InnerAction Media

InnerAction Media Wins Telly Award for Outdoor Recreation Manufacturing Marketing Campaign

admin — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:31:55 +0000

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — InnerAction Media, a local leader in marketing and advertising, is proud to announce that it has been honored with a Bronze Telly Award in the category of Branding — Non-Broadcast. The accolade recognizes their outstanding work on the “Make It In the Mountains” campaign for Allegany and Garrett County, Md. and State of Maryland Department of Commerce, for their ‘Elevating the Outdoors’ project.

“InnerAction Media played such an important role in the development of a regional business attraction campaign for our region,” said Ashli Workman, director of tourism for Allegany County. “They thoughtfully listened and engaged with our stakeholders and our workgroup and were able to produce a campaign that really drove home our messaging strategies. Their work is beautiful, emotionally driven, and something we are all very proud of.”

IAM partnered with the environmental and economic development consulting firm, Downstream Strategies, who was awarded the bid for the partner’s ‘Elevating the Outdoors’ project which was funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The “Make It In the Mountains” campaign featured six high-quality videos, an engaging website, and compelling photography, spearheaded by creative director Liza Heiskell and director of photography Gabe Ofca. The initiative aimed to attract outdoor businesses and manufacturing sectors to Western Maryland and showcase the region’s unique tourism opportunities.

“Completing this project was extremely rewarding,” said Heiskell. “Allegany and Garrett counties are hidden gems, and their advocates are inspiring in their work showcasing the beauty of doing business in Western Maryland. It is always exciting to work with clients to bring their stories to life, but working with Downstream Strategies, along with the representatives of Western Maryland, and in the splendor of the area was especially meaningful.”

“It was a privilege to discover for myself what makes the mountains of Maryland a great place to live, work, and play,” said Ofca. “To be able to share that experience with others was truly the goal, and I think this award is evidence that we were able to make that happen.”

This is one of two Telly awards the media company won this year, with a total of 23 Telly awards won since InnerAction Media’s inception in 2011. IAM specializes in providing high-quality video, social media management, and strategic marketing services. With a proven track record in industries such as healthcare, construction, higher education, tourism, and real estate, the agency creates personalized plans that simplify a brand’s message based on its proprietary BrandStory framework.

The Telly Awards celebrate excellence in video and television across all screens, judged by a panel of industry leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks, and production companies. This year’s winners list includes renowned names like Adobe, Calvin Klein, ESPN, LinkedIn, Mother Jones, MTV Entertainment Studios, NASA, the LA Clippers (NBA), PlayStation Studios, Sawhorse Productions, TelevisaUnivison, and more. For more information about InnerAction Media and its award-winning services, please visit inneractionmedia.com or call (304) 241-4959.

The post InnerAction Media Wins Telly Award for Outdoor Recreation Manufacturing Marketing Campaign appeared first on InnerAction Media.

James Murray

admin — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 21:06:41 +0000

Meet the Team

James Murray

Production Assistant

James grew up in Ravenswood, WV, and earned his B.S. in Business Administration In Marketing from West Virginia University in 2023. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and exploring nature. When he’s not content creating or video editing, James loves spending time with his girlfriend Brooke and their Husky, Dexter. In his free moments, you’ll find him either Drumming, or playing Video Games with his relatives.

You should have a say in your story.

IAM can help your business prosper by creating a personalized plan for growth throughout our various mediums of expertise.

Let's Do It

The post James Murray appeared first on InnerAction Media.

How Google Gemini is Changing Search Engine Optimization

admin — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 21:36:38 +0000

The world of search engine optimization (SEO) has constantly been evolving, driven by recent advancements in technology. Internet users today engage with digital information in a completely new way, and that way is always shifting.

For small businesses, keeping up with these changes can be exhausting. But SEO is an effective tool for keeping your brand top-of-mind. The recent inclusion of Google Gemini, an

AI-driven update, to search results is sure to shake things up. We’re here to guide you on what this means for your company’s marketing techniques moving forward.

What is Google Gemini?

