Creating a press pack is one thing, but getting journalists to actually check it out is another thing entirely. The following article takes you through what you need to include in your video production press packs and how to make it stand out to the press:
1. The Poster of Your Video Production
The front cover of your press pack should always aim to be in the style of your film poster. If you’ve had any positive reviews or received any awards or nominations try to include those on this cover. This will be the first thing the press are going to see. By grabbing their attention with your eye-catching poster (complete with exciting quotes and comments) you can make sure journalists take notice of your press pack.
2. The Synopsis of Your Video Production
Just like the back of a DVD your press pack needs a synopsis of your film. This will give journalists the scoop about your project and help to secure their attention further.
3. The Cast & Crew From Your Video Production
It is always good to include some notes about the cast and crew from your production. By including some impressive notes about the background of the actors and crew you’ve had on set will give your film more credibility. If your film appears credible to a journalist then they’ll definitely share their two cents on it.
4. Production Notes From Your Video Production
The production notes form a little biography of the filmmaking process. Include thoughts from other crew members and help to guide the press through the journey your project took. Include interesting locations, dangerous shoots or any on-set talking points to really get their attention.
5. Pictures of Your Video Production
Having some nice still photos from your set/locations is always a good visual aid for press packs. Having photos in your press pack can show journalists interesting scenes from your motion picture.
6. Any Additional Notes Relevant To Your Video Production
Additional notes aren’t always necessary for a press pack, but if your production is based on true events or is a nonfiction documentary then press may find it helpful to have some background on the topic at hand.
7. The Credits From Your Video Production
It’s not exactly thrilling, but you will need to include the full credits of your production, just like you would at the end of your film. This serves to give the press a full list of the crew and actors involved.
8. Reviews of Your Video Production
Showing the press any reviews you’ve had for your previous/current work will help to give your production further credibility. If a local paper sees a rival paper has been checking out your work they will seek to do the same.
9. A Master Compact Disc
Your master CD should include your cinematic trailer/s, a digital copy of your press pack, any theme music from the production and any extra photos from your shoot press may find interesting. By helping to be convenient for the press you can help to gain their favour. You should aim to present this master disc as professionally as possible. Remember you’re trying to make an impact.
Summary
By taking these press pack suggestions on board and adding a dash of your own creativity you can help to make sure the press are really talking about your production and begin to cause a stir amongst film industry critics.
