Resident testimonials are great ways to celebrate your community. Here's a guide on creating a resident testimonial video!
Set the Stage
- A quiet room is always preferable
- Include something homey in the setting. A beautiful plant, a "Home Sweet Home" sign, some candles, etc.
- A neat, clean background is best
- Having the resident sit on a couch is more preferable than a straight back chair, walker, or wheelchair
Prep the Camera, Light, and Sound
- The smart device (iOS or Android) recording the video should be at eye level with the speaker
- Ensure the device is horizontal
- Lighting should be in front of the person, not behind them. (If there's a window, the light should shine on the resident. The resident shouldn't sit in front of it)
- All other devices should be turned off or muted, especially cell phones
- If you have a microphone, connect it to the device and make sure it reaches the chair you're recording. If you aren't using a microphone, ensure the space is silent and the resident can speak loudly
- Take a few test videos of yourself to see how it looks
Delight the Resident
- Invite the resident to help you with a special activity - something completely different and exciting. Ideally do this a few days before, if not a few hours before you need to record
- Help the resident feel confident in how they look. Help them adjust any clothing so it's smooth and appropriate. Compliment their appearance - and tell them how great they are. Thank them for helping you
- When you bring them to the staged area, tell them it's their stage
- If they are in a wheelchair or walker, help them transition to the couch or sofa you've set up
- Have a glass of water nearby and encourage them to have a sip
- Connect the microphone to them, and disguise it under their clothing
- Do a trial run, where you just talk through the questions
- Explain what's going to happen when you record. Ex: I'm going to ask you a question and then point at you. When I point at you, you can answer the question I asked. When you are done with your answer I'll stop recording. I'm going to ask you a few questions and this is going to be really fun. Then we can watch a preview of the video. You can't mess up - it's going to be great!
- Have fun!