By studying how we use text to communicate, Google Gemini aims to better understand what the public is searching for. This area of study is called natural language processing (NLP). It also helps Google AI to explain search results to users using multiple website pages as sources.

Now, people can use conversational questions to get meaningful search results instead of focusing on keywords, and those search results are explained to the user as if they were asking a friend.

The Uncertainty and Promise of Google Gemini for SEO

Overall, it’s unclear what the introduction of Google Gemini means for online marketing. The technology is still new, which leaves room for speculation but also opens doors for new strategies. As search engines change, the approach to SEO will have to be more flexible.

At InnerAction Media, we understand the importance of staying ahead. As this technology advances, we will keep an eye on SEO trends to ensure your message remains clear and impactful. Here’s what we know so far.

Multimodal Searches: The Dawn of a New Search Era

Google Gemini markets multimodal searches as a groundbreaking element to Google searches.

—English, please?

A multimodal search includes many types of data, including images and videos, in a single search. Before, unless a video was transcribed or an image had some text included with it to explain what it was, a Google search had no way of using those elements in a search.

Now, with Gemini, Google can understand images and videos. Gemini can pull aspects and context from a picture as if it can “see” it. This allows searchers to verbally ask Google questions (audio), upload a picture and search for related content, or search using video content.

And vice versa—Gemini allows users to ask complex questions that pull information from different formats and sources, providing richer, more nuanced answers.

The Essence of Website Optimization

With Google Gemini reshaping the search landscape, website optimization becomes more critical than ever. Website optimization isn’t just about fast load times anymore; it’s about creating a seamless user experience that meets the evolving expectations of AI-driven search engines.

When recommending a website, Google Gemini might consider factors such as the quality of the content, how often people engage with your site, what the user’s experience is when they look up your website on their phone, and the incorporation of multimedia elements (pictures and videos).

InnerAction Media’s award-winning expertise in marketing and advertising prepares you to meet these challenges head-on.

We specialize in distilling complex information into clear, engaging messages that resonate with your target audience. Whether it’s through high-quality video content or strategic website optimization, we help your brand stand out amidst the noise.

The introduction of Google Gemini is a call to action for brands to refine their SEO strategies and enhance their web presence. By partnering with InnerAction Media, you’re not just keeping pace with changes—you’re staying ahead. Connect with us today to navigate the future of SEO with confidence.

The post How Google Gemini is Changing Search Engine Optimization appeared first on InnerAction Media.

How Expert Lighting Elevates Video Production

admin — Fri, 17 May 2024 14:03:49 +0000

What transforms a good video into a great one? The secret is literally what meets the eye—the art of lighting.

Lighting plays a critical role in visual storytelling and can make or break the connection with your audience. At InnerAction Media, we are always looking for ways to improve lighting because we believe effective lighting is crucial to creating impactful stories that resonate with viewers. Even on the lowest-quality camera, your video will look much more professional if the lighting is right.

Let’s shine a light on the fundamentals of video lighting and explore why investing in good lighting can lead to stellar results.

Why is Lighting Important in Video Production?

Lighting does more than merely illuminate a subject; it sets the tone and mood, directs the viewer’s attention, and can evoke specific emotions. Good lighting ensures clarity and depth, providing a professional look that can captivate the audience. When lighting is poor, videos may appear flat, unappealing, or fail to convey the intended message effectively.

Expertly handled lighting accentuates features, softens imperfections, and creates a three-dimensional look that brings a scene to life. Techniques such as the key light and fill light—one highlighting the subject and the other softening shadows—can achieve balance and depth. Backlighting adds dimension and separates the subject from the background, creating a richer, more engaging image.

Achieving Good Lighting: Tips and Techniques

Good lighting isn’t reliant on high-end equipment alone; it’s about understanding how to manipulate light effectively. Use natural light to your advantage by shooting during the “golden hour” or diffusing harsh sunlight. When indoors, mix ambient light with supplemental lighting to avoid flat images. Consider the color temperature of your lights—warm or cool—to match the scene’s atmosphere.

