Selling Benefits vs Features: How to Get Video Marketing Right

In the world of marketing, the difference between features and benefits can make or break your campaign. This concept was famously highlighted by Steve Jobs during the launch of the iPod, where he touted “1,000 songs in your pocket” instead of the technical “4GB of storage.”  This shift from features to benefits not only transformed […]

The Three Essential Videos for Boosting Awareness, Consideration, and Conversion

In today’s competitive market, effective video content is crucial for capturing and nurturing your audience through the consumer journey.  Video is the dominant marketing form for phone use, with 12-15x more engagement than other means.  Put simply, it pays to marketing with video.    Understanding which videos to create and how they align with the […]

Casting for TV Commercials in Australia: Talent Fees, Agents & Costs

Actress holding Crush Products in a recent Story Machine TV Commercial

Casting the right talent can make or break your project, particularly when you’re shooting in production hotspots like Sydney or Melbourne. Before talent steps on set, you’ll want a clear handle on overall budgets, including crew, locations and video production services that factor talent rates into a seamless schedule. This detailed guide helps you navigate […]

How to Get Your Ad on TV in Australia (2026 Guide)

Getting your ad on TV in Australia can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate the process smoothly. This blog post covers everything you need to know about getting your TV commercial approved, dispatched, and broadcast. From understanding ClearAds compliance to submitting your ad through AdStream and creating a unique […]

When You Should Film in a Studio or On Location

Choosing the right setting for your video production is crucial in determining the overall look, feel, and quality of your project. At Story Machine, we have extensive experience filming in both studios and on location, and each option has its unique advantages and challenges. This guide will help you decide when to film in a […]

What is Run and Gun Style Filming?

Run and gun filming is a popular style of video production known for its spontaneity, flexibility, and fast-paced nature. This approach is often used in documentary filmmaking, news reporting, and event coverage, where capturing the moment as it unfolds is crucial. In this guide, we’ll delve into what run and gun filming is, its benefits, […]

How to Write a Production Brief With AI

Creating a well-crafted production brief is crucial for the success of any video project. A detailed brief ensures that all stakeholders are aligned, expectations are clear, and the project runs smoothly from start to finish. In this post, we’ll guide you through the essential components of an effective production brief and provide tips to make […]

Unlocking the Power of Programmatic AI Prompts for Video Scriptwriting

In today’s fast-paced digital world, creating captivating video content is crucial for any brand. However, many marketers find themselves strapped for time, struggling to draft scripts for their projects. This is where AI can revolutionise the process. While it’s common to ask AI like ChatGPT to write a script, a more sophisticated method involves creating […]