Tungsten Media

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder of Savyll Beverage Company. We create a range of ready-to-drink alcohol-free cocktails of familiar flavors, such as Gin and Tonic, Mojito, Bellini, and Paloma. We sell our products both in 250 ml bottles and cans.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Tungsten Media?

We needed product photography services. Prior to launch and during the first year of our company’s existence, we used several photographers for our products. Some of the photographs were of high quality, but others were very poor, and they weren’t hitting the mark for what we were looking for.

We wanted the kind of quality photo that people saw in magazines and TV ads, but those other photographers weren’t delivering that. They came up with very basic sets and very basic creative ideas. I’m not a creative person, so neither I was able to help them design different sets or develop different ideas. Thus, I looked for a new photographer.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Tungsten Media did a complete photoshoot session for us. Initially, they created various ideas based on our brand briefs for our product guidelines. They understood that we were looking for a premium, classy, and elegant photography style, so they created various mood boards.

We walked through the mood boards and the planning over the course of a few weeks, which really put me at ease about this project, as I saw the quality and level of attention I was going to get from them. From there, we continued following the program they had planned for the photoshoot.

They took around 200 photos, including lifestyle shots, because we had a lot of new products launching. We shot both on studio and on location, which was a lot of work for a one-week job. However, they managed to get through everything in four days.

During the photoshoot session, Tungsten Media created many different elaborate sets for the lifestyle images and the product shots. We also wanted to take some photos in a nice bar, so they sourced the bar for us and any other partnership needed for this project.

The other photographers I worked with in the past just showed up with their camera, but I had to find everything else, including the props, the stylist, the location, and the extra help needed. However, working with Tungsten Media was really hands-off for me, which I really liked. I just sent them some products in advance and showed up the days of the photoshoot; they took care of everything else.

We use the images that Tungsten Media took on our website, most of our social media posts, our PR materials, and our media in general. They essentially replaced all of our existing photography assets. Additionally, they helped us create ideas for certain images on the website, such as the banners and the product title images.

What is the team composition?

We worked with around 10 people from Tungsten Media, including one main point of contact, a couple of photographers, stylists, and a number of other people working on location.

How did you come to work with Tungsten Media?

Tungsten Media was recommended to us by someone from a food and beverages industry community on Facebook. I reached out to them and really liked their portfolio; they had done very high quality and professional work for clients in this industry. In their work, I saw really professional practices like backlighting the liquids and taking the time to set the stage up properly, all of which drew my attention to them.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent £9,000 (approximately $12,300 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together in November 2020, and we will use them again in a couple of months.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve received very nice comments about our photos, and we’ve seen a noticeable increase in the images’ engagement.

How did Tungsten Media perform from a project management standpoint?

Tungsten Media’s project plan was very well articulated, and it included a very clear timeline, budget, and roadmap. They also offered a quick turnaround time on each of the project’s phases.

I was really apprehensive about what they would come up with during the planning phase, but they delivered different examples of mood boards very quickly, and we iterated on those. They responded very fast to any inquiry, so I was comfortable with knowing that they would deliver high-caliber work.

During the actual photoshoot, everything went according to plan A; we had no delays, and they stayed on budget and on time. We communicated via email and phone calls, and we used Trello for the planning.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Tungsten Media’s end-to-end service distinguished them from other providers. I haven’t met another agency within this price range that offers such a comprehensive solution. Tungsten Media took care of everything from start to finish.

Additionally, they had an impressive attention to detail in their photography. They checked how the light bounced off the bottle and incorporated different elements to create different effects on our drinks, like frosting. What they did is usually not always easy to get right, but they took extra care in every shot, demonstrating that they were very passionate about their job.

Are there any areas they could improve?

One of the downsides was the time of the year that we were engaged. The turnaround time for the postproduction was a bit slower than expected, but I think it was due to the Christmas holidays. Other than that, I don’t have any constructive feedback; they exceeded my expectations.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Know what you want and come in with ideas of what you’re looking for from the photoshoot. Trust that they’re going to deliver what you want eventually; it will take a couple of back and forth discussions, but they’re very open and collaborative.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the marketing and sales manager for a company that produces plastic products for packaging and environmental waste management. For this project, I also served as a project manager.
 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Tungsten Media?

We needed to create videos and photography for a new branding strategy, which we are rolling out online, via social media, and in traditional, printed media.
 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

First, I conceptualized what I wanted the branding materials to look like, and then I gave Tungsten Media the freedom to execute that vision according to their own creative ideas. I was involved in every step of the process, working with them to make sure everything came out how we wanted. They were really great about taking my feedback and executing based on what I requested, so we were able to get all of the materials that we needed. 

The videos and photos that they produced involved working with professional models — Tungsten Media managed a lot of this process, such as helping us with invoices. All I had to do was pay the invoices and say what I liked, and they would take care of the rest. Finally, they helped us create 3D models to enhance our website.

What is the team composition?

I worked with quite a few Tungsten Media teammates. Two co-founders were heavily involved in our project, and three more production staff also worked closely with me. On the days of the shoots, we would have even more staff join us, such as photographers and assistants. All told, I worked with around 20 people from Tungsten Media.

