faq
Get the answers to the most frequent questions we get all the time. From how to prepare for the video shoot, to what to expect when our crew arrives, through to what to do with your video once it's finished.
​
Have a question that's not answered here? Let us know and we'll get back to you with that information (and it might even make it to this page!). We're always adding to this list.
What is the general workflow and timeline for a video from start to finish?
The first step is to jump on a call so we can understand the project (no matter how early in the process it is), and determine scope. From there, we’ll turn around a quote in 24 hours or less. If we get the greenlight to move forward, we will start pre-production, and send you an overview document for your review and feedback within 7 days.
Next, we will set up a filming date based on the final pre-production plan we’ve come up with. Typically, the filming date is 4-8 weeks out as businesses want to take care of internal things before our arrival, or wait for something we’ll be filming to be ready at their facility.
Filming for most videos usually takes a full day of interviews and capturing b-roll. The 1st cut is in 4-6 weeks. From there, any edit revisions are handled quickly, only a day or two depending on the scope of the changes.
So from the project greenlight to having a final video published, you’re looking at 9-15 weeks on average.
That said, all phases of the above can be accelerated depending on your schedule and deadline requirements. In extreme cases like filming on location at trade shows, we’ve gotten that down to 12 hours or less!
What do I need to do to prepare my facility for filming?
Prepare the facility as if your largest, most important customer is about to visit (because they are: through the video!). So cleaning, landscaping, organizing areas, etc.
If a large conference room can be booked for the day for us, that would be ideal. We would use it as a “base camp” of operations to bring and store our gear, strategize on the fly, and might film a few interviews in there as well.
For those being interviewed, no tight pattern shirts or complex knitting, which can produce an unpleasant effect on camera (called moire).
If employees throughout the company have branded company attire, that is preferred. Even if they will not be interviewed, they could be in b-roll shots from around the facility and it always looks better if your logo is everywhere. Not a requirement, but a really nice-to-have, visually.
When our small crew arrives, we like to take a quick tour of the facility to get an idea for filming locations, sound levels for interview locations, and more. Next, ideally we will set up and conduct the interviews first. After that is b-roll capture. However, we understand people’s busy schedules can change, so we can adapt as needed on the day.
How long have you been making video?
Empire Studios has been creating video content for clients going back to 2005, when we were known as Bryant Productions. More information on the company roots and history can be found on the “About” page.
How does Empire Studios typically concept ideas?
Empire Studios works closely with our clients to understand their needs, goals, and budgetary restraints. We say it all the time, but we never want to make a video to just make a video. It needs to be something that makes an impact on our client’s business and helps to move the needle for them. Our ideation process keeps that in mind at all times.
Why should we partner with Empire Studios? What makes you different?
Our secret sauce comes down to two words: WE CARE. We care deeply about the success of our clients – not just the businesses, but the people behind those campaigns, whose job it is to market or sell and who need help from a video production agency like Empire Studios. We never lose sight of our goal to create great content that benefits our clients.
Do we get all the raw files from a video shoot?
Raw footage is not something that comes with a finished video. While it can be added in, it’s not something that falls within the scope of a typical project. Further, the files tend to be very large, in formats that can only be opened by popular editing software, and it needs color correction, as we film in flat color profiles. Often, we would need to apply color correction and reformat each video file, which takes time and adds a fee.
TL:DR It’s not standard, but it can be added on for an additional fee.
How do project revisions work? Can we make changes to a video?
Absolutely! Every video project comes with up to 3 rounds of revisions. However, we do a lot of work during pre-production to make sure we’ve got it extremely dialed in before we even show up to film, so revisions in editing tend to be minor things. At the end of the day, we want you thrilled with your final product!
Who owns the final video?
You do! We merely produce the video: once complete and paid for, it is entirely yours to do what you wish with it, in perpetuity, on any medium that exists or will exist in the future. There are no hidden or extra fees to secure ownership of the finished product.
Raw footage is not included, however.
I have a movie idea. Can you help me make it?
Empire Studios is not accepting unsolicited movie pitches at this time.
Why shouldn’t we just create video content in-house?
You should!
We're firm believers that businesses should be creating a LOT of video content, and the majority of it doesn’t need to be professionally produced. While there are some core pieces of strategic content that need professional polish (like a company overview video, customer testimonial, etc), most can be done simply on a cell phone in-house.
Invest in a few items, and you’re off to the races: a decent cell phone gimbal, a light-duty tripod for your phone, and a wireless microphone that works with your phone. That allows for steady shots, with audio that sounds great. Film quick updates from around your office, a milestone anniversary of a long tenured employee, an interesting or large shipment going out, or a blurb from a trade show you’re attending.
A 30-60 second video posted on social media can go a long way in keeping you top-of-mind in an engaging way.
don't see your question?
Ask us through the form below and someone will get right back to you!