Investing in Quality Lighting

Lighting isn’t just a technical requirement; it’s an investment in your brand’s visual identity. It provides consistency and gives you control to evoke emotions in your video content. Investing in quality lighting equipment pays off through enhanced production value and decreased post-production work.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Lighting: Navigating the Environment

Indoor and outdoor lighting couldn’t be more different. Outdoors, visual storytellers have to deal with the sun, cloud cover, and time of day—all of which affect lighting conditions. Indoors, however, there’s more control, allowing for precise manipulation of the light sources. Both have challenges and advantages, but understanding these differences is paramount for achieving the desired effect in your video productions.

Key Light vs. Fill Light: Shaping the Story

The key light is the primary light source, casting the most light on the subject and creating the defining shadows. In contrast, the fill light mitigates the shadows created by the key light, softening the look and revealing detail. The interplay between these two types of light is essential for three-dimensionality and visual appeal in storytelling.

Backlight Brilliance: Enhancing Depth and Definition

A backlight, or hair light, shines on the subject from behind, outlining them and creating separation from the background. The subtle use of backlighting can elevate the production quality by adding depth and helping the subject stand out, providing a polished, high-end look to the video content.

Harsh Light vs. Soft Light: Crafting the Mood

Harsh light creates stark contrasts and defined shadows, which can be desirable for dramatic effect or to highlight texture. Soft light, however, is diffused and gentle, producing an even, flattering illumination that reduces shadows and contrasts. The choice between harsh and soft light has a powerful influence on the atmosphere and emotional tone of the video.

At InnerAction Media, our award-winning video production team goes beyond just lighting a scene; we craft a narrative. Understanding the nuances of lighting helps us to tell your brand’s story more effectively, ensuring that your message reaches the intended audience with clarity and impact.

So, whether you want to educate, persuade, or entertain, don’t underestimate the transformative power of well-executed lighting in your video production. Let us help you captivate your audience – because when it comes to impactful visual storytelling, the right lighting can make all the difference.

The post How Expert Lighting Elevates Video Production appeared first on InnerAction Media.

Crafting Compelling Company Videos: A Guide to Boosting Brand Visibility

admin — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:09:43 +0000

In the digital era, video content reigns supreme. It has a unique ability to capture the essence of a brand, something that words alone can’t quite do justice to. InnerAction Media distinguishes itself through compelling video production that captures attention and tells your brand’s story.

Let’s explore video content types and how they can be pivotal assets in your brand’s marketing strategy.

Image Films: Your Brand’s Story

Whether your brand sells coffee or saves lives, it has something to offer your customers that they can’t get anywhere else. The easiest—and most memorable—way to convey that to the masses is by telling your brand’s story.

Image films reflect your brand’s soul, values, and culture. When put on your website, they make it easy for potential customers to learn what your business is all about and imagine themselves working with you. You can also use these investment pieces in advertisements or social media campaigns. The content is evergreen and can be tweaked according to how your business grows and changes.

Explainer Videos: Simplifying Complexity

Explainer videos simplify complex problems and solutions. Typically short and engaging videos, they are designed to be easily shared and establish your brand as the expert.

InnerAction Media uses the BrandStory framework to ensure your audience understands your product or service quickly and clearly, paving the way for higher engagement and conversion rates.

Product Demos: Showcasing Innovation

A product demo video goes beyond telling — it shows your potential customers exactly what your product does and how it benefits them. InnerAction Media creates dynamic demos that bring your product’s features to life. Whether it’s on your website’s product page, featured in an email campaign, or presented at a digital trade show, a well-produced product demo video can be a game-changer.

Testimonials: Trust Through Reputation

Nothing builds trust like the voice of a satisfied customer. Testimonial videos are powerful endorsements that impact prospects more deeply than written reviews. By sharing genuine experiences on your website and social media channels, InnerAction Media helps you capture the stories of individuals whose challenges were met with your business solutions, offering a relatable and persuasive perspective that fosters credibility and encourages others to follow suit.

