Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Projects: The List Goes On

When it comes to production work you can never be too prepared. No matter how hard you try, this industry is unpredictable at its core. Which is why schedules, timelines, and an endless amount of lists are the key to successful projects.


projects


At Keywest we take the pre-production phase of all our projects very seriously. It is within this stage where we define the concept and direction of our clients productions. It is also during this phase that we plan out all of the details of their project. There are a variety of different documents that we utilize in order to ensure we are on the same page as our clients, have a clear vision of where the production is headed, and are able to keep track of it’s progress every step of the way. Here are some of the items we use in order to do just that.


First Call Sheet


The first call sheet is where all of our projects begin. In this document we accumulate any information that we have received from the initial call, email or meeting with our client. The document is a reminder of all the different services that we provide, as well as the variety of options they can choose from. Ex. half day versus full day, voice-over, number of camera operators, shoot day and time, video length, editing details… and the list goes on. These call sheets are kept on file, so even if our potential client doesn’t go ahead with the projects until months after the initial point of contact, we still have all of the information they provided us.


Tracking Binder


The main details of each project are then written down in our tracking binder. This allows us to have easy and quick access to our list of current and potential projects. The binder is very useful in following-up with our clients and making sure we are on track with their project.


Stages Document


Once a project is green-lit we put together a stages document. This form has a list of all the main information regarding each stage of production. All client and crew contact information, location, video type and audience details are outlined in the pre-production stage. Within the production stage, direction details, timing, equipment lists, and client comments are highlighted. The last stage outlines post-production, including length of the video, graphics or animation direction, and delivery options. This document is very useful throughout the entire project life. It is created and then sent to the client for review. Once approved the crew gets a copy so everyone is on the same page before production begins.


Shot List


One of the last major documents that we create to ensure all of our projects are successful, is a shot list. This is where we create a list of all the content we wish to capture during the shoot, and outline the location, talent, direction, and timing involved. It is not only useful to ensuring we have all the footage we need, but it also keeps us on schedule during the shoot.


These are just some of the ways Keywest makes sure we are overly prepared for our productions. Our clients projects are of the utmost importance to us, and we know that a successful job begins with the pre-production phase.


Monday, April 28, 2014

Hand Models: Do"s & Don"ts

Here at Keywest we recently did a search for models for use in an upcoming corporate video. We needed hand models due to the fact that their hands would be a focus throughout the series of videos. When requesting submissions, unfortunately what we received was not what we were expecting.


hand models


We had a project where the client needed a #model to showcase a wide variety of items in their showroom. Some shots would be full body, while others would focus on a close-up of the product, and in a lot of situations the models hand would be used to hold and highlight the products features. That is why we went in search of hand models which we could also utilize for full body shots.


Instead of going directly to a #modelling agency and requesting hand models, we decided we wanted to first engage with models and actresses that we had worked with previously and knew would be great for the role. Our thought being, we knew they were capable of the other aspects which the shoot required, and how hard could it be to find a beautiful woman who also had a well manicured set of hands?


Once submissions started rolling in we discovered that it wasn’t as easy as we initially thought to find women who had a great look for the role, and yet also had the capability of being as flawless as professional hand models. However, some of this we believed was due to the fashion in which women were photographing their hands. Therefore, I decided to provide some photo examples, to give aspiring corporate and commercial models an idea of how to position yourself to put your best foot, or hand rather, forward.


Of course I could put a bunch of glamorous, professionally shot hand photos to show you the best possible scenario, but of course that wouldn’t be fair, or useful even. So instead I used my own hands (I am no professional here), and simply took some photos on my iphone. Just like we asked the girls submitting photos to do, something simple and quick so we could get back to our client as soon as possible. Here are some of our Do’s and Don’ts after reviewing all of the submissions.


DO: Have well manicured nails


photo 2


DON’T: Spread your fingers wide and create a stretch in your skin


photo 1


DO: Rest your hands naturally and show off your nails and hand shape


photo 4


DON’T: Fold your fingers over to form a claw


photo 3


And Lastly..


