Smart Questions to Ask Before Starting a Corporate Video Project If you’re planning to hire someone for a corporate video — or if you’re the one producing it — the best projects always start with the right questions. These aren’t filler. They’re how you avoid wasting time, money, and everyone’s patience. I’ve been doing this a long time, and I can tell you: projects go sideways when nobody knows what the video is actually supposed to do. 1. What’s the Purpose of This Video? Before we talk gear, style, or script — what is this video supposed to accomplish? Raise awareness? Boost sales? Train staff? Get someone to click a link? That answer changes everything about how it’s made. 2. Who’s the Target Audience? You can’t speak to everyone. Are you talking to customers? Investors? Internal staff? The tone, length, and visual approach all shift depending on who it’s for. 3. What’s the Core Message? Every corporate video should have a main takeaway. What do you want someone to feel, think, or do after watching it? If we can’t answer that clearly, we’re not ready to shoot. 4. What’s the Call to Action? “Visit our website.” “Call us today.” “Sign up for the program.” Whatever it is, say it clearly and place it intentionally. Don’t bury it in fluff. 5. Do You Have a Vision for the Tone or Style? Should this feel professional? Approachable? Gritty? Warm? Funny? Give me words or references. A few good examples go a long way to avoid a bad fit later. 6. What’s the Budget — and What Resources Are Available? Be real about this. Even small budgets can go far if we plan smart. Do you have a location? People who can speak on camera? Can we shoot during business hours? The more we can leverage your resources, the more we can stretch the value. Looking to do something smaller but still sharp? Here’s how to make social media video content that actually looks good without a film degree or a big crew. 7. Is There a Script or Talking Points? If not — no problem. But someone has to define what needs to be said. Whether it’s you, your marketing person, or me helping draft it, we can’t show up hoping the message “just happens.” 8. Any Examples of Videos You Like (or Hate)? This is huge. Show me something that feels right — or totally wrong — and I’ll get a clearer picture of what direction to take. Even bad examples help avoid missteps. 9. Who Needs to Approve the Final Video? If we don’t know who has final say, revisions can turn into a nightmare. Figure out up front who needs to sign off — and bring them in early if possible. Conclusion Good corporate video isn’t about flashy gear or fancy effects. It’s about clarity. These questions help get you there. Whether you’re hiring me or someone else, ask them early — and be honest with the answers. It’ll save everyone time and get you a better result. Want to see how wild projects take shape too? Check out this behind-the-scenes look at an AI video I built from scratch using imagination, real prompts, and a whole lot of Alberta charm. July 13, 2025 I’m a Believer in Clean Hands – AHS Parody Video Case Study July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude June 28, 2025 Tiregrabber TG4000 Spotlight – Alberta-Made Tire Handler Video June 24, 2025 Unpopular Opinion: Slow Motion Is the Diet Soda of Video June 11, 2025 Small Alberta Town Street – Community Roots and Local Business Feel May 15, 2025 Former Pro Wedding Videographer Reveals What to Look For June 27, 2024 Drayton Christian School | School’s Out Bash Video June 24, 2024 Drayton Valley Family Carnival Time-lapse June 7, 2024 Combining Mini DJI 3 Pro Drone Video With Photoshop AI May 31, 2024 The Northern Lights – Free High Resolution Photo Ready For Print September 10, 2023 Generative Fill Photoshop : From Basement to Rooftops April 13, 2023 How to Build an Affordable Content Creator Set Up: A Guide for Small Businesses
Category: Behind the Scenes: Insights into Content Creation Process
Discover the behind-the-scenes of our content creation process in our “Behind the Scenes” category. Learn about the techniques and methodologies used to create our videos. Experience the creative journey and gain insights into the professional approach employed in our work.
