I recently had the privilege of creating a training video for Brad and Kristy Weinert, Missionary Mobilizers for Latin America with World Gospel Mission, aimed at equipping missionaries with the tools they need to effectively document their work. Whether capturing the beauty of a community event, sharing the progress of a project, or telling stories that inspire supporters, high-quality visuals make all the difference. This animated training video, entirely in Spanish, teaches the basics of recording video and taking photos to help missionaries elevate their media skills.
Simplifying Media for Beginners
Missionaries often work in environments where professional photographers or videographers aren’t readily available. I designed this video with this in mind, breaking down best practices into simple, actionable steps that anyone can follow, regardless of prior experience. From framing a shot to managing lighting and sound, the video focuses on the essentials that dramatically improve the quality of content captured with everyday tools like smartphones or basic cameras.
Using Animation to Teach Principles
I chose animation as the medium for this project to visually demonstrate the principles in an engaging and universally understandable way. By animating concepts like proper framing, steady camera techniques, and avoiding harsh backlighting, viewers can see what works and what doesn’t without needing technical jargon. Animation also allowed me to create consistent visuals that transcend environmental limitations, keeping the focus on the key lessons.
Designed for Impact
Every element of the video, from the graphics I created in Illustrator to the animations I brought to life in After Effects, was crafted to be both informative and visually appealing. The use of vibrant, clear visuals ensures that viewers stay engaged while absorbing the content. And because it’s in Spanish, the video directly addresses the needs of the missionaries in their own language, making the training more accessible and relatable.
Why Media Matters in Missions
Storytelling is a vital tool for missionaries. High-quality photos and videos help connect supporters with the mission’s heart and purpose. This training video empowers missionaries to take their storytelling to the next level, ensuring that the stories they share reflect the excellence and dedication of their work.
This project was a joy to create, and I’m excited to see how it equips missionaries across Latin America to share their stories more effectively. By combining design, animation, and a passion for storytelling, I hope this training video will have a lasting impact on the way missionaries communicate their work and inspire others to get involved.
