How To Guide: Capturing a Story During an Event
You don't need to wait until an event is over to tell your story. In fact, some of the best Stories are captured while the work is happening. Stories help people see what's possible. They give others an insiders look at what it feels like to get involved, meet new people, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. Often, they're the reason someone decides to show up the next time.
The good news? You don't need professional equipment or a detailed plan. You just need to pay attention to the moments that matter.
Step 1: Look for One Meaningful Moment
Don't try to document everything. Instead, look for a moment that captures the experience. It could be:
- A volunteer sharing why they came
- A team working together to solve a problem
- A before-and-after transformation
- A conversation that sticks with you
- A moment of celebration at the end of the day
The best Stories usually focus on one moment rather than the entire event.
Step 2: Take a Few Short Videos
Use your phone to capture short clips throughout the event.
Consider recording:
- People arriving and getting started
- Volunteers in action
- Someone explaining what the project is about
- A quick reflection from a participant
- The final result of the effort
You don't need perfect footage. Authenticity matters more than production quality.
Step 3: Capture the "Why"
People don't just connect with what happened. They connect with why it mattered.
Ask simple questions like:
- Why did you decide to come today?
- What does this work mean to you?
- What would you tell someone thinking about joining next time?
Often, a short answer is all you need.
Step 4: Think About the Next Person
As you're recording, imagine someone who has never attended an event like this before. What would help them understand the experience?
What would make them think:
"I'd like to be part of that."
That's the story you're trying to tell.
Step 5: Upload and Share
After the event, choose your strongest clips and upload your Story to Be The People.
Add a short description that gives context and helps people understand what they're watching.
Then point them toward the next step:
- Follow the Project
- Join the next Opportunity
- Learn more about the organization
A great Story doesn't just show what happened. It helps someone else find their way in.