How to Make Video Content for Social Media (That Actually Looks Good)
How to Make Professional Video Content for Social Media (Without Losing Your Mind) If you’ve got a phone, some basic gear, and a clear message — you can make solid video content for social media. It doesn’t have to be perfect. But it does need to connect. I’ve been making video content for 25 years — for brands, towns, nonprofits, and blue-collar businesses that just want to tell their story. This isn’t about trends or fluff. This is about real content that looks good, sounds clean, and doesn’t waste people’s time. If you’re new to it, here’s how to start — without overcomplicating it. 1. Know What You’re Trying to Say Before you even pick up a camera, ask yourself: Who are you talking to? What do you want them to know? What do you want them to do next? Don’t chase trends. Make a simple plan. Jot down 2–3 bullet points that you want to cover. Keep it tight. Rambling loses people. Bonus tip: Watch a few videos in your space. See what works. Then do it your way. 2. Use the Gear You’ve Got — Just Use It Right You don’t need Hollywood lighting or a $5K camera rig. A decent phone, a tripod, and a $50 mic will go a long way. If you’re serious: Use a tripod (no one wants to watch shaky video unless it’s intentional) Grab a lav mic or directional mic (audio matters more than most think) Use natural light if you don’t own softboxes Want to get slicker? Add a gimbal or a cheap LED panel. But don’t overbuy before you outgrow the basics. 3. Shoot Smart Frame your shot. Light the subject. Check your audio. Then hit record. Whether it’s a talking head, a product demo, or a short promo: Shoot more takes than you need Avoid cluttered backgrounds Keep the subject facing the light (not backlit) Record a clap or a “3–2–1” if you plan to sync things later. Don’t be afraid to reshoot — editing can only fix so much. 4. Edit with Intent You don’t need to be an Adobe ninja. Just cut the fluff, keep the pace tight, and make sure the message is clear. Use tools like: CapCut (easy and mobile-friendly) Premiere Pro (more control) DaVinci Resolve (free and powerful) Trim the awkward silences, add captions if possible, and make sure your audio isn’t peaking or muddy. Add a simple branded intro or a call-to-action at the end. 5. Make the Thumbnail & Title Count It doesn’t matter how good your video is if no one clicks it. Make a thumbnail that stands out — bold text, clean contrast, and a face if possible. Keep titles short and clear. Tell people what they’ll get or why they should care. Forget “How to Crush It on Social” — try “3 Mistakes Killing Your Social Videos” or “The $20 Mic That Changed My Content.” 6. Share It Where It Matters Post where your people are. If your customers are on Facebook, don’t overthink TikTok. If they’re on LinkedIn, optimize for that. Use relevant hashtags, write a short caption, and don’t just dump the link — give people a reason to watch. And if you’re doing this regularly, create a hub. A landing page, a blog, or even a YouTube channel where people can find all your stuff. Final Thought You don’t need a media degree or a production crew to make good social content. You just need a message, a bit of effort, and a willingness to learn from each post. The gear will evolve. The platforms will shift. But good storytelling? That always works. July 13, 2025 I’m a Believer in Clean Hands – AHS Parody Video Case Study July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude June 28, 2025 Tiregrabber TG4000 Spotlight – Alberta-Made Tire Handler Video June 24, 2025 Unpopular Opinion: Slow Motion Is the Diet Soda of Video June 11, 2025 Small Alberta Town Street – Community Roots and Local Business Feel May 15, 2025 Former Pro Wedding Videographer Reveals What to Look For June 27, 2024 Drayton Christian School | School’s Out Bash Video
I’m a Believer in Clean Hands – AHS Parody Video Case Study
I’m a Believer… In Clean Hands: The Parody Video AHS Ran With (Literally) How a wild parody video for AHS became an unexpected hit Thirteen years ago, Alberta Health Services took a risk — and asked me to help bring it to life. The ask? A parody music video to promote hand hygiene, performed by real doctors, nurses, and staff. The song? A rewrite of The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer.” The goal? Make something fun, memorable, and educational that could actually catch on. No pressure, right? From Script to Germ-Chasing Adventure The Cardiac Sciences Edmonton Zone and their Stop Infections Now Collaborative (SINC) team had written new lyrics and laid out some guidelines: certain key people had to be featured, certain hospital locations had to be included, and it needed to align with funding partners like the University Hospital Foundation and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. They gave me the song. I gave them the story. Instead of just filming