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Are you overcomplicating your videos? Great editing software comes packed with features that can transform simple videos into an all-singing, all-dancing production.
But just because those features are there doesn’t mean you have to use them… Sometimes less is more.
Matt Pierce dives into the art of simplicity in video production in this week’s episode of The Visual Lounge. He discusses the fine line between simple and simplistic, and how you can rethink each step of the video creation process.
But don’t worry. Simplicity doesn't mean boring! Matt shares insights on how to create elegant, impactful videos without overwhelming your audience.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 00:43 Introduction00:43 - 03:23 What we can learn from Notion’s videos03:23 - 06:31 How to focus on the right things06:31 - 09:21 How to decide what should and shouldn’t be in your videos09:31 - 10:48 The trick to making your wording simpler10:48 - 13:20 How to make your videos simpler in the editing room13:20 - 14:29 Why simple doesn’t mean boring14:29 - 16:02 How a simple approach to videos helps you make patterns for future videos16:02 - 17:28 What we can learn from other videos17:28 - 19:17 Ask yourself this important question19:17 - 19:52 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Notion’s Video: https://youtu.be/vH3Rp3wky-U?si=khf1-ZX5zF0zwUVc
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The success of any instructional piece of content is in how well the information is retained, memorized and actioned. After all, we want the lessons we teach to have an impact. So, if you want to level up your instructional design skills, you need to know how people actually learn first and foremost.
In this episode, we revisit a fascinating discussion with Julie Dirksen, Learning Strategy Consultant at Usable Learning and author of two brilliant books, Design for How People Learn and Talk to the Elephant: Design Learning for Behavior Change.
Julie joined us back in episode 138 to talk about how instructional designers can tap into the psychology behind learning to make more effective content. She talks about the importance of getting to know your audience and receiving feedback to make sure you’re on the right path. We hear how she first got into instructional design, how she defines success, and her top tips for instructional designers to continue honing their craft. Julie also shares more about her book and recommends some great resources that inspired her. Since coming on the show, she’s released her new book, so be sure to check out all the links below.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 03:06 Introduction03:06 - 05:51 How Julie got started in instructional design05:51 - 09:59 Defining success in learning design09:59 - 17:20 One tip for image and video in learning design17:20 - 18:28 Ad break – check out the Video Viewer Trends report 18:28 - 21:21 Julie explains her book21:21 - 25:24 What trips people up in learning design?25:24 - 32:00 Simple vs cursive fonts and keeping learning design clear32:00 - 35:40 What learning design pros need to improve on35:40 - 39:48 The resistance to practice design 39:48 - 46:17 Are different learning styles a myth?46:17 - 50:51 Where Julie turns to for self-development50:51 - 52:12 Where to learn more about Julie’s work52:12 - 53:08 Julie’s final take53:08 - 53:39 OutroImportant links and mentions:
TechSmith Academy: https://academy.techsmith.com/ Book by Clark Quinn: https://www.amazon.com/Millennials-Goldfish-Other-Training-Misconceptions/dp/1947308378Connect with Julie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliedirksen/Usable Learning: https://usablelearning.com/Design for How People Learn: https://www.amazon.com/Design-People-Learn-Voices-Matter/dp/0134211286Talk to the Elephant: Design Learning for Behavior Change: https://www.amazon.com/Talk-Elephant-Design-Learning-Behavior-ebook/dp/B0C7ZFRRFH2024 Video Viewer Trends Report: https://www.techsmith.com/2024-video-viewer-trends-report.html
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Matt Pierce dishes out exciting updates for Camtasia 2024 in this mini episode. Enhanced functionality around dynamic captioning plus new color labels for the timeline are two features that will help to make your editing experience a lot smoother – something we can all get behind!
He also teases an upcoming video mastery workshop at DevLearn in Las Vegas, a great opportunity for those looking to level up their video skills.
