Making a Music Video on a Budget

Many filmmakers in Utah and across the country agree that music videos are some of the most enjoyable productions to work on. Like most things, a quality music video starts with a single idea, or an image in your head. This creative process is often times easier when working on a music video because the creator has an extremely helpful crutch: Music.

In many cases, music videos directly portray the story that is being told in the song. More abstract songs, however, offer more room for interpretation and creativity for the accompanying video. There are no rules when creating music videos, only suggestions on how to have the most productive and enjoyable experience.

Most filmmakers who have worked on music videos in Utah stress the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with the musicians throughout the entire process. This will prevent any disappointment from either parties and help get the best possible result.

Once you have written the script for the video, you’ll need to plan on where you’re going to shoot. It could be in the quiet Utah Mountains or a busy city depending on the tone of the song.

You might also need to cast a few actors. Your musicians could also very well be the entire cast, which often times is enough people to have in the video. This is an easy way to stay on the same page as the artists.

Depending on the anticipated level of production will determine the amount and quality of equipment. To stay on budget, all you need to make a great music video is a camera, any editing software and music. Most of these items can be borrowed or rented from schools in Utah or anywhere else if you do not already own them.

One on the many perks of filming music video production is that the cameras rarely need good microphones, or any at all as the sound is all incorporated during the editing phase.

Historically speaking, some of the most groundbreaking video editing effects has been seen in music videos. This idea of music being the primary focus of the production often times influences editors to try new tricks and effects.

An essential tip when editing music videos is to remember that style is more important than story. If you have to, dumb down the story, it does not need to follow the song verbatim. Instead, focus more on the visual elements and mimic how the song makes you feel as a listener. It is also a nice touch if you can keep an eye on the sound waves from the audio track, and synchronize clips to the rhythm, but this is merely a popular stylistic choice.

Follow these simple guidelines for a cheap and creative production.

Broc Waring writes for Fusion 360, an advertising agency in Utah. He writes for many other clients as well.

Image via: Flickr