The KISS formula for COVID-19 videos: Keep it simple and safe

Before COVID-19, a company wanting to produce a customer video would likely call the advertising agency. This would set off a flurry of meetings to advance possible shoot locations, hire a large production crew and audition talent.

Now, that video can be a shot with a smart phone on a stick and edited at home. In the blink of an eye we are now accustomed to watching network programming originating from a home basement and newsmaker interviews conducted via Zoom.

Here are 3 tips to plan your next COVID-19 video. It’s a play on the KISS principle.  Instead of “keep it short and simple,” it’s now “keep it simple and safe.”

Start with safety 

A typical production crew for a professional video shoot can be up to 10-15 people, ranging from camera operators to catering coordinators. Add in the talent and it’s difficult to maintain social distancing with a group this size. While the production values won’t be as high, you can get the job done with a couple of technicians.

Clearly the message and goal of the video starts the creative process—but safety is the overriding decision-maker on everything from script to locations.

Simple works