Matt tops off this short episode with an important reminder about the power of practice. Great tools and workshops can help you improve your video creation skills, but consistent practice is essential. There's no shortcut to success, even in the age of AI, and the effort we put into honing our craft is what makes it all worthwhile.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:30 Announcing the new minor version of Camtasia 202401:30 - 02:28 TechSmith’s video mastery workshop at DevLearn02:28 - 05:46 The value of consistent practice and why there’s no quick path to success05:46 - 06:20 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/Check out Camtasia 2024: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/DevLearn: https://devlearn.com/
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Have you ever needed a great story to help with your training? This episode focuses on the power of storytelling with Rance Greene, the Founder of School of Story Design and Needastory.com.
Host Matt Pierce and Rance explore the essential elements of compelling stories, including conflict and relatable characters, and how they can be used to drive behavior change in training. Rance shares practical tips on using visuals effectively and provides insights into creating engaging characters and scenarios, even for technical topics like system rollouts.
Whether you're an instructional designer, L&D leader, or an entrepreneur, Rance's tips in this episode will help you become a better storyteller and improve your training outcomes.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 02:18 Introduction 02:18 - 06:07 The power of visuals in storytelling06:07 - 08:22 Common mistakes in storytelling08:22 - 13:17 Creating relatable characters and strong conflict13:17 - 18:02 Using stories in systems training18:02 - 24:59 Visuals in eLearning24:59 - 27:55 Naming characters in your story27:55 - 31:32 Speed round questions31:32 - 33:29 Conclusion and final thoughtsImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Rance on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rancegreene/School of Story Design: https://www.schoolofstorydesign.com/Subscribe to Rance's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@rancegreene
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You asked, and we’re here to answer! Host of The Visual Lounge Matt Pierce has collected some of the most burning questions video trainers have about the art and science of making great videos.
Ever wondered how to coach a camera-shy subject-matter expert to shine on screen? Matt's got you covered with tips that'll turn even the most reluctant expert into a video pro. And for those battling with stubborn colleagues who think they know better than the "rules of video," fear not! Matt shares diplomatic strategies to work with differing opinions without rocking the boat.
We also address whether to update or remake outdated videos, why talking heads seem to dominate videos, and how to think about video analytics like engagement and viewer retention. Matt also gives his take on whether you really need to drop thousands on a new camera to make a great video.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:56 Introduction01:56 - 06:00 How to make subject-matter experts feel comfortable on camera06:00 - 08:35 How to work with differing opinions on how to make a great video 08:35 - 12:03 Should you update or remake older videos?12:03 - 14:47 Why are talking head videos so popular?14:47 - 16:59 How to think about data analytics 16:59 - 20:15 First 5 seconds are critical for engagement20:15 - 25:14 How to make videos engaging 25:14 - 27:05 What equipment is really needed to make a good video?27:05 - 30:04 How can you get colleagues to understand the power of pre-planning? 30:04 - 30:16 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/Video Viewer Study: https://www.techsmith.com/2024-video-viewer-trends-report.htmlTechSmith Academy Course with Info About Metrics and Data: https://academy.techsmith.com/path/basics-of-screen-recording/screen-recording-basics-publishing-and-analytics
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Who is your audience and what do they need? Whenever we create content, this should be top of mind. Whether we’re creating something fun and entertaining or educational and skill-based, our audience’s response and experience are the ultimate measure of success.
But what do people want to see in videos? The good news is you don’t have to guess! We look at what the average video viewer prefers in our Video Viewer Trends Report each year to get an up-to-date picture of how people are responding to video content in the here and now.
This year, we surveyed over 1,000 people and asked all the key questions any video creator wants to know, including how long videos should be, what the most important elements of a video are, where they watch, why they watch (and stop watching) and even what they think about AI tools used to create content. In this episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce breaks down some of the top findings to help you create content that people respond to.
