Event documentaries: The B2B videos you want to watch
Something has been sneaking its way into the spotlight of the B2B marketing world: event documentaries.
We’re talking about story-driven event videos that capture insight, emotion, and momentum—and turn a one-day event into months of trust, content, and qualified leads.
The best B2B brands already use event documentaries to extend event ROI, showcase thought leadership, and fuel both brand and demand. If you’re still treating event video as an afterthought, you’re leaving serious value on the table.
Before we break down why they work and how to create them, here are a few standout examples that show what great event documentaries actually look like.
Our Favorite Event Video Examples Below
1. Salesforce Dreamforce 2024 Intro And Keynote
I mean, who doesn’t love a little Hollywood glamour? Salesforce knows how to put on a show, and the Dreamforce 2024 intro video with Matthew McConaughey is a perfect example of how to combine star power and high production value. They don’t just tell you about the event; they make you feel like you were there. Dreamforce is about excitement with AI innovation, big ideas on ethical use of AI- and their video makes you feel exactly that.
2. Google Cloud Next 2024
Google’s event videos are next-level. Their Cloud Next events feature keynotes from top-tier executives and industry leaders, with slick, cinematic shots and top-notch editing. Watching these videos, you immediately feel the scale of the event and the cutting-edge nature of their technology. It’s all about showcasing the future, and Google does it flawlessly.
3. Trend Micro – The Art Of Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity doesn’t exactly scream “exciting,” but Trend’s dynamic event video showed how it’s done. The video brings together the serious aspects of the cybersecurity world with a creative, visually energizing format that draws in viewers. Even the most complex topics can be made striking and memorable with the right approach.
4. Pwn2Own Tokyo Recap Video
If you love tech and hacking (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), the Pwn2Own event is a treasure trove of insane moments. The recap videos from the event show the thrill and intensity of the hacking challenges, and you can see the passion of the participants and the audience. It’s a great example of using video to capture excitement and adrenaline.
5. Apple's 2019 Opening Video
Apple is a pro at event videos. Their opening videos are sleek, polished, and always leave you with a sense of anticipation for the big reveal.
This one is a masterful animated sequence that set the tone for Apple's keynote. The film draws inspiration from the golden era of Hollywood cinema, featuring stylized credits that highlight Apple's innovation journey. Each segment pays homage to past product launches, seamlessly blending nostalgia with forward-thinking design.
Whether it’s a product launch or a developer conference, they know how to capture attention and make every second count.
6. Google I/O 2023 Opening Film
Google I/O is another prime example of how event videos can capture the pulse of the tech world. The video's focus is on how integration of AI into Google products transforms everyday productivity, creativity and accessibility.
It’s the perfect mix of information and emotions surrounding responsible and inclusive AI development.
Feel inspired?
Alright, now it's time to get into some benefits of event videos and how you can create them.
Why Event Documentaries Work in B2B Marketing
First of all, event videos are a powerful tool in B2B marketing. And I’m not just talking about cool highlight reels or cringey slow-mo shots of people clapping and laughing. I’m talking about tools that build brand authority, show company culture, make your firm look super professional, and most importantly, drive results.
Let's run down why you should invest in documenting your event with video:
Showcase Thought Leadership (and Prove It)
Event documentaries let you show expertise in action, not just claim it.
Keynotes, panels, and conversations position your brand as a credible voice in the category. Instead of publishing another opinion piece, you’re demonstrating leadership through real moments, real people, and real ideas.
Business impact: credibility, authority, category trust
Turn One Event Into Months of Content
Events are expensive. Content doesn’t have to be.
A well-planned event documentary gives you a content engine: paid ads, LinkedIn clips, sales enablement assets, website videos, internal presentations. One production fuels dozens of touchpoints across the funnel.
Business impact: lower CAC, higher content ROI
Create Demand for the Next Event
Event documentaries don’t just recap what happened, they create anticipation.
When people see the energy, the insights, and the community around your event, they want to be part of the next one. That’s how you turn last year’s attendees into next year’s advocates.
Business impact: future registrations, FOMO, audience growth
Make Event ROI Visible to Stakeholders
Numbers matter... but emotion convinces.
A strong event documentary helps marketing leaders show tangible outcomes to leadership: engagement, reach, momentum, and brand impact. It’s a powerful internal selling tool when budgets are under pressure.
Business impact: internal buy-in, budget protection, confidence
Planning an event and unsure what video format would actually move the needle?
This is exactly the kind of decision we help B2B teams make... before the cameras ever roll.
Types of Event Videos You Can Create
Alright, now that we’re on the same page about why you need event videos, let’s get into the different types of event documentaries you can create. No matter what kind of event you're throwing - whether it's in-person, virtual, or a hybrid - there’s a video format for every occasion.
1. Event Recap Videos
Think of these as your event’s highlight reel. These videos capture the best moments, from the inspiring keynotes to the spontaneous networking chats. They’re fast-paced, engaging, and perfect for sharing on social media or your website.
