Melinda Brody and Company provides premier video mystery shopping services to new home builders across the country. Here are some tips from Melinda and her staff on filming a great video.
- When wearing a coat, be careful of the material so it does not create a “swishing” noise in the microphone. (Windbreakers are famous for this) Look in front of a mirror with the coat on to see how it affects the camera angle.
- When using a purse set up, check the angle of the purse on your shoulder to see if it points up or down. This way you can adjust the strap forward or back on your shoulder to get a better angle. Be sure to walk naturally and don’t hold the strap and point the purse following their every move. This is too obvious. Instead use subtle movements in the way you are standing to point the camera.
- If you are wearing a shirt button camera, check the angle in a mirror with the shirt on to see if it points up or down. You can then make adjustments. It may be necessary to tape the camera to your body to hold it in place. Be careful not to turn the button when putting it through the buttonholes. This could cause your focus to change and the picture to become fuzzy.
- Remember to keep your hands, arms and brochures from in front of the camera.
- Review each tape after the shop is completed. This is important when doing multiple shops. If adjustments need to be made, you can make them before the next shop.
- Don’t check your camera during the shop, unless you’re in an enclosed bathroom. The sales representative can walk in any minute. Some models also have surveillance cameras.
- Don’t leave the purse camera in the car while touring homesites or available homes. We can’t tell what is happening if you don’t have the camera with you on the shop! If the sales representative questions you, you might say that it is a habit because you’ve had your purse stolen before.
- The shopper with the camera (when going as a couple) needs to stay with the sales representative at all times. If you walk away while your spouse is still talking with the sales representative, we cannot tell what is happening. However, the spouse without the camera may go wherever they would like.
- Turn off the camera when using the restroom. Even though we can’t see, we can always hear! Don’t go as soon as you enter – they think you’re going to set up your equipment.
- If you are outside or in a noisy area, try to repeat what the sales representative is saying so that the dialogue can be understood on the video.
For information on becoming a video mystery shopper for Melinda Brody and Company, go to http://www.MelindaBrody.com/
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