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Making a Memorable PSA

Thinking Ahead

  • Keep to the time limit – Make sure your spot is exactly 30 seconds – it’s like a TV commercial so edit accordingly!
  • Consider your audience –Keep in mind that you are trying to reach people your age. Also remember that if you win, your PSA will be broadcast on the Web and maybe TV, so keep it appropriate and G-rated.
  • Focus your message and theme – You only have 30 seconds so use your words, images and time wisely.  Pick one of the three themes (Send a message to big tobacco, What’s In a cigarette? Or How Does the Tobacco Industry See You?) and leave your audience with one easily understood take away message.
  • Brainstorm ideas – Search the Web and watch PSAs created by advocacy group to help jog your creativity. Also, it’s helpful to test your ideas on others.  While solo film makers are welcome, don’t underestimate the creativity of a group of friends, class or club.
  • Identify your “hook” – You have to grab your viewer’s attention to get them to hear your message, so think of ways to “hook” them! A hook can be a funny message, a statistic, an emotional story, etc.
  • Check your facts – Make sure all of the information that you use is accurate and up to date.
  • Think of creative visuals – Your PSA can be live-action or animated, and include anything from people to puppets. If you are already planning a Kick Butts Day event use footage from your event to spice up your PSA!

Making Film Magic

  • Speak slowly and clearly – If your spot has dialogue, make sure it is understandable and that anyone speaking is facing the camera.
  • Make text readable – If your spot displays text, make sure the words are on the screen long and large enough for the average person to read them. And, make sure they are not blurry.
  • Video Specs – Film in high-resolution. And save your video in .mov, .avi., .wmv or .mpg format.
  • Keep your raw materials – Until the contest is over, keep your original video and computer files!

HELPFUL RESOURCES
Check out the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Web site for tobacco facts and information that can help you get started: http://www.tobaccofreekids.org

If you need help producing your film-short, you can get help from your local community access cable TV station. Many offer free production courses and provide access to their production equipment.

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Stand Out. Speak Up. Seize Control

April 2,2008