I realised I have posted a few photos/blogs but I haven’t really introduced myself.
The intention behind this blog was initially for university but I have realised it can be more than that.
Sharing an introductory video adds a level of vulnerability and authenticity that I initially wasn’t excited about but now know that it was a gentle push in the right direction.
Through video I am able to share more about myself with you (the audience) and create a connection on a more personal level.
Connection is important
Authenticity is important
And vulnerability is important.
In order to achieve/convey these three things – I decided to film this video after my morning run, a huge part of my morning routine and a way of sharing multiple passions of mine:
- Running
- The Outdoors
- Health and Wellbeing
- Travel
I wanted to be in a natural environment so that I felt comfortable and my positive and warm energy would shine through in the video.
The lighting was tricky as the sun was bright but it was such a beautiful day, and I hoped that would detract from the changing light or elements of background noise evident within the video.
I am not overly comfortable speaking directly to camera and this style of video is new to me. I tried to be myself as best I could however, I felt a level of performativity was required in a sense to mask my nerves.
A substantial amount of planning had gone into the content and messages conveyed throughout the video – I made sure I knew the topics that I wanted to share however was certain that a script wouldn’t work for me.
I didn’t want to be glancing at a script and instead tried to maintain engagement with you through looking directly at the camera.
The topics I wanted to discuss included: university and my style/situation as it is less conventional, my passions, hobbies and career aspirations/uncertainty.
By making reference to you throughout the video I hoped to encourage further communication and connection following this blog post.
I had seen an example video which was filmed whilst walking. I tried to recreate something similar for my introductory video however soon realised that the combination of movement as well as footsteps, breathing, watching where I was going and trying to look at the camera resulted in too much going on and I needed to simplify the idea further.
Choosing to film in a natural environment still came with its challenges – finding a spot where I could position my phone and myself proved difficult but I managed to find a small rock wall that worked well to hold the phone still.
One clear challenge that I faced was substantial background noise. I was able to edit some of this out or at least lessen its impact post production but in future will be sure to choose a quieter location for filming.
Upon reflection of my video I noticed that because I was familiar with the content I wanted to share and also a little bit nervous, I spoke quite quickly. This worked well in relation to staying inside the video length requirements however may have been easier for the audience to follow if I slowed down my talking pace slightly.
Overall, I have learnt a lot about the video making process and look forward to exploring this further in future posts!
Thank you for watching/reading – please comment below or reach out on any of my linked socials 🙂
Mimi Boydell 