staff lip-syncing in hospital hallways, I pitched a full-on Scooby-Doo-style comedy adventure. In it, a sleepy doctor nods off during a hygiene presentation — and finds himself trapped in a dream where he’s being chased by germ characters through both the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute and the CK Hui Heart Centre. We filmed it over two chaotic half-days using real staff, real locations, and whoever we could pull in as extras. The whole thing was wild, fast-paced, and wildly fun — run-and-gun filmmaking at its most spirited. Back in the studio, I had the full video edited within 24 hours. Massive Reach, Real Impact The result? Over 50,000 views on YouTube within the first few months Used by other hospitals across Canada and internationally Became a memorable moment for many of the medical staff who performed in it It was a great reminder that creativity and clear communication can go hand in hand — even when the goal is literally clean hands. Watch the Full Video Watch on YouTube My Takeaway I’ve done plenty of serious corporate and brand videos since then, but this one stands out for a different reason: When people have fun doing meaningful work, the audience feels it. And when you trust a creative to run with the idea, you get something people actually remember. If you’re in healthcare, education, or corporate culture, and you’re ready to do something a little different, I’m all ears. Client: Alberta Health Services Location: Edmonton, Alberta Filming Sites: Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute & CK Hui Heart Centre Credits: David Mathew Bonner Video Productions, hardWired (band), Samantha Koebel (choreographer), AHS staff & families, SINC team, UHF, RAHF Tags: AHS video production, Edmonton videographer, healthcare parody video, corporate video storytelling, Alberta video production, hand hygiene campaign July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process
Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer: What Really Goes Into a Pro Video Shoot If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to work with a professional Edmonton videographer, here’s your all-access pass behind the curtain. While the final video might be under two minutes, the work that goes into capturing it with clarity, creativity, and purpose is far more involved. As someone who lives and works in Alberta, I’ve handled everything from documentary-style video production to short-form content for businesses in Edmonton and beyond. Whether you’re looking to promote your brand, document your process, or capture a key moment, here’s a breakdown of what really happens during a typical shoot — and why it matters to your business. 1. Pre-Production: The Invisible Foundation Before the camera rolls, the planning begins. This phase is where vision turns into logistics. I’ll work with you to define your goals, audience, and the story you want to tell. We’ll also discuss key messaging, shot lists, locations, and scheduling. These are the essentials of any successful video production project in Edmonton. Discovery calls or in-person meetings Scriptwriting or interview prep Location scouting (especially if you’re based in Edmonton or surrounding areas) Talent coordination or voiceover planning Great video isn’t about fancy gear — it’s about knowing what story to tell and how to tell it well. By the time we show up to film, we’re not guessing — we’re executing a clear plan. This is what sets apart amateur content from strategic, professional videography services in Edmonton. 2. On Set: Capturing More Than Just Footage There’s a lot more that goes into a shoot than people realize. Lighting, audio, camera setup, and composition — all of it is done with intentionality. Typical gear for video production in Edmonton includes: 4K cinema cameras Wireless lavaliers and shotgun mics LED or softbox lighting setups Gimbals or tripods for stable, cinematic shots If it’s a corporate video or brand promo, I often coach on-camera talent and run multiple takes to ensure delivery feels natural. If it’s a documentary-style interview, I lean into authentic, unfiltered moments — the glances, pauses, or emotions that give a story its power. Anyone can film a moment. I’m here to find the one that matters. Every lighting decision, every lens choice is designed to support your message. That’s the difference when you hire a professional videographer in Edmonton who understands both art and intention. 3. But Sometimes, There’s No Time to Plan — And That’s Okay While a detailed plan is ideal, real-world video shoots in Edmonton don’t always follow a script. That’s where experience, instinct, and creative control come in. Over the years, I’ve walked into shoots with no brief, no prep, and sometimes no lighting — and still delivered strong, impactful footage. Working across Alberta with different businesses, teams, and environments has sharpened my ability to read a room, adapt fast, and find the story on the fly. Intuition, innovation, and imagination — that’s what allows me to deliver when others can’t. Whether I have days to plan or just minutes to pivot, I bring calm to chaos and control to uncertainty. That’s the kind of reliability businesses need when hiring a videographer in Edmonton who gets results. 