From people to the planet: explore our strides in social and environmental impact in 2023
🌟 Read Our Impact Report 🌟
Custom content shoots used to mean a full day in our office studio—but the shift to remote work has allowed us to reimagine what’s possible when it comes to working with models and clients, near and far. Our production team has been successfully conducting shoots with talent virtually, and are continuing to optimize the process for 2024 and beyond. Through some upfront filming “training,” an overview of scripts and background styling, and collaboration tools like CaptureOne Live Sessions and good old iMessage, we’ve found a way to make virtual shoots as seamless as possible.
Aside from the benefits of being able to tap into a larger pool of potential talent, remote shoots help us improve efficiency and meet our sustainability goals. Minimizing travel for all parties and letting talent use their own props reduces our overall consumption and eco-footprint.
“Virtual shoots remove any need for travel, for talent and production crew, and allow us to tap into owned wardrobe and props from the talent to avoid shipping of props, lights, etc. We also have virtual options for our remote team and clients to call into shoots to avoid travel to set.”
Amy Sadler, Creative Services Lead, Production
“[Remote shooting] allows us to collaborate with talent from all over the country, or even the world, making it more accessible. It significantly reduces travel, which is beneficial for sustainability.”
Luigi Comba, Cinematographer
“There was definitely a learning curve in translating how to plan for a shoot that you’re not in the room for and for learning how to give clear direction and set expectations for what we can achieve. I think it’s pushed us to learn how to communicate more effectively and also push past creative limitations.”
Meg Barrette, Senior Production Editor
With our client Hologic, we created several custom TikToks to raise awareness of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) and the importance of early detection. Shooting remotely allowed us to work with creators from across the country who had a personal connection to breast cancer, and were able to film themselves sharing their stories in a natural, home setting. Avoiding travel and the need to ship props helped boost efficiency and center authentic stories. In addition to seeking out these creators, our own team member, Séamus, had a meaningful connection to the cause that brought added depth to their work on the campaign. Read more about the project and how virtual production helped us gain 4.6M views on our videos here.
While the “Shoot in Progress” sign glows in the studio window, there are so many ways our content is being created regeneratively, with the environment in mind. How exactly does the team accomplish this? Let’s dive into what’s happening on a typical set:
1. Work sustainability into your creative ideas! It doesn’t have to BE the idea, but it can be done through subtle details like showing public transit, talent turning off lights, and biodegradable props.
2. Be resourceful. Use what you already have and be clever in making small changes to translate props, wardrobe, and sets to different clients.
3. Have a materials reuse/ disposal plan in preproduction and question if each item is necessary.
4. Master remote access to minimize travel and costs; CaptureOne Live is a game changer!
5. Build relationships with local organizations that could benefit from production leftovers, transforming waste into community support.
Learn more about our sustainability and social impact initiatives in our 2023 Impact Report.
