My 80/80 Theory

Here's something to think about. A big something actually, since it could alter everything you do in relation to IMAG. Well, that's assuming you do IMAG at your church. Anyway, I think we all do a pretty good job understanding the value of IMAG, but understanding the importance of IMAG in your church might be another story. What's the difference you may ask?

Well, one might know the value of oxygen, what it can do for you, but if you constantly hold your breath, you don't understand it's importance. If you could survey your congregation, what percentage of the audience do you think watch the IMAG screens as their primary visual source? I haven't done any polls but based on statements by our own pastor, and my experience attending, I would put forth this educated guess... 80% of the congregation watch IMAG 80% of the service time. Our sanctuary seats 3600. So for us, that would equate to 2880 watching the screens 64 out of 80 minutes. How important is IMAG now?

How 'bout this. 100% of overflow, alternate venues, mommies rooms, tape ministry sales, broadcast TV, and internet streamers ALL watch video 100% of the time. For the life of any one sermon, that could equal 20,000 or more that will watch via video. How important is IMAG -or video- now? In large churches such as ours (Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale) IMAG becomes almost as important as the sound system. Of course the service would still go on as long as the sound system works, but I state the importance of IMAG confidently because our pastor expresses so much with mere facial expressions. He often is silent, relying solely on IMAG to communicate to the audience.

Now, let's get to the get'n... Video. That's what IMAG is, video. So what makes good video? A good system chain: camera, lens, tripod, camera position ( x, y, & z axis), camera operator, key lighting, background (behind pastor), background lighting, signal quality, switcher, video projector, screen material, screen size, and screen position. Serveral of these are often overlooked, under-valued, or compromised. If ANY one of these things is compromised, you will have a less than desirable outcome.

Are you unhappy with your IMAG system? Follow the chain and see if there are some weak links. Then, get together with some tech-ees, consultant, or engineer to see what will be the best move forward.