Process

From the first call to the files

These are elapsed times from projects we have delivered, not a best case. Where a stage depends on you, it says so — that is usually where a timeline slips.

Quote

1 day

Typical project

2–3 weeks

Social cutdowns

48 hours

Revision rounds

2 included

1. 30 min

   The call

   We work out whether this is a fit, on a call, in your timezone.

   You tell us what the film has to achieve and what it is competing with for budget. We tell you what it will cost and how long it will take. If we are not right for it we will say so on the call.

   Your part

   Bring the deadline and the budget range. Both save everyone a week.

2. 1 business day

   Quote and scope

   A fixed price, a delivery date and a written list of what you get.

   One page. Fixed price, not a day rate that drifts. It names every deliverable, every aspect ratio and the number of revision rounds, so there is nothing to argue about later.

   Your part

   Approve it, or tell us what to change. We do not start until it is signed.

3. 3 to 7 days

   Pre-production

   Script, shot list, schedule, and a call sheet everyone has read.

   We write the script or the interview questions, build the shot list against the deliverables, and confirm locations, access and permits. You see the treatment before anyone picks up a camera.

   Your part

   One round of notes on the treatment, and access to people and locations.

4. 1 to 3 days

   The shoot

   A small crew, on schedule, out of your way.

   We shoot with the smallest crew the job allows. If you are a working business, we work around you — we have shot around live service, a running roastery and a hospital ward without stopping any of them.

   Your part

   Someone on site who can make a decision. That is usually all we need.

5. 4 to 10 days

   Edit and grade

   First cut, two revision rounds, then grade, sound and versions.

   You get a first cut with timecoded comments enabled. Two rounds of revisions are included and almost always enough. Grade and mix happen after picture lock, not before, so nothing is finished twice.

   Your part

   Consolidated notes from one person, within two business days.

6. 1 business day

   Delivery

   Every version, every ratio, captions included, files you own.

   Masters and cutdowns in the ratios named in the quote, captions as burned-in and sidecar files, and the stills. You own the finished work outright. Project files are archived for twelve months.

   Your part

   Nothing. Tell us where to send it.