At 42VIDEO, we’ve had the privilege of working on some incredible productions, but one of our most memorable experiences was collaborating with Seattle-based 2A Consulting and the Amazon Web Services (AWS) HQ team to create a 10-video series for AWS’s “This Is My Architecture” platform. The production was not only a technical challenge but also a logistical one—filming in a highly secure office space in London presented several hurdles that required creative thinking, careful planning, and precise execution. Working alongside 2A Consulting and AWS’s talented team truly made the project a standout success.
In this case study, we’re diving deep into the pre-production process for this project. From overcoming unexpected challenges to delivering a top-tier final product, we’ll share exactly how we tackled everything, what we learned, and how it all came together for an unforgettable final outcome.
The Challenge: Filming in a Secure Office Environment
When we first received the brief, we knew the project would be exciting but also complex. The shoot took place in an office that had strict security measures and limited space for equipment. We were working with AWS, which meant that every aspect of the production needed to adhere to high standards. The office’s restricted access points and space limitations added another layer of difficulty, particularly when it came to camera placement, lighting setups, and coordinating all the equipment in a tight environment.
One of the first things we did was sit down with 2A Consulting to discuss the creative direction and technical needs. We were tasked with capturing a multi-cam shoot, which would involve a variety of camera angles, precise lighting, and flawless sound quality. The office space was ideal in some ways, but the limitations quickly became apparent during the initial location recce (or location tech scout).
Recce: The First Step in Addressing Challenges
We believe the location scout is crucial to the success of any production. It’s where the 42VIDEO team gets a real feel for the space and begins to map out the shoot’s technical requirements. The moment we walked through the building, we saw a few potential roadblocks.
One major challenge we identified early on was the sound. The building’s ventilation system was constantly running, creating a background hum that would interfere with our recordings. We couldn’t turn off the system, as it was linked to the entire building’s climate control. At first, this seemed like a major obstacle, especially since clear sound is essential for AWS’s brand image. But instead of looking for a completely new location (which wasn’t an option), we decided to bring in sound-dampening curtains. These curtains absorbed much of the noise, and after testing, we were able to achieve the desired sound quality.
Overhead Camera Challenge: How We Made It Work
As part of our four-camera multicam setup, we had two cameras for close-ups (one for the host and one for the guest), along with a wide shot and a critical overhead camera to capture the Vibe Board. The overhead shot was key to the series, giving viewers a unique perspective of the creative process unfolding. However, when we arrived at the location, we quickly realized that the ceiling height wasn’t going to accommodate the traditional rig we had planned to use for the overhead camera.
At first, we were stumped. The rig needed more clearance than the space allowed, and without that shot, a key element of the series would be missing. But after some quick problem-solving, we decided to think outside the box. Instead of trying to force the rig into position, we opted for a tiltable grip combined with a wide-angle lens. This flexible approach allowed us to adjust the framing and angle on the fly, giving us the overhead shot we needed, despite the tight space.
Thanks to the combination of an adjustable grip and the wide-angle lens, we were able to work within the spatial constraints of the location, ensuring the overhead shot was still clear, dynamic, and visually engaging. It was a perfect example of how creative problem-solving can make all the difference in a shoot.
Pre-Light Day: Setting Up for Success
Once we’d addressed the major technical challenges during the recce, we moved into pre-lighting, which is one of the most important steps in any production. This day is dedicated to setting up cameras, lighting, and running tests before the official filming begins.
Given the narrow space and specific look we wanted, the lighting was a major point of focus. The office had natural light, but it wasn’t always predictable or sufficient for our needs. On pre-light day, we carefully mapped out how we’d integrate the existing lighting with our own setups. One of the challenges we faced was managing the lighting balance—we had to make sure we weren’t overexposing the scenes while still creating a bright, professional look.
We also tested the color temperature with our Digital Imaging Technician (DIT). This is where we ensure that all our cameras are calibrated correctly so that the color tones are consistent throughout the entire shoot. Even though we had to work with limited natural light, our team made sure the final look was cohesive and aligned with AWS’s branding.
