All around us are people with astonishing skills and stories—too often invisible and uncelebrated.  But armed with your mobile and a few questions, you can put the spotlight on  these stars. Here’s an example—a two-minute iPhone 5 video of Dan Mankin, the director of a community and cultural center in West Marin California. Typically, Dan will be seen at his desk or introducing performers. But he’s a talent in his own right, and also a philosopher of the strange art of juggling.

TIPS

There are as many ways to tell a person’s story as there are people. But here are some techniques that have widespread application:

1. Opening of your video: Look for an action that immediately goes to the core of your story.

2. Location: Find a “stage”  where your subject is comfortable and perhaps can show off.

3. Interview: Come armed with a few well-focused questions that go to the essence of your subject—your theme. And when doing the interview, invite your subject to repeat or paraphrase the question. This way you don’t need to introduce the voice of the interviewer.

4. Cinematography: Ask yourself if there are any special visual tricks that would enhance the biography. In this example, it’s slow motion. But it could be split screen or a special lighting effect.

5. Voice over: Consider the option of staying with the action and avoiding a talking-head scene.

We look forward to seeing the video biographies of the people in your life.