Download the full report in the link below for free, or tune in for an overview of video viewer trends.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 02:20 Intro to the new Video Viewer Trends Report02:20 - 03:42 Why video is a preferred medium for consuming content03:42 - 04:52 What types of videos are people watching?04:52 - 05:45 Where and how often are people watching videos?05:45 - 09:20 The top reasons people watch videos 09:20 - 11:02 Why video creators need to know this data 11:02 - 15:10 How long should a video be? 15:10 - 19:09 Why people want short vs. long instructional videos19:09 - 22:44 The most important video elements that keep people watching 22:44 - 25:59 Which elements of videos are most important to viewers? 25:59 - 28:25 The most common reasons people stop watching videos (the good and the bad)28:25 - 30:24 What viewers think about AI in video creation30:24 - 34:29 Why TechSmith makes this report and what else you can learn if you download it34:29 - 36:41 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Download the 2024 Video Viewer Trends Report: https://www.techsmith.com/2024-video-viewer-trends-report.htmlConnect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/
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Let’s face it, talking to a camera is not something that comes naturally to anyone. And it can be daunting to look at that lens and come up with something coherent, energetic, and valuable to say once you hit record.
But just like many things in the world of video, it’s a skill you can learn and this episode breaks down how to improve your on-camera presence.
Joining the podcast is Meredith Marsh, an awesome video creator who helps people get better on camera and grow their audiences through her online courses and YouTube channel. She breaks down her top tips for looking, feeling, and speaking better on camera—whether you’re a YouTuber or creating corporate videos at work. We hear about her approach to editing and the BFF framework she uses to turn rough footage into high-value content that her audience loves.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:42 Introduction01:42 - 03:03 Meredith’s top tip for improving how you use video03:03 - 05:19 Why people struggle on camera 05:19 - 09:55 Where to start if you want to appear on camera 09:55 - 14:59 Meredith’s framework for making the editing process easier 14:59 - 17:10 Advice for those who are not confident on camera17:10 - 25:13 How to manage your energy when filming videos 25:13 - 29:00 Speed round questions29:00 - 30:00 Where to learn more and connect with Meredith30:00 - 30:32 Meredith’s final take30:32 - 31:16 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Meredith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithpaynemarsh/Meredith’s Websites: http://meredithmarsh.co/ and http://vidpromom.com/Follow Meredith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meredithmarsh.coSubscribe to Meredith's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@meredithmarsh
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Let’s get those creative muscles working! The secret to great learning content is just as much about creativity in your messaging as the content itself. How you deliver your content is key to that information being absorbed and remembered, so don’t be afraid to get a little creative.
In this episode, host Matt Pierce sits down with Tim Slade, Founder of The eLearning Designer’s Academy and renowned expert in visual communications. His top tip for creators using images or videos? Tap into your creativity. Remember when you were a kid and could dream up just about anything? Don’t lose sight of that! As adults, many of us lose the natural creativity and imagination we explored as kids, but Tim explains that we can tap into that again by trying something a bit different (and being okay if it doesn’t work out).
Tim shares how he uses modern tools to bring his imagination to life and how he gets inspiration from just about anywhere he looks, from TV commercials to ads at airport kiosks. He explains why he approaches animation design like a theater production, seeing each little element as its own character telling a story.
Tim offers some great insights into his processes, why he values simplicity, and how he gauges whether his work will be effective. We also talk about the elephant in the room… AI and its impact on learning design. Tim cautions us against over-reliance on AI and explains that human creativity is what will really set your design apart.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 00:23 Introduction00:23 - 01:55 Tim’s top tip for getting better at using images or video01:55 - 03:40 Why sometimes simple tools are the best way to bring your imagination to life 03:40 - 05:33 How Tim finds inspiration everywhere he looks05:33 - 07:17 Tim’s balanced method of using repeatable processes and new ideas 07:17 - 09:02 How to know when to stop – the signal vs. noise test 09:02 - 10:27 How to assess whether your work will be effective or not 10:27 - 12:41 The role of AI in learning design and why it’s no replacement for creativity 12:41 - 14:35 Tim’s advice on experimenting with new ideas 14:35 - 18:18 How to find the time to play with new ideas 18:18 - 21:35 Speed round questions 21:35 - 22:17 Tim’s final take22:17 - 23:11 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sladetim/The eLearning Designer's Academy: https://elearningacademy.io/Subscribe to The eLearning Designer's Academy YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2CE3YBPX53oeKVsiTbhX2w?sub_confirmation=1
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Did you know that humans process visual information 30 times faster than blinking? And that we’re far more likely to remember things we see than things we hear or read?
