There are countless ways and reasons to implement a video marketing campaign, but the first step is to get the video made. Some companies opt for using in-house resources to produce their video content, and that can seem like a money-saving measure on the surface. However, professionally produced videos are usually more effective in the long run, making them well worth the higher price tag. Businesses in and around Chicago have plenty of choices where video production studios are concerned; from boutique operations to award-winning companies, these studios run the gamut. No matter what your company is looking for in a video production studio, the options below are a great place to start.
Charter & Co
Since 2019, video production company Charter & Co has won more than 20 awards, and partnered with brands across a wide variety of industries to make killer video marketing content. They don’t just focus on video quality, though; they also focus on increasing audience engagement, which is what video marketing is all about. They make a point of using only the best equipment, whether it’s cutting-edge cameras during the filming process, or supercomputers in post-production. Those who prefer a collaborative experience should consider Charter & Co, since this studio emphasizes working alongside clients, not just for them.
Flightless Bird Creative
This studio isn’t just a production company; it’s also a creative agency. This means that they go beyond just video production, for a more holistic approach to each job. Even though they have studios in several different cities, they still try to provide the same level of service as a boutique company. Or, to use their own words, their goal is to “treat every client like they’re our only client”. Their former clients include AT&T, Adidas, Aveeno, Kaplan University, and ESPN Radio.
Two Gents Digital
Founded by (you guessed it) two gents, this “conceptually driven, branded content agency” offers a boutique experience for each client. This doesn’t put limits on their capabilities, though; they’re able to scale up for any production that requires them to. Clients can rely on a more collaborative approach from Two Gents Digital, as well as individualized assistance with every step of the production process. Their former clients include Exelon, The Westloop Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Scholl’s.
Richter Studios
As one of the oldest video production studios in Chicago (founded in 1997), Richter Studios has been called a pioneer of digital cinema. They’ve produced thousands of videos since their inception and now work out of their own 5,000 square-foot studio. In addition to films, they also specialize in animated videos. Their former clients include Radio Flyer, Kmart, the College of American Pathologists, and Sears.
Scenic Road
This video and creative content agency specializes in branded storytelling, with complete video production services for each client. That’s not all, though; they also offer marketing services for any client who wants guidance for their video marketing campaign. Every video is crafted to authentically connect with target audiences, which drives engagement and boosts brand awareness. Their former clients include Farmland, John Deere, Samsung, and Bayer.
24 Frames
This production studio has a lot going for it, whether you consider its 17 years of operation or its Emmy Award. They’re known for producing videos that are not only visually appealing but also emotionally impactful. Their former clients include Budweiser, the Institute of Natural Health, the American Cancer Society, and YMCA.
Bottle Rocket Media
They handle plenty of traditional video production jobs, but they also specialize in motion graphics and 360-degree virtual reality. As you might imagine, this requires plenty of high-tech equipment – Bottle Rocket Media has invested in everything from drones to high-powered computers to ensure stunning results for their clients. This dedication has paid off, winning them awards such as an AVA Award, several Telly Awards, and an Emmy Award. Their former clients include The Atlantic, Mattel, McDonald’s, American Girl, Dyson, and the American Marketing Association.
Leeway Films
Businesses that are searching for a personalized boutique experience need look no further than Leeway Films. This video production company is built to scale up or down, according to the client’s needs. Their team has experience in a variety of video productions, with emphasis on brand videos, social media-oriented video content, commercials, and music videos. Their former clients include Krave Jerky, Smoke BBQ, the Seattle Sounders, and Big Hill Ciderworks.
Attack Studios
Plenty of video production companies are able to produce animated content, but a much smaller number of them specialize in this niche. Attack Studios has 14 years of experience in animation and motion graphics and has created hundreds of videos for many different industries. These have included everything from explainer videos to broadcast spots; their former clients include NASA, Fruit of the Loom, Sprint, and Converse.
Yakkety Yak
Previously known as Kindred Content, Yakkety Yak is a woman-owned business specializing in socially impactful branded videos. Their areas of expertise include documentary and podcast production, commercial content, animation, and branded content. In addition to technical expertise, they also focus on emotional equity for each video. Their former clients include Pillars Community Health, DePaul University, the American Migraine Foundation, and Little Heroes League.
Old North Film Company
Most video production companies have a few different areas of specialization, but Old North Film Company has honed in on just one: wedding videography. While they’re more than qualified to do other video production jobs, wedding videography is their specialty. Every client gets two videographers to record the big day, ensuring that each special moment gets captured. There are several wedding packages available, so couples can choose the one that’s the best fit for their budget and preferences.
The takeaway
If your company needs expertly produced video content, it’s key to find the right production studio for the job. The companies described above don’t just talk the talk; they also walk the walk, as you can see from their lists of previous clients. Their level of experience will streamline the entire process; not only will you benefit from the resulting video content, but you’ll also enjoy working with them throughout the process.
