Why Background Music in Horse Sale Videos Might be Hiding More Than You Think
When creating a video to sell a horse, the goal is to showcase the horse's best attributes and provide potential buyers with a clear, accurate representation of the animal. While background music might seem like a harmless or even enhancing addition, it can potentially hide more than you think and may not be as beneficial as you might assume.
Distracting from the Horse's Performance
One of the primary reasons to avoid background music in horse sale videos is that it can distract from the horse's actual performance and behavior. Potential buyers are looking for a clear view of the horse's movement, temperament, and capabilities. Music can overshadow the audio cues that are crucial for assessing the horse's quality, such as the sound of its hooves, breathing, and any vocalizations.
The Importance of Natural Sound
For instance, if you are showcasing a horse's jumping abilities, the sound of the horse landing and the rider's commands are vital for understanding the horse's athleticism and training. Background music can mask these important auditory details, making it harder for buyers to better understand the horse's abilities.
Influencing Buyer Perception
Music has a powerful influence on human perception and emotions. While it might be intended to enhance the video and make it more engaging, it can also skew the buyer's perception of the horse. For example, upbeat music might make a horse appear more energetic or lively than it actually is, while slow music could make the horse seem calmer than it really is.
Buyer Expectations
This can lead to unrealistic expectations and potentially disappointed buyers. By keeping the video focused on the horse, sellers can ensure assessments are based on real attributes.
Legal and Copyright Issues
Using background music in your video can also raise legal and copyright issues. Many commercial music tracks are protected by copyright, and using them without permission can result in legal consequences. Even with the necessary permissions or using royalty-free music, it might not be the best choice for a sales video.
Clarity and Focus
A key principle in creating effective horse sale videos is to keep the focus solely on the horse. This includes ensuring the background is clean and free of distractions, the horse is well-groomed, and the rider is appropriately dressed. Adding background music introduces another element that can divert attention away from the horse's conformation, movement, and temperament.
Visual and Auditory Focus
Focus on the natural sounds and visuals to provide an honest showcase of the horse's true attributes.
Best Practices for Horse Sale Videos
To create a compelling and informative horse sale video, here are some best practices to follow:
Natural Lighting
Film with the sun behind you to get the best lighting. Natural lighting helps in showcasing the horse's elegance and strength.
Clean and Tidy Presentation
Ensure the horse is well-groomed, and the tack is clean and properly fitted. This attention to detail enhances the professional look of the video.
Neutral Background
Choose a clean and neutral background to avoid distractions. This ensures the viewer's focus remains on the horse.
Clear Audio
By avoiding background music, focus on the natural sounds of the horse. The clatter of hooves, the rustle of the saddle – these tell a more honest story.
Structured Filming
Plan your shots in advance, showing the horse's gaits, transitions, and any specific talents or behaviors relevant to the sale. This structured approach ensures a comprehensive portrayal.
Conclusion
While background music might seem like a minor addition to a horse sale video, it can have significant implications. It can distract from the horse's performance, influence buyer perception, and raise legal issues. By focusing on clear, distraction-free videos that highlight the horse's true attributes, you can provide potential buyers with an accurate and trustworthy representation of the animal. This approach not only respects the buyer's need for clear information but also ensures that the video serves its primary purpose: to showcase the horse in the best possible light.