The workshop cohorts will each be making a 10-minute film that will be broadcast on ADBN TV on DSTV channel 258 in the month of September. The best three will be voted on by the viewing audience and a total cash prize of N5Million will be won by the top three submissions. Stay tuned for the exciting outcomes!
IN the last week of July 2024, I curated a smartphone filmmaking workshop with a distinguished faculty comprising our great cineast Tunde Kelani, audio recording expert Minwon Metong, and leading content creator Mercy Oko. The workshop, held in Uyo, was an initiative of the Advocate Broadcasting Network, ADBN TV, on DSTV Channel 258. It is aimed at catalysing the burgeoning creative industry of the Niger Delta region through skill development and training. The project selected 50 exciting young content creators from over 300 entries from across the six states of the region.
After five grueling days of practical training, I closed the workshop with a presentation on the basic but important things to remember. These tips are essential for any content creator and storyteller using the accessible tools of smartphones. You should learn them too.
A smartphone is a powerful tool with high-quality camera and video recording capabilities, editing apps for photos and videos, and seamless social media integration. Its portability ensures that it is always with you for spontaneous content creation. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of your smartphone camera, and familiarizing yourself with its settings and features, will help you make the most of what you have. At the heart of every great film is a compelling story. Focus on the elements of a good story: setting, characters, plot, conflict, and resolution. Engage your audience emotionally and keep them invested from start to finish. Storyboarding isn’t just for big productions; even a rough sketch of your scenes can help you visualize the final product and ensure you capture everything you need.
Before filming, define your niche and target audience. Outline your story, plan your shots, and sequences. Utilize the rule of thirds and framing to compose your shots effectively. Lighting and sound are crucial; natural light is your best friend, and poor audio quality can ruin an otherwise great video. Invest in a good external microphone or find creative ways to minimize background noise and enhance your audio. Stabilize your shots with tools like tripods and gimbals, or practice techniques to keep your hands steady. Explore camera settings and modes like slow motion and time-lapse to add variety to your footage. Remember that editing can make or break your film. Use accessible editing apps and software to cut unnecessary scenes, enhance colors, and add effects that complement your story. Basic editing skills such as cutting, transitions, adding music and effects, and ensuring a coherent flow are essential. And don’t forget to add titles, captions, and graphics to enhance your content.
Create a consistent image by developing a unique style and voice. Consistent branding elements like logos and color schemes are crucial. Collaborate with other creators and attend industry events and workshops to expand your network and grow your brand. Engage your audience and feedback to build a community around your content. Choose the best platforms for your content, such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, and optimize your posting times and frequency. Using hashtags and trends can increase visibility and reach. Finally, stay safe and responsible online. As a digital citizen, respect privacy and intellectual property, and avoid harmful or inappropriate content. Protect your personal information and be aware of cyberbullying and how to handle it responsibly. Never stop learning and improving. Utilize online courses, tutorials, and workshops to stay updated on industry trends. Seek constructive criticism from peers and mentors, and regularly evaluate your work for self-improvement.
Smartphones have democratised filmmaking, making it accessible to anyone with a story to tell. By embracing these tips, emerging content creators can hone their craft and contribute to the vibrant creative tapestry of the Niger-Delta and beyond. The workshop cohorts will each be making a 10-minute film that will be broadcast on ADBN TV on DSTV channel 258 in the month of September. The best three will be voted on by the viewing audience and a total cash prize of N5Million will be won by the top three submissions. Stay tuned for the exciting outcomes!
