Sparkhouse

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am a digital marketing specialist for a community development financial institution. Our company is small, so I do all of the digital marketing management from social media to SEO.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

With vertical video becoming a major trend and algorithm hack on social media, our company did not want to miss the boat. This was our first go at animation and vertical video. As a financial institution, especially one that is so niche, it can be very difficult to find our audience, let alone speak to them and find the proper messaging. We hired Sparkhouse to help us out with dipping our toes into animation and vertical video. Our main goal was to explain what we do in short (less than 20 second) videos which is a challenge in and of itself.

SOLUTION

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

We've worked with Sparkhouse on several projects and they have always been flexible and responsive. Their work has always been high quality and we have never been disappointed.

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

We started out by discussing with them over email what we were looking for and what our big picture idea was. They asked us several questions in order to nail down what exactly we envisioned. They sent us photos to ensure they had the right idea in mind and eventually drew up some mock-ups for us to review. There were several drafts of each video that they created for us. Once we had all of the color and typography in place, Sparkhouse sent us a dropbox link where we could download our videos and save them to our files.

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

The team was robust, but we started the conversation with Torrey Tayenaka, who we have rapport with. We then spent most of the time working with Maximilien Chaix who was very responsive and great to work with. This was our first time ever designing something like this so the process on our end may have been a bit clunky with getting the appropriate parties involved at the right times, but they remained flexible and diligent in helping bring our vision to life.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have yet to utilize the videos for our purposes, but hope to see some more engagement and reach of our audience by putting these trending vertical videos out into the social world.

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

While they offered to set up calls with us to further discuss our thought process, our schedules are quite complicated this time of year, so the entire process was done through email. They were always quick to respond and make adjustments when necessary. We proposed a quick turnaround time and they were eager to jump at the challenge.

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

I really appreciated how they worked with us even though we may have thrown a few wrenches in things from time to time. This was actually my first time directing and managing a major production process like this, so it was a learning experience for me especially. I know it can be frustrating to work with clients who change their mind at the tail end of things, but Sparkhouse set clear boundaries when necessary while still producing quality work that met our needs. We're looking forward to producing more content with Sparkhouse!

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

The only improvements I could see would be done on our end. We did not involve our creative specialist/graphic designer until the end of the project which was a mistake. They had several design elements they wanted to change that should have definitely been addressed at the beginning of the process. I think next time I would set up an initial brain storming call with them to go over where my mind is at so we could talk through ideas together instead of making them wait on my emails.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Founder and director of Nika, the company behind www.chusp.com. Chusp allows users to earn cash income by hosting video meetings, and also to books meeting with fellow-users on a pay-as-you go basis. Users can market their profiles and generate earnings by hosting 1:1 video meetings to their network community, fans or followers – essentially with anyone who value their time and what makes them special.

At the same time, Chusp also allows users to meet their own role models face-to-face in the privacy and exclusivity of a Chusp video setting. Any user can be a Host user as well as a Fan User or both. Chusp’s integrated technological service platform ensures maximum convenience, privacy and security in all facets of the user experience, from administering your Chusp profile and meeting schedule all the way to payment processing and earnings disbursements into the user's bank account. At the same time, Chusp also allows you to meet your own role models deserving your money face-to-face in the privacy and exclusivity of a Chusp video setting

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

I engaged Sparkhouse to produce a promo/teaser video for thew newly developed app. Chusp is a conceptually and technologically new product and a hithertho unknown brandname, the goal was to portray the app's, its functions and uses cases in a visually striking and unique manner. Indeed, the overarching objective was to have a video teaser that would not only communicate the chusp brand, but anchor and prime viewers perception of chusp. The import of the project for the launch marketing of our new product therefore cannot be understated.

SOLUTION

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

I researched, shortlisted and spoke to several professional video production companies in the US, UK, and Europe. I ultimately decided to go with Sparkhouse: the trustworthiness/credibility of its CEO, Torrey Tayenaka , and the quality of actual previous productions by Sparkhouse.

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

The Sparkhouse team was highly professional, flexible and delivery-focused throughout the process. At the outset, they were accommodative that I brought on board my own music producer - which meant they had to align with another party. We went through several rounds of conceptualizing the theme for and scripting the video. Not only was Sparkhouse highly responsive to our ideas, they also came up with the innovative ideas such as the use of robot-arm led camera technology which turned out to massively boost the visual impact of the video.

