BigC TV was started when the Nottingham Caesars re-did their website at the end of 2011 and featured some early video of our winter camps taken by ex-players, managers, coaches and other members of the Big C family. It was edited and we got it up on the website.
It was well received.
But the whole thing was taken to another level when we met Andrew from InkSpot Media, a local video production company. Andrew's passionate about two things: film and American Football so we hit it off immediately and he's become a big part of the Big C family. (Oh, I meant he's passionate about three things - his wife Alison as well. And the family. So, that's four then, and his Husky – which is stretching things a bit.)
Andrew gives his time totally free and does it because he loves the game. The feedback on Andrew's work, from our players and coaches and other teams, has been great and we are all beginning to realise what an asset Andrew is. When you combine the videos with the website and social media there is a big impact on the organisation as a whole that has many benefits, not least of which is player recruitment and retention.
So we asked Andrew a few questions and here's what he made up.
How did you get into American Football?
I've been watching American Football since SuperBowl XX between the Bears and Patriots. Being a lifelong Man City fan, I wound up supporting the Raiders (in terms of achievements they're both depressingly unsuccessful.)
'85 was the year the Raiders finished 12-4-0 but were knocked out of the play-offs by the Patriots.
As much I loved the offensive flair of Marcus Allen, Jim Plunkett and Dokie Williams, it was brilliant to see Howie Long, Sean Jones and Mike Haynes doing the job defensively. This is what I love about the game.
Are you aware that you talk about the Raiders too much?
No!
Are there any particular challenges with filming American Football?
The speed of the game catches you by surprise, not to mention fake hand-offs/dummy runs etc that leave you filming the wrong person. There's also a lot going on in each play. Understanding the game is essential. The other challenge is that I'm obviously not an ESPN film crew, so it's impossible to cover all the angles – so as a one-man band, I tend to move positions throughout the game so people don't think I set the camera up in one place and went to the pub!
I use a Canon XL2 Procorder – it's heavier than your average wide receiver but the shoulder mount makes for steadier shots – plus the 20x lens helps when the action's on the other side of the field. Editing wise, I use Premiere Pro and After Effects, but the trick is knowing where you are in a game. We obviously don't have massive screens with stats and time left in a quarter etc. That doesn't mean you can't do a good job on your own – the opposite's true, you just have to think about it.
What can we expect from you over the course of the season?
I'll be following the Caesars this season, filming the games, and bringing you views and highlights from match day and practices.
How do people get in touch with you?
If you'd like to get in touch about videos (not just American Football) or to commiserate over the
Raiders email me at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
, oh and liking me on
Facebook wouldn't hurt - www.facebook.com/inkspotmedia
The InkSpot Media website is http://www.inkspotmedia.co.uk
Is there anything else you think we should put in this interview?
More about the Raiders.
Well, thanks again Andrew.
If you'd like to see some of Andrew's videos click here