When asked how he’d like integrated production company Picture Farm to be perceived, Todd Stewart, partner and creative executive, says the aim is to be known as a “helpful” multi-disciplined collaborator first and foremost.
“We definitely see ourselves in a service role, helping the creative types make sure they get what they want in the best ways. But the relationships we’ve created with our clients so often lead us to collaborate in a creative way more than just offering support,” he explains.
In a nutshell, the company collaborates, executes and fabricates to every deliverable in a campaign cycle and partners with agencies, brands, creative directors and artists to develop and create for broadcast, print, web, social, installations and events.
“Our ability to see a production from treatment through to post production and delivery means we’re always trying to be as integrated in the creative as possible. We make sure the initial vision is being crafted in every department.”
It isn’t only the work that Picture Farm prides itself on nurturing through various phases however. Stewart notes that the it is also committed to developing talent and not necessarily only its own staff.
“We put on a film festival in Brooklyn every year,” he explains. “We support and sponsor a local filmmaking symposium and are heavily involved in internship programmes for local students in Brooklyn. This stuff might be a little under the radar but it’s so central to what makes us tick.”
“Be curious, exacting and always working on your own projects."
Youth culture features in Picture Farms portfolio of work, particularly for brands such as Nike and Skinsei in the selection below. While its offering for brands looks colourful and fresh, the company always strives to bring something different depending on the project.
“Our process often enough starts with the goal, the end deliverable. We’ll track back from there, divining the best possible methods and processes to come at a production from the right angle with the right ambition in mind,” explains Stewart.
“Since we’re also a creative editing house, we often sit down with the post department just as soon as we talk to the photographer and director. Even if we’re not going to edit a motion project ourselves, we’ll consult our editors and talk about the technical things that need to happen to make sure the creative is captured correctly.”
He says that some might say that life at the company is “seat-of-your-pants” stuff but highlights that it offers a great collaborative environment with lots of opportunity for growth. “We work in so many different countries, synthesising roles and goals across so many projects, it’s the kind of place where time flies. Almost literally,” Stewart adds.
The latest country the firm has started working in is Germany, having just opened a Berlin office to add to its Brooklyn, Barcelona, London, LA and Madrid bases. His advice for those wanting to get their foot in the door? “Be curious, exacting and always working on your own projects. Show up on time for the interview and speak the truth,” he says.
Nike X London Youth Games
Nike Sport Pack
Sweetgreen - Behind the Squash
Skinsei Skincare
BP - Possibilities Everywhere