Internal Communication Videos: Strengthening Your Team

Employee morale might not be top-of-mind in the hustle of day-to-day operations. But, internal communication is the maintenance necessary to keep your company running like a well-oiled machine. InnerAction Media is experienced in creating internal communication videos that ensure your team is informed and aligned with your company’s goals and values. Whether it’s a message from the president of your company or a training video featuring a manager, these videos can be shared in your internal networks or email. Effective internal videos can foster a sense of belonging and serve as morale boosters or educational tools.

InnerAction Media understands that your time is valuable, so let us take the helm in telling your brand story and creating marketing strategies that cut through the clutter. We’ve honed our skills across diverse sectors, ensuring each video produced is tailored to the nuances and expectations of your particular audience. In 2023, our exceptional video production talent was validated with two National Telly Awards, solidifying our place at the forefront of quality and innovation in marketing and advertising.

Creating brand video isn’t just about pressing record. It’s about creating conversations and connections. Your brand has a story to tell, and we have the expertise to translate it into visually stunning and effective video content. So, don’t let your brand blend into the background; contact us today, and let’s make your brand the hero of its own story.

The post Crafting Compelling Company Videos: A Guide to Boosting Brand Visibility appeared first on InnerAction Media.

Is your website still relevant in today’s AI world?

admin — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 14:40:28 +0000

by Jim Matuga

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the advent of artiﬁcial intelligence (AI) and AI-powered “answer engines,” heralds a new era of online search and information retrieval.

Recently, I started experimenting with Arc Search, an AI-enhanced search engine and web browser for the iPhone. Upon entering a search query, it instantly locates the top several websites relevant to the topic and employs AI to digest and outline their content. It’s as if I have a personal assistant that rapidly and succinctly conveys Google search outcomes in seconds. This tool (and others like it) is so eﬃcient that I anticipate most users, once accustomed to it, and as the technology advances and improves, will ﬁnd it hard to revert to traditional web browsing methods such as Google.

This evolution emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining a high-performance website for businesses aiming to thrive in this AI-centric environment. A high-performance website, characterized by fast loading times, optimal usability, and high-quality content, is no longer just a competitive advantage but a necessity for brand survival and relevance.

Here are several compelling reasons why investing in website performance is crucial in the age of artiﬁcial intelligence.

1. Enhanced User Experience Leads to Higher Engagement

User experience (UX) has always been a cornerstone of digital success. In an AI-driven world, where users expect instant answers and seamless interactions, the stakes are higher. A high-performance website minimizes loading times, ensuring that users can access the information they need swiftly. This speed and eﬃciency not only improve user satisfaction but also encourage deeper engagement with the content, increasing the chances of conversion and customer retention.

2. Improved Search Engine Rankings

Search engines are increasingly integrating AI to reﬁne their algorithms, prioritizing websites that oﬀer the best user experience. This means websites that load quickly, have mobile optimization, and feature high-quality, relevant content are more likely to appear at the top of search results. Given that a signiﬁcant portion of online experiences begins with a search engine, higher rankings can lead to increased visibility, traﬃc, and ultimately, business success.

3. Ownership and Control Over Brand Content

In an era where AI-driven answer engines can aggregate content from across the web, owning and controlling your digital presence is paramount. A high-performance website serves as the authoritative source for your brand’s narrative, ensuring that AI technologies draw from your curated content when answering user queries. Unlike social media – where you don’t actually own your channel – this direct control helps maintain the integrity of your brand message and prevents the dissemination of potentially inaccurate or misleading information. Also, keep your website current and updated frequently.

4. Competitive Edge in a Saturated Market

As more businesses vie for attention online, distinguishing your brand becomes increasingly challenging. A high-performance website can set your business apart, oﬀering a superior user experience that not only attracts but retains customers. In an age where consumers are bombarded with choices, the quality of your digital presence can be the deciding factor in winning over customers.

5. Data Security and Privacy

The integration of AI into digital experiences raises signiﬁcant concerns about data security and privacy. A high-performance website with robust security measures ensures that user data is protected, building trust with your audience. As AI technologies continue to evolve, demonstrating a commitment to data privacy can position your brand as a responsible and trustworthy entity in the digital realm.