Do: Show your hands in action, like they would actually be used on-set


photo 6


When it comes to male hand models, AskMen.com has a great post on modelling tips for guys. Under the hands portion they advise,


“When it comes to hands, they have to be flawless (no scars) with smooth skin and short, clean, even nails. As body hair is not very popular in the modeling industry, your hands shouldn’t be too hairy. The shape of your hands is also very important.”


I hope this guide was helpful, and will aid you hand models out there for future casting calls, and with your submissions. Got any tips or tricks of you own?! Let us know in the comments section below.


 


Friday, April 25, 2014

Apple: The Emotion of Video

Apple has always been genius at branding: from an early memorable commercial which debuted at the Super Bowl to rave reviews (directed by Ridley Scott), revolving around George Orwell’s 1984, to the innovative and eye-catching commercials we see today.



Apple’s latest commercial, entitled “Better”, proves that they are still on top of their game. This moving piece, created for their environmental campaign, makes the viewer feel like apple is not only bettering our technical environment, but also our physical one. The dynamic cinematography, slow-paced editing, and powerful score evoke emotion in the viewer.


“At Apple, we strive to reduce our impact on climate change, find ways to use greener materials and conserve resources for future generations. This video was shot on location at Apple Facilities. Now more than ever, we will work to leave the world better than we found it.” Source



“Better. It’s a powerful word, and a powerful ideal,” Cook says to open the video. “It makes us look at the world and want more than anything to change it for the better. To innovate, improve, to reinvent. To make it better.”


Cook goes on to say that the Cupertino, Calif. company is looking at ways to reduce its environmental footprint across a number of areas, from altering the materials used in its products to increasing their recyclability. He also calls out Apple’s new data center designs and Arizona sapphire plant that are powered entirely by renewable energy.


“We have a long way to go and a lot to learn,” Cook adds. “But now, more than ever, we will work to leave the world better than we found it and make the tools that inspire others to do the same.”


The video is part of an updated environmental responsibility website which Apple has broken out into more descriptive sections — Climate Change, Toxins, Finite Resources, and Our Progress.


Apple: The Emotion of Video Apple: The Emotion of Video


Additional Resource:
9to5Mac


Thursday, April 24, 2014

Personal Videos: We Do Them To!

Keywest is known for our corporate videos, because that is what we specialize in. However we also film a variety of other styles of videos, including personal videos.


personal videosKeywest Video has been in business for the past 25 years. Over that time we have grown into a trusted and knowledgeable source for video production. Our main clientele has been organizations large and small looking for videos to promote their companies, products and services, for internal purposes, conferences and seminars, events and so much more.


During our time as a #leader in the corporate video market, we have received numerous requests from individuals with a need for video for their more personal matters. While some companies shy away from producing personal videos, Keywest has the attitude that every customer is a valuable one. We always try to work around our clients needs, and appreciate their trust and desire to work with us. We don’t think any project is too small, and look for ways to go beyond the traditional when it comes to the often straightforward personal videos.


Our team has been honored to be invited to shoot a wide variety of #PersonalVideos. Everything from joyous occasions such as weddings, monumental birthdays, baptisms, baby and bridal showers, and a variety of other special events. We have also been requested to document more somber events, like funerals for those who cannot attend. Some individuals even contact us in need of a video not to record a celebration, but for legal purposes, in order assist their official proceedings.


While some production companies have a distinct style that they like to mimic in all of their videos, Keywest is focused on providing each and every one of our clients with specific attention to their individual needs. With certain clients, for corporate or personal videos, they may wish to have a high production value, with a very stylized look, and lots of bells and whistles, that may not be wanted or even needed for another client with their own distinct visions and goals for their video. That is why we are focused on being a flexible team. We understand that each video we work on is different, just like our clients themselves, and we appreciate that.


Do you have any questions about getting your personal videos documented? Contact us today and speak to one of our producers to find out more!


Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Product Videos: Why They Work

Have an amazing and unique product but no video? Here is the scoop on why product videos should be an integral part of your marketing campaign.