Bonus points if you can sneak in a few funny, behind-the-scenes moments!
2. Keynote or Panel Highlights/Reels
There’s always that one speaker who knocks it out of the park. Maybe it’s a world-renowned expert or someone who shared a game-changing idea. Keynote or panel highlight videos focus on those golden moments - insightful quotes, interesting discussions, and anything that makes you say, “Wow, I need to hear more of that.”
These videos make great standalone content for future promotions.
3. Live Streams or Real-Time Coverage
In the age of digital everything, live streams are king. Whether it’s a major product reveal, a Q&A session, or a panel discussion, live streaming lets you reach audiences beyond the event’s physical space. It’s also a great way to capture real-time engagement, build hype, and show off your event’s scale to anyone who can’t attend in person.
4. Customer or Attendee Stories
The best stories come from the people attending your event. You can do short interviews or client testimonials that give viewers a look at the impact your event had and let you gain valuable insights at the same time. Did your customer walk away with a new perspective? Was an attendee inspired to take action?
These stories humanize your event and make your brand feel more relatable.
5. Behind-the-Scenes Documentaries
Ever wanted to show the real work that goes into your event? Well, here’s your chance. Behind-the-scenes videos let you pull back the curtain and show the hustle, the chaos, and the moments of pure magic that happen before the cameras start rolling or didn't make it past post-production.
These videos are perfect for connecting with your audience on a deeper level and adding an extra layer of authenticity to your brand. And there are few better ways than to be authentic to foster trust.
6. Booth Video Content
Got a booth at a trade show or conference? Perfect! You can use video content to showcase your booth and capture the interactions happening there.
These videos highlight product demos, meet-and-greets, or even quirky, entertaining moments that make your booth stand out. Plus, you can repurpose footage for your upcoming events or ads to reach potential customers.
Here's an epic video we created for Trend Micro's starship -themed booth:
Want to know more? Here's a detailed case study of our Space Opera Project for an RSA Booth.
How to Create Event Videos That Actually Work
Now that you’ve seen some of the best, how do you go about creating your own event video that actually works?
Emotion-Driven Narrative
The best event videos aren’t just about recapping what happened - they’re about capturing the emotions of the event. Focus on moments that make people feel something: excitement, inspiration, connection. Make your audience feel the vibe of the event, as if they were present themselves.
High Production Quality
While it’s tempting to just grab your phone and start filming, investing in professional videography, sound, light and editing is key. High production quality doesn’t just look good - it conveys credibility and professionalism. It’s worth every penny.
Showcase Key Takeaways
Event videos should highlight what people learned or gained. Whether it’s a cutting-edge technology, an inspiring story, or a new connection, focus on the key takeaways that will resonate with your audience.
Repurposable Content
Create your videos so that they can be easily broken into smaller sections for other campaigns. Think social media snippets, ads, and email content. The more you can repurpose your event video, the better.
Summary
In the end, event documentaries aren’t just fun - they’re smart B2B marketing tools that help you build your brand, connect with your audience, generate leads and keep the buzz going long after the event ends.
So next time you're planning a B2B event, give us a shout and let's create something epic together!
Event documentaries aren’t just nice-to-have...
they’re one of the smartest ways to extend event ROI in B2B.
For over a decade, we’ve helped B2B and tech brands turn events into story-driven video that builds trust and generates leads long after the lights go down.
Send us a brief and we’ll handle everything, from concept to final cut.
We can get started within 24 hours
FAQ
1. Why should B2B companies invest in event documentaries instead of just recording sessions or creating highlight reels?
Because event documentaries do more than just show what happened—they tell a compelling brand story. They capture thought leadership, emotional moments, and the energy of the event, all while showcasing company values. Done right, these videos can build trust, attract leads, and position your brand as a true industry leader.
2. What types of event videos are most effective for B2B tech marketing?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but the most impactful formats include:
- Event recap videos (short, energetic, and social-media friendly),
- Keynote or panel highlights (insightful and shareable),
- Customer or attendee testimonials (authentic and persuasive),
- Behind-the-scenes documentaries (build brand trust),
- Booth content (makes your presence stand out), and
- Livestreams (expand your reach beyond the venue).
Each serves a different purpose but all help extend your event’s life and impact.
3. How can you make sure your event video actually drives engagement?
Focus on storytelling and emotions, not just logistics. Capture what people felt and why it mattered. Combine high production value with key takeaways and always include a clear call to action, whether it’s signing up for the next event, exploring your product, or following.
4. Isn’t professional video production expensive and time-consuming?
It can be—but it's also one of the smartest long-term content investments. A single well-produced event documentary can fuel your content strategy for months. From ad clips to LinkedIn posts, YouTube content to pitch decks—this is high-ROI content. You don’t need to film everything. You just need the right moments, captured the right way.
Reference links
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Cs-xTQeGfo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj6whf7OLMs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBS-btfuJEE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaTg4rE4cxA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8PgSyPYdzk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hi30NoCo8mI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUOeQjvSAKA
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