Video scoreboard advertising can be exciting, enticing and most of all, will grab and keep the attention of the fans. Today’s technologies offer quality production advantages to everyone, bringing the ability of creativity to the non-professional. There are some key components that you will need to be aware of, as you start out on the adventure of building video advertising for your sports scoreboard.
A first step will be to examine the type of technologies you will need for video scoreboard advertising. Today, you have many options and can blend some of the technologies. It is advised that you use a good video camera for the best resolution. Most video files are .mmv files and can be loaded via a computer as well as an outside feed. Video file technical specifications include: bit rates greater than 2Mbps, 32-bit color depth, key frames every 1 second, a frame rate of at least 15 frames per second. While 640×480 resolution is preferred, do not go any lower than 400×300 and be aware that your dimensions can be adapted to accommodate wide screen videos. If you have a low resolution, there are some software tools, such as ParticleIllusion that you can use to create the illusion of a higher res production.
The length of the video is also important. Be aware that you will want short, clear and attention-grabbing scoreboard video ads to capture the illusive short-attention time span of the viewer. Short form videos are typically 3-10 seconds in length, with a maximum for larger advertisers of 15 seconds.
Video and audio editing tools will be your best friend in creating a top notch presentation. Whether you have a pc, Mac or another platform, look to compatibility and memory requirements. Some desktop software that you might consider includes vMix, TriCaster, Wirecast and Casper CG. You will also want to think about whether you want your advertising to be part of a streaming live event. These will require cue points for ad insertion. The software will also give you an advantage as they allow multi-camera shots to be blended together. This is crucial when you are on a limited budget and will give your advertising the appearance of a more professional appeal.
Making the decision for a video will include whether you want to include animations. This may require a graphic design artist as part of your team with Photoshop expertise. Animation can be a bit trickier, but the upside is that they don’t require live actors or on-site camera production shots. More people gravitate their viewing to animations, so this may be a good choice for your scoreboard ads.
The addition of audio completes a scoreboard advertisement and is more likely to keep the viewers attention. Successful audio depends completely on the broadcast system, so you will need to experiment to ensure the best sound. Keep in mind that your outdoor stadium will have a lot of background noise and the audio portion will need to be recorded higher than when you are editing. Audio editing software gives you ease-of-use for copy, cut, paste, auto-trim, amplify, and equalize features.
Always experiment with the various technologies, using your imagination and ideas to get the kind of production that will make your sponsors happy.