Studies have shown that online users who watch product videos are generally 85% more likely to purchase something than visitors who do not. (Internet Retailer, April 2010)


product videos


The proof is in the numbers. Numerous research groups have shown that video does have a large impact when it comes to the sale of #products and services, and especially when coupled with an online retail site. Customers today need to be wowed. There are so many different products on the market, and with fierce competition comes the need for companies to stand out from the pack. Oh, and you better do it quickly because our attention spans are forever shrinking. Here is why product videos can be so lucrative.


#Videos are a simple, quick and effective way to showcase your products. In a 30 second to two minute spot you can highlight its features, talk about its benefits, and find an interesting way to target your key #consumer. And if you are able to do that in a great package with a little pizzazz, you can truly impress and turn online visitors into purchasers.


Companies large and small have known about the power of video for decades, but within the past few years, and with all the studies being done, it seems that no organization wants to get left in the dark. The success of many of these video campaigns is evident.  Zappos, the online fashion site for example, reported a jump in sales of their products between 6% to 30% with the use of video. (ReelSEO, December 2009.)


Beyond the Traditional Benefits


The benefits of product videos go beyond the traditional as well. We all know that product videos can attract attention, increase awareness of a product, and even turn eyeballs into sales. Adam Hayes from Wyzowl Blog tells us, product videos are also useful in reducing customer queries.


“Product videos give customers a great amount of information at the earliest opportunity, giving you the chance to proactively answer many questions that may otherwise have ended up in your support team’s inbox.”


There are numerous other benefits as well. Andrew Follett, Founder and CEO of Video Brewery says,


“Explainer videos keep track of what product or service potential customers are interested in by displaying the number of views on each video”


This is an important asset when deciding on which products should stay, which should go, what ones would be good to promote, put on sale, sell to a specific market etc. Video stats are an amazing analytics tool, which can help you track the excitement for your products.


Over the years Keywest Video has been privileged to aid numerous companies in the production of their product videos. A recent client we have worked with, Ryan Design (click on the link to check out the video), contacted us to create an informative and promotional video for their latest innovative product “Touch Film”. The goal of this video was to not only promote the product, but also showcase its functionality and usability in the appropriate setting. The final video was not only an excellent illustration of the product’s capabilities and functionality, but also its ease-of-use and sleek design.


Contact us today if you’re interested in getting a quote for your product video!


 


Tuesday, April 22, 2014

What Does a Corporate Video Company Do?

A professional corporate video company will take care of your entire video production, from start to finish, leaving you with a perfectly polished product.


What Does a Corporate Video Company Do? What Does a Corporate Video Company Do?


Many consumers aren’t aware of the differences between what a corporate video company does, and what a recent film graduate can do. This doesn’t mean that recent graduates, or budding filmmakers are no good – it’s just that you don’t know what you’re getting until the project is complete. Whereas, with a professional corporate video company, you pretty much know what you’re getting right from the start.


So what exactly does a corporate video company do for you? In a word: everything. Actually, a corporate video company can do as much or as little for your production as you’d like. Professional production companies know how to take care of every aspect of production and can jump in at any time. It’s important to know what exactly a corporate video company brings to the table before you choose one.


Equipment

If you want a professionally produced video, the lighting, the video, and the audio equipment must be of the highest quality. Although it’s no secret that anyone can rent professional equipment, not everyone can use it… properly. Going with a corporate video company will ensure that the production is created with high-end, up-to-date equipment, and a team that knows how to use it.


Service/Expertise

A corporate video company will provide their clients with the service and expertise that their video requires. Professional production companies are accustomed to dealing with all aspects of production, and have a knowledgeable staff on hand for your needs. A corporate video company will be able to provide professional producers, videographers, gaffers, grips, editors, etc.


Resources

Chances are, the corporate video company that you choose has made several different types of videos in the past. This means that they’ve got access to a plethora of tried and trusted resources at their fingertips. A corporate video company will be able to produce whatever kind of video you require by utilizing all of the necessary resources to guarantee the best production possible. This is includes (but is not limited to) actors, crew, locations, studios, equipment, etc.


