15/08/2024
Before I begin, my assistant and I are ok.
Apparently a scam has been running for some time where videographers are being booked last minute for jobs in the Bedford view area. But when given the address it is in the greater Kensington area.
Not an issue if you don't know this is happening, and also, last minute jobs are commonplace.
But i am surprised that i have not heard a single thing about this scam on any photography groups.
Maybe i have been so busy i don't remember seeing it.
In this area, it has happened 15TIMES where teams have been booked, they arrive at the address, but when they arrive the their car and gear is stolen at gunpoint.
They are left on the street with nothing as the scammers drive away.
That is what happened to my assistant and I today.
Thanks goodness a street security member called it in, "Murphy" arrived and as they left with my car and gear, he was right after them and chased them to Yeoville where they stopped, left the car and ran into the crowd.
I got everything back except my cellphone and wallet.
But why is this the first time i am hearing of this?
Surely there should be a bigger thing made to warn our industry about these types of scams.
I mean, we are lucky to gear my gear back, but 4 armed hijackers pointing guns at you - we were lucky to get away with our lives.
I say again, why have i not heard anything about this?
We have to start warning those in our industry about this.
It is such an issue, that there is even a number set up to confirm if the bookings are legitimate.
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If anyone is booked around the Kensington area they are free to contact No Crime with the booking details so we can verify the booking is legitimate on 072 662 7463.
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Here are the details:
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David from "She Rises Wellness"
www.sherises.co.za
[email protected]
The website is no longer working, pretty sure the email and phone number are also no longer working.
+27 74 334 5163
This is the PDF they provided, this was to me a 100% legitimate booking.
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Strong African Hand Woman
Project Overview
Create a compelling testimonial video featuring strong women sharing their stories. The video aims to inspire and empower viewers by highlighting the resilience, achievements, and experiences of these women.
Objectives
Showcase authentic and impactful testimonials. Capture high-quality visual and audio content. Ensure a polished and professional final product.
Target Audience
Women of all ages looking for inspiration and empowerment. General audience interested in stories of resilience and success.
Key Messages
The power of perseverance.
Overcoming challenges and barriers. Celebrating achievements and milestones.
Video Style
Documentary-style interviews.
Warm and intimate setting.
Emphasis on facial expressions and emotions.
Location
We have selected a Location in Bedford View, Johannesburg, for a home feel setup to highlight the everyday life of a strong woman.
Equipment
Camera A: Primary camera focused on a medium shot of the interviewee. Camera B: Secondary camera for capturing close-ups and dierent angles. High Quality footage recorded in 4K
Camera C: this is optional
Lighting
Soft, even lighting to avoid harsh shadows.
Use natural light if possible, complemented by fill lights to maintain consistency.
Ensure the lighting highlights the interviewee's face and expressions.
Audio
Use lavalier microphones for clear and crisp audio.
Ensure the environment is quiet to avoid background noise.
Shot List
1. Introduction Shot
Camera A: Medium shot of the interviewee introducing herself.
Camera B: Close-up shot capturing the interviewee's facial expressions.
2. Testimonial Shots
Camera A: Medium shot of the interviewee sharing her story.
Camera B: Close-up shots focusing on emotional moments, hand gestures, and facial expressions.
3. Cutaway Shots
B-roll footage of the interviewee in her environment (e.g., working, with family, pursuing hobbies).
Relevant objects or items related to her story.
4. Closing Shot
Camera A: Medium shot of the interviewee delivering a final empowering message. Camera B: Close-up shot to capture the sincerity and emotion.
Storyboard
1. Opening Scene
Title card with the video’s title and a brief introduction. Fade into the first shot of the interviewee.
2. Main Testimonial
Alternating between Camera A and Camera B to maintain visual interest.
Include lower third graphics with the interviewee’s name and relevant information.
3. Cutaway Scenes
Integrate B-roll footage to illustrate points made in the testimonial. Use transitions to seamlessly blend testimonial and cutaway shots.
4. Closing Scene
Final empowering message from the interviewee.
Fade out to closing title card with a call to action (e.g., visit website, follow on social media).
Post-Production
Edit the footage to ensure a smooth flow between shots.
Enhance audio quality and balance levels.
Add background music that complements the tone of the testimonials. Include graphics, titles, and lower thirds for a professional finish.
Distribution
Upload the final video to relevant platforms (e.g., YouTube, social media, website). Optimize for each platform to ensure maximum reach and engagement.
Additional Notes
Conduct a brief pre-interview to make the interviewee comfortable and get a sense of her story.
Encourage the interviewee to speak naturally and from the heart.
Be prepared for multiple takes to ensure the best quality content.
This setup and plan should help create a powerful and moving testimonial video that resonates with viewers and showcases the strength and resilience of the women featured.
