So, I'm currently trying to put together a new promo video and I thought I'd ask your opinions. What do you think makes a great promo video? What's the best promo video for a vent you've seen? How about the best non vent promo?

I think there is definitely an art to it. I'm trying to put something together that looks good, is quick and fun and that gives a good taste for the show without giving it all away.

Here are my two previous ones:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13TR426pr78

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAcMpwAVHJg

I really like Sylvia's: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_FwHFps0Vo I think her mix of music, quotes and footage is really dynamic.

I like Sylvia's promo, too. However, I have difficulty understanding her and the puppets on the clips. Maybe it's my old ears, or maybe it's that the microphone was in the audience and not taking a feed directly off her mike. I any case, I think that professional quality video and audio are crucial.

Sarah,
Here are a few things to think about. Most agents and clients only look at the first minute when considering an act. They may go back and watch more once they narrow the field, but that first minute is crucial. You seriously want your best shots, gags and hooks upfront. Using Sylvia's as an example - the music, footage and quotes look great - but in that first minute there is NOTHING that sells her act. (And I post that publicly and am happy to discuss it with her.) You don't hear her speak, there is no comedy, you see no audience reaction. So - looks good - but is she? They won't care - she wasted their time.

Second, keep it short. Sylvia's runs over 5 minutes. The best promos I've seen usually get the point across in 2:30 - to 3 min. Think of it like a showcase. If you can't sell yourself in the first few minutes, it really doesn't matter how long your showcase runs.

Third - don't go overboard with graphics. Check out mine - the graphics look great - but that promo was probably the biggest waste of advertising dollars I ever made. (Okay - second or third, but it still ranks pretty high.)

Bob's point is extremely valid. The taping is the hardest part - sound is crucial. I had three HD tapings earlier this year and the sound sucked on all of them. I'm back in a theatre the end of this month and trying again.

Finally, I'd worry less about what other vents' promo's are like and concentrate on the promos of people doing the type dates you want to work. The ones already in the market usually have the materials that support their position. See what they are doing, adapt and improve it to fit your own act. Can't wait to see what you develop!

Tom

Super advice from a pro!

B

Wow...I just realized, I don't have one.

I should make one!

This person makes a great promo video. Thought I'd share it with you.

http://www.bcmagician.com/

When we did the filming for my DVD I had a lappel mic that was just for the recorded sound. In fact we didn't use a PA because that might have effected the audio. Not ideal but it worked. I'm sure you could still hook up a seperate radio mic for your audio imput.

Sarah. I would definately lengthen the string on your mask so that you hand can be out of shot when opperating it.

Good luck!

Thanks for all the great advice everyone. I think I might need to get some more footage with audience reaction shots. I'll keep you posted!