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IECC Video Guidelines
Video is a powerful tool for capturing dynamic moments and bringing the IECC experience to life. Whether recording an event, an interview, or a campus scene, well-framed and stable footage enhances storytelling and strengthens our brand identity.
Note: Professional video production is preferred for major marketing campaigns and institutional promotions. However, these guidelines will help ensure quality and consistency for all video content representing IECC, regardless of who captures it.
Video Overview
Video content at IECC should reflect our brand values and personality while effectively communicating our message. Whether creating content for social media, the website, or presentations, maintaining consistent quality and style is essential for strengthening our institutional identity.
Videos should tell authentic stories that engage viewers and reflect the IECC experience.
Focus on student experiences, achievements, and journeys to showcase the impact of an IECC education.
Maintain high standards for video quality, including stable footage, proper lighting, and clear audio.
Ensure videos reflect IECC's approachable, inspiring, and student-focused personality.
Best Practices for Capturing Video
DO: Shoot in Landscape Mode
Always record horizontally to provide better framing options for various platforms.
DO: Keep the Camera Steady
Use a tripod, stabilizer, or steady hands to reduce shaky footage.
DO: Frame Subjects Well
Position people slightly off-center using the rule of thirds for a more visually appealing shot.
DO: Record High-Quality Audio
Reduce background noise and, when possible, use an external microphone for interviews.
DON'T: Create Blurry or Unstable Footage
Keep the camera steady and focused for a professional appearance.
DON'T: Film with Poor Lighting
Ensure subjects are properly lit to maintain visibility and quality.
DON'T: Record with Bad Audio
Background noise can be distracting; always record in a quiet environment.
DON'T: Include Unrelated Content
Video should support the intended message and remain relevant to the topic.
- Use a tripod whenever possible
- If handheld, use stabilizing techniques
- Move deliberately and slowly when panning
- Avoid unnecessary zooming while recording
- Use natural light when possible
- Avoid backlighting subjects
- Ensure faces are well-lit
- Be consistent with lighting throughout a scene
- Record in quiet environments
- Use external microphones when possible
- Monitor audio levels while recording
- Consider ambient noise in the location
- Follow the rule of thirds
- Be mindful of what's in the background
- Leave headroom above subjects
- Consider the visual flow of the scene
Understanding B-Roll
B-roll footage is essential in creating engaging and dynamic videos. It consists of supplemental shots that help tell a more complete story, providing context, visual interest, and smooth transitions.
Rule of Thumb: Capture at least 5-10 minutes of total footage for every one minute of final video. This allows for multiple angles, smooth transitions, and flexibility in editing.
What Makes Good B-Roll
- People in action (students collaborating, faculty teaching)
- Environmental context (campus scenes, classrooms)
- Detail shots that add visual interest
- Transitions between locations or topics
- Illustrative footage that reinforces the spoken content
Planning Your B-Roll
- Consider the story you're telling
- Identify key visual elements needed
- Capture a variety of angles and perspectives
- Include both wide establishing shots and close-ups
- Record longer clips than you think you'll need (10-15 seconds minimum)
Capture students actively participating in discussions, taking notes, or working with instructors.
Record students walking between classes, studying in common areas, or engaging in campus activities.
Show students working with equipment, performing experiments, or practicing skills in labs and workshops.
Feature distinctive buildings, natural areas, and iconic campus locations that represent IECC.
Common Video Types
Students sharing their experiences and success stories.
- Interview in a meaningful location (classroom, lab)
- Include B-roll of student in action
- Keep testimony authentic and unscripted
- Focus on specific, impactful experiences
Showcasing specific academic programs or departments.
- Feature faculty and students
- Demonstrate facilities and equipment
- Highlight career outcomes
- Show classroom and hands-on activities
Documenting campus events, ceremonies, and activities.
- Capture wide establishing shots
- Include audience reactions
- Record key moments and speakers
- Document before, during, and after
Marketing-focused content to attract prospective students.
- Highlight IECC's unique benefits
- Include diverse student perspectives
- Feature high-energy, dynamic scenes
- End with clear call-to-action
Technical Standards
- Record in 1080p HD minimum (4K preferred when available)
- 16:9 aspect ratio for standard video
- MP4 or MOV file formats
- Frame rate: 30fps (24fps for cinematic look)
- 44.1kHz or 48kHz sample rate
- 16-bit or 24-bit depth
- Clean, uncompressed audio when possible
- Normalized audio levels (-12dB to -6dB peak)
- Campus TV displays: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Social media optimized versions may vary
- Consider platform-specific requirements
- Include closed captions for accessibility
Use this format for all video files:
[college]_[project]_[MMYY].mp4
Example: ltc_nursing_program_0623.mp4
Accessibility Reminder: All videos used for institutional purposes should include closed captions or transcripts to ensure accessibility for all users. This is not just a best practice but also a legal requirement for educational institutions.