What You Don’t Notice in Video Editing (And Why It Matters for Edmonton Businesses) Posted by David Mathew Bonner Video Production Most people only notice video editing when it’s bad. When it’s done right, editing is invisible — guiding the story, holding attention, and keeping the message fluid without the audience ever thinking about cuts or transitions. That’s the difference between amateur and professional video production, and it’s a cornerstone of my videotelling approach. A seamless edit is invisible — but it shapes how your audience feels and remembers your story. Invisible Craft, Big Impact Viewers don’t consciously think about the number of cuts, the pacing of dialogue, or how scenes connect. A solid edit makes the story feel natural, effortless, and memorable. But poor editing? It pulls people out of the moment and breaks immersion. For businesses, that means lost attention and a weakened message. “Great editing is when your audience doesn’t notice the edit — they only notice your message.” Rhythm and Flow Editing is like music — the rhythm matters. A jump cut at the wrong time can feel jarring, while perfectly timed pacing keeps people engaged. Whether it’s a corporate video, a marketing reel, or a documentary, the flow of the edit determines if viewers stay hooked until the very end. Professional video editing in Edmonton means delivering a polished rhythm that holds attention from the first frame to the last. Guiding the Viewer’s Eye A skilled editor knows how to guide attention within a shot. Through framing, selective cuts, or timing, the audience’s eyes are led exactly where they should look. Instead of chasing the action frantically across the screen, good editing creates a natural path for the eye to follow. This subtle guidance helps your audience absorb the story without distraction, keeping them fully invested in your brand message. Seamless Transitions, Not Distractions Transitions are another place where editing separates professionals from hobbyists. Abrupt or flashy transitions can feel like speed bumps, forcing the viewer to catch up. Seamless transitions, on the other hand, gently move the audience from one scene to the next, so they never feel lost. In business video production across Alberta, transitions should be so smooth that viewers don’t even register them — they simply stay engaged with the story. The Psychology of Seamless Editing Audiences subconsciously pick up on awkward pauses, mismatched angles, or clunky transitions. Strong editing removes distractions and ensures they’re focused on your story, not the mechanics of the video. This is why editing is often called the “invisible art” — it shapes how people feel without them realizing it. When done correctly, professional editing increases watch time, builds trust, and leaves a lasting impression. Why Businesses Should Care Your brand is judged by the polish of your content. An Edmonton videographer who understands the importance of editing can take your message from forgettable to impactful. Even a 30-second social clip benefits from editing that’s fluid and professional. A video that flows well doesn’t just look better — it makes your audience more likely to watch, remember, and take action. From corporate training videos to short-form marketing reels, the difference is in the edit. Where Videotelling Comes In Videotelling is my way of combining creative shooting with purposeful editing to shape a story that resonates. It’s not just about capturing footage; it’s about knowing how to guide attention, pace the rhythm, and deliver a message that sticks. If you’d like to see more about how I approach videotelling and why it works, learn more about video telling here. August 20, 2025 What You Don’t Notice in Video Editing (And Why It Matters for Edmonton Businesses) August 3, 2025 What to Look for in a Content Creator | Edmonton Video Production Tips July 23, 2025 Smart Questions to Ask Before Starting a Corporate Video Project July 20, 2025 Behind the Scenes of “Burger Barbarian” – What It’s Really Like Making AI Videos July 16, 2025 How to Make Video Content for Social Media (That Actually Looks Good) 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
Category: Running a Successful Photography & Videography Business: Tips & Strategies
Posts about running a photography or videography business, including marketing strategies, pricing, and networking tips.
