Conference video is used to document and repurpose what already happens at an event. In some cases, sessions are recorded; in others, coverage focuses on promotional use. Below are the most common types of conference videos and how each is typically used. For details on coverage options, crew setup, and deliverables, see our conference video production services.
Atmosphere and B-Roll Coverage
While not a standalone type of conference video, atmosphere footage is often used to support promotional content that shows the event’s energy and overall experience.
B-roll complements all types of conference videos. You can share footage in real time during the event, the next day, or even weeks later to maintain engagement. You can also repurpose it for various promotional videos, such as “Why Attend,” “Why Exhibit,” “Join Us,” or “Why Sponsor,” offering event planners numerous options to keep the conference buzz going.
Presentation Recording
Some conferences choose to record speaking sessions so the content can be viewed after the event. This is often useful for people who could not attend or for attendees who want to revisit specific presentations later.
When sessions are recorded, they are usually shared as on-demand videos or hosted on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo and embedded on a conference website. Short clips from presentations are sometimes reused for future promotion or speaker-related content.
Testimonial Videos
Authentic testimonials matter. By speaking to attendees, sponsors, speakers, and exhibitors, you can capture their genuine thoughts about the conference. You don’t need to coach them into saying anything overly positive. The only requirement is that they be specific, mention the event by name, and respond clearly.
You can include testimonials in various types of conference videos, such as event recaps and promotional content. For insights on crafting compelling testimonials that drive results, check out our tips on creating effective testimonial videos.
Sit-Down Interviews
Sit-down interviews differ from testimonials by offering a more in-depth perspective. They can feature notable figures from your organization, event speakers, or exhibitors. These interviews can cover a wide range of topics and may be presented in full or broken into shorter clips for event recap pages, speaker promotion, or post-event communications.
Highlight Video
A highlight video (also known as a recap video or sizzle reel) is one of the must-have types of conference videos. It showcases key moments from your conference and serves as excellent post-event marketing. These videos are especially useful for promoting your next event during the registration process. Filming your conference also supports year-round communication, which we cover in why you should film your conference.
Below is an example of a highlight video from the Social Media Conference held at the Walt Disney Dolphin Hotel Convention Center.
Why Attend Videos
These videos combine footage of event activities, testimonials from attendees, and quotes from speakers. Including graphics with key event details emphasizes why your next event is worth attending.
Why Exhibit
Exhibitor-focused videos highlight interactions between exhibitors and attendees, as well as the overall energy of the expo. Testimonials from first-time and long-term exhibitors, combined with event statistics and engagement highlights, help attract future exhibitors.
Why Sponsor
Sponsor videos work similarly, featuring testimonials from sponsors and showcasing sponsorship placements throughout the event. These videos give potential sponsors a clear view of where their investment will go.
Why Speak
To attract high-quality speakers, create a video that highlights past speakers, crowd engagement, and testimonials from previous speakers about their experience at your event.
Welcome to the Conference Video
A welcome video sets the tone for the event. Typically shown at the start of the conference, it can feature key figures like board members or the CEO offering opening remarks. Including footage from previous events helps attendees know what to expect and adds excitement to what’s coming.
Join Us
As you kick off the registration process for your next event, transform a condensed version of your highlight video into a “Join Us” video. Featuring key agenda points, testimonials, and clips from speakers or important attendees, you can embed these videos on your website and share them via newsletters and social media.
Behind the Scenes
BTS videos offer your audience a peek into the inner workings of your conference. This may include setting up the venue, speakers preparing before their sessions, or exhibitors arranging their booths. While not one of the more popular types of conference videos, this type of content adds a unique, personal touch. A time-lapse video of the setup can also work well here.
Not every conference uses every format listed above. The specific mix often depends on how the footage will be used after the event, whether for documentation, promotion, or future planning.
