Behind the Scenes: Creating Action-Packed Content in Bend’s Backyard

Bend, Oregon, is the ultimate outdoor marketer’s dream: jaw-dropping landscapes, an adventure-ready community, and activities that run the gamut from serene to adrenaline-fueled. But creating content that captures Bend’s wild spirit requires more than a camera and a catchy tagline. Here’s how seasoned marketers can craft campaigns that do justice to Bend’s backyard.

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1. Know Your Terrain (Literally and Figuratively)

   
   

   Bend isn’t just any outdoor destination. It’s a patchwork of high desert, volcanic plateaus, and lush forests—each offering distinct vibes and challenges. If you’re going to film or shoot here, do your homework:

   
   

   • Location Matching: Choose settings that align with your campaign’s mood. Looking for rugged? Smith Rock’s towering cliffs deliver. Seeking serene? Try the glassy waters of Sparks Lake at sunrise.

   • Timing Matters: Avoid Mt. Bachelor’s weekend lift lines or midday glare on Tumalo Falls. Scout your locations with lighting, weather, and crowd levels in mind.

   
   
   
   

2. Prioritize Authentic Adventure

   
   

   Today’s audiences can spot staged content from a mile away. Bend’s audience, rooted in authenticity, demands genuine stories:

   
   

   • Real Athletes, Real Moments: Forget the actors; hire locals who actually send it. A mountain biker ripping through Phil’s Trail or a kayaker navigating the Deschutes River makes your campaign more credible.

   • Highlight the Process: Document the grit behind the glam. Show the dirt, the setbacks, and the joy that define outdoor adventures—and your brand.

   
   
   
   

3. Leverage Local Partnerships

   
   

   The Bend community thrives on collaboration, and your content should reflect that:

   
   

   • Collaborate with Local Talent: From photographers to athletes, tapping into Bend’s creative community keeps your content rooted in the local culture.

   • Work with Small Businesses: Feature gear shops like Pine Mountain Sports or breweries like Worthy Brewing. It’s a win-win for visibility and authenticity.

   
   
   
   

4. Embrace All Four Seasons

   
   

   Bend’s year-round playground gives you endless content opportunities:

   
   

   • Winter: Think powder days at Mt. Bachelor or snowshoeing in the Deschutes National Forest.

   • Spring: Showcase the transition—wildflowers in Shevlin Park and mountain biking as the snow melts.

   • Summer: Go big with paddleboarding on the Cascade Lakes or summiting South Sister.

   • Fall: Capture golden aspens on Tumalo Creek and crisp hikes along the Metolius River.

   
   
   
   

5. Invest in the Right Tech and Team

   
   

   Creating action-packed content demands precision:

   
   

   • Drone Footage Done Right: Bend’s topography begs for sweeping aerial views. Invest in a skilled pilot for shots that soar.

   • Action Cams for Immersion: Use first-person perspectives to put viewers in the action, whether it’s a downhill bike ride or a SUP glide.

   • Experienced Crew: Bend’s rugged terrain isn’t for the faint of heart—bring a team that’s as adventurous as the content they’re creating...we might know someone ;)

In Summary

Bend isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character in your story. To create action-packed content that resonates, embrace the area’s authenticity, collaborate with the local community, and highlight the grit and glory of adventure. With a thoughtful approach, your campaigns can channel Bend’s wild spirit and turn heads in the crowded outdoor market.