This page covers how a project with me works, what drives the cost, and where I film.
Where a videographer fits
Big production companies are very good at what they do. When there's a large campaign and a budget to match, that's the right call, and I've worked on plenty of those myself.
But fewer projects have that budget now, while the standard people expect on screen hasn't dropped. That's where I come in: cinema cameras, proper lighting and a real grade, with one experienced person covering directing, shooting and editing rather than a crew and several layers of management. Often it's the difference between a project happening and not happening at all.
I also work hard to make the process easy. You'll know what's happening at each stage, shoot days run to time and stay relaxed, and changes come back quickly. My aim is for everyone involved to enjoy it.
What a project includes
- Pre-production: Concept, script or interview questions, locations, casting, consent and scheduling.
- Production: Directing, cinematography, lighting, sound and drone.
- Post-production: Editing, colour grading, sound design, music, graphics and captions.
- Delivery: Versions for TV, web, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
I cover directing, camera, editing, grading and sound myself. For bigger shoots I bring in trusted producers, gaffers, grips, sound recordists, makeup artists and extra camera operators.
What drives the cost
I quote every project individually. The biggest factors are the number of shoot days and the size of the crew. After that come locations, talent, music, graphics and how many versions you need. Filming several videos in one shoot is the easiest way to stretch a budget. Read the full breakdown.
Where I film
I'm based in Wellington but frequently travel all over New Zealand. I travel by air or van, depending on the amount of equipment I need to bring. For drone shots within 4 km of the airport, I bring in a Part 102 certified pilot.
Government agency? I'm an approved supplier on the All-of-Government Creative and Media Services panel. Here's how that works.
Questions
Are you a freelancer or a production company?
Both, really. I trade as Tierney Productions Limited. I do the directing, camera, editing, grading and sound myself, and bring in trusted crew such as producers, gaffers, sound recordists, makeup artists and extra camera operators when a job needs them.
How long does a video take?
It depends on the project. A simple interview-led video can come together quickly, while commercials and documentary series need more planning. Tell me your deadline and I'll tell you honestly whether it works.
Can you help with the idea and the script?
Yes. A lot of people come to me with a goal, not a script. I'll help shape the idea.
Who owns the finished video?
Usage rights are agreed in the quote before we start. Licensed music and paid talent can carry their own terms, and I'll explain those up front.
