B-Roll is a sequence of footage that is used to support (or tell) the story in your video. It is also used to hide cuts in interviews while making your videos more immersive and compelling to watch.
Think of b-roll as “light acting”. We want to capture and tell the story of a patient's experience by staging a mock visit. We will use the specific service or procedure that the patient received to get the necessary shots to support the things they may have said in their interview.
We won't actually be performing any treatments on the patient during the shoot. But we can still demonstrate aspects of what a procedure could look like to potential patients with B-Roll!
Let's use Dental Implants as an example. A typical implant case would start with the patient arriving at the front desk and checking in for their initial consultation. They may need x-rays, perhaps even a 3d scan. Let's get some shots of these pieces of tech in use, then show the doctor reviewing images with the patient, using models to explain what an implant looks like, then finally getting them in the chair looking relaxed and ready to undergo a big transformation. After we get a few shots of the doctor working alongside their assistant or hygienist, the patient is sent on their way!
Of course, this will look different for other procedures. We want to be able to show as much as we can without ACTUALLY doing the treatment. B-Roll should show off your technology, equipment in use and compassionate care in practice. These are the things that make B-Roll great.
Remember that B-roll does not have audio, so don’t worry about being silly! Remember to smile and have fun!
Preparing for B-Roll
When preparing for B-Roll with staff and patients, remember to prepare for a mock treatment as you would any other treatment. Be mindful of standard health practices such as wearing gloves, masks and sanitizing equipment.
Select your best-looking treatment rooms and have them ready for the camera the night before the shoot.