As a fair portion of time has been spent in the last few months on our US based AIPOP-3D specialist 2D to 3D Conversion operation I've been as focussed on promoting our launches as working on the actual production.
Our Kickstarters have shown definite promise and one of the questions I've had from a couple of folk was about the approach to gaining some attention on social media channels when there is just so much constant chatter. So I thought I'd share my rough plan in case any indie filmmakers may find it helpful.
Create Engaging Content:
Develop a content calendar with a mix of teaser footage, behind-the-scenes footage if you have any, poster designs, and fun promotional images.
Craft compelling or humorous captions to accompany each post, sparking interest and encouraging engagement.
Blog posts with stills and promotional information of unrelated content can still be used to promote the upcoming/current Kickstarter by simply giving it a mention in the post.
Leverage Multiple Platforms:
Identify the social media platforms most relevant to your target audience (e.g., Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok). For us it was a number of Facebook groups and a couple of online forums predominantly focussed on Stereoscopic 3D & 3D Blu-rays.
Tailor your content to suit the unique features and audience behaviour of each platform.
Build Anticipation:
Start promoting the film well in advance of the Kickstarter launch date to build anticipation.
Use countdowns, sneak peeks, and exclusive other content to keep followers excited and engaged.
Utilize Influencers:
Engage with suitable influencers with a following in your product's niche.
Encourage influencers to share content, reviews, and their excitement about the film with their followers.
Engage with the Audience:
Respond to comments and direct messages promptly.
Run contests, polls, or Q&A sessions to encourage audience interaction.
Livestream:
Create an engaging livestream with exclusive content leading to the launch of the Kickstarter.
This content may be re-usable as bonus content elsewhere in future, so keep this in mind when planning and producing..
Collaborate with Film Communities:
Join and engage with online film communities and forums.
Share updates, trailers, and exclusive content in relevant groups to expand your reach.
Create Exclusive Content:
Share exclusive content, exclusive conversion trailers and insights into the conversion process.
Humanize the conversion and the team by showcasing the people and effort behind it.
Paid Advertising:
Invest in targeted paid advertising on social media platforms.
Utilize sponsored posts, and 3D video to reach a broader audience.
Post-Release Engagement:
Continue the momentum post-launch by sharing audience reactions, reviews, and any accolades the film receives.
Encourage fans to share their experiences, reviews, and feedback on the film.
Remember, consistency and authenticity are key. Adjust your strategy based on the feedback and engagement you receive, and be flexible in adapting to the ever-changing landscape of social media.
Andrew Murchie is an award winning Stereoscopic 3D filmmaker and creative technologist based in Edinburgh, Scotland where he specialises in virtual reality, augmented reality, stereoscopic 3d and a range of more traditional digital filmmaking skills. He has produced & directed independent stereoscopic 3-D films &Virtual Reality 360 3D films.