From the Bolanle Media Creator Learning Series

At Bolanle Media, we’re always listening, learning, and evolving from the voices of the most creative, resourceful, and independent filmmakers working today.

From scripting to shooting, audio to editing, she walks viewers through the process of crafting cinematic, meaningful videos with purpose—even when you’re the entire crew.

We’re sharing key takeaways below—not to claim her work as our own, but to shine a spotlight on how much creators like her are shaping the next generation of content makers.

Purpose Drives Process

Before anything else, she asks two questions that every creator should consider:

“What’s the point of this video? What value am I offering to the audience?”

That clarity of purpose informs everything from camera setup to editing decisions. Without it, she notes, you can lose valuable time shooting footage that doesn’t move the story forward.

Scripts Help—but Flexibility Wins

While she builds scripts and shot lists for most of her projects, she doesn’t let the plan get in the way of creativity. In her words:

“Let the idea breathe and expand if needed.”

A shot list is a launchpad, not a limit. As you film, new angles and fresh storylines often emerge. Being too rigid can flatten your content.

Her Go-To Shot Formula

Even with minimal gear and a solo setup, she focuses on getting three main shots:

• A wide shot to establish setting
• A medium shot for the subject
• A close-up for visual detail

She recommends capturing 15–20 seconds per B-roll clip to make editing smoother and more dynamic.

“Don’t underestimate what you can get done with the one you have in your pocket—your phone.”

Audio Is Half the Story

She emphasizes that audio quality is just as important—if not more—than visuals.

“Sound is half the experience… it gives this extra element, texture, and detail to the overall experience for the audience.”

Her gear list includes the Rode Wireless GO and DJI Mic for mobility, and the Rode NTG microphone with a Zoom H5 for controlled environments. Beyond dialogue, she layers ambient sounds, sound design, and music (sourced from Epidemic Sound) to build immersive audio.

Editing With Intention

Once she transfers her footage to her drive, the process begins with clear organization and smart editing:

“Organization is important throughout the whole process.”

From there, she trims A-roll, cuts bloopers, adds B-roll to illustrate points, and carefully layers music and motion graphics. Her favorite part? Color grading. She uses Premiere Pro and a custom S-Log3 LUT to build the tone and emotional look of her videos.

“Post-production is almost where the magic comes to life.”

Her Parting Advice to Creators

“You can have the idea and see it clearly—but if you don’t have the determination to execute it, it means absolutely nothing.”

“Start with what you have. Learn and improve continuously. Be consistent and persistent. Experiment and take risks. Engage with other people. And most importantly, stay true to yourself.”

At Bolanle Media, we believe that kind of clarity, creativity, and commitment should be celebrated—and passed on.