In other words, there’s a good reason that marketing and educational content have become so visual-centric. Visual content is the very best way to get your audience to consume, understand, and retain your message. But how do we make sure we’re using visuals effectively?
Joining this episode of The Visual Lounge is Nicky Pasquier, a marketer, YouTuber, and certified Canva whizz. She explores how to tie your visual content closely to your business and branding aims, and explains what brands often get wrong about visual content. We also hear about her process of using Canva and TechSmith tools to create consistently great imagery for her brand.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 02:34 Nicky’s top tip for using visuals effectively 02:34 - 03:48 Nicky’s advice for staying consistent with visual branding 03:48 - 06:16 Why businesses are still struggling with visual branding 06:16 - 07:53 How to find a balance between entertaining content and content that drives results07:53 - 09:27 How businesses can create more effective content 09:27 - 14:37 The role of emotion in images and videos 14:37 - 16:58 Common pitfalls for using images consistently16:58 - 18:20 The role of color in visuals 18:20 - 21:30 Advice for learning about the psychology of color21:30 - 23:09 How color fits into Nicky’s content23:09 - 24:50 Speed round questions28:38 - 29:52 How to connect with and learn more about Nicky’s work29:52 - 31:09 Nicky’s final take31:09 - 32:17 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Nicky on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickypasquierFollow Nicky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicky.pasquierVisit Nicky's Website: https://www.nickypasquier.comSubscribe to Nicky's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NickyPasquier
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What does it take to design a software certification program that remains relevant even when that software gets a fresh update? In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Jeff Batt, the Owner and Content Author of Learning Dojo, shares his journey to create Camtasia's certification program.
Jeff talks about the challenges of maintaining a certification program and making sure videos can be easily updated after feedback and software tweaks. His method involves a modular approach to content, where videos are designed as independent modules rather than a linear sequence. This method allows for easier updates and additions without disrupting the entire training flow.
While embarking on this project, Jeff learned the value of scripting videos, explaining how it not only helps ensure they’re concise but also makes it easier to update them so they’re relevant and valuable for learners.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 02:25 Introduction02:25 - 03:28 Jeff’s top tip for using images or video in your work03:28 - 07:28 Where to begin when creating a certification program07:28 - 10:20 Advice and guidelines for creating a certification program 10:20 - 14:02 What Jeff learned by working on the Camtasia program14:02 - 17:15 Processes to make sure you can replicate your work when updating videos17:15 - 19:40 Why Trello is Jeff’s secret weapon for staying organized 19:40 - 22:13 Jeff discusses the type of videos he was asked to create 22:13 - 25:23 How Camtasia helped the creation process25:23 - 31:30 How he helped to redesign the quizzing aspect of the program31:30 - 35:32 Speed round questions35:32 - 36:23 How to connect with Jeff36:23 - 38:02 Jeff’s final take 38:02 - 39:07 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffbatt/Follow Jeff on X: https://x.com/JeffBattLXDLearning Dojo: https://learningdojo.ninjaSubscribe to Learning Dojo’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LearningDojoCamtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/
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How do you know if your video content is genuinely resonating with learners, or is it just another piece of corporate training that gets lost in a busy day?
In this episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce sits down with Richard Fleming, a seasoned filmmaker and learning designer for his company Sage Media, to dig into what truly makes effective content.
Richard explores the need for videos to make an emotional impact to influence learning and decision-making and why understanding the feelings you want to evoke in your audience is crucial for learning design.
