Aardvark Video

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the sales manager of an event production company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Aardvark Video?

We needed someone to help us conduct and edit interviews for one of our clients.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Aardvark Video was essentially our primary video production partner who helped us conduct interviews with doctors at a conference and set up their own editing facility in our office.

They’ve also done some general videography work, accompanied by their post-production services.

What is the team composition?

I believe we worked with an editor and a three-man crew of videographers, and a producer.

How did you come to work with Aardvark Video?

We came across Aardvark Video while researching for a local video production company online.

How much have you invested with them?

We invested about $5,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked on this project in October 2021.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

They completed all of our video production projects without issues.

How did Aardvark Video perform from a project management standpoint?

They performed well from a project management perspective and we typically communicated through phone and email.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We were impressed with their communication skills, punctuality, and professionalism.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don’t have any constructive feedback because they delivered everything we asked them to do.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO of a film and production company, as well as an actor myself.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Aardvark Video?

They provide video production services for ideas that come across my desk that I believe would be good vehicles for myself as an actor.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They’ve worked on a number of projects for me, including my sizzle reel and the pilot for my last TV show. Our initial sizzle reel was ten minutes. The pilot we shot was 36 minutes, and then it was shortened to 28 minutes for streaming. All the versions have been excellent. After shooting the footage, I went back to his studio three times to work out the edit. The show is a reality program, so some of the people giving confessionals had never been in front of the camera before, and Richard pulled great interviews out of them.

The videos were also completely live-action, but my show dealt with paranormal investigation, which required the introduction of some animation during the editing process.

What is the team composition?

At one point, there were 12 people from his team in my house doing lighting and sound for the confessionals. This was a difficult task, as my house is very low lit, but they did a great job. They also filmed at three other houses where we did paranormal investigations. On these shoots, there was also a first AD, a second AD, and a photography director. We also had 1–2 sound technicians, four people handling lighting, 6–7 grips, and a cinematographer.

How did you come to work with Aardvark Video?

I came to work with them after Richard’s wife approached me to headline a few charity events that she was producing. Richard filmed those events, and he was very professional. When my TV pilot project came around, I went to him.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent around $50,000 with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working together since March 2019, right before COVID hit. This was rough timing, as we were in pre-production. Currently, we’re working on a project for a large streaming service, as well as my show on Roku.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

The pilot they created was so excellently done that it was accepted as a Roku streaming channel. I now have a dedicated 30-minute timeslot. There’s been a great response to the show.

If I were to give Aardvark a rating between one and 10, then I would give them a 10. I’ve worked with a lot of people in my 62 years in the industry, and I’ve never met anyone quite so personable as the people at Aardvark.

How did Aardvark Video perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re very professional in this regard. Richard has given me his personal cell number, so anytime I need him, we’ll talk about a few things and figure out the best approach. He’s very personable when it comes to our way of working.

Richard (Managing Director) comes from New York City. He knows what he’s doing. He has 11 high-end cameras, like the ones used by the top streaming services. As far as I know, the most sophisticated TV studio in Las Vegas. He has his entire staff of editors. He’s a one-stop shop for creating a TV show. He’s also a fantastic director, in addition to having great cameramen.

What did you find most impressive about them?

One thing that’s great about them is that they’ve been working in the industry for 50–60 years, so they’re very knowledgeable. They’re also reliable. If I hire Richard, then I know he’ll be professional and will never shortchange me on anything.

If I get too wordy, Richard isn’t afraid to go in and do a deep edit. He understands the time constraints, and I’ve grown to trust his eye and judgement. He’s great as an objective person to edit the way you need for TV.

Their work ethic also stands out. Projects get put on the back burner a lot in Hollywood and are sometimes waiting for two years before they’re finished. People get overloaded and the wait just goes on and on. With Richard, I’m always on the front burner. If I say I want this done in one month, then it will be done in a month. Even if he has to stay up all night long, Richard will work and work and work until he gets the perfect product. He’ll make you reshoot for a year like Stanley Kubric until you get it right.

Are there any areas they could improve?

The only constructive feedback I can think of is that they could use a softer touch when working with people who aren’t professionals. Richard and his team are from New York, and they can be very direct when helping people with their blocking and lines and such. Donning a softer glove in these delicate situations — working with not professional actors — would be helpful.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be completely upfront with them and have clear communication. Richard is a realist. He’s going to get you where you need to be in very real, logical ways. If you don’t communicate, then I don’t think you’ll get the best experience working with them.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an executive at a marketing company. Our services include audio-visual efforts.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Aardvark Video?

We needed help with media editing.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Aardvark Video helps us with material editing, shooting, and DVD authoring for our customers. Their efforts depend on every project; we listen to our customer’s different challenges and communicate that to Aardvark Video to help us address the requirements.

What is the team composition?

I work directly with Richard (Director), who oversees everything.

How did you come to work with Aardvark Video?

They were referred to us by someone within our company who worked with them before.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in January 2015, and the engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Whenever I call them, they can take care of our needs. Overall, they get involved with our projects and make our customers happy.

How did Aardvark Video perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re responsive whenever we ask them for something, even if it’s due on the same day — they make it work. Regarding tools, we communicate via email.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They can provide union labor if needed; they collaborate well with local unions and fit in perfectly.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don’t think there’s anything they can improve on.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am a contract client for an independent company manufacturing and distributing heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Aardvark Video , and what were your goals?