Looking for a corporate video company? Contact Keywest today!


Friday, April 11, 2014

Netflix Goes to Junior Prom

Netflix was asked to a teenager’s junior prom via Twitter… and they said yes! The media company agreed to go as Muthana Sweis’ junior prom date after Sweis’ request received 1000 retweets.



In January, Sweis tweeted to Netflix inviting them to accompany him to his junior prom in the event that his tweet received 1000 retweets.


Muthana Sweis Invites Netflix to Prom Muthana Sweis Invites Netflix to Prom


And once he hit 1000, Netflix accepted his request to third wheel, leaving us all wondering how exactly a media company goes on a date. Of course Netflix pulled out all the stops and arranged some cool elements from iconic movies and television shows to make Muthana’s experience a very memorable one.


Netflix Accepts Sweis Netflix Accepts Sweis’ Invitation to Prom


Sweis picked James Bond’s “Skyfall” tux (kid’s got class) and the 1950′s Buick from “Grease,” with a Danny Zuko look-alike behind the wheel. The teen was given the the choice to ride in one of Don Draper’s gorgeous cars or Walt and Jesse’s meth mobile from “Breaking Bad,” but maybe the latter was a little too edgy.


Netflix Offered Some Cool Vehicles Netflix Offered Some Cool Vehicles


Netflix sent a camera crew to Sweis’ hometown and followed him all the way to prom where nearly every student hopped into an Instagram photo with him — further proof that Netflix isn’t just a great date for when you’re home alone binge-watching in bed.


Beyond being a fun way for the brand to build buzz by leveraging its connection with fans, the episode reflects how deeply media have become woven into the fabric of our lives. Film content informed key aspects of the evening, there’s a nod to Samsung’s Oscar selfie, and the whole thing played out on social channels. It’s especially telling that Sweis approached Netflix in the first place, tapping into our shared media experience to write his script for the prom. Adweek


Tell us what you think about #Netflix going to prom!


Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Subtitling and Voice Dubbing

In this multicultural world we live in, languages have traversed borders. It is now more important than ever to ensure that your content is able to reach a wide audience. That is why subtitling and voice dubbing have become such an integral business.


subtitling and voice dubbing


Having a video available in multiple language is a huge asset which can open your production up to a wealth of new audiences. There are however, multiple ways to approach getting your video done in other languages. You can add subtitles, or you can add a voice-over track, which can be time synched or not. Here is some information that may assist you when thinking about adding #Subtitling and #VoiceDubbing to your video.


Transcription


One thing that a lot of our clients forget when they ask us to quote for subtitling or voice dubbing is that we need a word for word transcription for the video. If the video had a script and the voice-over or on-screen talent stuck to it, then that would be your transcription. But in many cases, especially with #CorporateProductions, we simply have a list of interview questions to go off of and the individual speaks candidly. In that scenario, we tell our clients that we can either quote them for us to watch the video while transcribing it, or they are able to do so themselves and provide to us in order to save costs.


Translation


The next step would be to get the transcription translated. Depending on what language you need it translated into, as well as the amount of words, the costs can vary widely. Certain languages are more difficult to find experts on, and require more lengthy review processes to ensure that the syntax of the sentences are coming across properly. Another important factor stems from the industry language and terminology which are used. It is important to ensure that you express this to the #TranslationTeam, so that they can find a translator who understands the context of the terminology.


Subtitling


Subtitling is a fairly straight forward process. Working with a good translation team is key to the success of this stage of the project. A good translation partner will provide you with a chart which lays out the text, so the editor is able to match sentence to sentence. In this case, you do not need an editor who understands the language which the content is translated into, but they only need to be able to plug in the subtitles where the original language is within the timing of the video. Subtitling is a simple and cost effective way to provide your video content in another language.


Voice Dubbing


Getting your translated script voiced over is the most basic way to add an additional language audio to your video. This is a good option if there are no on-camera speakers, and there is only b-roll footage used. In this case, you could simply hire a professional voice actor to record the translated script, and the editor lays the track down over the footage.


