Research In To Existing Show Reels (Part 1)

Research In To Existing Show Reels

What is the purpose of a show reel?

A show reel is a short video showcasing a person's previous work and experience. Show reels are usually produced by or for people in the creative industries. A show reel is often associated with actors but can also include filmmakers, animators, musicians, editors, and models. If you are applying for a job, or starting your own business a show reel is a way to show your existing work to your clients, customers or anyone else who may be interested.

Subject 1 - Weston college media show reel 2020 

Length : 1:42

Logo : College logo

This is a show reel for a college, rather than a personal show reel. Due to this, the product takes work from a variety of different students. This includes special effects, drone footage and vehicle cinematographers. It even includes work done outside of the UK, which shows that they have expanded their work. This is very professional and really showcases the best of what they have to offer. The video and music pair well together, one example of this is cutting on beats. As well as this, inspirational wording is also included as it matches well with the inspirational power of the backing track. For example "Be Bold" is used to inspire students to go forward with big ideas and follow their dreams. 

One thing I noticed about this show reel, is that it focuses on cinematography and special effects. This means that they don't really showcase any graphics design skills, such as photoshop. They also didn't focus on any sound design projects, such as podcasts, music projects and commentary. Towards they end there is a short montage of smaller projects but it is unclear as to whether they are print ads or moving images. This is due to them only appearing on the screen for a second or two. This could be something I look to avoid, however I think t's important to make things quick and visually appealing. This project sometimes showed multiple different projects on the screen at the same time, I think this shows an advanced understanding of technical skill. 

Subject 2 : Cut Media Show Reel 

Logo : Cut Media

Length : 1:14

The Cut Media show reel is for a business, so it shows the various different pieces of work the company has produced. This includes animation, drone shots and various different events such as bike riding. The show reel even shows some shots under water, this shows that Cut Media have a variety of equipment to help you create videos. I think it's obvious that this company is good for content creators who like to explore. The show reel shows various different shots of people running through the mountains. 

Linking back to animation this company can mix animation into the real world, in multiple shots you can see animated characters in real life settings. This shows a great understanding of technical skill. The video pairs well with the up beat music, it provokes a feeling of adventure and that works well with the show reel. When it comes to text, this company shows us just how many views and followers they have on social media. It shows websites such as YouTube and Facebook. This will help sway someone to go with their company, because they are proven winners. 

As well as this, Cut Media include some motivational text, to try and persuade the viewer to follow their mind. For example "from concept, to completion" is really intriguing, and shows the viewer if they an idea, the company can bring it to life. They also use humor to prove their point, for example "content even your mum likes" is a cheeky comment to get you more interested. They also disclose that they work with athletes, this is establishing a clear target audience. This show reel is very quick and straight to the point, I like that because the constant barrage of content keeps the viewer engaged.

So, What Makes A Good Show Reel?

A good show reel tells a story, and it does so in a variety of ways. It tells the story of the actor's career so far. It tells the story of the characters they're portraying. It leaves the viewer with a feeling. Another example of a good show reel would be something that shows a variety of quality content.

Here are my six tips for making good show reel, by applying these tips you will be creating a quick and efficient show reel, with honest feedback.

• 1) Keep it short. Don't make your show reel too long or put in too much information.
• 2) Focus on the opening.
• 3) Think about the audience. 
• 4) Check how it looks on the site.
• 5) Ask a friend of a friend.
• 6) Keep it up to date.
• 
  
• Do I Need A Show Reel?

The simple answer is yes. If you're serious about getting cast in professional productions, and you aren't already very well known to casting directors, directors and the world at large, a show reel is part of your first line of attack.