| Client Name: | CTIA & The Wireless Foundation |
| Type of Project: | Video Production and Editing |
| Project Goal: | Sponsorship Video |
| Tools Used: | Nikon DSLRs and Adobe Premiere |
| Crew: | Jim Folliard, Don Napoleon, Kat Smith |
| Date of project: | July 2013 |
| Location: | Washington, DC |
| Price Range: | $10,000 - $15,000 |
| Results: | Improved Sponsorship Involvement |
Glitz and Glamor at the Awards Gala
For seven years I have been shooting and producing video, with Don Napoleon, at the awards gala for the CTIA Wireless Foundation. We look forward to it each year, knowing that the upscale gala will be fun to shoot and will result in beautiful video and photographs. Each year the gala is held at a historic ballroom in DC; the decor impeccable and the atmosphere lively. These elements combine to make a memorable shoot so that no matter how many we've done we are excited by the project every time it rolls around.
Beyond Drinks and Decor
One of the primary reasons the Gala is held is to honor those who have used a wireless device to stop crimes and help in emergency situations. These awards, called VITA Wireless Samaritan Awards, highlight those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in order to help others.
Bright Lights, Brilliant Stories
For me, watching the stories unfold is powerful; they are one of the many highlights of the event. In addition to filming the event, we create the video graphics that are displayed behind the speaker during the presentations. This allows us a sneak peek at the inspiring stories--a good thing as otherwise I might not make it through the night without being moved to tears.
Another thing we love about the Gala is our interactions with the guests. Over the years Don and I have gotten to know many of the organizers and regular guests, so that each year becomes more and more comfortable. This allows us to get better, more relaxed photos and video as we're not just The Guys Behind the Cameras, we're Jim and Don; friends and confidants.
Big Video for Big Name Sponsors
Each year CTIA uses the video to retain former sponsors and attract new ones. They have some big name sponsors—AT&T, Sprint, Verizon--so the video we produce has to be of the highest quality. It has to show that the sponsor's time and money are worth it--and we relish the challenge. We love getting the right shots, those that show an engaged audience, the fantastic food and then producing a video that tells the story of the evening. From the arrival of big executives and politicians to cocktail hour to the award presentations, the final product has it all. The documentary style video never fails to that capture the spirit of the entire evening.
Luckily for Don and I, CTIA makes this easy and fun to do. There are so many beautiful shots--and beautiful people--that the only challenge in creating a compelling video is choosing the best segments. There are just so many!
Do you have a live event that you'd like to capture in stunning, HD video? If so, call 703.962.1270. We'd would be more than happy to help you create a video that showcases just how fabulous your event was.
