results from the start.


4. Frame Your Shots Like a Pro

Proper composition helps guide viewer attention and makes your visuals more engaging. Avoid distracting backgrounds and keep your subject well-framed using techniques like the rule of thirds or centered symmetry, depending on your brand tone. In our studio, we even offer custom set designs and props to elevate visual appeal and match your messaging.


5. Ensure Clean, Clear Audio

Viewers tolerate a grainy image longer than they’ll accept poor sound. Invest in quality microphones and record in quiet environments. Our production teams use professional sound gear and dedicated audio technicians to eliminate echo, background noise, and distortion. When it comes to brand credibility, clear audio speaks volumes.


6. Incorporate B-Roll and Motion

Professional marketing videos often use b-roll (supplemental footage) to keep visuals dynamic. This might include behind-the-scenes shots, close-ups of a product in use, or drone footage of your facility. Our crews include licensed drone pilots and multi-camera operators to ensure you get versatile, branded footage that tells your story visually.


7. Polish It in Post-Production

Even great footage needs expert editing. This includes color grading, adding graphics or text overlays, cleaning up audio, and incorporating brand elements like logos and animations. At St Louis Video Production Crews, we handle all aspects of post-production and can repurpose your footage for multiple platforms—from websites to social reels—using AI-assisted tools for optimal efficiency and consistency.


8. Tailor Your Content for Multiple Platforms

Your marketing video should be formatted for the channels your audience uses—YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or trade shows. We customize your final assets for different formats and aspect ratios, ensuring they look sharp and professional no matter where they’re viewed.


Why Partner with St Louis Video Production Crews?

With over 40 years of experience, St Louis Video Production Crews is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company trusted by businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies throughout the St. Louis region. We bring the right equipment, creative vision, and technical expertise to every project.

Our services include:

  • Full-service studio and on-location video and photography
  • Professional editing and post-production
  • Licensed drone pilots for aerial and indoor footage
  • Private studio lighting and interview setups
  • AI-powered media repurposing and file formatting
  • Custom set design and prop incorporation

From private interviews to large-scale commercial shoots, we help you craft powerful, professional video content that resonates with your audience. No matter your media requirements, St Louis Video Production Crews delivers successful image acquisition—every time.


Ready to elevate your brand’s video presence? Let’s talk about your next production. We’re here to bring your vision to life—with clarity, creativity, and expert execution.

videocrewsstlouis@gmail.com

314-913-5626

The Best Ways to Edit Your Training Videos

Creating high-quality training videos is a powerful way to engage and educate employees, customers, and clients. However, the editing phase is where your video truly comes to life. With the right editing techniques, your training videos can go from good to great—ensuring that your audience not only understands the material but stays engaged throughout the video. In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to edit your training videos, from improving visuals and sound to structuring the content for maximum impact.

B-roll adds depth and interest to your video. You can use B-roll to show practical applications of what you’re teaching, provide context, or break up monotonous talking-head shots.

1. Start with a Clear Structure

Before you begin editing, it’s essential to have a clear vision for the structure of your training video. This will guide your editing choices and help you maintain a cohesive flow throughout the video. A well-structured training video should typically include:

  • Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic and objectives of the video. This is where you can grab the audience’s attention and set expectations.
  • Main Content: Break down the content into manageable sections. Each section should focus on one key point or concept.
  • Conclusion: Summarize the key takeaways and, if necessary, provide a call to action.

Having a roadmap for your video helps ensure you don’t stray off-topic, and it makes the editing process more efficient and focused.

2. Trim the Fat: Keep It Concise

Training videos need to be informative, but that doesn’t mean they need to be lengthy. In fact, the longer the video, the harder it is to keep your audience’s attention. When editing your training video, trim unnecessary sections, filler content, and long-winded explanations. Focus on delivering your message clearly and concisely. Keep these editing tips in mind:

  • Cut out redundancy: If a point has been made clearly, don’t repeat it.
  • Eliminate filler words: Words like “um,” “uh,” and “you know” can make your video feel unpolished. Cut them out wherever possible.
  • Shorten long pauses: If there are extended pauses in the footage, edit them down to keep the pace moving.

By cutting out unnecessary content, you ensure that your audience stays engaged and the key messages remain clear.

