I had the exciting opportunity to produce two TV commercials for the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF), aimed at promoting the quality and importance of locally-grown produce. The chosen filming locations were Meredith Dairy and the Queen Victoria Market, two iconic spots that embody the spirit of Victorian farming and local markets.

I kicked off the shoot at Meredith Dairy early in the morning. The sunrise provided a stunning backdrop, with golden light illuminating the pastoral landscape.

One of my main goals was to showcase the daily routine at Meredith Dairy. I filmed the farmers during milking, cheese-making, and other essential tasks. The visuals needed to resonate with the script, so I made sure to capture the essence of hard work and commitment.

Next, I moved to the Queen Victoria Market, a vibrant hub of activity in Melbourne. Filming here presented different challenges and opportunities.

I used handheld cameras to capture staged moments of vendors setting up their stalls and customers engaging with them. This approach allowed me to get exactly what I required.

Throughout the production, I employed various techniques to ensure high-quality footage. I used natural lighting as much as possible to maintain authenticity, supplemented by reflectors and soft lights when necessary. Audio was captured using boom mics and lapel microphones to ensure clear and crisp sound, essential for the voiceover narration.

In post-production, I focused on blending the serene, dedicated atmosphere of Meredith Dairy with the energetic, community-focused vibe of the Queen Victoria Market. This contrast was pivotal in telling the complete story of Victorian farmers and their produce. I worked meticulously to ensure smooth transitions and a coherent narrative flow, aligning perfectly with the VFF’s messaging.

Producing these commercials for the Victorian Farmers Federation was a rewarding experience. By filming at Meredith Dairy and the Queen Victoria Market, I was able to capture the full journey of local produce. This project not only showcased my technical and creative capabilities but also allowed me to support and promote local farming communities. Through careful planning, skilled execution, and thoughtful storytelling, I brought the VFF’s vision to life, encouraging viewers to choose locally-grown, fresh, and sustainable food options.