When there are on-camera speakers though, you need to dub the voice-over to match with the on-camera talent. There are still two ways to do this. The more cost effective way is called time synching. Where the editor takes the recorded voice-over track, and synch’s the audio with the on-camera action as best as possible, in order to match with the timing of the original video clip. A second option is called lip synching, which is where the voice-over actor comes into studio and records the voice-over while watching the original video clip, in order to match the lips of the on-screen talent.


Subtitling and voice dubbing are both great solutions which are able to get your video content out to a larger audience. Here are some others thoughts on which is a better choice. Depending on time and budget constraints you will need to decide which is the best option for you.


Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Location Consultation: Why Its Important

Whether you are producing a training video, company profile, event highlight, or a product promo, the location that you choose is a large part of the production. Having a location consultation ahead of time will allow for ample informative planning in order to save on time, money, and make your video the best it can be.


location consultation


Choosing a location can sometimes be a daunting task, and other times you have minimal choice and have to decide upon whatever is most convenient, or most affordable. In either case, partnering with a #ProductionCompany that will take the time to come for a location consultation is key.


In the 25 years Keywest Video has been in business, we have done a location consultation with many of our clients. In certain scenarios we were not able to, due to time constraints or not being able to get into the space ahead of the shoot date. When these situations arise we deal with it like we deal with all elements of production, with flexibility and a keen background knowledge to guide us in each individual shoot.


The reason why we do suggest going on a #LocationConsultation whenever we can, is because we know it works. We understand it is helpful. And we believe that you can never be too prepared. No matter how many projects we have worked on, there seems to always be something unexpected when it comes to our line of work. That is why we prepare for the worst, and always #ExpectTheUnexpected.


Certain issues that we have been able to avoid by going on a location consultation include;



  • lighting – for example, daylight mixed with florescent light

  • sound – too noisy of a space to record audio

  • distance – from one location to another

  • space – too small of a space to perform what is necessary

  • obstacles – for example, a desk in the room which cannot be moved

  • background – to ensure the background is visually engaging


Those are just of a few issues which can be observed, discussed, and then sorted out through a location consultation.


Here are some tips for when scouting for locations. Once your location has been pinned down, ensure to speak with the production team you are working with, and let them know that you think a location consultation is important.


Monday, April 7, 2014

Video Editor"s Role

Video editors play a huge role in the production process. Editing is “where the magic happens” and editors are the magicians. It’s important to have a well-rounded and talented editor working on your productions in order to guarantee the best results.


Video Editor in an Edit Suite Video Editor in an Edit Suite


First of all, it’s pretty clear that your editor needs to be able to edit. An editor should be well versed in a variety of mainstream editing software, among other things. However, their technical knowledge doesn’t just end there. An excellent editor must be able to perform all the tasks associated with producing the final video for their client, such as audio post-production, colour correction, etc. Many editors are also required to have some degree of motion graphics knowledge, using software such as After Effects, etc. as they will have to incorporate these elements into their videos (to an extent, of course). A good editor will be quite knowledgeable about many aspects of computing technology, seeing as they will have to deal with a variety of codecs and formats – it is important that your editor knows exactly what formats and codecs are required to meet your clients’ needs. Editors also need to be excellent at troubleshooting since there are many instances in which videos simply do not play – a good editor knows the steps required to get to the root of the issue and help themselves and/or the client view the video.


An #editor is just a storyteller. Although producers and videographers may be the ones that actually gather the footage, the editor is one that puts it all together. The editor will determine exactly how the footage will come across. Editors may receive some assistance in this aspect – scripts from the client, notes from the producer, etc. – however, it’s the editor’s responsibility to choose the best take. Along with choosing the best footage, the editor will also determine the length of the video. We find that many clients request a much longer video than necessary. An editor will help you create a shorter video that is more interesting to watch, yet still conveys all of the necessary information. In this instance, your editor will explain to you why they have omitted certain footage and how your story can be told in a clear and concise manner. It is the editor’s job to determine what footage is best and how exactly it should be placed within the video in order to guarantee an amazing story.