I hired Aardvark to film for my client over a three day period at the Las Vegas Convention Center, while the largest HVAC Trade Show in North America was taking place. Filming included and incorporated multiple manufacturing products from large commercial Air Handlers to new commercial apps for user integration as well as interviews. Ten videos where edited and approved by the client to use for sales support, internal and external communications.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

I interviewed nearly 20 video vendors in the Las Vegas area and after reviewing all b-roll, having conversations, felt that the deciding factor was the experience of Aardvark in the convention center setting and their ability to see the client's vision clearly.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We held multiple meetings to discuss in detail the scope of the project and to outline features and benefits of all products being filmed (10) as well as creating scripting and storyboarding for the three day shoot. Aardvark shared key insights that allowed us to highlight products on film as well as streamline editing processes.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Richard DPaso and his team we excellent to work with during the entire process.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

While there were some hiccups on the client end to get all edits approved, we had all 10 videos completed and approved for them to send to their distribution and sales channels. Videos are also scheduled to be shared by a media outlet in our business sector to leverage the product content and for editorial support.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

We had multiple weekly updates via email or phone and the entire process was very well managed.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The team asked questions and were very open with ideas to make the videos pop for the end user. While not all ideas were used, sharing them to give a greater perspective of possibilities was very much welcomed.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

The initial bidding process started during COVID and while I would have preferred to meet in person in Las Vegas to review onsite details, we managed through a lot of calls and emails.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are an award-winning experiential event company creating Events with Identity. I am an Account Manager with a focus on event operations management.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Aardvark Video , and what were your goals?

We hired Aardvark video to produce a sizzle reel that showcased our event capabilities. Our goal was to use this video for internal marketing.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Aardvark video was a reference from our General Manager, Lauren, who briefly met with the Aardvark team. Richard's great service and communication kept me connected.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

Aardvark video was pretty self-sufficient in this process. They were not given much creative direction and simply instructed to produce a video that could be used, and they worked with us on revisions. End product was great.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Richard and Devin were both great. Richard helped to get the contract established, while Devin needed very little on-site. He did his thing and produced great results.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Great feedback internally on the quality of the video.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Aardvark's project management style was very hands-off on our end. We let them do what they do best.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their ability to create and deliver a great product was impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

I hope to work with them more in the future to this capacity with a more complex project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am an employee benefits consultant with Insurance Office of America.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Aardvark Video , and what were your goals?

Record our workshop for use in marketing and public relations.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We considered two firms, however, Aardvark was willing to work with our inexperience and timeline to customize a solution that stayed within our challenging budget.

Describe the scope of their work in detail, including any steps and the final deliverables.

They began by doing a fact-finder by phone. We then met at the location to do a physical inspection and determine what would be needed for the space. We also met at his house the day before to do a test of equipment which included some of my AV equipment. We had to do this because the venue was closed the day before. They arrived very early to get set up and handle any final variables. Day of the video shoot, he provided all raw footage. Then delivered a final video via a link for use in editing.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

3 people were on site. 2 video crew members and a production manager.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We have successfully completed the edit and have a great finished product that's ready for release to clients and prospects and other marketing opportunities ie. Linkedin etc.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Email and phone calls and in-person meetings in which they laid out expectations and requirements very clearly.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their commitment to learning all they could about what we required and our business so that they could manage the experience to provide the needed quality video outcome.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

They were outstanding. I learned much and have no input on how they could do better.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Manager for Content Creation at Freeman, delivering integrated full-service solutions with a 100-year legacy in event management and new technologies to deliver moments that matter.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Aardvark Video , and what were your goals?

DVD authoring and duplication.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Aardvark is our "go-to" for DVD authoring and duplication. Richard provides great service with a quick turnaround. Always greatly appreciated!

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

Aardvark makes the DVD authoring and duplication process very easy for us. We upload a file, and they take care of the rest.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

We worked with Richard. He is quick to follow up, gathering all the needed details for a great experience.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The authored DVDs are generally shipped to one of our offices or event locations and always arrive on schedule!

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

My work with Richard is quick and simple. It's generally a few emails and a Box link for content

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

There aren't many DVD authoring and duplication services in the country I'd trust, but Aardvark has earned my trust!

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Someday, I would like to meet Richard and thank him personally for taking great care of us!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am a student who needed to produce a very professional 30 min film. I was one of the main directors but Richard and his company helped me with all of the technology for the film.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Aardvark Video | Las Vegas Video Services, and what were your goals?

I hired them to help with all of the technical elements to make a film. My goal for the project was just to create the most professional-looking 30-minute long short film for my school.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

I chose this company because they were the most affordable and professional company I could find. Every other company was incredibly expensive yet would produce the same quality as Aardvark.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We already had actors set for shooting. However, we needed to have the right equipment for the preproduction and production phases of my film. We got the most beautiful quality for just a 30 min long short film.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

I worked with the business owner Richard and two other people. The process ran incredibly smoothly and they knew what to do to the very bone

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

My short film was screened to the whole school for movie night and was received incredibly well. It is going to be one of the most impressive features of my portfolio.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

They brought a bunch of equipment as well as backups to make sure everything goes well. They were very well prepared and always on time for every shoot and schedule. They were also very knowledgeable.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They produced the best quality outcomes at a very affordable price. They are much more affordable than other more pricey companies yet they produced the most beautiful footage.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Not really. They accomplished what I needed on time and are very organized.