6. Adaptability to AI Innovations

The pace of AI innovation is relentless, with new tools and technologies emerging constantly. A high-performance website, built with ﬂexibility and scalability in mind, allows businesses to quickly adapt to these changes. Whether it’s integrating new AI-driven chatbots, personalization algorithms, or other advanced features, a robust website infrastructure ensures that your brand remains at the cutting edge of digital advancements.

7. Leveraging Analytics for Strategic Insights

AI-powered analytics tools oﬀer unprecedented insights into user behavior, preferences, and trends. A high-performance website, optimized for these analytics, can provide valuable data that informs strategic decisions. By understanding how users interact with your site, you can tailor your content, design, and marketing strategies to better meet their needs, driving growth and innovation.

The age of artiﬁcial intelligence is here now and demands a reevaluation of digital strategies, with a high-performance website at the core of this transformation. As AI continues to reshape the landscape of online search, information retrieval, and user interaction, businesses must prioritize their digital infrastructure to remain competitive. By investing in a high-performance website, brands can enhance user experience, improve search engine rankings, control their digital narrative, and adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape. In doing so, they not only safeguard their position in the digital realm but also harness the potential of AI to drive growth and innovation.

The post Is your website still relevant in today’s AI world? appeared first on InnerAction Media.

Behind the Scenes with InnerAction Media: The Power of Team Collaboration and a Wireless Monitor

admin — Sat, 10 Feb 2024 23:03:15 +0000

In the bustling world of marketing and advertising, adapting and innovating is not just an asset—it’s a necessity. That’s why we invested in a high-tech wireless monitor that improves collaboration between our team members in the field. Having all eyes on a project results in the unmatched attention to detail our clients come to expect from InnerAction Media.

It’s our latest investment into elevating what we do best—video production.

InnerAction Media consistently receives recognition for producing high-quality visuals that capture target audiences across industries. Now, we’ve integrated a wireless monitor into our video shoots, enabling the whole team to visualize every step of production.

This innovative tool isn’t just about making life easier on set (although it certainly does); it’s about precision. Imagine our videographer on location —whether perched high or tucked in a corner to capture the perfect shot. The videographer aligns the lens and adjusts settings meticulously—the shutter speed and aperture are adjusted perfectly toward capturing the perfect scene. Each shot is important, but it only makes sense when put together. It’s like individual notes played beautifully which, when played together in harmony, become a masterpiece.

Enter our wireless monitor—an on-set device allowing multiple team members to see every frame as it’s captured without crowding around one tiny monitor or peering over shoulders, which can interrupt creative flow or even jeopardize safety during complex shoots.

Crafting a seamless storyline from start to finish.

Consider continuity errors—a wrong white balance or an off exposure on one of the multiple cameras on a shoot. One different setting could disrupt an otherwise seamless storyline. Even minor mistakes can significantly impact viewer immersion within your story.

Our new portable screen makes catching these mistakes before post-production easier than ever. The director in the field can ensure all elements work harmoniously towards the envisioned end product—whether that involves tweaking lighting, adjusting actor positioning, or rethinking scene composition. Little changes to the shot can make a big difference in the quality of the finished product.

A game-changer in our arsenal that ensures excellence down to the last pixel.

When creators receive immediate responses to their work, they can quickly adjust and refine their narratives or try new ideas, leading to more relatable stories. That’s why we call it storytelling. It’s not just about telling; it’s about showing. And sometimes, showing requires careful observation, attentive listening, and continuous refinement.

Storytelling is at the core of what we do. It’s more than just selling a product or service; it’s about forging an emotional connection with your target audience—those who will ultimately become loyal advocates for your brand. Memorable content is a good starting point for those relationships.

A game-changer in our arsenal that ensures excellence down to the last pixel.

We pledge to continue prioritizing detail and innovation.

With our new collaborative approach, every detail is thoroughly reviewed and perfected before we say, ‘It’s a wrap.’ Your story deserves meticulous attention. Let us show you how attention to detail truly makes a difference.

The post Behind the Scenes with InnerAction Media: The Power of Team Collaboration and a Wireless Monitor appeared first on InnerAction Media.

