How to write a music video TREATMENT

Music Video Treatment

Overview:

A treatment summarizes your vision for a music video for your client (in the industry, this would be the artist), using visual and written communication. It is effectively a form of ‘pitch’. A record company would approach many directors to submit a treatment, and then choose the best idea. For the director, getting a music video can be great exposure for them, so the treatment is crucial in securing that work.

Format:

It is advisable to blog this directly and include links and images to support.

GUIDE:

(This is from a music video director, but you can ‘interpret’ this as there is no set way to do this!)

Section 1: Introduction

Start with a title page. Include the name of the band and the song. I also usually try to find a nice image of the band or artist if it fits with the mood of the video. Put your name as director and producer.

Section 2: ‘Elevator Pitch’

Explain your vision in a paragraph or two. (An “elevator pitch” is a quick description you could give to, say, someone who wants to give you a million dollars whom you meet in an elevator, giving you only a fraction of a minute to pitch to them.) Use visually descriptive words, be specific, and paint a picture of what the video will look and feel like. Keep this brief, get them excited and leave them wanting more.

Section 3: Script

“Some music videos get to be very literal when it comes to the lyrics of the song; some are completely abstract. However you decide to do it, this is the place in the treatment to go into detail. I like to break down the video into scenes and describe each separate scene in a paragraph or two and will usually add some photos as well.”

Section 4: Moods / Style

Describe the feeling and look of the video. What format will it be shot on? Are you going for a stylized look? What kind of editing? Long cinematic shots or quick jump cuts? Cite references for the style; this can be anything such as films, paintings, books, celebrities, or photographs. Whatever best communicates how your video will look. Include plenty of images.

Summary Section: Sum it up

Summarize your video in a few sentences reminding your client why it’s a great idea. Keep it short and simple.