I have been able to do so many awesome things ever since I started work June 19, and ended for the season October 4.
Here’s just some highlights –
The rest of June and early July was all about debuting our new $30 million investment, Orion, as well as highlighting the park opening up with new COVID procedures. We wanted to let our guests know to Kings Island is one of the safest places you can be, all while still having fun. I was able to shoot the media B-roll which was sent out to multiple media outlets this year, and Orion was just one of them. The park hosted an Orion First Riders auction where those who raised the minimum amount would be the first to ride Orion. I was able to produce, shoot, and edit the video that played to guests inside the actual ride’s queue lines, playing multiple times for thousands of eyes to see.
A huge opportunity was given to me as I was able to try my hands at their YouTube channel. I was able to give it a refreshed look, add tags to videos, and make thumbnails for the page, allowing for more viewers. At the end of the season, the analytics were popping with activity. Impressions nearly doubled. I was also able to create a new video series – 4K Cinematic Series – for people to watch and feel like they are in the middle of all the sights and sounds at the park. While doing this, I had those who did not feel safe enough to return to the park this year in my mind – which is absolutely fine. After all, we are all in this together.
One of my favorite opportunities that came about this year was when I discovered the park’s archives of thousands of 35mm slide pictures, which the entire collection had been deemed lost for many years. Upon finding them, I offered to take initiative on scanning and preserving them, allowing them to be used digitally for the first time ever and be used for future purposes. Restoring and rebuilding the park’s entire history archives was something that I could have only dreamed of doing. After all, I am all for Kings Island history. Similarly, I was able to find and restore some never before seen videos of the park’s history, such as King Cobra, and release them to the public along with a blog.
The last month has been all about getting ready for the park’s Tricks and Treats Fall Fest, taking the place of Halloween Haunt this year. For opening weekend, I was able to produce, film, and edit over 20 different videos highlighting all the shows, activities, food, and fun.
I am so thankful for the opportunities I have been given here at Kings Island. While my time was shortened due to COVID, I am thankful that at least the park opened and I was still able to start. I cannot wait to return next season.
Thomas Kyle Creative 