Richard introduces the concept of the self-determination theory, highlighting the importance of fostering autonomy, competence, and relatedness in training design. He also talks about innovative ways to assess content effectiveness, including wearable technology that measures engagement through physiological responses like dopamine and oxytocin levels. Groundbreaking tech like this allows creators to gauge not just if learners are watching, but whether they are emotionally connected to the material.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 – 01:48 Introduction01:48 – 02:37 Richard’s top tip for using video in your work02:37 – 05:17 His advice for people hesitant about working with emotion in corporate spaces05:17 – 08:27 How do we know if our content is effective?08:27 – 11:05 How tech can measure interest and emotional reaction to content11:05 – 16:55 Richard explains the self-determination theory16:55 – 20:31 Why we need to give learners something to do20:31 – 30:01 Short or long videos – which works best in training content?30:01 – 34:45 Speed round questions34:45 – 36:40 What it was like working on a Super Bowl commercial36:40 – 38:00 Why Richard decided to pivot his career from marketing to training 38:00 – 39:07 How to connect with Richard39:07 – 41:09 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/visualstoryteller/Follow Richard on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/director.fleming/Visit Sage Media’s Website: https://sage.media/Subscribe to Sage Media’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sagemedia/
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Can AI help you make educational videos? In this episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce sits down with AI and L&D expert Josh Cavalier, the Founder of JoshCavalier.ai, to explore how to effectively use AI.
Josh is quick to point out that AI isn’t a replacement for our expertise and skills, but it can act as a handy partner to help you streamline your process. The key to getting the most out of AI is in your prompting approach, which Josh prefers to call “prompt design” rather than “prompt engineering.” He encourages anyone who wants to use AI to experiment with prompts and try to make them as detailed as possible to yield consistent results.
We hear about his process and unique method for testing new AI tools, and the advice he has for people getting started with AI prompting. Whether you’re an L&D designer or content creator, Josh’s tips are a great starting point for experimenting with AI.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 00:59 Introduction00:59 - 02:42 Josh talks about his background in L&D02:42 - 04:33 How people can get started with AI04:33 - 06:30 Using AI to help with educational videos 06:30 - 07:44 How to vet results once you see some success 07:44 - 09:26 Scaling and repeatable work with AI09:26 - 11:48 Why he prefers the term prompt “design” over engineering11:48 - 13:06 How to experiment with prompting in everyday life13:06 - 14:00 Where to connect with Josh to learn more14:00 - 14:37 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshcavalier/Josh Cavalier's Website: https://www.joshcavalier.com/
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Did you know that making your educational content more accessible can enhance the learning experience for everyone? In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Matt Pierce sits down with accessibility advocate and CEO of Build Capable, Sarah Mercier, to explore the world of accessible learning design.
We hear about Sarah’s journey and insights on making educational content more accessible to all learners, when she realized just how important it is, and her tips for getting started with your own content.
She discusses how accessibility isn't just about accommodating specific disabilities, but about removing barriers for everyone. Sarah provides practical tips for content creators, such as incorporating closed captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions into video production. She encourages a "progress over perfection" approach and suggests starting with small steps and continuously improving accessibility practices.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:28 Introduction01:28 - 07:20 Why is it important to get better at accessibility?07:20 - 12:50 How to make accessibility a part of your practice 12:50 - 16:10 Getting started with accessibility and dealing with feedback 16:10 - 17:08 How to find out more about Sarah and her resources17:08 - 17:32 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcmercier/Build Capable: https://buildcapable.com/
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What is “practical video,” and will it become the future of instructional video creation? Practical video involves creating not just video, but also immersive experiences.
Debbie Richards, Chief Technology Officer at Creative Interactive Ideas, sits down with Matt Pierce on The Visual Lounge to talk about the practical applications of video in instructional design and development.
