5 THINGS NON-PROFITS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FILM PRODUCTION

1. If you have suggestions concerning the content of your film, make them...A producer needs to keep in mind that you are the client, whether it is pro-bono work or paid. You know your ministry better than the company you hire to film does. Do keep in mind that they are the ones with the creative juices. So, work together (as a team) to come up with the best story to engage your audience.

Ex. Justice Coalition- Director and awesome lady, Ann Duggar made the suggestion to include balloons during the filming of one of the victims' testimony, Jesse and her little sisters. The result was the most creative story with a powerful ending. 

2. Give the producer the opportunity to meet with your testimonial prior to filming...You never know what he/she will discover about your testimonial that can be included during the production.

Ex. First Coast Women's Services - When I spoke with Alecia Forester, FCWS's former client and now volunteer, over the phone, I found out that she liked playing the guitar. As rusty as she felt she was at playing, I used her guitar and singing as part of the story. She was blessed to see the final product at the 2012 FCWS Banquet!

3. Never turn down the idea of using film to tell your organization's story because of time constraints...A good film company will get the work done for you on time and with the best story possible!!

Ex. Jacksonville, Young Life- We had less than a week to bring a story to life for this organization, reaching adolescents for the Gospel. Brainstorming took about 1 hrs before we were off to film the kids on the very, same day they hired us. 


4. Never limit your film crew with creativity...A film company with years of experience &/or education knows what works and doesn't. 

Ex. This is the second year in a row that Name Sake Pix does a video for Project SOS. In both times, we were able to get the help from Premiere Models and Talent, in Jacksonville, FL, and other wonderful agencies, to help us with several roles...& man, we always have so many actors in this production, because most of the scenes take place in a school classroom. 

5. Use your staff/volunteers to help with the production!!! They will enjoy it. It's an experience they will never forget...and it's free labor work.

Ex. Quinta Betel- One of the missionaries, Everett Conaway, living with his family in the orphanage, not only helped as the sound guy, but he worked as a prop runner, and built me a camera dolly. He and his family along with the kids at Quinta Betel had an unforgettable time!

For more on turning your mission statement into a short motion picture, go to www.namesakepictures.com.