3. Add Visuals to Reinforce Key Points

Editing your training video isn’t just about cutting and trimming—it’s also about enhancing the content with visuals that reinforce your message. Adding visuals can improve engagement and help your viewers retain information better. Here’s how to use visuals effectively:

  • Incorporate graphics and text overlays: Use on-screen text to highlight important points or summarize key concepts. This is especially helpful for complex information or technical terms.
  • Use B-roll footage: B-roll adds depth and interest to your video. You can use B-roll to show practical applications of what you’re teaching, provide context, or break up monotonous talking-head shots.
  • Incorporate animations: Simple animations or diagrams can help explain abstract concepts or processes more clearly. For example, a step-by-step process can be illustrated through animated graphics or text, making it easier for viewers to follow.

Adding visuals not only keeps the video dynamic but also helps to clarify and emphasize the key takeaways.

4. Enhance Audio for Clarity

Good audio is just as important as good visuals in any video, but it’s especially crucial in training videos. Poor audio quality can make it difficult for your audience to understand the material, leading to frustration and disengagement. Here are some audio editing tips:

  • Remove background noise: Use audio editing tools to remove any background noise, such as hums, clicks, or echoes, that may distract from the content.
  • Adjust audio levels: Ensure the audio levels are consistent throughout the video. If certain sections are too quiet or too loud, adjust the volume to make sure the entire video is clear and easy to hear.
  • Add background music (carefully): If appropriate, you can add background music to set the tone of the video. Just be sure the music is subtle and doesn’t overpower the voiceover or narration.

Enhancing your video’s audio ensures that your message is communicated clearly and professionally, without distractions.

5. Use Transitions and Effects Sparingly

Transitions and effects can add polish and sophistication to your training videos, but it’s easy to go overboard. Too many flashy transitions or effects can overwhelm your audience and detract from the content. Use these editing tools strategically to enhance the viewer experience:

  • Simple transitions: Fade-ins and fade-outs are classic transitions that are both professional and unobtrusive.
  • Cutaways: Use cutaways to transition between scenes or sections without using flashy effects. A smooth cut can maintain the video’s flow and keep the audience engaged.
  • Text and title animations: Use subtle animations for titles or key points to add visual interest, but avoid overcomplicating the design. Keep it clean and simple.

The goal is to enhance the video’s flow and professionalism, not to distract from the core message.

6. Incorporate Subtitles and Captions

Subtitles and captions are essential for accessibility, and they can also improve engagement. Many viewers watch videos without sound, especially in a corporate setting, so providing captions ensures your video is accessible to everyone. In addition to helping with accessibility, captions can also:

  • Improve understanding: For non-native speakers or people with hearing impairments, captions provide a way to follow the content more easily.
  • Reinforce key points: Displaying key points on the screen can help viewers remember the material.

Subtitles and captions are a simple yet effective way to ensure your video is inclusive and enhances the learning experience.

7. End with a Clear Call to Action

Your training video should wrap up with a clear call to action (CTA) that directs viewers on what to do next. Whether you want them to take a quiz, apply what they’ve learned, or access additional resources, make sure the CTA is easy to follow and tied to the objectives of the video. Here are a few ideas for effective CTAs:

  • Encourage further learning: “Now that you’ve completed this module, move on to the next video for more advanced techniques.”
  • Ask for feedback: “Please take a moment to complete our short survey and let us know how we can improve our training.”
  • Direct to action: “Apply these steps to your daily workflow and track your progress.”

A strong CTA ensures that your viewers know how to use the information they’ve learned and motivates them to continue engaging with the content.


Why St Louis Video Production Crews Is Your Ideal Partner for Corporate Video Editing

At St Louis Video Production Crews, we understand the importance of editing in creating training videos that are both engaging and educational. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and experienced creative crew to bring your vision to life. Whether you need studio or location video and photography, editing, post-production, or licensed drone pilots, we provide everything you need to create a top-tier training video.

Our team can customize your productions for various media needs, ensuring your branding is repurposed effectively to increase engagement and reach. With extensive experience in all file types, media styles, and accompanying software, we are able to create professional training videos that resonate with your audience.

