#swatflorida

Before the twenty-first century developing PSAs took an immense amount of time. However, with the emergence of ‘smart’ technology it is possible for anyone to create a PSA. Follow the steps below to get started!

Time Estimate: 30 - 60 minutes

1. Develop a script

Come up with an idea for your PSA and highlight your most important points. Establish them in a creative way that will effectively deliver your message. Take the time to make your script amazing; it will make a difference. Watch viral PSAs for inspiration.

2. Establish a setting

You can use almost any area when shooting your PSA, but it’s best to have a clean, open area for filming. A cluttered setting will take away from your PSAs effectiveness. If an open area isn’t available to you, try using a blank wall as a background. The cleaner the shot, the better the results.

3. Lights, Camera, Action!

Now it’s your time to shine. Get your film crew together and shoot your PSA! A fancy camera isn’t necessary, just use your smartphone. Most smartphones have camera resolutions of high quality cameras. If a stand is available to you, shoot using the stand. However, if you don’t have a stand, try to keep the camera as stable as possible. Shaky film will take away from your points.

4. Edit

Most phones are equipped with an editing feature. Find the video in your camera roll and adjust it until you are content.

5. Post to Social Media

Show your PSA to the world! For branding purposes, share your video with friends and use hashtags. Here is an example of a PSA that was quickly created at a Region 1 SWAT event during a media advocacy training session using just a smart phone!

Thanks for reading, SWAT-ters! If you make a PSA related to SWAT, feel free to tag us on social media and we’ll share your video with the state! Have a wonderful day.

Congratulations to the WINNING PHOTO of our SWAT Photo and Video Contest Winners - Coral Shores High School in Monroe County!

Photo Credits: Pictured SWAT members are AJ, who also designed the photo, and Brianna. Photo credit goes to Cassie and research credit to Chloe. Great job Monroe County! You had the most votes from SWAT members on social media!

Congratulations also to the WINNING VIDEO of the Photo and Video Contest - “Tobacco Targets Youth” by Sebastian Middle School in St. Johns County

Lastly, we want to give a special shout out to our semifinalists for their efforts!

Photo runners-up: George Miller Intermediate School in Putnam County and Bay High School in Bay County

Hi SWAT members...did you miss this training?

Then be sure to join us this week, because you don't want to miss this one:

Join us on March 24, 2016 at 8:30pm ET / 7:30pm CT.  Register for the call at the following link. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5117660750592121858.

In the meantime, visit the SWAT Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Students-Working-Against-Tobacco-188048244605312/?fref=nf  to vote for your favorite finalist in the SWAT Website Photo and Video Contest.

Roses are red violets are blue 

all I really need is your view

  Placed so diligently on a shelf 

in just the right color

Only to mimic your favorite flavor

  Three feet above ground stamped on a poster I stay 

On the back of a magazine, in and on I remain 

With all blue, brown green, and hazel eyes on me 

  I hear voiced from young to old

"Mommy can I have that candy"

                       To

"Hunny one more pack will do"

  I am more addicting than methamphetamine

However less illegal than a street drug

I have been given numbers

480,000 is approximately my victims each year

Although...The deaths don't matter because I have my eyes on you 

Roses are red violets are blue

tobacco is my name

and I'm in your view

Watch this trailer for the statewide SWAT conference call and webinar hosted on February 25, 2016 at 8:30pm ET / 7:30pm CT.  A simple call and click will open the door to new ideas for your SWAT clubs and networking with members across Florida. This call features a training on Point-of-Sale and Kick Butts Day. Please register for the call and training at the following link. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5117660750592121858.

In the meantime, share pics and status updates using #loveismydrug and #(your)countyswat! If you are doing something for Through With Chew Week, please also use #throughwithchew! Want more #loveismydrug? Visit the SWAT Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/Students-Working-Against-Tobacco-188048244605312/?fref=nf