REEL CASE STUDY 1

Virtual Reel Planning, Directing, Filming and Editing for Marah Med Spa.

 

1. Planning & Concept Development

Goal: To create multiple reels that feels bright, confident, and clearly shows the different services offered by the company from teeth whitening process, to facials, waxing, body massages, pedicure and manicure with a goal to encourage viewers to book a session.

How I Did It:

  1. Initial Brand Chat: Spoke with the team lead over WhatsApp to nail down their vibe: clean, professional, approachable. Decided on “before & after” moments to build trust.
  2. Audience Focus: People who feel self-conscious about their smile (students, young professionals). Agreed on a “step-by-step reveal” approach, short clips showing the transformation.
  3. Outline & Objectives Doc: Timestamps: (initial smile before transformation), (whitening action/brush tray), (big smile reveal + booking info).

Why This Matters: Having a clear plan prevents random, unfocused footage. Every second serves the goal.

2. Scripting & Storyboard

 

Reel 1: Keep text minimal but persuasive, guide the viewer’s eye and curiosity.

Kept it conversational: hook → teaser → benefit → CTA.

Visual Storyboard Sketches:

  1. Close-up of the “BEFORE” (Shot 1) and then hand sweep (Shot 2).
  2. The emotions before(Shot 2)
  3. Before/after smiles (Shot 3)

Why This Matters: A script + rough storyboard means no guesswork on shoot day. It ensures we get exactly the footage we need.

3. Full Shot List & Technical Directions

Each service had a ready-to-go shotlist with filming guidelines to maximize quality and guide productivity to optimum even with limited technical knowledge from my client, Marah.

Why This Matters: A detailed shot list ensures no missing angles, whether they film on iPhone or camera, they know exactly what to capture, where to place the camera, and when to move. It also makes it easy for them to self capture or even ask for help from anyone who is physically present.

4. Filming Guidance & Direction

 

Goal: I act as a remote director to guarantee each shot matches the storyboard, even if I’m not physically on set.

How:

Pre-Shoot (5 minutes):

  1. Share sample frames so they see the desired framing and lighting.
  2. Advise: Use soft, diffused sunlight or a ring light, no harsh shadows on teeth.
  3. Confirm they have a helper to hold the phone/tripod steady.
  4. While they film, I reviewed quick previews. E.g., Shot 3 angle looks great, but move the phone up 1 inch so the bottom lip isn’t cut off.
  5. Tech Specs Cheat Sheet: Contains resolution, frame rate, format, etc.

Why This Matters: Clear, real-time direction prevents wasted takes. The more precise the on-set notes, the less likely they’ll send unusable footage (works every time)

5. Editing & Post-Production

 

Goal: Turn the raw clips into a cohesive, polished reel with seamless cuts, upbeat music, and on-screen text.

How:

  1. Received all raw clips, then handled color balance, text timing, and music overlay behind the scenes.
  2. Ensured the final export is optimized for Instagram Reels (1080×1920).
  3. Shared a private link for feedback, made one tweak to pacing, and delivered the final file.

Why This Matters: Tight edits, correct color balance, and crisp text timing turn raw clips into a scroll-stopping Reel.

End Result:

  1. A simple reel showcasing “before and after” teeth whitening moments, with text prompts guiding viewers to book.
  2. Clean, consistent branding.
  3. Full scale VIRTUAL planning, directing, scripting and editing.

  • THE FINAL RESULT: