Producing high quality video and audio is a very rewarding process, however, it is time consuming and often expensive. There are so many elements that must be just right, from developing scripts to shooting the raw material, capturing, editing, sound design and mixing, graphic design, 3D modelling, web design, print format and finally duplication.

All these elements require specialized people, specialized equipment and tools, not to mention all the phone calls, transport and courier costs and we all know how difficult it is for a number of busy people to get together in the same room at the same time! It is often necessary to compromise, using a client's office or even a home living room as a set. Although you may have no choice, this usually makes life very difficult for two key reasons. Firstly, these rooms are invariably too small, making it very difficult to place lights, microphones and cameras without being very cramped. Secondly, you will probably have little or no control over background noise generated by other staff, neighbours, or announcements from the local school.

So, at some point you consider, "What if all these people and skills were all under the same roof? A big roof! One where ALL elements of digital (and some analogue) production could take place?"This is the very first step in starting your own studio!

By Denby Smith

Denby Smith has had many years' experience in movies, live theatre and event production, including working as an actor, lighting and set designer and VJ. Denby is also a video editor and digital music creator.

Denby is currently filming and editing several short drama films and rock clips, using his Sony A1P to great effect in the HDV format. In 2006 he worked with his father, David, on a documentary filmed in Vietnam. Denby and David have worked together for many years on numerous imaginACTION projects.