Samuel August Smith’s Post

I've decided to give Substack a go! I wanted somewhere to publish long-form content and to see if I can build a viable audience for my industry insights, advice, trend spotting, commentary etc. It will mean the world to me if you click, Like and subscribe. #careers #blogs #animation #anime #production #development #anime #distribution #licensing #careeradvice #Japan #marketing #acquisitions #film #television #entertainment

Virtual production on a volume stage is the next big thing in video. Find out the benefits, drawbacks and get a few tips to make your first foray a successful one from our Executive Producer Lauren Langfitt.👇 #SignalTheory #TechInnovation #VideoProduction

What's going on with the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 - Replacer Campaign? The same thing that's been going on since Black Ops 2, only better 💥 I think there's a lesson here that applies to most industries, not just gaming. This is their 3rd revival of the Replacer, at least. There could be some off-shoot DLC appearances sprinkled in there. And you know what? I have no issue with that. For Black Ops 6 they've... 💎 Kept the original spirit of the campaign while breathing new life into it. 💎 Made interesting partnerships, like w/ french rapper/singer JUL. 💎 Grown into audio with a surprising takeover for a Joe Rogan host-read ad. 💎 Created a headline-worthy Giphy campaign: https://lnkd.in/gaFYCdT3 💎 Amped up their multi-platform social content. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Just level it up ⬆️ As someone who worked on Call of Duty social for a year, I'm just jealous that my time spent on that brand missed a Replacer campaign. What do you think about the return of the Replacer? -- #CallofDuty #BlackOps6 #videogameadvertising #gamingcontent #gamingsocialmedia

10 Key Elements of a Great TikTok Ad: 1. Intro Hook 2. Opening Text Overlay 3. Intro Motion 4. Curiosity Loops 5. Stakes 6. Audio/Sound Effects 7. Changing Visuals 8. Captions 9. Social Proof 10. Strong Deal/Offer for CTA

I’m a big advocate of less is more but on social media that’s not always the case. If there’s a new app, filter or special effect doing the rounds you will see everyone use it. Not because it’s important to their video or because it fits in with the whole purpose of someone’s channel. But because it’s there, it’s trending and everyone else is doing it. Stop doing that! Have you ever seen a movie that was full of special effects but had no room for a story? Did you come out of the cinema feeling a bit short changed? Do those films stand the test of time? If a particular filter or effect is important to the message you want to share, use it, if you’re doing it just because it’s there - don’t use it. WHO ARE MONOKI? We’re a video and film production studio specialising in content for musicians and businesses including documentaries, promo video, live footage and social media video. We also love helping people like you make better videos for yourself. We help you to understand the nuts and bots of using a camera, lighting and sound as well as making content that engages with your audience and, ultimately makes you money. #socialmediavideo #trendingeffects #VideoMakingTips

Fame takes it all! 🎭 “You don’t have a name” was one of the first things I heard in the industry after finishing my master’s degree. A colleague shared my profile with his producer, and that was the response, despite my nomination for Best Game Soundtrack that year and my decade-long experience writing, producing, and making music (including smaller credits with Universal Pictures, Sony, etc.). 🎮 I wasn’t responsible for a widely known game score, but it’s always heartbreaking to be minimized to the titles you have worked on. Unfortunately, this happens to me a lot. Just this year, at least 4-5 times, I heard back even from small studios and directors: “We were approached by [insert famous audio studio/person], and ultimately went with the big name.” 💫 Having dedicated so much life time to develop skills to create something meaningful in this field, I wanted to know what more I could do - So, if anyone has a good tip let me know! 😎 I feel much of our industry’s decision-making is based on how „known“ you are. Feels cool to be around with that famous guy, right? It provides a level of comfort and the belief that the product will perform better with a big name attached. However, in my experience, this rarely adds to the actual quality or success of a project. It seems more like a practice to impress financiers, rather than something else. 🤷♀️ I wonder if this is also the case in other departments and sectors, where known-ability and recognition are the main aspects you are getting hired. Does it have a valid point, or should it be questioned? My goal is to do my best work, find new ways to bring people together, and create something great with the projects I’m involved in. In the current state of the industry, with the sizes of projects and budgets I need to work with, it’s not easy being a no-name. Still very thankful for the opportunities and trust I got from the people I can support with my abilities! (No creatures were harmed this photo) #gameaudio #gamedev #gameindustry

Wanna Capture Stories that Matter? Your Documentary Guide Here! Dreaming of making a documentary but feeling overwhelmed? Don't sweat it! Here's a step-by-step crash course to jumpstart your filmmaking journey: 1. Find Your Spark: What story ignites your passion? Research, observe, interview, dive deep! 2. Plan Your Shot: Craft a compelling narrative. Storyboard key scenes, map locations, estimate budget. 3. Gear Up (Smartly): DSLR, smartphone, even mobile apps can work! Focus on good lighting and audio. 4. Capture Authentically: Be present, ask open-ended questions, capture diverse perspectives. 5. Edit with Impact: Organize footage, create a rough cut, weave emotional beats, add music/sound design. Bonus Tip: Share your story! Film festivals, social platforms, local communities – get it out there!

🔍 Independent Filmmakers: Mastering the Art of Resourcefulness 🎥 As an indie filmmaker, you're the heart, soul, and often the entire circulatory system of your projects. Here's how to keep the creativity flowing without the big studio backing: 1. Resource Allocation: Every dollar counts. Spend where it impacts the screen the most and cut corners creatively where you can. 2. DIY Solutions: Embrace the indie spirit. From homemade rigs to inventive set designs, your ingenuity is your greatest asset. 3. Collaborative Networks: Build a community of fellow indie creators. Share resources, skills, and support to lift each other's projects. 4. Digital Tools: Utilize free or low-cost software to manage your production, from scripting to editing. 5. Guerrilla Marketing: When it comes to promotion, think outside the box. Social media is your friend, and so are grassroots methods like community screenings. 6. Continuous Learning: The indie scene is ever-evolving. Stay informed about new techniques, gear, and distribution platforms. 7. Passion Over Perfection: Your vision and voice matter more than flawless production values. Tell the stories that resonate with you, and they will resonate with others. Keep pushing the boundaries, indie filmmakers. Your unique perspective is what cinema needs! 🌟 #IndieFilm #FilmmakingLife #ResourcefulCinema #trigr

🚀 Transforming concepts into captivating visuals is our forte at Legion Films. From scripting to post-production, we ensure every frame resonates with your audience and contributes to your goals.  https://bit.ly/3wxiBMS #legionfilms #elevateyourbrand #purposedrivenvideos #commercialvideo #corporatevideo #brandstorytelling #videoproduction #contentcreation #videoproductionteam

The themes explored in films of the past is as relevant today. Have a sneak peak 🤔 : https://lnkd.in/gNcuimR4 #filmmarketing #filmproduction #seeyouinthemovies #moviemaking #storytelling #compellingads #advertising #filmadvertising #adsinfilms #funnyadsinfilms #moviebuffs #travfashjourno #upgridmediateam