The Content Combo

Episode Seven: How to become a visual storyteller

Welcome to the Content Combo Podcast, presented by Casual Films. Tune in every Friday to hear from our team of experts about how to deliver effective video content that drives results. Every time, without fail.
In Episode 7, host Thomas Elliott is joined by the amazing editors Ansh Grey, Joey Kan, and filmmaker Richie Fowler. This week, we take a personal approach as our hosts share their unique journeys into the world of visual storytelling.
From the charm of old vintage lenses to the inspiration of nature documentaries, Richie Fowler opens up about what drew him into filmmaking. Ansh Grey reminisces about his childhood experiences with a DV camera and the thrill of shooting on film without knowing the end result. Joey Kan shares his transition from drawing cartoons to creating visual stories, fueled by childhood imagination and family encouragement.
The episode delves into the importance of hands-on experience, the impact of early influences, and the evolution of storytelling techniques. Our hosts discuss their paths, from initial forays into video creation to formal education in film school, and emphasize the value of just diving in and creating, regardless of the tools at hand.
Join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation about the art of visual storytelling and the different ways people find their way into this captivating field.
Thanks for joining us for this edition of the Content Combo Podcast. Please remember to tune in every Friday for more episodes and follow us on LinkedIn or via the Casual Films website.

Episode Six: Unlocking Creative Inspiration Insights from Top Filmmakers

Welcome to the Content Combo Podcast, presented by Casual Films. Tune in every Friday to hear from our team of experts about how to deliver effective video content that drives results, every time, without fail. And now it's over to our hosts.
Welcome to the Content Combo Podcast, Episode 6. I'm your host, Thomas Elliott, and making up the combo this week are editors Ansh Grey, Joey Kan, and filmmaker of filmmakers, Richie Fowler. In this week's episode, we are going to be discussing where to find inspiration for your videos.
Our experts dive deep into their personal sources of inspiration, ranging from everyday interactions and conversations to classic movies, music videos, and even art. Richie shares his unique perspective on drawing ideas from taxi driver conversations, while Ansh talks about the influence of iconic advertisements and sci-fi movies.
The discussion also covers the importance of not solely relying on other video content for ideas, as it can stifle originality. Instead, the team recommends looking to other mediums like photography, paintings, and even fairy tales for fresh perspectives. Thomas emphasizes the value of simplicity in storytelling, comparing it to the elegance of a well-told fairy tale.
For those interested in cinematography, the team suggests studying the works of renowned filmmakers and exploring the visual storytelling techniques used in different art forms. Additionally, they highlight the importance of sound design and how it can significantly impact the emotional resonance of a video.
As the episode wraps up, the hosts offer practical tips for keeping your creative juices flowing, such as maintaining a notebook or using apps to jot down ideas, and being open to new and different styles of storytelling.
Thank you for joining us on this edition of the Content Combo Podcast. Don't forget to tune in every Friday for more insights, and follow us on LinkedIn or via the Casual Films website.

Episode Five: Using AI to enhance your videos

Welcome to this week's edition of the Content Combo Podcast, presented by Casual Films. Our host, Thomas Elliott, is joined by Ansh Gray, Joey Kan, and filmmaker Richie Fowler to discuss a hot button topic for 2024: using AI to enhance your videos.
The episode dives into the biggest misconceptions about AI and video content creation, exploring its current capabilities and potential future applications. From cleaning up audio and generating storyboards to enhancing videos with unique backgrounds, our experts share their insights on how AI is transforming the industry.
Despite the rapid advancements, the human element remains crucial in directing AI to achieve desired results. Our guests also touch upon the legal challenges and the importance of understanding the tools to maximize their benefits.
Join us as we explore the exciting possibilities AI brings to video production, while reaffirming the irreplaceable value of human creativity and storytelling.
Don't miss out on this engaging discussion and tune in every Friday for more insights from the Content Combo Podcast. Follow us on LinkedIn or via Casual Films to stay updated!

Episode Four: Things we never want to see in a video...

Welcome to this week's edition of the Content Combo Podcast. I'm your host, Thomas Elliott, and joining me to make up the combo this week are editors Ansh Grey, Joey Kan, and filmmaker Richie Fowler. Today, we're going to shift gears and have a bit of fun discussing things we never want to see in a video.
The team dives into overused trends, unprofessional techniques, and elements that make videos seem lackluster. From the cliché "Hey guys!" YouTube intros to dull Zoom recording LinkedIn videos, we cover it all. We also highlight why poorly lit, overly lit, or badly edited videos can ruin the viewer's experience.
Our experts share their pet peeves, such as narrated B-rolls and the dreaded microphone-in-the-shot mistake, while stressing the importance of storytelling over mere aesthetics. We explore the value of setting trends rather than following them and the pitfalls of jumping onto technology crazes without a compelling narrative.
Join us for a lively discussion on what to avoid in video content to keep your audience engaged and entertained. Tune in every Friday for more insights from the Content Combo Podcast, and don't forget to follow us via the Casual Films website.

Episode Three: Shooting for the edit

Welcome to this week's edition of the Content Combo Podcast, presented by Casual Films. Join host Thomas Elliott and expert editors Ansh Grey, Joey Kan, and filmmaker Richie Fowler as they delve into the concept of "shooting for the edit." Discover the importance of staying true to the story, avoiding overshooting, and the significance of a good shot list or storyboard in pre-production.
Gain insights from the team on how to achieve an optimal balance of footage, the usability ratio of shots, and the benefits of thinking in sequences. Learn how effective communication between production and post-production teams can enhance the final product, and why disciplined shooting can make or break a project.
Whether you're a filmmaker, creator, or brand, this episode is packed with valuable tips and advice on capturing material for the edit, ensuring you deliver compelling video content that drives results. Don't miss out on this essential guide to mastering the art of shooting for the edit.

Episode Two: Crafting Authentic Video Stories

Welcome to this week's edition of the Content Combo Podcast, presented by Casual Films. Join host Thomas Elliott and our expert panel, including editors Ansh Grey and Joey Kan, along with filmmaker Richie Fowler, as they dive deep into the art of crafting authentic video stories.
In this episode, our team explores what it truly means to create video content that resonates with audiences on an emotional level. They discuss the importance of maintaining authenticity throughout the creative process, from pre-interviews and filming to editing and final delivery.
Discover the challenges and solutions in building genuine narratives, the significance of understanding a brand's unique voice, and how to foster trust and collaboration between brands and video partners. Tune in to learn how to make every story count and keep your audience engaged.
Don't miss out on insightful tips and real-world examples that can help elevate your content creation game. Follow us every Friday for more expert advice and engaging discussions on the Content Combo Podcast.

Episode One: Crafting Compelling On-Screen Interviews

Welcome to the first edition of the Content Combo Podcast, presented by Casual Films. Join your host, Thomas Elliott, along with editors Ansh Grey, Joey Kan, and filmmaker Richie Fowler as they delve into the art of creating compelling on-screen interviews.
In this episode, our experts discuss the key elements that make an interview captivating—from lighting and ambience to the clarity of sound and the delivery of content. They explore how directors can draw out the best from their subjects and the importance of making talent feel comfortable and authentic.
The team also shares valuable insights on the editing process, highlighting how to distill hours of footage into a concise and engaging narrative. They discuss the role of the director in setting the tone on set and how strategic decisions can enhance the final product.
Whether you're a filmmaker, content creator, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of producing effective video content, this episode offers practical advice and insider tips to elevate your interview videos.
Don't miss out on this informative and engaging conversation. Tune in every Friday for more from the Content Combo, and follow us on LinkedIn or via the Casual Films website.