When Snuteglas approached us to create a branded product commercial, we made it clear from the start: We got this!
But to make sure we delivered something more than just a showcase of the product's quality and went beyond the client’s expectations, we knew the product video had to tell a compelling visual story that gripped the viewer.
Our video production company in St. Louis takes pride in every aspect of the process—from lighting and set design to timing and execution. Each one of our videographers make it their mission to find your brand voice and take an idea all the way across the finish line.
So, let’s take you behind the scenes of how we transformed an initial concept into a polished branded content commercial, focusing on creative problem-solving and collaboration.
Our initial concept was to film the Snuteglas commercial in a house, capturing the natural light coming through venetian blinds to evoke a cozy, lived-in atmosphere. However, like all productions, things don’t always go as planned.
We couldn’t get the perfect shot on location, so we did what SplyceHouse does best—we improvised and brought the house to the studio.
[INSERT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbdJqUrSzJA&list=PLuuv_R0yL2Khx9_2e-7bZWLmhLHNN8I-Z&index=4 ]
How we recreated the shot:
Instead of settling for an alternative location or compromising on quality, we built the scene in our studio. Using venetian blinds that matched the original commercial’s aesthetic, we mounted them onto a Cartolini and a C-stand to replicate the light filtering effect we envisioned.
We layered multiple lighting techniques to achieve the desired glow. A 600x light was aimed through a 6x6 diffusion panel with a bounce card to create a beautiful book light effect, ensuring the product was bathed in soft, even lighting. To enhance the scene, a 200x light with a strip box provided a nice edge light, adding depth and separation between the product and the background.
We shot this scene on the Sony A7S Mark III, which gave us excellent clarity and allowed us to focus on the fine details of the product and its surroundings. This blend of technical precision and creative improvisation meant that what started as a location limitation became an opportunity for us to elevate the visuals.
When creating a commercial, the script is just the blueprint.
While we had a clear vision on paper, translating that vision to camera sometimes required adjustments on the fly. This was especially true with Snuteglas’ product, where our original props and set design didn’t fully reflect the premium quality of the brand. As our lead videographer mentioned our behind-the-scenes video, it was just too small and flimsy.
In reality, the product needed to appear more substantial on screen, so we quickly switched out props to better convey the message of durability and quality.
Adaptability is a key aspect of how we work at SplyceHouse.
When something isn’t working, we don’t hesitate to rethink it—whether it’s props, lighting, or the timing of a shot.
With only one day of shooting and limited time with our talent, efficiency was crucial.
The team meticulously planned every shot, angle, and scene ahead of time. By knowing exactly which art pieces and wardrobe elements were needed for each shot, we were able to move quickly between scenes, capturing four distinct setups at a single location.
This type of planning allows us to optimize the time spent on set, making sure we maintain our production standards while staying on schedule.
One of the most important parts of filming a product commercial is maintaining visual cohesion that aligns with the brand.
For Snuteglas, our goal was to create a setting that not only showcased the product but also communicated the brand's identity. This meant that every detail in the background had to complement the product.
This ongoing collaboration between the lighting crew, actors, and art directors ensured that we achieved the desired visual outcome for every frame. The lighting not only showcased the Snuteglas product but also enhanced the textures, colors, and overall feel of the commercial, giving it a premium look.
>> Learn more about How SplyceHouse Creates Branded Product Videos
One of the ways SplyceHouse strives to stand out in the industry is through our focus on collaboration. Our behind-the-scenes process is built on real-time feedback and adaptability, allowing everyone on set to contribute to the final product.
This led us to move as fast as possible through everything while still getting the best performance.
By prioritizing collaboration, our videographers could focus purely on capturing the best shots, while the rest of the team handled set changes, wardrobe, and props. This level of coordination allows us to push the creative envelope while maintaining a tight production schedule.
After wrapping the shoot, our post-production team took over. Editing wasn’t just about piecing together the footage but also involved layering in effects, enhancing colors, and refining audio to give the video a final polish.
Filming the Snute Thinsulator commercial was just one example of the interesting branded content work we are excited to be a part of at SplyceHouse.
And there’s passion in our process. We don’t just show up with a camera and hit record—we craft experiences, adapt to challenges, and maintain a high level of collaboration across every aspect of production.
What sets us apart from others in the industry?
If you’re looking for a videography team that brings creativity, adaptability, and precision to every project, SplyceHouse is here to help. Contact us today to bring your next video vision to life!