They were also extremely resource-full to meet our challenging casting demands, including a highly skilled, athletic yet feminine ballet dancer. When it came to the day of the shooting, we requested Sparkhouse to expand the scope of the shoot just the day beforehand. Sparkhouse accomodated and delivered. Sparkhouse was just as responsive during the post-production process, taking into account various comments/requests of ours pertaining to details (such as font-sizing/display & animation) as well as delivering several cuts of the movie in various length My ambitions for this project were high. Sparkhouse met them all.

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

We worked with a project manager (Max), a production/editing team as well as a casting professional. The CEO, Torrey, was involved throughout the process. There was open, regular interaction, both during weekly VC team calls as well as ad hoc via emails. Regardless of the communication medium or forum, the Sparkhouse team was highly responsive.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The video has yet to be officially launched; but I showed it to various sample audiences of various ages, backgrounds - there wasn't a single individual who didn't like it, most of it loved it - both for the sake of the amazing, stunning visuals produced by Torrey's team and the soundtrack produced by Rolf Mayer Bode.

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

The communication was open, flexible, and on-point. The project manager send weekly updates; more importantly Sparkhouse held weekly video calls with all stakeholders which proved highly useful to ensure and maintain full alignment and exchange ideas. Last but not least, Sparkhouse was always responsive to impromptu emails on our part.

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

They blend professionalism and commitment to delivery with a high degree of flexibility and responsiveness. They went out of their way to deliver. Ours was an ambitious project and its fair to say that we were a demanding client. Sparkhouse delivered in full.

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

None. I will certainly engage Sparkhouse for future productions

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the marketing director for a digital marketing agency. We integrate closely with partners as their outsourced CMO to help them reach their business goals.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

One of our clients wanted a beautiful company overview video and this is something that's typically out of our wheelhouse. We partner with Sparkhouse to help us deliver a polished, top-notch video to our client.

SOLUTION

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

We have used Sparkhouse for a number of projects and been very satisfied with their work. They are great to work with and are well priced for the value they deliver.

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

For the most recent project, we started with a script, but Sparkhouse added the AV indicators and also suggested what text graphics to add to the screen. They put together a project plan and emailed weekly with milestones and what they needed from us to move forward.

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

We worked with their project manager Maximillian to coordinate, but spoke directly with Torrey during the sales process and on-site during filming. Both were very professional and very good at their craft. The feedback process was easy as we were able to leave comments at timestamps on the video and it was very efficient.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We were able to finalize the video in two easy rounds of revisions and Sparkhouse more than met our clients' expectations. They loved how the video turned out and I'm sure it will be leveraged in a number of ways and bring value to their business.

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

The project manager provided a project plan on Notion to view the progress along the way. He shared weekly updates and followed up more frequently as necessary to get feedback and keep the project moving.

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

They took all the time that was needed to capture the best footage on-site. They came up with creative ideas and knew what would look good on camera.

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

I'm very pleased with the work they did and I would definitely work with them again. I can't think of any area of improvement.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a marketing manager in the residential division of a consumer items company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Sparkhouse?

We’re in the process of updating all of our branded content, and I’ve contracted them to help with that effort. Initially, however, I reached out for help in capturing and produce video content.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We went through a creative process to plan the video with Sparkhouse, translating my high-level requirements into an actionable shot list. They met me on-site for the shoot with a crew of five people. Currently, we’re working through the editing process for five different brand lifestyle videos. They’re handling all post-production, including audio mixing.

What is the team composition?

There were five crew members on set, and I’ve worked with two people during the editing process. Torrey (CEO and Co-Founder) has been my point of contact throughout.

How did you come to work with Sparkhouse?

I was referred to them and impressed by their past work quality. They gave me confidence that they would accomplish the work I needed.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent $50,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working together since October 2021.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The quality of the video has been received very well. Dizzain has been professional, and I would certainly work with them again. I’ve appreciated each step of the process.

How did Sparkhouse perform from a project management standpoint?

They send weekly emails with current progress, as well as any items they need from us to complete the work.

In terms of tools, they use a specific service to share video edits which allows for direct comments. It’s very easy to provide feedback and commentary.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Sparkhouse was great about helping me translate my high-level objective into a shoot plan.

Additionally, we have many stakeholders in our organization, and they have different views about the look of content. Sparkhouse’s team is accommodating in letting us provide that consolidated feedback to them; they’re responsive and quick in implementing it.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I don’t think so.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Torrey is good at reaching out and inviting us to take an active role in the creative process. It’s easy to slide into a hands-off stance during this part of the work, but don’t be afraid to speak to those decisions.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I work for an integrated branding and marketing agency on the account side as a liaison for various projects.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

Our work with Sparkhouse spanned all assets needed for a brand launch including brand and lifestyle photography, video asset creation, and 3D render creation.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We researched and narrowed down to a few companies we would have liked to work with. Throughout the process, Sparkhouse had stellar communication and responsiveness as well as a passion for the brand.