4. Post-Production: Where the Magic Really Happens Once we wrap the shoot, the footage heads to the editing bay. This is where music, colour, graphics, and storytelling finesse come together — the part most people never see. In this stage, I often: Assemble and trim selects Sync music, motion graphics, or subtitles Clean audio and balance colour Deliver multiple optimized versions for web, YouTube, Instagram, or internal use Editing isn’t just trimming footage — it’s sculpting emotion, meaning, and momentum from raw material. The time spent in post is what turns decent content into great content. It’s also where your Edmonton video project becomes a real asset — something polished, professional, and ready to perform. 5. Delivery and Optimization You’ll receive high-resolution, share-ready video files optimized for whatever platforms matter most to you. Whether it’s a YouTube promo, a LinkedIn reel, a testimonial video, or an event highlight, I ensure the content not only looks great — but works great. Need help embedding videos on your website or boosting reach? I offer guidance there, too. Why It Matters Who You Hire Not all videographers are the same. Some just show up and hit record. Others — like myself — focus on videotelling: using your story to move people to action. That means I’m not just filming what’s in front of me. I’m digging deeper to reveal what really matters — with creativity, intention, and clarity. I don’t just record. I reveal. This is what sets me apart. If you want to know more about what I bring to the table — including my philosophy, experience, and why faith shapes how I work — check out Why DMB Video. I work closely with businesses across Alberta, especially in Edmonton, who need more than cookie-cutter video content. If that’s you, let’s talk. ✅ Ready to tell your story the right way? See My Work Why DMB Videotelling? Contact Me July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
When Tires Fly: Meet the Treadformer 1000 Some projects start with a script. This one started with a grin. The team at TireGrabber wanted something fun — a lighthearted, AI-driven video to grab attention and get shared. No sales pitch. No specs rundown. Just something wild and unexpected. They liked my idea of turning their tire handler into a fictional machine with attitude — and the Treadformer 1000 was born. The Concept: Controlled Chaos on the Farm We dropped our mechanical menace into a dusty Alberta yard and let it go to work — ripping tires off old farm equipment and hurling them like they owed it money. The cows scattered. The farmer hit the dirt. And the internet? Hopefully amused. Yes, It’s Flashy — But Story Comes First This piece is fun, loud, and a bit absurd — but it still points to something real. TireGrabber builds equipment that works hard. This video reminds people of that in a way they’ll actually watch to the end. You can use style — as long as the story sticks. Watch the Video Want to See More? Check out another project I did with TireGrabber — a rugged video spotlighting the TG4000 at a Saskatchewan farm auction. Different tone. Same Alberta grit. ➡ Watch the TireGrabber TG4000 Auction Video Need Something Bold for Your Brand? If your business needs video that doesn’t just look good but actually gets noticed — let’s talk. Whether it’s AI-generated mayhem or honest storytelling from the dirt up, I bring 25+ years of experience and a no-fluff process. 📬 Reach out here to start your next project Shot. Edited. Delivered. With story at the center — even when tires fly. July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
Tiregrabber TG4000 Spotlight – Alberta-Made Tire Handler Video
🎥 Spotlight: The Tiregrabber TG4000 – Built for Big Tires, Shot with Purpose When the team at The Tiregrabber in Camrose, Alberta needed a fast, clean video spot for an upcoming farm auction, they reached out. They weren’t after bells and whistles — they needed something simple, sharp, and purpose-first. I delivered a 30-second video showcasing their flagship product: the TG4000, a serious piece of equipment designed to handle massive agricultural and industrial tires. Click image to watch video 🔧 The TG4000 at a Glance This unit was made for hard work. The TG4000 handles tire diameters ranging from 54″ to 89″ (1,372 mm to 2,261 mm), with a weight capacity of 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg). It features manual swivel, tilt, and rotation to give operators full control — even when dealing with heavy, awkward tires. Tire Range: 54”–89” (1,372 mm–2,261 mm) Capacity: 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) Manual Swivel, Tilt & Rotate Dimensions: 83” W x 76” L x 44” H Tooth Length: 26″ (0.66 m) Weight: 1,100 lbs (499 kg) Max Pressure: 3,000 PSI (206 bar) 🎯 The Goal Behind the Video This spot was created specifically for a farm fair auction, where proceeds support STARS Ambulance — a vital service in rural Alberta. We kept it short and to the point: show what the TG4000 does, how it works, and why it matters. 