Fraud Blocker

Using Video To Advocate For Social Change

Illustration of Australian Parliament by 1 Minute Media.

Today, more than ever, visual storytelling holds unparalleled influence. Whether we like it or not, filmmakers wield the power to ignite societal transformation. If you’re seeking to harness video’s potential as a catalyst for change and amplify your brand in the process, then this guide is for you.

Table of Contents

The Role Of Videos In Social Advocacy

Video, as a medium, has a rich history of driving social change. From groundbreaking documentaries that expose systemic injustices to powerful narratives that shape public discourse, video producers and filmmakers have become the voices of marginalized communities and advocates for progress.

Choosing A Cause

Selecting the right cause is crucial. Organisations are required to make sure the cause aligns with their core values. Most importantly, you must know enough about the intersections of varying advocacies.

Aligning Passion With Purpose

Advocacy filmmaking begins with a genuine passion for a cause. Consider the issues that stir your emotions, the injustices that fuel your determination, and the narratives that compel you to act. Your chosen cause should also resonate with your target audience.

Research-Driven Decision Making

In-depth research is the foundation of compelling advocacy videos. Dive into authoritative sources, academic studies, and first-hand accounts of your chosen cause. Understand the historical context, current challenges, and potential avenues for positive change.

Balancing Global And Local Impact

While some causes are global, others may be deeply rooted in local communities. Consider the scale of impact your chosen cause can achieve. Whether it’s addressing a worldwide issue like climate change or spotlighting a grassroots movement in your hometown, select a cause that aligns with your scope and resources.

Ensuring Relevance And Timeliness

Social issues evolve, and ensuring your chosen cause remains relevant and timely is crucial. Stay updated with current events, emerging trends, and changing narratives about your cause. This will allow you to craft a narrative that speaks directly to the hearts and minds of your audience.

Some Australian Government agencies that utilise video to advocate for change include the Department of Health and Aged Care, Australian Human Rights Commission and the Australian Council for International Development.

Production Techniques For Impactful Videos

Elevate your vision into a visual masterpiece. Dive deep into the subtleties of lighting, composition, and color grading that evoke profound emotional responses. Uncover the transformative power of sound design and music that immerses your audience in the heart of the narrative.

Mastering Lighting And Composition

Lighting and composition are the painter’s brushstrokes in the world of filmmaking. Understand how the interplay of light and shadow can evoke specific moods and atmospheres. Lighting setups need to match the aesthetic of your narrative. Composition considers framing, perspective, and visual balance.

Color Grading For Emotional Impact

It is akin to a video’s emotional palette. It can accentuate mood, evoke nostalgia, or heighten tension. Experiment with color grading techniques to establish a visual tone that aligns with the emotional arc of your video.

Scoring For Emotional Resonance

Music is a universal language that can elevate emotions to new heights. Choose a score that complements the narrative arc of your video. Consider how melodies, harmonies, and rhythms can accentuate moments of tension, triumph, or reflection.

In video production, every frame is a potential catalyst for revolution. From the meticulous pre-production phase to the artful execution of production techniques and the nuanced considerations of ethical responsibilities, this guide has illuminated the path to impactful storytelling. Through the power of visual narrative, video production companies can advocate for social change, amplify voices that need to be heard, and inspire action.

Our range of services at 1 Minute Media includes cinematic video production for individuals and organisations. We have a creative team who can help you execute your desired advocacy video and deliver your message to the audience. Contact us today and ask for a Quote or phone on 1300 905 205.

Bio: As a co-founder of 1 Minute Media, Kathy has been instrumental in producing thousands of strategic videos for Australian businesses.

She has a unique background in education, service & sales, adding depth to everyone seeking to promote their business or organisation through video.

Affirm Press, Case Study
Interviews

Production Overview

Affirm Press is one of Australia’s most respected, independent publishers, dedicated to publishing our nation’s stories and ideas. Affirm’s team approached us to bring their stunning collection of fiction and biographies to life, via short-form video.

The story of Professor Justin Yerbury AM, is one of resilience and courage in the fight against motor neurone disease. We had the deep honor of interviewing Professor Yerbury, in his own home, as he reflected on his legacy during his final months of his life.

1 Minute Media Creative

The Voice to Parliament
Animation

Production Overview

With an extremely tight deadline, the Australian Family Legal Services, Western Australia approached our team to produce The Voice to Parliament, Animation.

The aim was to combat misinformation proliferating on the internet in the leadup to the Voice Referendum, through versions in English and the Kimberley Kriol dialect.

The animation was shown in information workshops, while our cuts, including reels, rapidly gained tens of 1000’s of views across socials. The outcomes reported were high increases in community awareness in the Kimberley region of WA. 

1 Minute Media Creative

OzHarvest
Event

Production Overview

OzHarvest is Australia’s leading food rescue organisation.

1 Minute Media joined CEO Ronnie Khan and a team of supporters, including Chef Neil Perry and Sydney Mayor, Clover Moore to bring the message to the streets.

Taking over Sydney’s Martin Place at lunch-time, the crowd was buzzing and the food was mouth watering … And the best part? There were no leftovers.

1 Minute Media Creative

Tennis Majors
Brand, TV Ad

Production Overview

Tennis Majors approached us for a series of branded TV Ads, to bring in the crowds for the Summer Season.
From the minute we called “action”, Australia’s most entertaining tennis player swung into Kyrgios mode. The result? Game, set and match. 

1 Minute Media Creative

1 Minute Media
Brand Animation Showreel

Production Overview

We elevate brands with sleek gradient-filled animations.

Next generation explainers, unboring corporate motion graphics.

Our branded animations simplify complex messages for serious organisations. AI Media, Energy Australia, NSW Health, NRL, Doordash and more.

If humans can dream it, we can animate it.

1 Minute Media Creative

The Missing Link
Animation

Production Overview

With over 250 employees across 5 continents, including Oceania North America and Europe, The Missing Link commissioned our team to define their extensive IT solutions.

Our animated explainer is a valuable asset for defining the products and amplifying the global reach of this local SaaS team.

1 Minute Media Creative

Women In AI
Event, Brand

Production Overview

Founded in Paris in 2016 by Dr Hanan Salam, WAI has grown into a powerful global community of AI & Data innovators and leaders. Since 2019 we have partnered with WAI to capture the pinnacle awards that celebrate the incredible innovations by women in artificial intelligence.

Our 50+ videos have been a driver of the phenomenal membership growth that started as a small Facebook group, and has expanded to 8000 members (and counting) in 140 countries.

1 Minute Media Creative

Heinemann
Brand Video

Production Overview

Established in 1879, Heinemann has developed into a billion dollar global distributor and retailer for the international travel market. Despite this success, Heinemann takes pride in the warm, family approach to it’s customers and crew. Heinemann invited our team to demonstrate this beloved culture for a large recruitment campaign. As experts in short-form storytelling, 1 Minute Media immediately rose to the challenge – resulting in a series of branded recruitment videos that brought applicants from across the globe.

1 Minute Media Creative