For the second year in a row, PhilanthroMedia was invited to cover the release of the Middle Class Scorecard for our client, the Drum Major Institute for Public Policy.  Last year, representatives who received ‘A’s’ were willing to stay for a brief recognition event.  This year, they had come off the floor from a vote and wanted to pick up their plaques and scoot.    

In a flash, we reorganized our original plans and started shooting individual interviews.  In little more than a half hour, we questioned more than 13 members of Congress on what they were doing to advance policies benefiting the Middle Class.  (Below you’ll find one from Rep. Marcy Kaptur on how JP Morgan Chase has taken advantage of the financial crisis.) 

What Pm was blown away by was the fact that folks who said they didn’t have time stay for a ceremony, did end up waiting for their chance to get in front of the video camera.  Within hours we loaded the best on YouTube.

Often we evaluate the need for video coverage by the number of “hits,” but simply having cameras at your event can transform the way participants respond.  We’re not saying it’s not a little cheesy/creepy, but Congress members aren’t the only ones who like to get caught on camera (and might be willing to say something compelling about your issue for the opportunity).