🎬 Behind the Shoot Because this was a rush project, I handled everything in-house — filming, editing, color, and delivery — in a tight window. That’s the kind of flexibility I offer: Alberta-tough turnaround with no loss in quality. When the product speaks for itself, you don’t need to oversell it. You just need to show it clearly and honestly. 🤝 Built for Alberta. Built with Purpose. This isn’t a one-off collaboration — I’m working on a long-term video project with Tiregrabber to help showcase their growing line of equipment to farmers and heavy industry across Alberta and beyond. 📩 Want a Video Like This? Whether you’re selling at auction, launching a new product, or just need something quick and effective — I can help. As an Edmonton videographer who’s shot everything from trade equipment to surgical footage, I’ll help you tell the right story, the right way. Book a Discovery Call July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
Unpopular Opinion: Slow Motion Is the Diet Soda of Video
Unpopular Opinion: Slow Motion Is the Diet Soda of Video I Believe Slow Motion Is the Diet Soda of Video It might look sweet and cinematic at first — but it leaves a fake aftertaste. You know the shot. Someone’s walking through a field. Or staring at a coffee cup. Or tossing their hair back in super slow motion. The music swells. The camera lingers. And for a second, it feels meaningful. But it’s not. It’s just empty visual sugar — the diet soda of video production. Sweet-looking at first, but leaves a strange aftertaste. No real calories. No real substance. Slow Motion Isn’t Evil — It’s Just Overused I don’t hate slow motion. I use it. But like salt, it only works when used intentionally. Too much and you’ve ruined the meal. The problem isn’t the tool — it’s the lazy hand behind it. I’ve seen too many agencies and content mills abuse slow-mo to add weight to otherwise meaningless footage. It’s become a crutch. A trick to fake emotion where there is none. Slow motion doesn’t make a weak video strong. It just makes it longer. Where It Goes Wrong Slow-motion handshakes Slow-motion door openings Slow-motion dust blowing through sunlight All of it trying so hard to be cinematic. But it’s just slow boredom, stretched over a pretty frame. When you don’t have story, you reach for gimmicks. And slow motion is one of the easiest gimmicks in the book. It’s like unsweetened soda dressed up with artificial syrup. The fizz is still there, but the flavor’s off. “Watching paint dry in slow motion doesn’t add meaning.” — David Mathew Bonner When It Actually Works Now, when slow motion is earned — when the moment calls for it — it can elevate the shot. The moment metal hits metal and sparks fly. A breath taken before the plunge. The tension before a moment breaks. That’s when slow-mo squeezes the juice out of a good frame — not just stretches it. Used right, it adds weight to an already meaningful moment. Used wrong, it just pretends to. How I Use It at DMB Videotelling I don’t shoot fluff. I don’t add sugar to an already full story. If a shot needs slow motion, I use it — not to save it, but to emphasize it. The emotion should already be there. The slow motion just lets it breathe. I’d rather cut a shot than fake it. That’s the difference between someone chasing style points and someone focused on meaning. I shoot to tell the story — not to show off. Closing Thought A video saturated in slow motion isn’t cinematic — it’s a crutch. It exposes a lack of vision and the absence of real storytelling craft. When you can’t weave meaning through pacing, timing, and truth, you stretch time instead. That’s not editing — that’s hiding. And if you’re tired of bloated content that tries to look deep but says nothing — I get it. That’s why I do things differently. 👉 Contact Me or View My Work Above: A fizzy reminder that fake sweetness in video doesn’t last. Real storytelling doesn’t rely on gimmicks. Above: Stretching time doesn’t stretch meaning. Even if it’s in black and white. July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
Small Alberta Town Street – Community Roots and Local Business Feel