How did you come to work with Tungsten Media?

I found them by searching Google for companies that were close to where we operate. Tungsten Media’s site and past work really impressed me, but I was a bit nervous at first because they didn’t fit directly into our verticals. After speaking with Simon (Co-Founder), however, I realized that their gear and creative flair were what we really needed to execute on our vision. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve invested around £29,000 (approximately $39,000 USD) with Tungsten Media on this project.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Tungsten Media in July 2021, and we are still working with them.
 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Tungsten Media has been able to complete all of their work while remaining under budget, even when we take into account hiring locations and models for the shoots. There were a few requests that weren’t in our contract that they did anyway, such as providing extra drone footage. We also did not expect them to take ownership of creating our 3D models, which was a pleasant surprise.

How did Tungsten Media perform from a project management standpoint?

I was very pleased with their project management. Everything stayed on track despite us only having our shoot location booked for three days. They’ve also stuck to the schedule during post-production — whatever they say they’re going to do, they deliver. We’ve mostly communicated via email, though they would also call me if any urgent decisions need to be made. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

What was most impressive to me was their ability to go the extra mile and deliver more than they promised. It’s really common for companies to charge extra for every single addition, but they haven’t done that. They also have really incredible gear — it’s some of the best in the entire country. Despite how amazing their equipment is, they remained quite affordable for the quality of the end product. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

It would have been beneficial for our team to have more awareness of when each task is happening within the photoshoot. Logistics can change quickly, and I would have liked to receive more regular updates on these changes. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Tungsten Media really thrives when treated as a part of the team, rather than just as a production studio. Making content with them is a very exciting and collaborative process, and it can be very beneficial for all parties. 
 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the social media and brand manager at Northern Bloc Ice Cream. Managing the brand across all social digital platforms.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Tungsten Media?

During a tough year for everyone, we wanted to produce something that would stand out and also help a struggling creative arts industry. We created a brand new flavour in partnership with an organisation that is helping the arts and theatre industry.

We needed something to really help promote this, we needed high quality captivating stand out content. This is where Tungsten Media were able to help. Taking the content to the next level to really help create an impactful launch and help stand out on our digital marketing.

What were your goals for this project?

Captivating content. We needed to really wow people, nice imagery works well but amazing video content works wonders. We really needed to stand out and knew this would have to involve engaging visuals.

SOLUTION

How did you select Tungsten Media?

Both Northern Bloc and Tungsten were aware of each others presence. Tungsten wanted to work with local brands, our fresh launch campaign brought us together.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail.

We wanted to show off the new design of the packaging. We also wanted to make sure the actual ice cream is visible so people know what it looks like.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Tungsten were amazing at keeping me up to date with the versions and ideas and were very useful in providing creative ideas. We allowed Tungsten to take control of the visuals but they also informed us along the way to make sure it was correct and on brand.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Tungsten completed the project by showing the spinning tub with the lid popping off. With the ingredients flying in and out of the screen created an excitement for the product before the final shot of the packaging and a bowl of the ice cream.

The video wowed the whole team straight away and the video has received thousands of views within the first 24hours. It has received multiple comments and has been shared around to loyal customers all around the UK already. The video will also be used for online advertising as it captures the brand perfectly and something we are proud to show off.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Very effective. There were no awkward meetings, no confusion and no disagreements. Tungsten Media followed the brief and carried it out exceptionally well. Zoom calls and phone calls were very efficient.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The professionalism along the way to an amazing end product. We knew the video would be amazing due to their highlight reel but we were still blown away by the final version of the video.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Very satisfied with the work carried out.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the owner of an artisan food production business supplying plant-based meat and deli products for D2C and B2B.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Tungsten Media?

I was looking for a media business that could replace my amateur product photography and ideas into a professional look for future print and digital marketing and product listings.

I wanted to portray an "experience" so that potential customers could imagine purchasing my products and serving them in ways the photography shows. I lacked the ability both in equipment and expertise to portray my products in the way described and needed professional input and execution.

What were your goals for this project?

I wanted to take my digital and print imagery to the next level to match the artisan speciality nature of my products. The goal was to appeal to a demographic of people who expect picture perfect food photography so that I could be taken more seriously.

SOLUTION

How did you select Tungsten Media?

I chose Tungsten Media because they had previously worked on major supermarket plant-based products before. Their portfolio looked incredibly well put together and professional. I considered a handful of companies but felt Tungsten Media's portfolio was a cut above the rest.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

We had an in-depth discussion on my ideas and goals and then met for an initial consultation so I could hear about and see the mood board and detailed ideas they had put together. I found their plans to be incredibly detailed, personalised and impressive.

After this I was invited to attend a test shoot where they spent the entire day trialing a variety of shots and ideas to prepare for the main shoot. Tungsten Media took care of sourcing all of the supplementary ingredients and had a wealth of props already at their disposal.

I brought a long a few bits and pieces from previous shoots of my own and they worked some of my ideas into their plans from this. I was again invited along to the main shoot where I mostly sat back and was amazed at the level of detail they went to in order to achieve what they set out to do.

