https://www.monolith.productions/blogNotes on filmmaking, production, process, and visual culture from Monolith.en-usMon, 22 Jun 2026 23:17:25 GMThttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-cinematic-sound-design-matters-more-than-you-thinkhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-cinematic-sound-design-matters-more-than-you-thinkMon, 18 Aug 2025 17:18:20 GMTZenen SaneshigeSound design is the hidden force behind great video. Learn how we used layered audio and real-world sound to bring a fast-paced short film to life.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-hidden-power-of-pre-production-why-planning-is-the-most-cinematic-thing-you-can-dohttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-hidden-power-of-pre-production-why-planning-is-the-most-cinematic-thing-you-can-doTue, 05 Aug 2025 12:30:00 GMTZenen SaneshigeTrue cinematic quality starts long before the camera rolls. Discover why pre-production is the most important phase in creating intentional, high-end video.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/there-are-levels-to-thishttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/there-are-levels-to-thisSat, 02 Aug 2025 13:57:00 GMTMatt DonchessTop-tier brands don’t rely on phone video. Learn how strategic, intentional content helps businesses grow and builds trust from the first impression.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/bringing-ballet-to-the-backyardhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/bringing-ballet-to-the-backyardMon, 28 Jul 2025 16:35:46 GMTMatt DonchessCanton Ballet’s five-part summer series brought The Nutcracker into July and onto the phones of local families. Here's how they made tradition feel timely.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/when-longform-meets-linkedin-why-vertical-video-isnt-just-for-gen-zhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/when-longform-meets-linkedin-why-vertical-video-isnt-just-for-gen-zThu, 24 Jul 2025 14:08:00 GMTMatt DonchessVertical video isn’t just for creators. See how Monolith helped healthcare tech company Tennr transform longform interviews into powerful vertical content for LinkedIn and beyond.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/two-roles-one-visual-language-why-the-fx6-fx3-pairing-just-workshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/two-roles-one-visual-language-why-the-fx6-fx3-pairing-just-worksMon, 21 Jul 2025 17:41:50 GMTZenen SaneshigeDiscover how the FX6 and FX3 work together seamlessly—balancing control and speed with a unified image for music videos, brand films, and corporate work.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/color-grading-with-purpose-why-less-is-often-morehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/color-grading-with-purpose-why-less-is-often-moreThu, 10 Jul 2025 14:00:00 GMTZenen SaneshigeExplore why subtle color grading is essential when filming detailed visuals—and how knowing when not to stylize can elevate authenticity and trust.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/when-the-numbers-liehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/when-the-numbers-lieMon, 07 Jul 2025 15:58:00 GMTMatt DonchessNot all viral content is built honestly. Here's why Monolith prioritizes integrity over illusion, and what every brand should know before buying into inflated numbers.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/buyer-beware-the-rise-of-hollow-video-agencies-flooding-the-markethttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/buyer-beware-the-rise-of-hollow-video-agencies-flooding-the-marketFri, 04 Jul 2025 00:30:00 GMTMatt DonchessLearn how some video companies fake expertise with freelancers and AI. Monolith delivers real creative partnership and results.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-most-brand-videos-fail-and-how-to-make-one-that-doesnthttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-most-brand-videos-fail-and-how-to-make-one-that-doesntTue, 01 Jul 2025 16:37:00 GMTMatt DonchessMost brand videos get ignored. Monolith explains why—and how to create cinematic video content that connects, converts, and stands out in a crowded digital world.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/what-a-music-video-feels-like-elijahs-the-answers-and-the-art-of-visual-presencehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/what-a-music-video-feels-like-elijahs-the-answers-and-the-art-of-visual-presenceThu, 26 Jun 2025 16:26:00 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith produced Elijah’s “The Answers,” a retro-inspired music video shot at a real Canton, Ohio car wash. Directed by Zenen, the video blends nostalgic visuals with instinctive filmmaking.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-visual-language-of-innovation-how-monolith-serves-high-growth-tech-and-corporate-teamshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-visual-language-of-innovation-how-monolith-serves-high-growth-tech-and-corporate-teamsTue, 24 Jun 2025 16:15:11 GMTMatt DonchessSee how Monolith supports growing companies like Tennr and Nymbl with polished video content for marketing, training, and events. Based in Ohio. Producing nationwide.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-missing-ingredient-why-lighting-is-the-foundation-of-cinematographyhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-missing-ingredient-why-lighting-is-the-foundation-of-cinematographyMon, 09 Jun 2025 16:28:00 GMTMatt DonchessCameras don’t make beautiful images—lighting does. Discover why lighting is the true foundation of cinematography and how Monolith approaches visual storytelling with intent, precision, and artistry.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-creative-split-branded-work-vs-unfiltered-expressionhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-creative-split-branded-work-vs-unfiltered-expressionWed, 04 Jun 2025 16:05:00 GMTMatt DonchessAt Monolith, we embrace both sides of the creative spectrum—purpose-driven branded video and freeform artistic expression. Here’s why defining that creative split matters for businesses and creators alike.