top of page
Writer's pictureMysto Productions

Creating Compelling PSAs: Mysto Productions’ Approach to Public Service Announcements in Hawaii

Updated: Oct 12



Aloha kākou! At Mysto Productions, we believe that great storytelling can create positive change, and one of the most powerful ways we do this is through Public Service Announcements (PSAs). Our team is passionate about creating visually stunning, informative PSAs that resonate with both locals and visitors. Today, we’d like to take you behind the scenes of our approach to crafting PSAs in Hawaiʻi, focusing on our work with Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.


Respect for the ʻĀina: A Core Value


When working on a PSA, especially in a place as culturally and environmentally significant as Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, respect for the ʻāina (land) is at the forefront of our process. The Hawaiian proverb, “He aliʻi ka ʻāina, he kauwā ke kanaka,” translates to “The land is chief, and man is its servant,” reminding us that it’s our kuleana (responsibility) to care for and protect the land.

Our PSAs are designed not just to educate, but to inspire action. Whether it’s a message about leaving no trace, respecting sacred sites, or understanding the delicate balance of the park’s ecosystem, our team approaches each project with a deep sense of respect and responsibility. We collaborate with park representatives, cultural advisors, and local experts to ensure that our messaging is accurate and aligns with the values of both the park and the Hawaiian people.


Capturing the Beauty and Power of Hawaiʻi


Hawaiʻi is one of the most visually breathtaking places on Earth, and our goal is to capture that beauty while reinforcing our messages of stewardship and care. For our PSAs with Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, we focus on the majesty of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, the towering lava flows, and the delicate ecosystems that thrive in these volcanic environments.


Our team uses state-of-the-art cameras and drones to capture the park from unique perspectives, bringing viewers closer to the land than they’ve ever been before. By showcasing the beauty of Hawaiʻi’s natural landscapes, we aim to remind people of their responsibility to protect it. Whether it’s capturing the mist rising from the rainforest or the molten glow of flowing lava at night, our visuals are designed to create an emotional connection with the viewer, encouraging them to mālama ʻāina (care for the land).


Incorporating Cultural Significance


Hawaiʻi’s rich culture and history are inseparable from its land. That’s why we work closely with cultural experts to incorporate these elements into our PSAs. Whether we’re sharing the importance of respecting ancient sites or highlighting traditional Hawaiian practices like hoʻokupu (offerings), we make sure that our messages reflect the cultural significance of the land.

For instance, when we produced a PSA about respecting sacred sites within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, we worked with local kūpuna (elders) to ensure that the language, tone, and imagery were respectful and educational. By honoring the past and present of Hawaiian culture, we aim to create PSAs that educate viewers about the importance of these practices and their role in preserving Hawaiʻi’s unique cultural heritage.


Educating and Inspiring Action

Our PSAs are not just about informing—they’re about inspiring viewers to take action. Whether we’re encouraging locals and tourists to pack out their trash, stay on marked trails, or avoid disturbing wildlife, we aim to make these messages relatable and actionable.

In our recent PSA for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, we highlighted the importance of leaving no trace. We combined stunning visuals of the park with real-world examples of the impact that even a small footprint can have on these delicate ecosystems. By connecting the beauty of the park with the consequences of human action, we’re able to create a message that’s both powerful and motivating.


Working with a Local Team

One of the key advantages Mysto Productions offers is our local expertise. Our crew is composed of seasoned professionals who live and work in Hawaiʻi. We understand the logistical challenges of filming in remote and protected areas, and our deep connection to the islands allows us to navigate these challenges efficiently.


We also have strong relationships with local authorities and permit offices, which helps streamline the process of filming in protected areas like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This local knowledge ensures that we’re able to shoot stunning, culturally sensitive content while adhering to the park’s guidelines and respecting its natural beauty.


At Mysto Productions, we’re proud to create PSAs that inspire care for the land and educate viewers on the importance of preserving Hawaiʻi’s unique environment and culture. Mahalo nui loa (thank you very much) for joining us on this journey. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we invite you to watch our PSAs and join us in protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural and cultural treasures. E mālama pono (take care) and remember, the land is chief.

3 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page