IFRC | Solferino Academy

Useful Tips for the IFRC Global Innovation Summit 2023 Video Challenges

How to create an interesting video

• Plan your storyline before filming, keeping your audience in mind and delivering a compelling story.
• Ask yourself: would you like to watch this video? What will make it special and interesting?
• You can wear a Red Cross / Red Crescent uniform, badge or similar, if you have one.
• Share your name and national society at the start or end.
• If you want, you can include a short interview with another RCRC volunteer or staff or a community member. Remember to get (written) consent! [you can use this consent form]
• Spell out acronyms and avoid jargon. 

Useful tips for filming/editing your video

• Start filming a few seconds before the action/speaking starts, and continue a few seconds after the end.
• Use natural light as much as possible.
• Choose a quiet location with no background noise for speaking and interviews.
• Avoid filming against busy backgrounds or with distracting text/objects.
• Position the camera at eye level, and keep it stable with a tripod, or resting it against a steady object.
• Try filming scenery and action from different angles. You can use close-ups, medium shots, wide angles etc. More about camera shots and angles
• Avoid zooming — instead, take steps to get closer. 
• Refer to video references for further guidance.

Useful Video References:

1. How to shoot mobile video like a pro 
2. How to Film like a PRO with Android Smartphones
3. Video Editing Guide for Beginners

Code of Conduct

• The humanitarian imperative comes first: to alleviate suffering, not to cause any additional stress to people affected.
• Respect people’s dignity and seek informed consent for everyone appearing in your videos.
• No political or religious viewpoints.
• Respect cultures and customs.

About the GIS 2023 Challenge

• There are five challenges available to apply for. Please check out the website.
• The winners will receive a fully funded invitation to the Global Innovation Summit 2023 in Kenya from June 26-28.
• Applicants must be staff or volunteers from a Red Cross or Red Crescent National Society with their National Society’s approval.
• Any funds distributed will be channelled through the applicant’s National Society. Good luck!