AV123 is back with another season of epic insights and conversations on the audiovisual industry! In this first episode, Voice123 spoke to Alex Vespestad and Meredith Stedman of Tenderfoot Labs on what is digital storytelling and how AV creators can use audio and video formats to transform how audiences connect with stories!
Listen to the full episode here:
What is digital storytelling?
Digital storytelling is a type of storytelling that uses digital formats like audio, video, and multimedia to communicate meaningful narratives to audiences. Digital storytelling allows creators to use sound design, visuals, and other elements to create an immersive experience. Alex explains that to the team at Tenderfoot Labs, storytelling is about ‘hooky, juicy drama.’
Meredith adds that digital storytelling’s success often hinges on high-quality production that leaves listeners feeling like they’re experiencing the story firsthand: “We pride ourselves on crafting narratives that feel real and keep you on the edge of your seat,” she says. The future of storytelling relies on using innovative techniques to create captivating and emotionally engaging stories.
How to craft compelling audio storytelling projects
1. Prioritize sound design: Meredith Stedman, an “audio purist,” emphasizes the importance of detailed soundscapes and effects because audio storytelling can captivate listeners by immersing them in a rich, imaginative world.
2. Incorporate layered audio: “One thing we try to do is drop people into a scene with just sound design,” Meredith explains, describing Tenderfoot Labs’ use of audio editing to play listeners directly in the scene, making the story feel immediate and vivid.
3. Evoke imagination: Alex adds, “Leaving blank spaces for the imagination is powerful. You’re given just enough texture to fill in the gaps, and that can be more immersive than visuals.”
4. Use the power of voice: Skilled voice actors who understand what is digital storytelling add authenticity and emotional depth. Their nuanced performances bring characters to life, making the story feel more real and immersive for the audience.
5. Create a live experience feel: By blending music, sound effects, and narration, audio storytelling can feel as engaging as a live performance, pulling listeners deeper into the story’s atmosphere.
What makes video storytelling so effective?
1. The rise of video platforms: The popularity of video content platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok makes video storytelling an effective way to engage audiences in a crowded digital space.
2. Enhanced human connection: Video allows viewers to see expressions, gestures, and body language in chat shows or interviews, which creates a stronger connection. As Alex says, “Video should be part of the future of storytelling toolbox for any chat-style show because it lets viewers connect with personalities and expressions.”
3. Authenticity in non-fiction narratives: Seeing emotions and expressions adds a layer of authenticity to true crime and interview-based storytelling, which can be harder to achieve with audio alone. Alex emphasizes, “With video, you can add a layer of authenticity that can be hard to achieve with audio alone.”
4. Current and competitive content: Video storytelling aligns well with the “attention economy,” allowing creators to cater to viewers’ habits of consuming content across various formats and platforms. This allows them to create content that stays current in the future of storytelling.
5. Catering to diverse audiences: Digital storytelling allows audiences to watch, listen, or both, enhancing engagement. Tenderfoot Labs provides flexible ways to access its content, boosting reach and impact in today’s dynamic media landscape.
How to succeed in the future of digital storytelling
1. Embrace innovation and flexibility
Knowing what is digital storytelling involves balancing innovation with adaptability. Alex notes, “The challenge is staying ahead in an increasingly crowded space.” Digital storytellers need to harness industry advancements like AI tools and interactive media to expand their creative possibilities.
2. Maintain authenticity in storytelling
Meredith emphasizes that staying true to what is digital storytelling is key to building lasting connections with audiences. Tenderfoot Labs “keeps the human element front and center,” prioritizing genuine voice acting and rich sound design, allowing stories to resonate on a deeper level.
3. Focus on audience connection
Meredith and Alex explained that building an engaged, loyal audience requires a commitment to authenticity and fresh perspectives. “It’s all about creating a fresh, engaging experience with every episode.” Stories that feel real and relatable are more likely to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
4. Experiment with new ideas and formats
Successful digital storytelling involves constant innovations like blending audio with visuals, using immersive sound design, or developing interactive experiences. As Tenderfoot Labs shows, innovation in video storytelling formats can set a brand apart in the future of storytelling.
5. Leverage the power of audio and video
Audio storytelling allows listeners to engage their imagination, while video brings a visual connection that enhances audience engagement. Alex and Meredith see this multimedia production approach as essential for future success, as it enables storytellers to connect with audiences in powerful ways.
Final thoughts on what is digital storytelling
Now that you know what is digital storytelling and how to blend traditional techniques with forward-thinking innovation, you can keep your audience engaged, entertained, and emotionally invested in the stories being told.
Looking for a powerful voice to bring your digital story to life? Visit Voice123 to hire professional voice actors, or use Voice123 Enterprise for full-scale project management.
And don’t forget to subscribe to AV123 on your favorite podcast platform for the latest AV insights!
FAQs on what is digital storytelling
Digital storytelling is a process that uses digital tools like audio, video, and multimedia to tell a story in an engaging, interactive way to resonate with audiences across audio and video content platforms.
An example of digital storytelling is the Up and Vanished true crime podcast produced by Tenderfoot Labs. It features narration, sound effects, and interviews that immerse audiences in the narrative with soundscapes and voice acting that creates a vivid experience.
Start with a clear story and enhance it with tools like sound design, visuals, or interactive elements. Focus on crafting an engaging experience that connects audiences to the story on an emotional level.
Four key elements of digital storytelling are compelling visuals, strong narration, immersive sound design, and authentic voice acting.