Need an editor? Contact Keywest today!


Friday, April 4, 2014

Scheduling your Video Production

Scheduling is key to a successful production. It’s no secret that time is money, so the more organized you are the more you’ll save in time…and frustration.


Scheduling your Video Production Scheduling your Video Production


Here at Keywest, we’re no strangers to the scheduling process– we like to think we run a pretty tight ship over here. This is because we realize that if our pre-production isn’t sound, we’re going to have a huge problem on our hands.


#Scheduling begins in the #PreProduction process. Firstly, if you’re juggling multiple shoots over time, you need to ensure that your scheduling accommodates the amount of footage you want to capture per day… without affecting other shoots. This means you have to correctly assess the production and know exactly what it is you want to capture – interviews? Addresses to camera? Location shots? B-roll? The list goes on. Once you know how much footage you need, you can begin scheduling your days accordingly.


Now, we need to schedule out the days of #Production. Be sure to allocate enough time for setup, which varies from shoot to shoot. Setup is dependent on a variety of factors. You’ll need to determine the nature of shoot, how much lighting you’ll require, how many people are involved, the sound situation, creating a set, backdrops, motion shots, etc. All of these elements will help you determine exactly how long you’ll need for setup. Remember – it’s always a great idea to schedule more time than you’ll need so as to accommodate any potential disasters that may arise. Once you’ve scheduled your setup time, it’s good to plan out how the rest of the day will go. For example, have you got interviews to shoot? How many? How long is each one? Will there be make-up required? Are the interviewees prepared? All of these elements will help you decide how to plan out your shoot days.


Once production is complete, it’s time for #PostProduction scheduling. Almost of our clients here at <href=”www.keywestvideo.com”>Keywest provide us with deadlines and it’s our responsibility to ensure that we provide them with the video they require within a timely manner. Post-production scheduling helps us determine when we’ll receive assets from our clients, when we’ll have recordings completed by, when editing can begin, when reviews can begin, how long reviews will last, and finally… when the finished product can be delivered.


As you can see, there’s a great deal of preparation and organization that goes into video production and scheduling plays a large role in the production process. It’s always helpful to have a dedicated producer on hand to help you through the process and take care of all elements to ensure a smooth production.


Thursday, April 3, 2014

Working with Animals on Set

Working with animals on set: some shoots require actors of the non-human variety and it’s important to know how to prepare differently for these types of productions.


Telus Mobility uses animals in most of their advertising Telus Mobility uses animals in most of their advertising


Animals seem to be the request of the week here at Keywest and we’ve found ourselves searching for ways to get a hold of a variety of creatures. We quickly realized that preparing for these productions is completely different from the regular day to day shoots we’re involved in. For example, it’s not always that easy to find the animal you’re looking for, and some animals are significantly harder to come by than others… I’m sure you can imagine that animals such as dogs and cats would be easier to obtain than something more exotic, like a lion.


When working with animals on set, you need to be willing to give up the element of control that you’re so accustomed to having. Although many are incredibly well-trained, animals simply do not cooperate as well as humans do. First of all, make sure you find a reputable animal wrangler – you’ll want someone around who not only knows what they’re doing and has done it for years, but it also extremely comfortable/familiar with the animal involved. This will not only help things go smoother, but put your mind at ease… especially if the animal is dangerous.


We all know that time is money… therefore, the longer you spend on set the more it costs you. Animals take up a great deal of time so be prepared to spend the extra money if you need to have them around. Every scene you shoot will take much longer with animals so it is important to factor the cost of extra time into your budget. Keep in mind that animals have no notion of linear time and they aren’t particularly concerned with how much money their bad behavior is costing you – they also need lots of breaks and time between complicated tasks.


Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to having animals on set. In some situations, the animal may not be able to perform the task as exactly written in your script or predicted in your vision… this is where you’ll have to be flexible and compromise. In some situations, you may even find yourself re-writing new scenes in order to incorporate the animal’s strengths and create a better looking production.


