From Stills to Stories: Creating Engaging Behind-the-Scenes Content

In the world of film and television, the magic isn't confined to the flicker of the final product on screen; it's also in the hum of activity behind the scenes, the laughter between takes, and the concentration in the eyes of the crew as they bring a vision to life. As a still photographer on set, you're not just capturing images; you're preserving the heart and soul of the production. But what if you could take it a step further? What if you could use your skills to create engaging behind-the-scenes (BTS) content that tells the story of the production process itself?

The Power of BTS Content

Behind-the-scenes content holds a unique allure. It peels back the curtain on the cinematic magic, offering fans and audiences a glimpse into the reality of filmmaking. This content isn't just about promotional material; it's about connection, sharing the journey of creation with those who will eventually enjoy the finished work. For still photographers, venturing into BTS content creation is an opportunity to expand their storytelling repertoire, capturing not just a moment, but the narrative arc of the entire production process.

Expanding Your Skill Set

Transitioning from capturing stills to creating BTS stories might seem daunting at first, but it's a natural extension of the skills you already possess. You understand the set, the players, and the unspoken rules of when to step in and when to blend into the background. Here's how you can leverage your skills to craft compelling BTS content:

1. Embrace Candid Moments

The essence of engaging BTS content lies in its authenticity. Use your intuition to capture candid moments: the director pondering over a scene, the camaraderie between cast members, or the intense focus of the crew. These genuine interactions provide a rich narrative texture that scripted content can't replicate.

2. Document the Process

Every film and TV production is a journey, and you have a front-row seat to its unfolding. Showcase the transformation of sets, the evolution of characters through costume and makeup, and the meticulous setup of complex scenes. This not only celebrates the hard work of the crew but also educates the audience on the intricacies of filmmaking.

3. Tell Individual Stories

While the production as a whole is a story, so too are the individual journeys of the people involved. Highlight the diverse roles on set, from the DOP (director of photography) to the makeup artist, and share their perspectives on the project. These personal stories add depth and a human touch to the BTS content and you never know who might want to do an article about that specific person..

Mark Patton - Director of Photography

I photographed Mark often on set, he was a great character and so talented. Because of this, more of my stills from Silo were shared as he used a specific lighting tool that wrote a page about him using them on set. So all the behind-the-scenes was worth it.

4. Leverage Light and Shadow

Just as in still photography, light and shadow play pivotal roles in BTS. Use natural light to your advantage, capturing the early morning prep or the golden hour reflections on set. These nuances of light not only beautify your content but also evoke a sense of time and place.

5. Experiment with Angles and Movement

While stills require a keen eye for composition, BTS content allows for experimentation with movement and angles. Use handheld shots for an intimate feel, or wide shots to capture the scale of the production. The dynamic nature of video means you can explore perspectives that tell a story in motion.

The Art of Storytelling

Creating BTS content is an art form that goes beyond mere documentation; it's about weaving a narrative that complements the main production. Engage your audience with the unfolding drama of the creative process, the triumphs and challenges, and the sheer joy of bringing a story to life.

Conclusion

For still photographers, delving into BTS content creation is not just an expansion of skill; it's a broadening of the narrative scope. You're in a unique position to tell the stories behind the stories, to capture the heartbeats behind the scenes. So, take your camera, step behind the curtain, and start crafting the kind of content that bridges the gap between the audience and the screen, making each viewer feel like a part of the journey. In doing so, you're not just documenting the production process; you're immortalizing the spirit of filmmaking itself.