Filming Days: Problem-Solving and Smooth Execution
When filming began, we were well-prepared, but it didn’t come without its own set of hurdles. On any production, unexpected things can and do happen. Here’s a quick look at some of the steps we took to ensure things went smoothly:
Clear Communication Across the Team
One thing we always emphasize at 42VIDEO is clear communication with the entire crew. Every team member, from the camera operators to the sound engineers, needs to know exactly what’s expected in each shot. On these filming days, we were handling multiple camera setups and managing different angles all at once. Having an open line of communication allowed us to stay on track and be flexible when we faced issues.
Minimizing Takes and Maintaining Energy
Filming can be a long and exhausting process, and one of the things we’ve learned over the years is to minimize takes without sacrificing quality. In fact, we set a goal of capturing no more than 3 takes per scene. This kept the energy high, allowed the talent to stay sharp, and kept us on schedule without needing to reshoot the same scene over and over.
Behind-the-Scenes: The Production Process
Behind the scenes, things moved quickly. We coordinated the makeup, sound, and lighting checks, all while making sure every camera angle was framed and every shot was properly lit. The final shot list was dense, so the ability to make fast decisions was essential to ensure we stayed on time and within budget. Despite the high pressure, our team worked seamlessly to make sure everything was captured to perfection.
Pre-Production and Multicam Setup: Planning for Success
Before the cameras started rolling, our team worked closely with AWS to carefully plan every detail of the shoot. The pre-production phase was all about aligning with the client’s vision, understanding their brand values, and ensuring every logistical element was in place. We collaborated on creating a shot list, defining the overall look and feel, and organizing the production schedule to maximize efficiency.
A key part of the production process was setting up for a seamless multicam shoot. We knew that using multiple cameras would allow us to capture dynamic angles and reactions, giving the final videos a more engaging, cinematic feel. We coordinated with the technical team to select the right camera angles, ensure synchronization across all devices, and streamline the entire multicam workflow to avoid any technical hitches on set. With a clear plan in place and a solid team behind the cameras, we were ready to capture high-quality footage that would bring the AWS story to life.
The final 10-video series was a huge success. These videos highlight how AWS’s partners are leveraging technology to transform industries, and the feedback from both AWS and their clients was overwhelmingly positive. You can check out the series and see the final product for yourself on the AWS “This Is My Architecture” platform here: This Is My Architecture.
Key Takeaways: The Importance of Pre-Production Planning
Reflecting on this project, we learned a few important lessons about the importance of pre-production planning:
- Always do a thorough location recce. This step allowed us to identify sound and spatial issues early on, which helped us develop creative solutions before filming started.
- Creative problem-solving is essential. When we hit a roadblock, we didn’t panic. Instead, we found solutions, such as using sound-dampening curtains and adjusting our camera rig.
- Effective communication is key to a smooth shoot. We made sure every team member was on the same page, which helped us execute the production seamlessly.
- Pre-lighting is crucial for getting the right look. With the right setup, you can ensure the quality and consistency of your footage.
Conclusion: Planning, Problem-Solving, and the Power of Teamwork
Looking back on this project, one thing is abundantly clear: pre-production planning is the foundation of a successful multi-cam shoot, especially in challenging environments like a highly secure office space. At 42VIDEO, we pride ourselves on our ability to anticipate challenges, adapt quickly, and collaborate closely with our clients and partners. From overcoming the sound issues caused by the building’s ventilation system to finding a creative solution for the overhead camera setup, every step of the process taught us something new.
We were able to deliver a high-quality video series for AWS because of our team’s meticulous planning, thoughtful problem-solving, and seamless execution. The final result—a stunning collection of videos showcasing the power of AWS technology—was a testament to our dedication and expertise.
Whether you’re facing similar challenges or embarking on your own production journey, remember that clear communication, thorough planning, and creative problem-solving are the keys to overcoming obstacles and producing exceptional results. The work we did on this project stands as a reminder that with the right approach, any challenge can be turned into an opportunity to innovate and elevate your work.
We hope our experience provides you with valuable insights for your own productions. If you’d like to explore more about our work and how we can help bring your vision to life, feel free to check out the final videos and stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes stories!