FAQ

Makers & Small Business Owners

Video is a powerful tool to tell your story, connect with your audience, and showcase what makes your work and your practice unique. In every video we produce, the voice and story of the maker or business owner is at the heart of it.

We put this FAQ together to help you get a better sense of how the video filming process works: what to expect, how to prepare, and how we bring your story to life.

1: Planning & Logistics

How long does a typical video filming take?

Most video filmings take 3-6 hours. We allow time for setup, lighting, and capturing interviews, as well as footage of your space, products, and process ( b-roll or non-interview footage that we use in the video). We’ll work with you and your team to build a schedule that fits your day.

Where will the filming happen?

Usually, we film on location – at your studio, workspace, storefront, or home. The goal is to capture the environment where your work happens.

Can you tell me more about this interview?

Our videos center on an on-camera interview with you as the maker or business owner. Your voice, perspective, and passion are what make the video unique and personal.

Who conducts the interview?

Our producer will lead the conversation. It’s relaxed, informal, and conversational. Think of it more as a guided chat than a performance. We’ll make sure you feel comfortable and confident. And because we will edit the interview down to just the best moments, there’s no pressure for you to have long, perfect sections of responses.

What should I wear?

Solid colors work best on camera (avoid busy patterns or logos unless they’re your logo). If your work involves getting messy (ink, flour, paint, metal filings, sawdust), feel free to show that too – it’s part of your story.

Can I keep working while you film?

Yes! We often capture natural footage of you working with your hands, speaking with customers, or creating something. We’ll guide you on what looks best on camera, but we want to show the real thing.

2: Pre-Production

What happens before the filming?

We’ll set up a consultation to learn about your business, your values, and what you hope to communicate with the video. We’ll:

Ideation meeting to dive into your ‘why’ and process - the emotional center of your brand

• Develop a loose script or outline

• Draft interview questions

• Prepare a shot list and schedule

Do I need a script?

We’ll prepare thoughtful interview questions and prompts that help bring out your story naturally. If there are specific talking points you want to include, we’ll incorporate them.

What kinds of things will you ask me in the interview?

Every interview is unique, but common topics include:

• Why you started your business

• What inspires your work

• What do you love most about what you do?

• What makes your process or product special

• Most unusual or interesting project

• How you connect with your community or customers

We’ll adjust based on what feels authentic to you.

What if I’m nervous on camera?

Perfectly normal -No worries - we’ll create a relaxed environment and coach you through it. You don’t need to perform – just be yourself. We’ve worked with first-timers and camera-shy folks alike, and many end up saying it was far easier than they expected. And once edited, all the little “mistakes” will be gone.

3: Day of the filming

Our goal is to make the process smooth, relaxed, and enjoyable, while capturing the best version of you and your story. Here's what to expect:

What should I do to prepare?

Minimize noise or distractions during filming hours – put phones on silent, and if possible, let any team members or customers know in advance.

What will the setup be like?

We’ll arrive a bit early to set up cameras, lights, and audio gear. This setup usually takes 60 minutes. We’ll walk through the space, plan out the best angles, and adjust for natural light or ambient sound.

What happens first?

We’ll start with a friendly check-in and talk through the schedule. Then we’ll usually begin with your on-camera interview. This is the heart of the video --your chance to share your passion, purpose, your story and the ‘why’ behind your work. It’s relaxed and conversational

Can I review the footage during the filming?

We’ll share occasional previews during filming to make sure you’re happy with the look and feel, but know that most of the magic happens in the editing phase. If you have concerns or want to rephrase something, just let us know – we’ll make time for retakes.

What else will you film besides the interview?

After the interview, we’ll capture video clips of you working, using tools or materials, showcasing finished products you’ve made, or engaging with customers. This footage helps tell your story visually and gives your audience a glimpse into your world.

What if something unexpected happens (noise, weather, power failure etc.)?

We’ve handled all kinds of unexpected delights – from barking dogs to car alarms to surprise leaf blowers. We’re adaptable and come prepared with solutions -- we’ll pause or adjust as needed to make sure your final video is clean and professional.

Most important of all, just be yourself. We’re here to celebrate your voice, your craft, and your story.

4: Post-Production

What happens after the filming?

We’ll next edit and shape the footage into a compelling, professional video that highlights your story and your work. Post-production includes:

• Editing your interview into a narrative

• Color correction

• Adding music, graphics, brand elements

• Sound effects (if needed) and final audio mixing

• Creating alternate versions / cuts for social media platforms. (Our non interview package comes with 6 cut downs and our interview package comes with 9 cut downs.)

Can I see the video before it’s finalized?

Yes. For the long version of the video you will see at least one rough cut and have a chance to provide feedback. We’ll make the appropriate changes based on your feedback by the time you receive the final. We want you to feel proud of what we’ve all created.

Will I receive versions for Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms?

Yes. Just let us know the platforms on which you’ll be sharing your video, and we’ll deliver formats and files optimized for each platform (square, vertical, with or without sound, captions, etc.)

Where can I use the video?

Just about anywhere you can think of. Most of our videos will work well on your homepage, about page, product pages and (when shortened) social media platforms. But there are so many possible uses that we have detailed some of them here. Video usage

5: Ownership, Rights & Support Ongoing

Who owns the finished videos?

You do, and you’ll have full usage rights to the finished videos forever. That includes use on your website, social media, email campaigns and other platforms. We can even make versions for broadcast television or movie theaters if you request them.

How long are the finished videos?

We have found the most effective length for videos that include an interview is between 2 and 3 minutes.

Non-interview videos are not as driven by a narrative story and do not contain dialogue, so they rely almost exclusively on visuals. They typically last under 2 minutes.

Attention spans for Social media videos are obviously much shorter, so these typically run between 10 and 30 seconds each. Most of these shorter videos can be culled down nicely from a longer version, but sometimes additional material from the filming session that was not used for the longer version can be brought in as well.

Can you help with future videos or ongoing content?

Yes. We can help you plan a video content calendar that fits your goals and budget.

Can you help with video strategy or distribution?

We’re happy to advise. Whether you need help uploading to your YouTube channel, crafting captions, or building a social campaign around your video – we can guide or assist.