Creating an Effective Press Kit
By: RYAN VINSON

When it comes to promoting your film, you’ll want to have a press kit to give to media contacts and investors. Just what is a press kit? It’s a package, focused towards media, that gives background information about your company, your film(s), and other important information about you or your works you wish to share. It’s the 'who', 'what' and 'why' of your business and can be a first impression on the masses.

When creating a press kit, you’ll need three basic essentials. First, you’ll need a cover letter addressed to your intended recipient. It’s a short letter that explains why you’re sending the kit and why they should be interested in it. Always get the name of the recipient so you can personalize this letter. It will make a big difference.

Next, you’ll want to include a brochure or a fact sheet that gives a rundown of information about your company. It’s the core of your kit, and it should clearly describe your business, your film and its premise. Accomplishments, testimonials, ratings, reviews or other highlights should be included to build a good impression.

Finally, always include your contact information in some form. This can be as simple as a few business cards or elaborate with the inclusion of flyers, posters, or other graphic materials. Just make sure your contact information is clear and up-to-date on these items. Now that you have your basic press kit, you may wish to enhance it depending on the situation. Some companies add press releases, especially when the destination of the kit is the news media. If your film has acquired distribution, or is having its premiere, these are all newsworthy “angles” to use for press releases. You can also add a corporate history if you are going after investors to help with the cost of the film. As well, remember that your people provide value. Include bios on key producers, crew and featured actors that will stand out and get attention. Finally, if you’ve already had press coverage in the past, include those clippings as well!

With everything ready, you need to make sure that you present your kit in a way that gives a great impression. Don’t staple everything together and call it a press kit! Spring for the nice two-pocket folders with business card inserts so that your materials will be packaged nicely. Coordinate colors in your materials with the colors of your folders for that extra cohesive touch. With press kits, the old saying always applies. You never get a second chance to make a first impression!

Learn to Make the Most of What's Handed to You

"Learn to make the most of what's handed to you." I just read this line on an advertisement for a movie that is supposed to be inspirational and motivational. Give me a break… what a crock of BS. It's the same old line that I have heard for years and it makes me want to spew all over my monitor. Some free-thinking writers who are trying to enlighten us just haven't gotten it yet. These are the kind of thoughts which have disempowered, demoralized and debased us for centuries. . . .

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