Recorded as part of the Learning DevCamp series, this conversation sheds light on how video can be a powerful tool beyond just creating tutorials or marketing content. We hear about Debbie’s experiences working on a VR project in Oklahoma, where she and her team used various video techniques to capture elements for an immersive learning environment. From recording ambient sounds to taking 360-degree footage, Debbie explains how these practical video applications help developers recreate realistic scenarios without physically being on-site. The episode also touches on the cost-effectiveness of using video for remote development work, especially in industries like oil and gas, where on-site visits can be tricky.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 00:57 Introduction00:57 - 03:52 What is practical video?03:52 - 07:10 Debbie’s advice for capturing practical video07:10 - 08:17 Making things realistic when capturing video08:17 - 09:38 Debbie shares an example of working with oil and gas companies 09:38 - 09:53 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Debbie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cre8iveii/Learning DevCamp: https://learningdevcamp.com/
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Did you know that there are more AI-generated images now than there are photos in the entire history of photography? It’s a mind-blowing stat when you think about how fast things are moving!
Join host Matt Pierce on The Visual Lounge as he sits down with Stella Lee, a seasoned expert in education technology at the Learning DevCamp. Together, they explore the importance of involving end users early in the ideation stage, the significance of a well-rounded strategy for learning and development, and the evolving role of video content in today's AI-driven landscape.
Stella offers practical advice for leaders on setting realistic goals, understanding organizational culture, and navigating the challenges that come with implementing educational technology solutions. Whether you're a developer or an organizational leader, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 00:15 Introduction00:15 - 01:34 Meet Stella Lee01:34 - 03:36 Understanding learning strategy03:36 - 05:16 Key considerations for leaders in learning strategy05:16 - 08:36 Challenges in implementing learning strategies08:36 - 12:07 The role of video in learning and development12:07 - 13:28 The impact of AI on video and learning13:28 - 13:48 How to connect with Stella13:48 - 14:24 Conclusion and final thoughtsImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Stella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stellal/Learning DevCamp: https://learningdevcamp.com/
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Creating videos can be a lengthy process with many tools and people involved. But when the pandemic hit, TorranceLearning had to adapt fast and figure out a way to make high-quality videos without having a team in the studio all at once.
In this episode of The Visual Lounge, we sit down with Megan Torrance, CEO of TorranceLearning, to explore how she's revolutionized video production for her small business. Megan shares her journey of adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic, transforming her video setup into a one-person operation that's both efficient and versatile.
Megan dives into the nitty-gritty of her streamlined process, from using shot lists to expedite editing to leveraging review tools for collaborative work. She explains how this newfound efficiency has dramatically improved their turnaround time, allowing them to update course content, respond to client needs, and create marketing materials in record time. But it's not all business - Megan also emphasizes the importance of injecting fun and authenticity into their videos, keeping things engaging for their audience.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 00:52 Introduction00:52 - 02:18 How the pandemic forced TorranceLearning to change how it produces videos02:18 - 03:12 The benefits of streamlining the production process 03:12 - 04:54 Why it pays to inject a little fun into your videos 04:54 - 05:50 How TorranceLearning saves time with its new process 05:50 - 08:40 How her new process has enhanced her business 08:40 - 08:52 How to connect with Megan and TorranceLearning08:52 - 09:09 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Megan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megantorrance/TorranceLearning: https://www.torrancelearning.com/
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Do you edit videos with your eyes or your ears? It may sound like an odd question, but hear us out!
Many video editors focus on visuals first, which are definitely important. But audio is just as (if not more) important to your videos. In fact, the number one reason why people stop watching a video is poor audio.
Joining this episode of The Visual Lounge is Sam Rogers, President & Principal Consultant of Snap Synapse, a content production company that specializes in learning and development. He’s also a musician, so it’s safe to say that audio is a big part of his life.
