Your Guide to Video Storytelling Success

A person is sitting at a table using a laptop computer.
By Jamie Perez April 1, 2025
Storytelling is so important for any organization to engage in, but for nonprofits in particular, sharing stories is what will open up hearts, minds and wallets so they can continue providing their much needed services. Fundraising takes time. So while nonprofits are on that timeline, there's a certain order in which stories can be shared that will help optimize fundraising dollars: WHILE YOU'RE FUNDRAISING : Tell the incomplete story. This is featuring someone who is currently seeking services from your organization and still needs help. When you tell the story of someone who has already completed their journey or isn't in as great or immediate of a need, donors might think, "Well this person's been taken care of so they don't need my help." If you tell the story of someone currently in need and highlight some of the challenges they face, this creates more of a sense of urgency. AFTER YOU'VE REACHED YOUR FUNDRAISING GOAL : Now, you can tell that complete story. Do a follow up with the person whose incomplete story you told and provide an update. Send it out in a newsletter. Keep your donors informed on how their donation dollars helped change this person's life, the problems they helped solve, the impact they made, and how consistent donations will help more people in the future. You can also just tell different stories entirely in this phase and talk about how fundraising efforts like the one you just held, help hundreds of people like the ones you're highlighting in the stories you've shared. BONUS: GETTING MORE DONORS OR GETTING YOUR CURRENT DONORS MORE INVOLVED: Why should people donate to your organization out of the thousands of others who also need financial support? When you can share your DONOR'S stories, other people may hear their stories and be able to relate to their "why". There are three different styles of videos you can refer to to get ideas on how you incorporate donor storytelling: 1) This video was sent out to donors for a nonprofit based in Madison, WI called Little John's Kitchens. This nonprofit works with food insecurity, providing meals at a pay-what-you-can option and utilizes other low cost models for people to have access to chef-quality meals who may not know where their next meal is coming from. The video was created AFTER receiving donations during a campaign to show donors what their donations helped the organization achieve: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xV8tQCKTL-E 2) This video featured loyal donors of the same organization about WHY they continue to give to Little John's Kitchens. When you make your donors part of the journey, instead of just asking them for funds when you need help, you build loyalty and they feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DVfbtzBIwM 3) And finally, this video thanks the donors specifically. Don't just converse with your donors when you need money from them. Tell them how much and why you appreciate them: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NPd_MM-MOk
By Jamie Perez March 31, 2025
Drones have revolutionized the world of videography, opening up breathtaking possibilities for capturing stunning aerial footage. But, not just anyone can fly a drone and profit off its picturesque images. As a videographer, you have to have your drone license.
By Jamie Perez February 28, 2025
Artificial Intelligence is taking center stage as it transforms the way we all work. How is AI changing the video production industry? How is AI used in video? And will AI replace videographers? Let’s explore the potential and possibilities.
By Jamie Perez January 30, 2025
Tripods and gimbals are both great tools that any videographer should have in their toolbox. But each have their strengths and downfalls. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of both.
By Jamie Perez December 27, 2024
As video becomes more and more popular, it’s time for more businesses get on board with video marketing. We’ll break down a report done by Wyzowl and explain their findings of how businesses view video marketing, how consumers respond to it, and the benefits it had on the businesses who utilized it.
By Jamie Perez November 29, 2024
There are several things you should do before starting a videography business that will help cover legal and operational grounds. Obtaining proper licensing and permits are crucial to your business’s success.
By Jamie Perez November 1, 2024
Adding videos to your website has many benefits. A business’s online presence is oftentimes the first point of contact it has with potential clients. It needs to make a great first impression and keep people engaged. Placing a video front and center works well for this, and several other reasons.
By Jamie Perez September 30, 2024
A fundamental rule in the world of visual arts that both videographers and photographers must learn is known as The Rule of Thirds. In this blog post, we’ll cover what it is, why it’s used and when to break the rule.
By Jamie Perez August 30, 2024
What’s in a videography contract? Like most service-based industries, videographers will have their clients sign a contract or agreement before the project begins to ensure everyone is on the same page about everything. Here are some key elements and examples you can expect in a videography agreement.
By Jamie Perez July 31, 2024
What is the benefit of including videos in email marketing? Most businesses have yet to tap into the potential that video creates when used in email marketing. From stronger trust, brand awareness and improved conversion rates, the possibilities are expansive.
By Jamie Perez June 28, 2024
Smartphone cameras have come a long way to offer the average person the ability to capture incredible images. But there are still some key differences between your smartphone camera and a professional one.
By Jamie Perez May 31, 2024
The cost of video can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the scope of your project and who you’re working with. So how much should you budget for a videographer? Let’s take a look at key factors that determine cost.
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