Why Your Small Business Needs Strong Video in 2025 There’s a reason video is still king. Not because it’s trendy or flashy, but because it works. People remember stories. They connect with faces, voices, and purpose. If you’re a small business in Alberta trying to stand out, video is no longer optional — it’s your frontline. Trends fade. Purpose sticks. Honest storytelling builds trust. I’m not talking about throwing a reel together with stock footage and royalty-free music. I mean honest, well-crafted visual storytelling. Something that reflects who you are and why you exist. Something your audience doesn’t scroll past. “People don’t buy what you do — they buy why you do it.” — Simon Sinek Sinek said it well in his “Start With Why” message. And video is one of the clearest ways to communicate your why. A 30-second story done right can show your values, your personality, and your craft — without saying a word. That’s power. It’s not the gear. It’s the story that moves people. Local attention spans are short — and trust is earned Most visitors will decide in seconds if they care. That’s where clear, well-edited content comes in. I’ve worked with clients across Alberta who didn’t need flash — they just needed clarity. And clarity, paired with purpose, builds trust. Want proof? According to Wyzowl’s annual video marketing report, 89% of people say watching a video convinced them to buy a product or service. That’s not fluff — that’s a measurable edge. One-and-done doesn’t work. Strategy and consistency do. Don’t overthink the trend — focus on the message You don’t need drones, slow motion, or background piano to make something good. What you need is a story that sticks. One that makes someone pause and say, “That’s exactly what I need.” If you’re in Edmonton, Central Alberta, or anywhere else in Canada trying to make your message matter, I’d be glad to help. Let’s Talk About Your Project July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
Former Pro Wedding Videographer Reveals What to Look For
What to Look for in a Wedding Videographer I spent over ten years filming weddings. I was booked solid — sometimes two years in advance. Back then, people hired me because I made it easy. I connected with them. I made them feel comfortable. And I delivered work that was personal, creative, original, and fun, without losing the emotional elements that one expects from a wedding video. Even though I don’t shoot weddings anymore, I still get asked: What should we look for in a wedding videographer? Here’s my honest answer, based on real experience. Watch more than the trailer Highlight reels are made to impress. What you really want to see is how they handle the full day. Ask to see a full ceremony, a speech, or how they cut a longer edit. That tells you more than a flashy 90-second clip ever will. You need to actually like them You’ll spend more time with your videographer than almost anyone else on your wedding day. If the vibe is off, it shows. It’s in your eyes, your posture, your smile. A camera can’t hide that. But when there’s trust, you relax. That’s when real moments come through. Pay attention to sound People focus on the visuals, but audio is what pulls you in. Bad sound will ruin good footage. Ask how they handle vows, speeches, and ambient sound. The best videographers care as much about the mic as they do the lens. Know what’s being delivered Don’t assume anything. Ask how many videos you get, what the formats are, and when you’ll receive them. Some editors delay, others rush. Get it clear. Get it in writing. Know what kind of film you actually want Do you want something cinematic, something documentary-style, or just raw footage? There’s no wrong answer, but you need to know what you’re buying. They need to work well with others This matters more than people think. Weddings are a team effort. Your videographer needs to get along with your photographer, planner, DJ, and venue staff. This business has a lot of ego — and ego kills collaboration. A pro shows up ready to serve, not to compete for control. Ask how many people they bring — and how they act This might be one of the most overlooked questions. Is it a one-person operation, or are they bringing a full crew of shooters, grips, and lights? Are they discreet or are they setting up shop in the middle of the ceremony aisle? How do they dress? How do they speak to your guests or interact with your officiant? That stuff matters. I was a one-man crew. That meant I had to walk a fine line between being invisible and knowing exactly when to step forward. About 90% of the day I stayed out of the way — present, but discreet. But that other 10%? That’s where I stepped in and created something special. That’s where I earned my keep. You want someone who understands when to hang back and when to take charge — and how to do both without making your day feel like a film set. I was respected — by clients, peers, and vendors Over the years, I earned real trust in the industry — not just from the couples I worked with, but from the photographers, planners, DJs, and venue staff I shared the day with. That kind of respect doesn’t come from ego or flashy gear. It comes from showing up prepared, staying