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-16mm-film-and-a-ronin-gimbal-captivated-400000-viewershttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-16mm-film-and-a-ronin-gimbal-captivated-400000-viewersMon, 02 Jun 2025 17:33:48 GMTZenen SaneshigeDiscover why our 16mm film camera on a Ronin gimbal experiment captivated 400,000+ viewers—and what it means for redefining cinematic boundaries.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/committing-to-the-look-no-compromises-why-we-chose-to-shoot-soaps-faith-on-16mmhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/committing-to-the-look-no-compromises-why-we-chose-to-shoot-soaps-faith-on-16mmTue, 27 May 2025 18:35:35 GMTZenen SaneshigeIntentionality in Every Frame At Monolith, we believe every frame should be intentional—every choice, deliberate. So when we partnered with soap. on his latest release, “Faith,” we aimed to craft a visual language that resonated with the song’s dark, almost sinister tone. Embracing the Hauntinhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/discovery-isnt-about-us-its-about-youhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/discovery-isnt-about-us-its-about-youThu, 22 May 2025 17:10:20 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith’s Discovery process helps brands clarify goals, define audiences, and build smarter video strategies. Learn how we tailor every project from day one.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/what-sets-great-video-agencies-apart-its-not-just-the-gearhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/what-sets-great-video-agencies-apart-its-not-just-the-gearMon, 12 May 2025 11:15:00 GMTMatt DonchessLooking for a top-tier video production company in Ohio? Discover why Monolith is trusted by national brands for cinematic storytelling, corporate content, and brand visuals that deliver results.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-consistency-speed-and-storytelling-defined-our-work-with-arizona-ctsoshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-consistency-speed-and-storytelling-defined-our-work-with-arizona-ctsosFri, 09 May 2025 17:30:00 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith has 10+ years of experience producing fast-turnaround recap videos for Arizona FBLA and FCCLA events. Discover why event-based organizations trust us for cinematic coverage that moves people.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/growth-is-visual-why-video-is-the-seed-of-every-digital-brandhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/growth-is-visual-why-video-is-the-seed-of-every-digital-brandWed, 07 May 2025 16:46:00 GMTMatt DonchessLooking to grow your brand online? Discover how cinematic, story-driven video content helps businesses in Ohio and beyond build trust, visibility, and long-term success.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-we-still-shoot-16mm-filmand-why-it-matters-for-ohio-video-productionhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-we-still-shoot-16mm-filmand-why-it-matters-for-ohio-video-productionTue, 06 May 2025 10:06:00 GMTZenenLooking for high-end video production in Ohio? Discover why Monolith still shoots 16mm film and how this classic format adds unmatched value to music videos, brand campaigns, and cinematic content.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/stop-wasting-money-on-videos-that-dont-say-anythinghttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/stop-wasting-money-on-videos-that-dont-say-anythingSun, 04 May 2025 18:27:00 GMTMatt DonchessDiscover why generic video doesn’t work—and how Monolith crafts strategic, cinematic brand stories that drive engagement, clarity, and conversions in Cleveland and beyond.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/behind-the-lens-with-the-canton-ballethttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/behind-the-lens-with-the-canton-balletSat, 03 May 2025 10:13:00 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith partnered with Canton Ballet to produce a cinematic BTS-style video celebrating their 60th season, blending professional visuals with authentic moments to connect with new students and families.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/this-is-what-real-video-production-looks-likehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/this-is-what-real-video-production-looks-likeFri, 02 May 2025 01:26:58 GMTMatt DonchessTired of disposable content? Learn why Monolith is redefining high-end video production in Ohio through cinematic visuals, strategic storytelling, and real execution.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/behind-the-lens-how-we-captured-ty-jeromes-day-off-in-clevelandhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/behind-the-lens-how-we-captured-ty-jeromes-day-off-in-clevelandWed, 23 Apr 2025 18:48:17 GMTMatt DonchessDiscover how Monolith produced a cinematic, multi-format video campaign featuring Ty Jerome for Whistle Sports and DAZN—shot entirely in Cleveland, Ohio.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/monoliths-creative-processhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/monoliths-creative-processFri, 28 Mar 2025 16:31:06 GMTMatt DonchessLearn how Monolith’s Discovery, Creative, and Shoot process delivers high-quality video content tailored to your brand’s goals. See why our approach works.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-high-end-video-production-is-transforming-the-hospitality-industryhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-high-end-video-production-is-transforming-the-hospitality-industryFri, 07 Mar 2025 03:17:04 GMTMatt DonchessHotels and resorts need more than photos—they need cinematic video content. See how professional video production drives higher bookings, engagement, and brand awareness.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/behind-the-lens-working-in-live-sports-production-in-los-angeleshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/behind-the-lens-working-in-live-sports-production-in-los-angelesThu, 06 Mar 2025 13:00:00 GMTMatt DonchessFrom the US Open to the Super Bowl, live sports production demands speed, precision, and adaptability. Learn what it’s really like behind the camera in professional sports.