Chris Sparks's Blog

Music Video Updates

I'm currently filming my music videos.  So, I thought I would take the time to update you on how it is going.

The music video process is moving right along.  Like anything in the entertainment business, it can be quite frustrating in the beginning; but, I expect that. 

Here are the biggest hurdles:

Locations - There are a lot of laws surrounding commercial film shoots.  You can't just go somewhere and film.  There can also be a lot of charges to use government properties such as Universities.  You can easily spend $1,000+ per day.  A lot of commercial businesses can't interrupt their business to let you film.  That is understandable.  Even if they do, you may have a lot of time limits and limited ability to set-up properly, especially with lighting. 

Luckily for me, I don't care where I film.  Most videos now are done in old warehouses and sound stages for these reasons.  It's a music video, not a major motion picture.  Fortunately though, I have found plenty of locations where they are letting me film at little or no cost.  These businesses realize that it is good exposure for their business & property.  Plus, helping out a recording artist might be of great benefit in the future.

Models/Actors - Believe or not, it is hard to find people to be in music videos.  It's easy to find people who say they want to do it.  There are plenty of people who say they want a career in acting and modeling.  But, very few will actually do the work it takes to get there.  A lot of them expect a lot of money even though they have no experience.  Of course, I am paying each actor and offering a lot of other benefits on top of that such as extra exposure.  But, if I were going to pay a lot of money, it would be to an experienced person who brings a lot to the table, is somewhat recognized and might actually have a big career one day that will in turn enhance my career as well.

Again, I can film "Performance Videos" that require no other actors.  But again, I have been fortunate enough to find some really great people who are down to earth and really want a career in modeling & acting.  I've actually found more than I need right now. But, I value good people.  So, I will create other projects just to work with them. 

Lighting - This is the most important thing I have to learn.  There's a big learning curve here.  People spend decades perfecting this craft.  I have to do it in a few months for indoor and outdoor lighting.  Plus, I have to buy the right lighting kits for each situation.  That is what I am working on now. 

Make-up - This is also very important.  Being a guy, I have very little experience in this!  Luckily I have been through a few pro shoots.  But, I need to learn to do my own make-up b/c of the amount of filming I will be doing.  It will pretty well be constant.

Well, those are the basics of the obstacles I have encountered and overcome.  I will be writing a whole series of articles once I have finished a few videos and have some hard experience to offer.  To follow this more closely, feel free to visit my film profile on myspace at http://www.MySpace.com/ChrisSparksFilms .

Until then, best of luck in your endeavors.

Chris