.tv Advocates, The MidLife Road Trip
Whether it’s for a new iPhone app or a marketing vehicle for a online filmmaker, a Sizzle Reel is a great way to promote what you do. Today’s post from Rick and Sandi from the MidLife Road Trip talks about what a Sizzle Reel is and what to think about when you’re planning one.
A sizzle reel, sometimes referred to as a demo reel, showcases the body of your work. It is a 2 – 5 minute video that highlights what you are all about, your purpose and passion. It’s what sets your ‘brand’ apart. You want your sizzle reel to be a ‘tease’, to leave viewers wanting more.
You’ve decided to create a sizzle reel, now what?
First, what is the purpose of your sizzle reel? Who will see it? What type of impression do you want to make? Answer those questions and that will help determine the direction of your video.
Next, check out similar videos. Find out what you like and don’t like about them. Take notes. It is important not only to have a clear-cut idea in your head but to also put a pen to paper.
Once you have developed your concept and written your voice over script, you’ll need to select the photos, video and music that will set the tone for your sizzle reel. If you are using video highlights of your work, you’ll want to select short clips with compelling sound bites.
A sizzle reel is not an in your face commercial. Sizzle reels are usually fast paced and exciting. The music you select sets the mood. If you have a lot of action in your video, you’ll want music that is upbeat and reflects that. There are as many options for music as there are moods, and a quick google search of Royalty Free Music will provide you with numerous sites offering single tracks or entire libraries of music for a small fee or a donation.
If your just not a great editor, not feeling creative or simply don’t have the time, there are numerous companies that can create a sizzle reel for you.
What ever you decide, the outcome should be a powerful, emotionally engaging video that exemplifies who you are and what you are about. It’s a first class marketing tool that is will leave a memorable and lasting impression.
Thanks Rick and Sandi, great post! What do you think of sizzle reels?–Send us a tweet or comment here, on our Facebook page or YouTube channel.
Stay tuned!
* Disclosure: Rick Griffin and Sandi McKenna are compensated .tv Advocates, http://cmp.ly/3/LyzHe9 and http://cmp.ly/3/yDVhjL