Client
Tactical Retreat
Date
April 1, 2024
Services
Video and Editing
Initially unexpected, this video is deeply intertwined with Veteran Resiliency and PTSD. The Tactical Retreat, organized by two military veterans, provides a crucial space for veterans, police, and first responders to confront trauma over four transformative days. Supported by sponsors like Gadsden Cigars, the retreat stands as a beacon of healing. In a unique gesture of gratitude, Micah and Eric crafted a compelling social video, creatively lighting a cigar from a rifle's heated barrel. The result? A powerful tribute honoring Gadsden Cigars' support and the resilience of retreat participants.
Filmed at a range near Bend, Oregon, this video wrapped our coverage of the retreat with a unique challenge: lighting a cigar from a rifle barrel. To capture the desired aesthetic, we shot in log color space, ensuring flexibility in post-production color grading. Filmed documentary-style from a strategic angle, we positioned ourselves to catch bullet casings ejecting towards the camera. Managing rifle sound levels was critical for clear audio without distortion, enhancing the overall impact of the footage.
Editing this video proved surprisingly seamless. With ample footage on hand, the challenge lay in finding the perfect music and refining the color grading to evoke a sepia-toned homage to Bend's landscape. A highlight was seamlessly integrating Gadsden Cigars' logo and the Gadsden flag, culminating in a visually striking finale. Beyond achieving high video quality, our exhilaration stemmed from the unique feat of lighting a cigar with the rifle barrel's heat, adding a memorable touch to the project.
No revisions needed—our video was instantly approved! We crafted multiple versions tailored for social media platforms. The Instagram Reel edition featured animated captions that added dynamism, complemented by reframed shots optimized for portrait viewing, ensuring maximum impact and engagement.