I was invited to look over shots from every scene and they were always open to hearing my thoughts.

What was the team composition?

Due to Covid-19 they were working with a smaller team to adhere to social distancing and health laws and were adequately concerned with mine and the Tungsten team's safety.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I have been able to utilise the photos to create striking print marketing material that has caught many people's eye when I run market stalls. I have seen a growth in social media communication from new and future customers.

The resulting photos greatly exceeded my expectations and I am very proud to display their work and how they have depicted my products. I have found it much easier to sell my products where digital and print imagery has been a defining factor. Many have commented on how tasty and inviting my products look.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The entire process was managed perfectly. I was in personal contact with the lead photographer, food stylist and project manager throughout the process via telephone and email. They were always very quick to respond and went above and beyond to ensure I was as involved as I wanted to be.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I found their attention to detail, knowledge of the industry and technical expertise to be very impressive. They were also incredibly helpful at providing tips and for me as a start-up business in marketing and getting noticed online.

Are there any areas for improvement?

I genuinely can't find a fault. They went far above and beyond what I expected and the whole process + results were a pleasure.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the managing director of a peanut butter manufacturer and brand based on Merseyside in the UK. Our business makes a ramge of natural anfd flavoured nut butters both under the Funky Nut brand and for other brands across the UK, Europe and further afield.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Tungsten Media?

We decided that to bring the Funky Nut brand into the awareness of more consumers. We already use digital and traditional methods to do this but we decided to explore the video angle. These videos would be used on our digital channels.

What were your goals for this project?

The main goal was brand awareness along with gaining an increase in online sales. With the video produced by the guys at Tungsten, and even in the short time since we took delivery we have seen an increase in both of these areas.

SOLUTION

How did you select Tungsten Media?

Initially, we spent time looking online in our local area but didn't find anyone who fit our style and values. Luckily through a friend, we were recommended Tungsten Media and asked to see a reel of any work that related to our brief. As soon as we saw the reel we know they were the team for us, bright, powerful and beautiful looking footage bursting with energy is what we saw, and that's what we needed.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail.

Initially, we were looking to have only a product brand video made for the launch of our new product "Peanut Rocks". What makes it special is the ingredients that go into it, so when delivering our brief we made sure this was of high priority. The

Tungsten team quickly offered a solution more than just a simple video informing us that having multiple variations for social platforms etc would bring greater interest for a longer period. Being the MD of Funky Nut Co, I gave a few details that I did require but left a lot of the creative up to Tungsten. We supplied ingredients for them to work with so could be sure they were fresh and up to standard. I had no problem entrusting them with this after a spoken recommendation and viewing their previous work.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

The team consisted of five people. As I know it, Andrew was our creative go to and head of visuals. Simon was head of the production and ensured quality control for us. Jodie, who is a videographer we work with often. Another two team members were on board and assistance who I did not have direct contact with. Throughout the full shoot, we had that consistent team.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We used multiple teaser videos before the launch to build momentum which had a great effect, engagement on our social media was up 10% and followings had increased day on day. On launch day we sold more of the new product than was estimated to previous launches (with normal growth taken into account) and we attribute this to the brand video. We've never had branding work quite like it before!

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow came with no hiccups at all, they gave us a set date and we provided our fresh ingredients for those exact days. If there was a change that would have been a waste of material for us so this was perfect. We were informed timely when certain milestones of the project were reached and had confidence that our video would be ready for the launch day. Communication was never an issue when I needed to talk to Andrew about creative ideas he always had 10 minutes to spare.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Between Andrew & Simon, if there was an answer they didn't know, I was convinced it didn't need knowing. Their level of technical knowledge was awesome, I am a fan of the engineering, the things that go in to make it and they exuded passion for explaining them to me. You could tell they were as excited as anyone could be at doing their job. Whenever we have a serious bit of campaigning coming up I will be sure to talk to Tungsten first just because in there line of work the sky is the limit and I know they'll offer something up we didn't think of.

Are there any areas for improvement?

There is always room for improvement, and speed is always a factor in this world. But we were extremely happy with the communication and work received. Quality and value is more important to us and we ended up with just that.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a bespoke software house specialising in eCommerce, i'm the ops director

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Tungsten Media?

To build an animation that demonstrated the power and ease of use of one of our systems

What were your goals for this project?

To quickly show in a few seconds, what the system is, what is does and how easy it is to use

SOLUTION

How did you select Tungsten Media?

They Were recommended to me by a collegue

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail.

The video basically animated the process of creating, adding and changing content on the fly using our system, along with highlighting several other functions of the platform all in a 2 minute video

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Excellent! we had regular updates and input during the process and the end result was better than we had hoped.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The videos primary use was at a trade show to demonstrate to passers-by the system without us having to explain it every time, and it did just that. by the time we spoke to people they generally understood our offering, which is exactly what we wanted

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Pretty flawless, I can't think of a single issue we had with the process

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their knowledge, creative input, and speed were outstanding! they were as committed to the project as we were, even though it was relatively small, they were still fully invested in our vision and making it work for us

Are there any areas for improvement?

Not really