Nationwide Videography: The Challenges and Rewards of Working Across Canada
At Aspen Films, we are a Canadian videography company that serves clients from coast to coast, we encounter unique challenges and rewards while creating a cohesive brand experience across Canada’s vast and diverse landscape. From planning for remote locations to understanding regional differences, the work goes far beyond setting up cameras and capturing footage.
In this blog, we’ll explore what it takes to operate as a nationwide videography company and how to maintain consistency while adapting to local cultures, logistical demands, and travel requirements. We’ll also share insights into our own journey, including the experiences and strategies we’ve adopted to make every project successful.
1. Embracing Canada’s Geographic Diversity
Canada’s sheer size presents a significant logistical hurdle for any business, but videography adds extra layers of complexity. With over 9 million square kilometers and ten provinces plus three territories, each region comes with its own landscapes, weather conditions, and cultural practices.
As Aspen Films travels across the country, we must prepare not only for technical demands but also the unpredictability of the elements. Filming a corporate event in downtown Toronto differs greatly from capturing a scene against the rugged backdrop of the Yukon. This variety of environments keeps projects fresh and interesting but requires substantial pre-production planning.
Unique Filming Locations Across Canada
From the towering Rockies to the rocky shores of the Maritimes, Canada offers a wealth of breathtaking locations for corporate shoots. Notable filming spots include:
• The Rocky Mountains: An iconic landscape often used in high-end promotional videos and ads for companies wanting to showcase natural beauty.
• Old Quebec City: Its European architecture and cobbled streets offer a unique aesthetic that transports viewers to another era.
• PEI’s Beaches and Red Sandstone: A favorite for tourism-related shoots, the beaches of Prince Edward Island offer both vibrant color and scenic appeal.
Capturing these varied settings requires understanding each location’s permitting requirements, accessibility, and natural lighting conditions. By taking time to understand the nuances of each environment, we can better adapt our approach to match local conditions.
2. Adapting for Regional Cultural Nuances
Operating nationwide also means working with diverse cultures, dialects, and community values. Canada is home to various ethnic communities, Indigenous groups, and regional accents that must be considered for an authentic message. A marketing video that resonates with an audience in Toronto might feel disconnected or impersonal in a smaller rural town, so it’s crucial to adjust our approach based on the target audience.
Respect for Indigenous Territories and Cultures
Aspen Films takes pride in being sensitive to Indigenous lands and communities. For instance, filming in Northern Canada often involves gaining permission from local communities and acknowledging traditional lands. By building relationships with Indigenous groups, we not only show respect but also deepen the authenticity of our work. This may involve adapting scripts, choosing culturally significant symbols, or including Indigenous voices on camera.
3. Navigating Travel Logistics
Working across Canada requires an organized approach to travel and transport, with gear being one of the most challenging aspects. Canada’s vast geography means flights are often required, and with that comes the need to manage equipment across air, ground, and sometimes even water transport. Weather adds another layer of complexity, as winter storms can delay flights, impact road conditions, or even close airports.
Tips for Effective Travel Planning
At Aspen Films, we follow a few key strategies to keep travel smooth:
1. Advance Bookings: Securing flights, accommodations, and local transport early reduces risks, especially during peak seasons.
2. Portable and Backup Equipment: Compact, versatile equipment is essential when traveling, and backups are crucial in case of malfunctions.
3. Weather Preparedness: We always carry extra layers and backup plans for outdoor shoots, especially when filming in regions with extreme weather variations, such as the Prairies or the Atlantic provinces.
4. Building a Cohesive Brand Experience Across Regions
Consistency is crucial for Aspen Films as a national brand. Despite the regional differences, clients should feel that they’re receiving the same high-quality service whether in Vancouver or Halifax. This requires clear communication, standardized procedures, and an emphasis on brand values.
Strategies for Brand Cohesion
1. Standardized Workflows: By implementing standard practices for pre-production, filming, and post-production, we ensure consistency across projects.
2. Regular Team Communication: Aspen Films leverages collaboration tools like Slack and Notion to keep remote teams connected and informed on each project’s specific requirements.
3. Branding and Messaging: Our visual style and message need to align with Aspen’s brand identity. This consistency reassures clients that our work reflects a unified vision.
5. Managing Remote Teams Across Canada
Coordinating teams from various provinces presents unique challenges. Canada’s time zones span from Newfoundland to Pacific, making effective communication crucial. Aspen Films has adapted by implementing clear communication protocols, ensuring that every team member has the tools and information needed to stay productive, regardless of location.
Remote Collaboration Tips
• Centralized Project Management Tools: Using cloud-based software like Notion or Monday, we centralize all project details, schedules, and deliverables.
• Scheduled Check-Ins: Regular video meetings and briefings help keep the team aligned and maintain cohesion, even when working remotely.
• Local Partners: When feasible, we partner with local freelancers or agencies to provide on-the-ground support, especially in harder-to-reach areas.
6. The Rewards of Nationwide Videography
While the challenges of nationwide operations are significant, the rewards are equally compelling. By operating across Canada, Aspen Films has had the privilege to meet diverse clients, see stunning landscapes, and tell stories that represent the breadth and depth of Canadian identity. Each project allows us to deepen our understanding of this country and its people, making our work richer and more impactful.
Building Relationships Nationwide
From small businesses in rural Alberta to large corporations in downtown Montreal, our client base reflects the full spectrum of Canadian industries. Building these relationships has been rewarding not only in terms of business growth but in creating a network of clients who share our passion for telling stories that matter.
Conclusion
The journey of running a nationwide videography company like Aspen Films is one of adaptability, respect, and continuous learning. From managing logistics to embracing cultural differences, we’ve encountered challenges that have only strengthened our commitment to quality and client satisfaction. By respecting the nuances of each region and maintaining a cohesive brand identity, we ensure that every video reflects the excellence Aspen Films stands for.
Whether filming a corporate event in bustling Toronto, a scenic shoot on PEI, or an intimate documentary in a remote Indigenous community, we approach every project with the same dedication. The rewards of working across Canada far outweigh the challenges, and we look forward to capturing more stories that connect Canadians from coast to coast.