In this episode, Sam explains why video editors need to take an ear-first approach to editing videos. His approach isn’t just about audio quality. It’s also about whether that audio is helping your video tell a story, get a message across, and make your audience feel what you want them to feel. He shares some tips for leading with audio in this episode, whether that be voice, music, or sound effects, to help you make the most impactful videos.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:32 Introduction to Sam01:32 - 02:55 Why Sam takes an ear-first approach and what it means02:55 - 04:31 The role of things beyond voice in videos04:31 - 06:32 The role of music in supporting a story 06:32 - 07:34 Tips for leading with the ear when editing 07:34 - 08:08 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samrogers/Snap Synapse: https://snapsynapse.com/
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What comes to mind when you think of workplace communication? Do your eyes glaze over when someone fires up the latest PowerPoint presentation? Sadly, boring workplace comms is pretty common, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Matt has a great conversation with Grant Crowell from Design Laboratory Inc, a Senior Training Specialist at Microsoft, and author of the book, GRANTASMS: Creative twisted words for cool people!
Grant explains his approach to making workplace communication more fun and engaging – and why that results in better information absorption. He explores why storytelling is so important as well as the use of visuals, video, and what he calls “playful mindfulness.” We also hear his thoughts on using AI and acronym-speak in the corporate world, plus why he prefers to come up with his own fun names for corporate terms.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:51 Introduction01:51 - 03:21 Grant’s top tip for making images or video better03:21 - 05:11 The importance of story in communication05:11 - 11:53 Why workplace communication is often boring11:53 - 17:12 Practical steps for transforming your communication style17:12 - 20:42 How to help people overcome resistance and hesitancy to make communication more fun20:42 - 24:59 The role of video in avoiding boring content 24:59 - 32:44 Speed round32:44 - 33:21 Grant’s final take33:21 - 34:29 OutroImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Grant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantcrowell/Subscribe to Grant’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/grantcrowell/Grant’s book, GRANTASMS: Creative twisted words for cool people!: https://www.amazon.com/GRANTASMS-Creative-twisted-words-people/dp/0578523469/
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With over two decades of experience at the crossroads of education and technology, Instructional Designer Ephraim Ross provides invaluable insights on the significance of craftsmanship in your work during his appearance on The Visual Lounge.
Hosted by Matt Pierce, this episode dives deep into tips and best practices for creators, focusing on visual efficiency, the innovative use of AI tools, and enhancing video and audio quality. Ephraim emphasizes the need for continuous learning and making time to hone your craft despite busy schedules. From the benefits of teleprompter technology and camera streaming apps to advanced features in Snagit and Camtasia, this episode is packed with practical advice for L&D professionals and marketers alike.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 02:15 Introduction02:15 - 05:02 First tip: make time to take time05:02 - 05:42 Tools, tips and temperaments 05:42 - 14:41 Camera streaming apps and AI tools14:41 - 17:44 Snagit tips and tricks17:44 - 22:13 Camtasia tips and tricks22:13 - 28:52 Speed round questions28:52 - 32:46 Final take and conclusionImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Ephraim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ephraimross/Email The Visual Lounge on: [email protected]
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How can we create videos that people pay attention to? With many in the content world claiming that attention spans are shrinking, The Visual Lounge host, Matthew Pierce, has a different take…
In this episode, Matt explains why he believes that attention spans aren’t the problem. It’s just that there’s so much content battling for our attention (never mind our busy daily lives!)
Matt explores why you need to know the fundamentals of what makes a good video and how to tell a story with your content to keep people watching. He explains why it’s often the first five seconds of a video that determines whether someone will stick around and why you may need to make the effort to re-engage viewers for longer videos.
AI is a big topic in the content creation world. But while AI spells opportunity for video creators, it doesn’t mean we can get away with not knowing the basics. You need to know how to tell a story and what your audience is looking for to maintain viewer interest.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:21 Introduction 01:21 - 02:50 Reflecting on past guests and the lessons they’ve shared 02:50 - 04:11 The fundamentals of video creation04:11 - 07:51 Why attention spans aren’t shrinking07:51 - 08:58 How to keep audiences engaged past the first five seconds 08:58 - 13:26 Why you need to know your audience 13:26 - 16:51 Why video creation is a learnable skill16:51 - 19:03 AI may help but you still need to know the fundamentals 19:03 - 20:16 Outro and final thoughtsImportant links and mentions:
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/
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