A Tale of Two Productions
Many production companies are known for their ability to skillfully produce large scale, multi-day, multi-location shoots. And many are known for their ability to run lean, fast paced, onsite productions with quick turnarounds. At JAW Productions, one of our key strengths is scalability. We’ve been successfully producing large and small (and everything in between) shoots for more than ten years. Earlier this year we had the opportunity to shift from large to small for the same client. This is… A Tale of Two Productions.
When our client wanted full-scale production support for a talented content creator, they reached out to JAW to provide everything they needed. Many content creators work as small, contained, often “run and gun” style shoots. So when a major client like Toyota wants them on a larger campaign, they often need help finding locations, obtaining permits, casting, wardrobe, traffic control, security, etc. Utilizing the experience of a producing partner like JAW is the best way to ensure the creator is completely supported in their vision.
Basecamp setup
Earlier this year, JAW worked with Conill Advertising to find and secure several Downtown LA locations for a multi-day production, cast 15 talent, provide art department, wardrobe, hair and makeup, and bring a full basecamp including crafty, catering, bathrooms, motorhomes and parking. Because of JAW’s established vendor relationships, we knew exactly who to call to make the pre-production process go smoothly. On shoot days, we were able to create a productive, efficient and positive environment that kept all the VIPs, talent and crew happy, comfortable and safe.
There’s nothing better than receiving an email from the agency producer like this one sent to us after the shoot…
“I just want to emphasize how smooth and seamless everything felt — even with our last-minute pivots/changes, y’all made it happen so effortlessly.”
On the other end of the scale, the same client wanted to capture assets at an on-site activation during a popular and crowded music festival in Chicago’s Millennium Park. The logistics required that we keep our footprint extremely small and adaptable. At the same time, the client expectations were for high quality video and photo captures with fast turn around times for social media posting. JAW’s on-site experience ranges from red-carpet premieres to product launches to three day music festivals. We know the speed, energy, and unusual edit environments that these events require.
Our core team in Chicago consisted of Executive Producer Amanda Wolfe and Director/DP/Editor Robin Fenlon. Amanda was checking off the shot list, managing waivers and keeping things on track while Robin switched comfortably between video, photo and editing over the three day capture inside the Toyota Music Den. After more than a decade working together, this team has the process down to both an art and a science, getting the job done while also having a lot of fun. Check out a video from the shoot HERE.
Often companies will assume small scale productions can happen in-house where teams already have overloaded plates and, perhaps, don’t have the professional video or photo skills needed to keep things looking good. At JAW, we know how to work small-scale, within tight budgets and keep our footprint light when that is what is required. At the same time, clients who want to capitalize on the popularity of social media creators understand they might not have the support needed to take things up to that level. Working with an established production partner like JAW helps create a strong foundation for the creator’s and the client’s success.