Shayla Klein

admin — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:00:16 +0000

Meet the Team

Shayla Klein

Multimedia Journalist

A West Virginia native, Shayla grew up in Wheeling. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from West Virginia University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism with minors in Theatre and Interactive Media Design. While completing her bachelor’s degree, she worked part-time at West Virginia Public Broadcasting and made weekly appearances on The Legislature Today. Shayla now joins InnerAction Media with four years of post-college experience in TV news.

As someone who appreciates the unique charm of Morgantown and calls it home, Shayla is excited to help InnerAction Media’s clients connect with their community.

You should have a say in your story.

IAM can help your business prosper by creating a personalized plan for growth throughout our various mediums of expertise.

Let's Do It

The post Shayla Klein appeared first on InnerAction Media.

Justin Schofield

admin — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 13:24:59 +0000

Meet the Team

Justin Schofield

Video Producer

Justin was raised in Bridgewater, Virginia. He graduated from Liberty University with a B.S. in information technology and a minor in digital media and video editing. He loves having the opportunity to mix his passions of technology and storytelling to create meaningful videos for clients. In 2021, Justin founded Video Game Docs, an educational YouTube channel dedicated to making documentaries on home consoles, games, and more.

When he isn’t playing or making videos about video games Justin enjoys watching baking shows with his wife, playing with his two dogs, and trying not to pull his hair out when the Steelers play. He also loves monster movies, anime, and just about any type of music.

You should have a say in your story.

IAM can help your business prosper by creating a personalized plan for growth throughout our various mediums of expertise.

Let's Do It

The post Justin Schofield appeared first on InnerAction Media.

InnerAction Media Wins Two National Telly Awards for Exceptional Video Production

Abbie Backenstoe — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:36:45 +0000

Morgantown, WV – InnerAction Media (IAM), a marketing and media agency, has been recognized for its exceptional video production by winning two prestigious national Telly Awards.

The 44th Annual Telly Awards is the premier national award and honors excellence in video and television across all screens.

InnerAction Media’s winning entries were for their exceptional work in creating videos for Burlington United Methodist Family Services https://bumfs.org and Downstream Strategies https://downstreamstrategies.com .

IAM helps small businesses and non-profit organizations simplify and clarify their marketing messages that better connect with their most likely customers. One way they do this is through professional video production. IAM has been recognized multiple times by the Annual Telly Awards since their agency began in 2011.

“Our team at InnerAction Media is thrilled to have won not one, but two Telly Awards,” said company president Jim Matuga. “Our video production team is dedicated to telling our valued clients’ stories in the most compelling and effective way possible. These awards are a testament to their hard work and the incredible results they have helped our clients achieve.”

The Telly Awards recognize InnerAction Media’s unique approach, which includes the use of master story producers, the latest video production equipment, their proprietary generative AI SaaS application StoryMaker (https://storymakerapp.us ), and decades of experience.

“The caliber of the work this season coming from creators such as InnerAction Media truly has reflected the theme of breaking out and standing out,” said Tellys Executive Director Sabrina Dridje. “Our industry is experimenting with new technologies like never before, crafting truly compelling stories to draw attention to some of the world’s most pressing issues. Recognizing companies like West Virginia’s IAM is a celebration of creators and talent who truly stand out.”

InnerAction Media’s award-winning video production services are just one of the many ways they help their clients grow their organizations. With a full suite of marketing and advertising media services, InnerAction Media is dedicated to delivering clear, simple brand stories and marketing strategies that work.

Established in 1979, The Telly Awards receives over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. Entrants are judged by The Telly Awards Judging Council—an industry body of over 200 leading experts including advertising agencies, production companies, and major television networks, reflective of the multiscreen industry The Telly Awards celebrates.

For more information on InnerAction Media and their award-winning video production services, visit their website at www.inneractionmedia.com and to see the actual award-winning entries:

Downstream Strategies “Image Film” – https://vimeo.com/705889407?share=copy

Burlington United Methodist Family Services “The Bennett Family” – https://vimeo.com/663394647?share=copy

The post InnerAction Media Wins Two National Telly Awards for Exceptional Video Production appeared first on InnerAction Media.