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

We have multiple deliverables with Sparkhouse ranging from product and lifestyle photos to multiple videos. We worked with Sparkhouse on understanding what was needed for product a launch and had multiple days of video and photo shoots to achieve those deliverables.

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

I worked directly with the leaders of the project including set designers, photographers, videographers, directors etc. All of their team's members have been incredibly helpful in helping us deliver high-quality work.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The clients were excited about the work and photography assets will be used across all channels including website as well as social and paid and earned media.

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

We communicate weekly with Sparkhouse, they've done a great job of handling a moving timeline and working hard to incorporate many rounds of feedback from multiple stakeholders.

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

I love the collaborative work we've been able to do and feel as though we are a part of the entire process.

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

Everything has been great! We've all had times and difficulty navigating through this complex project but Sparkhouse has been supportive and helpful throughout.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am an Account Supervisor at a marketing/branding communications agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We hired Sparkhouse to develop videos to support a product launch - a new oral care product in the direct-to-consumer space.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We RFP'd a handful of production agencies. Sparkhouse's past experience, flexible scoping, creative input, competitive pricing, and overall responsiveness and professionalism stood out far beyond the others. The choice to work with Sparkhouse was easy.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

We engaged Sparkhouse to create video testimonials with key opinion leaders in the oral care space. We worked together to fly 4 professionals from across the country to California for in-person shooting.

Sparkhouse worked with us to find various settings, including pulling strings to gain access to an actual dental office, for shooting these interviews. The final product are four full length video reviews of the new product, including several cut downs.

What was the team composition?

We worked directly with all members of the Sparkhouse team. Torrey in particular was a great help - he and his whole team of editors and producers were extremely responsive and agile.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Despite filming individuals who don't specialize in public-speaking or on-camera shooting, Torrey's team made everyone feel comfortable and the outcome was excellent. The videos are exactly what we asked for.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Sparkhouse was available for weekly status check ins throughout pre- and post-production. The team is extremely responsive and organized.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their commitment to meeting our expectations was excellent. They were diligent in addressing all feedback and pivoting to try new approaches.

Is there any area for improvement or anything that could have been done differently?

n/a

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the lead designer for a PC gaming company. I work on multiple campaigns to help promote product and promotional events to help make PC gaming more inclusive and accessible.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We hired Sparkhouse to help with video production to support our campaign in launching a new product. Our goal was to introduce a new color to the community by making a "splash" with a dynamic and memorable impression of the product.

SOLUTION

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

We have previously worked with Sparkhouse for other projects and are very familiar with their dedication to their work as well as the quality produced. They are very reliable and can be trusted to get the work done to produce satisfactory results.

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

We always kick off the process by introducing the product and what the goals/POV we want to tell. We work together in storyboarding the narrative and ensure all gears are checked before deciding on how we want to execute.

Sparkhouse then does an impeccable job on their end to ensure we're in great hands. They coordinate any details from filming with talent to rendering CGI.

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

I worked with Torrey and his entire team as they were all great in communicating actions and feedback. The process of going back and forth for review was seamless.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The community response to our engagement on social handles were very high. Unfortunately we are not able to give direct results in sales of said product as we had announced the product, but the product was not ready to sell yet.

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

Communication with Sparkhouse is very easy. We communicated effectively though email and meetings. They used frame.io to share video reviews and that also incorporated timecoded edits. Torrey and his team are very prompt with checking for updates as they want to ensure they deliver by proposed date.

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

The time and dedication this team has to ensure each video produced is satisfactory will always be the reason we come back to Sparkhouse. We truly trust their team with production results.

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

Torrey's team is doing a fantastic job as is. I have very little to comment to help improve.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president of a marketing consulting firm in Orange County, and I’ve been running the business for 20 years.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Sparkhouse?

We hired Sparhouse to create our promotional videos.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

For many years, they’ve created a number of promotional videos for me, which are mostly focused on promoting my business networking agency reviews, new business development, and other topics. To date, they’ve produced around 125 videos and each of them is 3–4 minutes long, which mostly features me.

The longer form of videos features my interviews with other people. Some of them have animation and graphics. The team is also in charge of the production’s music and equipment. We continue to work with their team and the only difference is that they’ve reinvented their studio due to COVID-19.

What is the team composition?

