Kids + Cameras: Make a Commercial (Part 4)

My daughters had an absolute blast making commercials in our kitchen. They took turns holding the point-and-shoot digital camera, using the simple movie function. Playing back the commercials had us laughing so hard we could barely breathe!

How to Make a Commercial:

• Actor (Kid #1): In the kitchen, set up props, food containers, cereal boxes, etc. as desired. Develop an idea for a commercial. Talk about tag lines, product attributes or what need the product meets. Discuss the wording and rehearse a few times. Kids can also create a jingle to go along with the theme and "sell" the product or service.
• Photographer (Kid #2): Stand across the kitchen, point the camera at the actor at eye level and start a movie. Try hard to keep the camera steady. Another option is to set the camera on a counter or books (we wound up with a movie of the top of Kid #1's head).
• Switch roles.  Alternate actor-photographer until you run out of ideas or the camera memory is full.
• Transfer movies to the computer.
• Play movies.  Evaluate the main ideas of each commercial and try to breathe as you laugh at the antics of the kids.

If your kids are ready to take photographs, try expanding to movie shorts.

Comments

[Sam]

My two boys have been inspired by toy "review" videos on You Tube, and they now endlessly create their own. Usually the camera is pointing at the toy, and they are providing the voice over, but sometimes they are in front of the camera too.
Very funny to watch back :-)

[Shell]

This is great fun for you and the kids.

[gypsy]

Sam, I hadn't thought of showing the girls YouTube videos, not thinking that there was any kid-friendly content. Great idea, toy reviews!

Shell,
Thanks for stopping by!

~ Tammy