Everyone knows that the warm months go hand-in-hand with prime vacation season. Whether you’re heading out for a once-in-a-lifetime journey or just taking the scenic route to a family reunion, any trip can make for a great summer vacation video. But let’s face it, as amazing as our travels are, sometimes it can be hard to convey the experience on film without making it feel like a bit of a snooze fest. To keep your travel videos as fun and engaging as your hard-earned time off, today we’re offering up five tips to make your summer vacation videos shine.
1. Let the location speak for itself
In other words, show, don’t tell. Think of your setting as one of the subjects in your video. You or your loved ones can still be front-and-center, but let your environment have it’s camera time, too. GABWORKS’ “Sunshine #2” is a perfect example of a vacation video that lets the location — in this case, the Seychelles — speak for itself.
2. Keep it candid
Try to capture your fellow travelers doing what they do best: being themselves. Video is incredibly powerful when it gives the viewer a window into those real-life moments. That’s what will make your video unique. So, instead of herding your travel companions to famous landmarks and having them pose for a photo, focus on what makes your trip different. This approach will allow your audience to experience your trip, and actually get to know the people you’re traveling with, (or the ones you meet along the way).3. Think in shots
When you’re in a new place and taking in fresh experiences, it’s tempting to document everything you see. But, once you get to editing, cutting down too much footage can become a headache. Keep your final video in mind as you’re shooting, and be selective. Shoot clips that vary in length because it’s easier to edit or layer a mix of footage than it is to distill tons of files that are 7-10 minutes long. Joan Bosch’s “(LIFE) WHILE TRAVELING” is great inspiration for a more interpretive approach to a wide selection of photos and clip lengths.
4. Document what you want to remember
Sometimes little things like an ice cream cone melting in the sun can bring back the strongest, most relatable memories. So, sweat the details. Capture the little things and give them some screen time. Think of your video as a highlight reel. So, if you watch a performance, there’s no need to document the whole thing. Just show a moment from it, that’s all you need.
5. Keep it fun
If you’re having a blast on your vacation, try to convey that happy energy. The chances are that bliss will rub off on your audience, too. And, if you’re comfortable stepping on the other side of the lens, have one of your trusted travel companions to take some video of you! After all: it is your trip to remember. Now, get out there and make some memories that will stand the test of time.
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