So I've a product prototype that I'd like to pitch about in 30-45 seconds, in animation of some form. I'd love to have something along the lines of Common Craft's "Twitter in Plain English (see: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddO9idmax0o), but the problem is I've very limited knowledge of Flash or other similar tools.
Where could I get help in working with someone on coming up with a 30-45 second short on the product?
And to all those entrepreneurs who've done this before...did you come up with the videos in-house, or was it outsourced?
For screencasts, nothing beats Screenflow. All of the videos on our site (http://wistia.com) were produced using Screenflow. It costs $99, but given that your video will be an integral part of you marketing, it is well worth it.
In terms of production, start by coming up with a script. This will possibly take longer than the actual recording and editing, but will make a major difference in terms of the quality of your video. Keep it short and punchy...people won't watch things they aren't interested in.