Since 1982, St Louis Video Production Crews has worked with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area to produce high-quality corporate video content. Let us help you take your training videos to the next level with our comprehensive video production services, from initial concept through to post-production and final delivery.

videocrewsstlouis@gmail.com

314-913-5626

Crafting Compelling Storytelling in Sit-Down Interviews

Sit-down interviews can be used in a wide range of contexts, from corporate videos to documentaries to promotional content. When done right, sit-down interviews have the potential to engage viewers, convey information, and create a lasting impact. As an experienced video producer at St. Louis Video Production Crews, we understand the nuances of crafting compelling storytelling in sit-down interviews, and we’re here to share our insights and expertise.

B-roll serves as the visual complement to the interviewee’s narrative. It can include shots of relevant locations, activities, or objects that add depth to the story.

The Art of the Sit-Down Interview

Setting the Stage

Before delving into the technical aspects of sit-down interviews, it’s essential to recognize the importance of setting the stage. Creating the right atmosphere and ensuring that your subject feels comfortable and relaxed is half the battle. At St. Louis Video Production Crews, we prioritize creating a welcoming environment where interviewees can open up and share their stories authentically.

Location Matters

Selecting the right location is crucial. Whether it’s a well-lit studio, a picturesque outdoor setting, or a specific location relevant to the interviewee, the backdrop should complement the narrative. It should never distract from the subject but rather enhance their story.

Equipment and Crew

Having the right equipment is a fundamental part of any successful interview. At St. Louis Video Production Crews, we are equipped with top-notch gear, from cameras to microphones, to ensure the highest audio and video quality. Our experienced crew knows how to operate this equipment seamlessly, allowing the interviewee to focus solely on their message.

Crafting the Narrative

Once the stage is set, it’s time to delve into the heart of the matter – crafting the narrative. Effective storytelling is what sets apart a run-of-the-mill interview from a compelling one.

Research and Preparation

Before the interview, thorough research is essential. Understanding the interviewee’s background, their experiences, and the message they want to convey is crucial. It helps formulate meaningful questions that elicit insightful responses.

Asking the Right Questions

The art of asking questions cannot be overstated. Open-ended questions encourage interviewees to elaborate, while follow-up questions help clarify and delve deeper into specific aspects of their story. At St. Louis Video Production Crews, our experienced videographers and directors are skilled in the art of asking questions that resonate with the audience.

Active Listening

During the interview, active listening is paramount. It’s not just about waiting for your turn to speak but truly absorbing what the interviewee is saying. This allows for more natural and meaningful interactions.

The Visual Element

In video production, visuals play a significant role in storytelling. It’s not just about what is said but how it’s presented visually.

B-Roll Footage

Shooting appropriate B-roll footage is a part of our standard process at St. Louis Video Production Crews. B-roll serves as the visual complement to the interviewee’s narrative. It can include shots of relevant locations, activities, or objects that add depth to the story.

Lighting and Composition

Proper lighting and composition are essential for creating a visually appealing interview. Our team ensures that the subject is well-lit, and the framing is aesthetically pleasing.

Post-Production Magic

Once the interview is complete, the post-production phase is where the magic happens. Editing, graphics, and sound design all come together to create a polished final product.

Editing for Impact

Editing is where we refine the storytelling. We trim unnecessary content, add graphics or animations where needed, and ensure a seamless flow. Our post-production team at St. Louis Video Production Crews is skilled in creating videos that captivate and engage.

Sound Design

Audio quality is just as important as visuals. We clean up audio, add music or sound effects where appropriate, and ensure that every word is crystal clear.

The Power of Repurposing

One of our specialties at St. Louis Video Production Crews is repurposing content. We understand that a well-crafted interview can serve multiple purposes, from social media snippets to full-length documentaries. Repurposing allows you to maximize the impact of your content across various platforms.

Our Expertise in Sit-Down Interviews

As a full-service video creation company, St. Louis Video Production Crews has worked with numerous businesses and organizations in the St. Louis area to create their video productions. Our experienced videographers, directors, and producers are dedicated to bringing your vision to life. Whether you need explainer videos, talking heads, interviews, or testimonials, we have the expertise to deliver exceptional results. We always shoot appropriate B-roll to enhance post-production editing, and we offer teleprompters for more professional and efficient message delivery. Additionally, we have the capability to capture stunning aerial footage using drones.