What to Look for in a Content Creator | Edmonton Video Production Tips
What to Look for in a Content Creator For Alberta Businesses Who Want More Than Just “Content” In a world flooded with noise, content that cuts through needs more than flashy transitions and stock music. Whether you’re a small business owner in Edmonton or a growing brand in Central Alberta, hiring the right content creator can make or break your message. Here’s what you should look for when you’re ready to hire someone to tell your story — and why choosing the right Edmonton videographer is about more than just gear. 1. Experience That Matches Your Needs Not every content creator is a fit for every job. Shooting a product reel isn’t the same as filming a documentary or a safety training video. Look for someone who: Has real-world experience with corporate video production Understands how to direct people who aren’t professional actors Can balance cinematic visuals with business objectives I’ve spent 20+ years producing video for brands across Alberta — from small-town shops to national clients. I bring experience that translates into less guesswork and better results. Learn more about my approach here. 2. The Ability to Plan or Pivot An ideal content creator brings a plan to the table — but also knows how to adapt when the plan falls apart. Whether the weather changes or your staff gets camera-shy, you want someone who can: “Take control, plan on the fly, and still make it feel effortless.” This is where experience meets instinct. I’ve walked into cold shoots with little prep and still delivered polished videos on time and on budget. 3. One Point of Contact, One Clear Vision Hiring an independent videographer in Edmonton (instead of a bloated agency) often means: Fewer people to deal with Less miscommunication Lower costs A stronger creative throughline I handle everything from concept to creation. Scriptwriting, shooting, editing — all done by one person who knows your goals from start to finish. That’s what makes David Mathew Bonner Video Production different. 4. Quality Gear, But Purpose-Driven The right gear matters — but only when it serves the story.Ask your content creator: Do they shoot in formats that allow flexibility in editing? Can they deliver optimized videos for web, social, and internal use? Do they use real microphones and lighting, or just rely on “run and gun” tactics? I shoot on pro-level Sony equipment, use controlled lighting setups for interviews, and optimize every project for your specific platform — whether it’s YouTube, Instagram, or internal training libraries. 5. Clear Pricing and Professional Communication You don’t want to chase down your content creator for updates or get surprised by hidden fees. Look for someone who: Offers transparent, customized pricing to give you an idea of what to expect Communicates expectations from the start Delivers when they say they will I don’t do cookie-cutter pricing — every project is tailored, but I believe in clarity upfront so you’re not left guessing. Bonus: Someone Who Actually Cares Your business matters. Your story matters. You should feel like the person holding the camera actually wants your project to succeed. When you work with me, you’re not hiring a random shooter — you’re hiring a purpose-driven partner who values integrity, clarity, and impact. If you want content that reflects who you are, I invite you to get in touch. Final Thoughts Hiring a content creator shouldn’t feel like a gamble. When you know what to look for — experience, communication, clarity of vision — the results will speak for themselves. Need an Edmonton-based videographer who gets it? Let’s talk. Contact me for a free consult. August 3, 2025 What to Look for in a Content Creator | Edmonton Video Production Tips July 23, 2025 Smart Questions to Ask Before Starting a Corporate Video Project July 20, 2025 Behind the Scenes of “Burger Barbarian” – What It’s Really Like Making AI Videos July 16, 2025 How to Make Video Content for Social Media (That Actually Looks Good) 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
Smart Questions to Ask Before Starting a Corporate Video Project
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
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
Drayton Christian School | School’s Out Bash Video
School’s Out Bash Video Drayton Christian School 2024 https://youtu.be/xpM8-qXgepM Drayton Christian School’s Out Bash!June 26, 2004Special thanks to all of the volunteers, teachers, sponsors and students!Have a blessed summer and we will see you in the fall! David Mathew BonnerDrayton Valley Video Productions May 31, 2024 The Northern Lights – Free High Resolution Photo Ready For Print
Drayton Valley Family Carnival Time-lapse
Drayton Valley Family Carnival Time-lapse Sony a6500 & ttartisan 7.5mm f2| Edmonton Video Productions https://youtu.be/IByKuMsOIb0 I went out last night and shot a bunch of photos of my town fair and created this time-lapse video, it’s kind of cool. CheersDavid Mathew BonnerEdmonton Video Productions May 31, 2024 The Northern Lights – Free High Resolution Photo Ready For Print
Combining Mini DJI 3 Pro Drone Video With Photoshop AI
Combining Mini DJI 3 Pro Drone Video With Photoshop AI Shot In Rural Alberta | Edmonton Video Productions https://youtu.be/iLhfslgblOY?si=n53JbNYTT2UXM5sZ Check out my surreal selfie taken with a Mini DJI 3 Pro drone and edited in Photoshop AI to create a stunning family portrait video placing us inside a glass terrarium. CheersDavid Mathew BonnerEdmonton Video Productions May 31, 2024 The Northern Lights – Free High Resolution Photo Ready For Print
The Northern Lights – Free High Resolution Photo Ready For Print
The Northern Lights Shot In Rural Alberta | Edmonton Videographer https://vimeo.com/952728477 A few friends and followers asked if they could buy a print of the Northern Lights photo that I shot a couple of weeks ago. I’m not interested in selling it, but those who would like it can have it for free. I have included one cropped version with lens correction adjustments, and one that has a wider image including the wide lens curve.Both images are high-resolution jpgs of the Northern lights shot at a friend’s farm outside Drayton Valley on May 11, 2024. It’s the same one as the one shown but in high resolution and ready for print.Also, check out the time-lapse I made from all the photos I took that night by playing the video above. CheersDavid Mathew BonnerEdmonton Video Productions Download Photos June 7, 2024 Combining Mini DJI 3 Pro Drone Video With Photoshop AI
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