out of the way when needed, stepping in when it mattered, and treating everyone — including your guests — with respect. You want someone who knows how to move through the day quietly, confidently, and professionally. Someone who adds to the day, not distracts from it. Weddings taught me that video isn’t just about gear or editing. It’s about people. That’s still how I work today — whether I’m filming a brand, a family, or a testimony. I want connection first. Because once trust is there, everything else falls into place. If you’re getting married, find someone you actually connect with. Someone who listens. Someone who respects the day and the people around them. That’s the person who’s going to make something worth keeping. David Edmonton-based Videographer & Photographer July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude
Generative Fill Photoshop : From Basement to Rooftops
Content Creator Tips Exploring the Power of Generative Fill in the New Photoshop Beta From Basement to Blockbuster: How Generative Fill Unlocks Creative Freedom in Photoshop Photoshop has always been the gold standard for photo editing—but the new Photoshop beta takes things to a whole new level. One of the most exciting additions is Generative Fill, an AI-powered feature that lets you reshape reality with just a few prompts. With it, you’re no longer limited by your location, props, or even your background. Whether you’re replacing a bland sky or transporting someone to a totally imagined world, Generative Fill makes it feel effortless. In this post, I’ll show you how I used it to turn a simple shot of my son—standing in our basement dressed as Spiderman—into a dramatic rooftop scene straight out of a post-apocalyptic movie. The process is simple, the results are jaw-dropping, and the creative possibilities are endless. Let’s dive in. Understanding Generative Fill: Turning Imagination Into Reality With Generative Fill in Photoshop Beta Generative Fill in the latest Photoshop beta is nothing short of magic. It uses advanced AI to fill in gaps, extend scenes, or completely reimagine your image—without needing to be a professional compositor. Whether you’re adding what’s missing or building what never was, this tool gives your creativity some serious wings. Here’s how I used it to take a simple photo of my son in a Spiderman costume and turn it into a cinematic rooftop scene in the middle of a crumbling, chaotic city: Step-by-Step: How I Did It 1. Choose a Strong Starting ImageEvery good transformation starts with a solid foundation. I began with a photo of my son dressed as Spiderman in our basement—nothing fancy, just good lighting and a clean pose. You want your subject well-lit and clear, especially if you plan to cut them out and drop them into a whole new world. 2. Isolate the SubjectUsing Photoshop’s object selection tools, I carefully separated him from the background. A clean cutout makes or breaks the realism later on. Don’t rush this step—refine the edges, clean up stray pixels, and make sure your subject feels “ready to travel.” 3. Create the New WorldNow comes the fun part. I imagined my son not in a basement, but standing heroically on a rooftop in a city mid-disaster—buildings crumbling, smoke rising, fire lighting the sky. I selected the background layer, typed a detailed prompt into the Generative Fill tool, and hit Enter. Then I just watched… and Photoshop brought the chaos to life. 4. Blend and AdjustAfter the AI worked its magic, I tweaked the lighting and shadows to match my subject with the new scene. Adjusting color balance and highlights helped everything feel like it belonged together. Think of this as “gluing” your elements with light and tone. 5. Add the Final TouchesTo really sell the drama, I layered in extra effects—smoke wisps, bits of debris, maybe some lens blur to simulate motion or depth. These little details do the heavy lifting when it comes to immersion. The Takeaway This isn’t just a feature—it’s a creative leap. Generative Fill gives you the power to tell bigger stories without needing a Hollywood budget or a green screen setup. You can turn your basement into Gotham, your backyard into a battlefield, or your pet into a space explorer. Let your imagination lead—and let Photoshop do the heavy lifting. The generative fill feature in the new Photoshop beta has truly revolutionized the possibilities of photo editing. It allows us to effortlessly transport our subjects from mundane surroundings to fantastical realms, unleashing our creativity and imagination. As demonstrated in the example above, by having my son, dressed as Spiderman, seemingly perched on a city rooftop amidst chaos, the transformative power of generative fill presents awe-inspiring opportunities for storytelling and visual expression. Embrace this feature to open up limitless creative possibilities and elevate your photo editing to new heights! July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? 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How to Build an Affordable Content Creator Set Up: A Guide for Small Businesses