In conclusion, crafting compelling storytelling in sit-down interviews is both an art and a science. It requires a combination of technical expertise, thoughtful preparation, and creative flair. At St. Louis Video Production Crews, we excel in all these aspects, ensuring that your interviews are not just informative but also captivating. Let us help you tell your story in a way that resonates with your audience and leaves a lasting impression.

Contact us today to discuss your video production needs and discover how St. Louis Video Production Crews can elevate your storytelling through sit-down interviews. Your message deserves to be heard, and we have the tools and expertise to make it shine.

videocrewsstlouis@gmail.com

314-913-5626

Reasons Why Short Form YouTube Videos Are Key to Boosting Your Business

Video marketing has become an essential component of digital marketing strategies. It is an excellent way to engage your audience, boost brand awareness, and drive traffic to your website. YouTube, the largest video sharing platform, has over 2 billion monthly active users, making it the perfect platform to reach a massive audience. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why short form YouTube videos are key to boosting your business.

Recording our drone crew while they were filming a topping out ceremony | Social media clip

Short Attention Spans

People’s attention spans have significantly decreased over the years. With the increasing amount of content online, people are more likely to scroll through their feed rather than read lengthy articles. Short-form videos have gained immense popularity because of their ability to convey information in a concise and engaging manner. A short video can grab a viewer’s attention and quickly deliver your message, making it more likely for the viewer to engage with your content.

Increased Engagement

Short-form YouTube videos are highly shareable and engaging, making them an excellent tool for building brand awareness. They are easy to consume and are more likely to be shared on social media platforms, increasing your reach. By creating visually appealing videos, you can connect with your audience emotionally and drive engagement.

Cost-Effective

Creating high-quality, long-form videos can be expensive and time-consuming. Short-form videos, on the other hand, are cost-effective and require less time and resources to create. With a well-written script, a good camera, and basic editing software, you can create a short-form video that is engaging and effective in promoting your business.

Boosts Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

YouTube is owned by Google, the world’s largest search engine. By using short-form videos to promote your business, you can boost your website’s search engine rankings. By embedding videos on your website, you can increase dwell time, reduce bounce rates, and improve your website’s overall SEO.

Mobile-Friendly

Mobile devices have become the primary medium for accessing the internet. Short-form videos are perfect for mobile devices, as they are easy to consume on the go. By creating mobile-friendly videos, you can reach a broader audience and engage with your audience wherever they are.

Provides Versatility

Short-form videos can be used for a variety of purposes, making them highly versatile. You can use them to introduce a product, showcase a service, promote an event, or deliver a message. By tailoring your video content to your target audience, you can effectively communicate with them and drive conversions.

Builds Brand Awareness

Short-form videos can help you build brand awareness and differentiate your business from your competitors. By creating visually appealing videos that showcase your brand’s personality and values, you can establish a connection with your audience and foster brand loyalty. Additionally, by consistently creating short-form videos, you can maintain a consistent brand image across all marketing channels.

Can Drive Sales

Short-form videos can be highly effective in driving sales. By creating videos that showcase your product or service, you can educate your audience about your offerings and convince them to make a purchase. Additionally, by including calls-to-action in your videos, you can direct your audience to your website, increasing the likelihood of a conversion.

Provides Analytics

YouTube provides robust analytics that can help you measure the effectiveness of your videos. By monitoring metrics such as views, engagement, and retention rates, you can determine which videos are resonating with your audience and make data-driven decisions to improve your video content.

Builds Trust

Short-form videos can help you build trust with your audience. By providing valuable information in a concise and engaging manner, you can establish yourself as an authority in your industry. Additionally, by showcasing your brand’s personality and values, you can foster a connection with your audience and establish brand loyalty.

Short-form YouTube videos are an excellent tool for boosting your business. They are cost-effective, versatile, and highly engaging, making them perfect for promoting your brand and driving conversions. By leveraging the power of YouTube, you can reach a massive audience and establish your business as a leader in your industry.

To create effective short-form videos, it’s essential to understand your target audience and tailor your content to their preferences. Your videos should be visually appealing, concise, and provide value to your audience. Additionally, you should monitor your video analytics and make data-driven decisions to improve your content and drive better results.

Overall, short-form YouTube videos are a powerful marketing tool that can help you achieve your business goals. By incorporating video marketing into your digital marketing strategy, you can reach a broader audience, build brand awareness, and drive conversions.

videocrewsstlouis@gmail.com