We’re working with 3–4 people from Sparkhouse, including a cameraman and a sound operator. Our main point of contact is Torrey (CEO & Co-Founder).

How did you come to work with Sparkhouse?

I met Torrey at a networking event where I was presenting. I knew that he had a great educational background, and we just stayed in touch after that. I also saw him at various events and decided to work with him.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our ongoing collaboration started in January 2011.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The number of people that have visited my website has increased due to the videos they’ve produced for me. I’m pleased that my interaction with people also increased because of their work.

In particular, students from all over the country have approached me about how I helped them with their personal branding. Those students have learned something they’ll never get from school and that makes what I do worthwhile. Overall, I get pretty great feedback from different people, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support.

How did Sparkhouse perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re very organized and professional so they’re always on time. I communicate with them through phone and email.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The quality of their work has been impressive. They also have high-quality equipment which they’ve utilized for my projects. As a result, I’ve referred them to my clients and they’ve been great with them as well.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I’m very happy with their work.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Give them a call and start a conversation with them. Every project is different, and every client has different needs. Once you reach out to them, they'll give you suggestions on how to improve your vision. At the very least, test their services by hiring them on a project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the marketing manager for a tutoring company. We provide academic assistance in all subjects for students of all ages and ability levels.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We hired Sparkhouse to film three short commercials for placements on TV and streaming channels. Our goal was to highlight a selection of stressful scenarios that parents encounter with their kids.

SOLUTION

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

We called several production companies—both in-state and out—before landing on Sparkhouse. We chose them based on their portfolio, their willingness to find creative ways to turn our ideas into reality, and their competitive price.

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

The process began with a discovery/creative meeting where we were able to work through a few of our ideas, followed by some back and forth to refine the storyline. From there, they provided a storyboard that gave us a great visual understanding of how the commercials would be shot. Sparkhouse made the casting process very easy.

After understanding the parameters we were looking for, they vetted a huge selection of auditions to present us with the best of the best for us to make a final selection. Our shoot took place in two locations, and they managed the cast and crew with excellent efficiency. We were able to participate in the shoot for the entirety, offering our input and approval on each take.

Each crew member we encountered was kind, accommodating, and professional. The post-production process went smoothly as well. After submitting a few rough cuts to work through the story, they polished the finer elements of the cut such as color and audio.

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

Torrey Tayenaka was our primary point of contact. He provided EXCELLENT communication, and always seemed to have the perfect solution to any of our concerns. We also worked closely with Aman Suri and Sruthi Alagammai during the shoot.

They were very easy to work with it was clear that they were as invested in the project as we were. They were always in control of the situation, patient, and friendly. Each judgment call they made or idea they suggested was a winner...it was impressive.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We haven't gone live with these yet, but we couldn't be happier with the results. The commercials will be the best representation of our brand to date. Everyone we've shown these commercials to loved them.

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

Sparkhouse used a number of communication tools to streamline the process. I loved that they had weekly check-ins to keep everyone on task and inform me of the process. They had visual representations of where we were in the process timeline. For the edits, we used Frame in order to specifically pinpoint edits—no need to list out timecodes.

All in all, their communication and organization was one of the best aspects of working with Sparkhouse.

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

There's a lot that impressed me about working about Sparkhouse—their investment in our project, their professionalism, their organization—but the aspect that impressed me the most was their communication. With Sparkhouse, you will always be kept in the loop. Questions are answered quickly and succinctly. We felt like our project was their top priority at all times.

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

Not at all. We look forward to using them again in the future.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a digital design agency and we specialize in 2D&3D animation. I'm at Chief Partnership Officer&Business Development Manager here, I'm responsible for setting up business relationships and preliminary project discussions.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We worked together with Sparkhouse Agency on creating an amazing 3D character animation, which was used for marketing campaigns and on the website to increase awareness and explain the services

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Sparkhouse team was super responsive and always were in touch with us, suggested a lot of amazing ideas for our video, so we decided that they will be the perfect match for us.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

The team produced the script as well as the creative aspect of the project - came up with a super detailed mood board and visual description of the future video. The production overall went very smoothly due to constant communication.

What was the team composition?

We were in touch with Torrey and a few of his colleagues, which were supporting us on different production stages.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Overall, the whole experience was very positive and it was a great pleasure to collaborate with Sparkhouse team. We believe that the video output is worth it.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The team was using special software to manage projects and make sure we were moving forward timely and with no delays.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We were impressed with their creativity and prompt and clear communication.

Is there any area for improvement or anything that could have been done differently?

Everything was great!