Videography Tips Building a Budget-Friendly Content Creator Setup in Canada (That Actually Works) You don’t need a Hollywood budget to make compelling videos. What you do need is gear that won’t let you down — especially when you’re trying to tell stories that matter. Whether it’s for your business, your ministry, or your brand, this guide covers what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to get started without wasting your money. 🎯 Why Your Setup Matters Your audience will scroll past content that looks or sounds off. But that doesn’t mean you need thousands in gear. With smart lighting, clean audio, and steady footage — even your phone can produce professional-level video. 📷 Camera: Yes, Your Phone Might Be Better Than That Old DSLR Most newer smartphones (iPhone 13+, Pixel 6+, Samsung S22+) shoot in 4K, handle difficult lighting better than older cameras, and lock onto faces like pros. Many older DSLRs — even ones that once cost over $1,000 — struggle to keep up with the video quality your phone now produces straight out of the box. Here’s the formula that works: Modern Phone + Good Lighting + Clean Audio + Stable Footage = Solid Content Use natural light. Clip on an external mic. Stabilize your shot with a tripod or handheld grip. That’s it. Unless you’re doing high-end commercial work or need ultra-shallow depth of field, your phone is more than enough to get started. 🎙️ Audio: The Most Important Piece Bad audio is the fastest way to lose viewers. People will tolerate average visuals, but they won’t stick around if it sounds like you’re talking inside a tin can. Wireless mic options: DJI Mic – ~$400 CAD – Fantastic sound, built-in backup recording, reliable range. Hollyland Lark M1 Duo – ~$180 CAD – Compact, clear, easy to use, perfect for mobile creators. BOYA BY-WM3T2-U/D – ~$100 CAD – Plug-and-play for iPhone or Android, great value for solo work. Rode Wireless GO (v1) – ~$200 CAD used – Trusted by pros, works great with lavalier mics. Wired lav mics: BOYA BY-M1 – ~$30 CAD – Long cord, crisp sound, compatible with phones, cameras, and recorders. Purple Panda – ~$50 CAD – Includes accessories, adapters, and a carry pouch. Budget hack: Plug a lav mic into a spare phone, record audio with a free app like Dolby On or Voice Recorder Pro, and sync in post. It’s not fancy — but it works. 💡 Lighting: More Important Than Your Lens If your face isn’t lit, your message won’t land. Use a window, a ring light, or an LED panel — whatever gives soft, even light on your subject. Harsh overheads or shadows? Avoid them. Light makes or breaks the quality of your image. Ring Lights – Great for vlogging, interviews, or headshots LED Panels (GVM, Neewer) – Adjustable brightness and colour temp Softboxes / Umbrellas – Best for indoor talking-head setups 📱 Stabilization: Keep It Steady Shaky footage makes content hard to watch. A basic tripod or smartphone clamp goes a long way. If you’re walking and talking, look into a gimbal like the DJI Osmo Mobile SE or Zhiyun Smooth 5. 🧰 Editing Software: Free and Paid Options Free: DaVinci Resolve (desktop), CapCut (mobile), VN Video Editor (mobile), Audacity (audio) Paid: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Canva Pro (for quick reels and socials) 🛒 Where to Buy Gear in Canada Vistek – Pro-grade gear and knowledgeable staff McBain Camera – Especially helpful for Alberta-based creators London Drugs – Surprisingly decent selection Best Buy – Mainstream gear and easy returns Amazon Canada – Good for accessories and low-cost gear B&H Photo (US) – Trusted source for creators worldwide ✍️ Final Thoughts You don’t need the best gear — just the right strategy. Focus on lighting your subject, recording clean audio, and keeping the camera steady. Most people overthink production. You don’t need to. Start simple. Learn as you go. Upgrade when it makes sense — not because a YouTuber told you to. 🎬 Ready to Create Something Real? If you’re a small business, non-profit, or ministry in Alberta who wants to tell your story through honest, impactful video — that’s where I come in. I don’t sell gear setups. I shoot, edit, and help you deliver powerful content that reflects your purpose. Whether you need a short promo, documentary-style content, or social-ready reels — I can help you bring it to life. Contact me here to get started. Let’s make something worth watching — and remembering. David Mathew Bonner DMB Videotelling Purpose-driven video production in Alberta July 7, 2025 Behind the Scenes with an Edmonton Videographer | Pro Video Shoot Process July 4, 2025 How Much Does a Corporate Video Cost in Alberta? [2025 Pricing Guide] June 28, 2025 TireGrabber Transformer: AI-Powered Farm Video with Flying Tires and Alberta Attitude