Check out some professional advice on #WorkingWithAnimals from Dale Launer, scriptwriter for Blind Date, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, My Cousin Vinny, and many more:


“I had written a scene for my film that involves a chimp,” says Launer. “He’s supposed to imbibe this potion and then come through a wall. I had trainers there, who told me the monkey could do this all in one shot. I had a very flimsy wall and we set everything up. But as we tried to do a take, it was clear the chimp just couldn’t be coaxed to do what was written. So, after some thinking and discussing, I realized, if I broke up the shot into pieces, a hand here, a leg there, I could make it appear as though the chimp came crashing through this wall. Still, it was a fairly complicated scene. I had two trainers working on either side of the monkey and it took a while…I did find out that the chimp could smile broadly, on command, at any time. So I wrote a scene that could use his smiling gift to maximum effect.” Source


Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Interactive Marketing: Pepsi Max

Pepsi Max has a great new innovative marketing campaign that utilizes interactive bus shelters to not only entertain and shock patrons, but also promote their brand.


Marketing agency AMV BBDO created an interactive campaign for Pepsi that turns regular bus shelters into the thrill of a lifetime. Those waiting for a ride on London’s busy New Oxford Street believe they are surrounded by simple glass panes — until all around them unbelievable events unfold: flying saucers approach the earth, meteors hit, a giant octopus emerges from underground and a man comes drifting by suspended from a bouquet of balloons. The shelters are outfitted with hidden interactive digital technology that displays a live feed (on what looks like a glass pane) with footage that is overlaid with graphics that lead commuters to believe that they are part of outrageous scenarios. The feed tricks unsuspecting passengers into thinking they are steps away from hovering alien ships, a loose tiger, and a giant robot with laser beam eyes.


Interactive Marketing: Pepsi Max Interactive Marketing: Pepsi Max


Almost all participants are genuinely shocked by the events, many left speechless, and others of course snapping away vigorously using their smartphone cameras. But once they go beyond the bus stop, they are left amused and entertained by the concept. Best of all, when they breach the other side of the interactive bus stop, they are face to face with a giant Pepsi Max: Unbelievable poster.


Take a look below:



Rachel Holmes, senior marketing manager at PepsiCo UK said, “It truly lives up to Pepsi Max’s Unbelievable proposition from the innovative media planning through to the fantastic creative.”


By the way: What does this #InteractiveMarkting campaign have to do with the #PepsiMax brand? The premise that with no sugar and no calories, Pepsi Max is “unbelievable.”


Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Keywest Sponsors the TARA Awards

The TARA Awards are an annual award show that honours the achievements of students enrolled in the RTA School of Media program at Ryerson University.


Keywest Sponsors the TARA Awards Keywest Sponsors the TARA Awards


About the TARA Awards & the RTA School of Media


Since 1978, the TARA’s have been an integral part of the prestigious media program. The long running tradition in the program is an annual event of professional caliber, attended by over 300 students, faculty members and industry professionals in the media industry. It is a night to celebrate student achievement by showcasing the works of all four years, displaying a range of creative projects in radio, digital media, audio, film and studio.


The RTA School of Media is Canada’s preeminent school of media content creation, innovation, and broadcasting. Students of the program produce industry-level productions in audio, digital media, video, and screenwriting. At the end of each academic term, RTA faculty cast their vote on student productions in numerous award categories. The results are kept a secret until the moment the show’s presenters open the envelopes and reveal the winners to a live audience. As the RTA School of Media has expanded, students of Media Production and New Media are now eligible for submission of awards!


Keywest Sponsorship & This Year’s Awards


Keywest is proud to announce that we are one of the premium sponsors for the 36th annual TARA Awards. We look forward to this year’s submissions and wish all nominees the best of luck!


#TARAAwards2014 will be held on April 4th, 2014 at the beautiful Glenn Gould Studio at the CBC, located on 250 Front St. W., and will commemorate 66 years of #RTA! This year’s event will be styled in honour of the Film Noir era. Please come dressed in your best B&W.


Check out the Award Categories


Take a look at this year’s nominees!