Vlog / Blog
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Behind the Scenes of
Blue Tie Productions
Filmmaking tips, gear reviews, and the business of video production in La Crosse, Wisconsin
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-BLOGS-
FILMMAKING TIPS & BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Educational articles about video production, storytelling, and running a creative business.
Final Video Delivery: 6 Real Ownership Questions
Final video delivery should mean full ownership — not a locked folder. Here’s what files, formats, and rights you’re owed before you sign.
Video Production Strategy Meeting: 4 Decisions Behind ROI
A video production strategy meeting decides whether your video works or wastes money. Here’s exactly what happens in the room, before cameras ever roll.
Video Editing Process Explained: 8 Real Steps Inside Post
The video editing process explained step by step — footage backup, selects, story assembly, color grading, and sound design. See how footage becomes a film.
Video Production Wrap Meeting: A Critical 30-Minute Fix
A video production wrap meeting takes 30 minutes and prevents weeks of chaos, mystery timelines, and endless email chains. Here’s exactly what it covers.
Need Help With Video Content for Social Media Marketing? Start Here
Need help with video content for social media marketing? Here’s a practical system for planning, filming, and posting video — without adding a second job.
Reels vs Ads vs Brand Films: What Each Video Format Is For (and What It’s Not)
Not all business videos are created equal. Here’s exactly what reels vs ads vs brand films do—and what happens when you use the wrong one.
How to Trust Video Production Company Before You Spend a Dollar
Learn how to trust video production company partners before you hire one. Discover the 3-layer Trust Stack: proof, process, and partnership — and what each one means.
The 5 Biggest Video Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make (And How to Avoid Them)
First time buying video production? Avoid these 5 costly video mistakes first time buyers make — and walk away smarter, more confident, and ready to invest well.
A Simple Video Strategy Framework in 3 Steps: Message → Moment → Placement
Use this simple video strategy framework — Message, Moment, Placement — to stop guessing and start producing video that actually works for your business.
The First 3 Videos Every Business Should Make (And Where Each One Goes)
Not sure what videos every business should make first? Here are the 3 essential videos—what they are, why they work, and exactly where each one belongs.
-Vlogs-
Behind the Scenes
Watch me navigate shoots, test gear, and share lessons from running Blue Tie Productions.
We’re Back: Vlog #11 – Small City Video Production
After a 10-month hiatus, I’m diving back into regular vlogging to share updates on where Blue Tie Productions is headed. This vlog serves as a checkpoint—reflecting on massive growth this past year while mapping out the strategic direction for the next decade.
Vlog #10: Latest Shoots, Collaborations, and Gear Adventures
This past week was a whirlwind of different shoots and projects, and next week looks like more of the same. With so many overlapping commitments—weddings, music videos, and ongoing client work—I thought it best to highlight a few key experiences from the past week or so.
Vlog #9: Landscaping Projects, Multi-Camera Shoots & Trading Gear
It’s Vlog #9, and I’ve got a lot to share—from working with a second shooter on a landscaping project to testing out a gear trade-in service and narrowly avoiding a drone disaster.
Vlog #8: Editing Insights & Recent Project Breakdowns
This time around, I’m sharing behind-the-scenes editing tips from some recent jobs.
Vlog #6: Gear Prep & Wedding-Inspired Shoot Day
Welcome to Vlog #6! Today’s entry is split into two parts:
Evening Gear Prep: A quick rundown of the equipment I’ve packed for tomorrow’s shoot.
Shoot Day Breakdown: The context, schedule, and behind-the-scenes of a wedding boutique collaboration I’m filming.
Vlog #4: Embracing the “Work” in Your Creative Business
Hey, everyone! Welcome to Vlog #4. Today, I’m sharing some behind-the-scenes drone footage while diving into something less flashy—but just as critical: the business side of running a creative venture. Specifically, I’ll discuss how I approach marketing, sales, and...
Vlog #3: A Day on the Job with My Favorite Camera Rig
My Go-To Gear Setup
Vlog #2: The (Sometimes Painful) Pursuit of a Built-In Variable ND Filter
I’m sharing an adventure that involved a new drop-in filter system called the “Poco Mofag,” which goes between your lens and camera body to provide a built-in variable ND.
Vlog #1: Why I’m Starting a Vlog
Hello! My name is Jake, and I’m the owner of Blue Tie Productions in La Crosse, Wisconsin.