So I was talking to someone earlier about a potential video which I hope will happen. It got me thinking. I’ve been noticing more and more films, videos and docs which stray from their purpose, become convoluted or just choose nothing but style over substance. Having a video full of flash is all well and good if the song or band or subject matter call for it. But if it doesn’t, don’t force it. Shooting something that has nothing to do with the vibe or lyrics of the song is also strange to me. That makes no sense and leaves most people scratching their heads while watching and annoyed afterwards. I can do flash and all that good stuff just fine but I prefer nice colors, natural lighting, clean edits and as little fluff as possible. That’s is why I love the examples I am posting below. They are simple, clean and just hit the nail on the head.
“From where you’d rather be” – Friends take a trip to mexico to get away, chill and surf. Perfect blend of Taylor Steele’s genius shots and my friend Ronnie Dudek’s brilliant band Years Around The Sun’s Miles Away. A thing of beauty.
“Music everyday” – The listener and one little snippet of their life defined my their music all over the world. Just perfect.
“The Force” – A little kid in a Darth Vader costume trying to use the force and getting frustrated until…
“Electric Town” – A popper in Japan dancing while trying to return a wallet to a woman. No tricks just pure visuals and super subtle sweet music.
“Dancing on the edge of Kuwait” – Doss and a mellow jam by Handbook. One shot, one take and great colors. (yes I made this one…)
There you have it. Simple edits with great shot selection and as little frills as possible. That is filmmaking and that is what capturing the true vibe of the subject is.