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-high-quality-video-is-an-investmenthttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-high-quality-video-is-an-investmentWed, 05 Mar 2025 13:00:00 GMTMatt DonchessDiscover how investing in professional video production delivers measurable ROI through increased conversions, brand trust, and SEO benefits. Cleveland's guide to video marketing success.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-we-shot-hopeless-romantic-in-4-hourshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-we-shot-hopeless-romantic-in-4-hoursTue, 04 Mar 2025 21:06:18 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith shot a cinematic short film in 4 hours using an FX6 and anamorphic lenses in Canton, Ohio. Learn how expert filmmaking meets speed and precision.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-high-end-video-production-is-elevating-distilleries-wineries-and-brewerieshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-high-end-video-production-is-elevating-distilleries-wineries-and-breweriesTue, 04 Mar 2025 16:33:00 GMTMatt DonchessCraft beverage brands need more than great products—they need storytelling. See how professional video production drives higher sales, engagement, and brand awareness.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-homepage-videos-drive-higher-conversions-and-business-growthhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-homepage-videos-drive-higher-conversions-and-business-growthSun, 02 Mar 2025 22:56:10 GMTMatt DonchessAdding a homepage video can increase conversions by 80% and boost SEO. Learn why video content is essential for business growth and how Monolith creates videos that work.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-power-of-restaurant-video-marketing-a-case-study-with-bar-goodfortunehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-power-of-restaurant-video-marketing-a-case-study-with-bar-goodfortuneSun, 23 Feb 2025 14:00:00 GMTZenenDiscover how Bar Goodfortune transformed their social media presence with professional video marketing. Learn proven strategies for restaurant growth from Ohio's leading video agency.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/cleveland-video-production-how-to-choose-the-best-video-agency-in-ohiohttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/cleveland-video-production-how-to-choose-the-best-video-agency-in-ohioSat, 22 Feb 2025 03:54:10 GMTMatt DonchessLooking for Cleveland video production? Monolith is Ohio’s leading video agency, specializing in corporate video, brand films, and commercial production in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/not-all-video-agencies-are-realhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/not-all-video-agencies-are-realTue, 18 Feb 2025 21:52:05 GMTMatt DonchessMost video agencies don’t actually create video—they outsource it. At Monolith, we handle everything in-house. Learn why working with real filmmakers makes all the difference.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-high-end-video-elevates-brand-identity-in-ohiohttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-high-end-video-elevates-brand-identity-in-ohioSun, 16 Feb 2025 13:30:00 GMTMatt DonchessLuxury brands in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati need high-end video and photography to showcase craftsmanship, storytelling, and brand identity. Learn how premium content enhances perception, trust, and digital presence.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-corporate-video-drives-business-growth-in-ohiohttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-corporate-video-drives-business-growth-in-ohioSat, 15 Feb 2025 19:23:26 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith is a leading corporate video production company in Ohio, specializing in event coverage, client testimonials, employee training, and brand storytelling. Based in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, we create high-impact video content that drives business growth. Contact us today.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/rigging-out-your-sony-fx3-into-a-cinema-rig-a-complete-guidehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/rigging-out-your-sony-fx3-into-a-cinema-rig-a-complete-guideThu, 23 Jan 2025 23:15:00 GMTZenenLearn how to transform your Sony FX3 into a professional cinema rig. Explore essential components like cages, matte boxes, follow focus systems, and external monitors to unlock its full potential.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-choose-16mm-film-for-your-wedding-over-modern-digitalhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-choose-16mm-film-for-your-wedding-over-modern-digitalThu, 23 Jan 2025 17:00:00 GMTZenenDiscover why 16mm film is a timeless choice for weddings. Learn how its nostalgic aesthetic, cinematic charm, and tangible legacy can transform your special day into a work of art.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-to-maximize-the-lifespan-of-your-video-contenthttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/how-to-maximize-the-lifespan-of-your-video-contentThu, 23 Jan 2025 12:00:00 GMTMatt DonchessMaximize the lifespan of your video content with strategic planning, evergreen quality, and repurposing. Learn how Monolith creates cinematic videos that deliver long-term value for brands, corporations, and creative projects.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/anamorphic-vs-spherical-lenseshttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/anamorphic-vs-spherical-lensesWed, 22 Jan 2025 14:00:00 GMTZenenDiscover the differences between anamorphic and spherical lenses. Learn how each lens type impacts field of view, bokeh, lens flares, and distortion, and decide which is best for your next video project.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/documenting-life-is-never-a-waste-of-timehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/documenting-life-is-never-a-waste-of-timeMon, 20 Jan 2025 14:00:00 GMTZenenDiscover why documenting life is never a waste of time. Learn how preserving memories, embracing creativity, and finding beauty in the ordinary can transform the way we experience and appreciate life.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/building-effective-corporate-video-contenthttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/building-effective-corporate-video-contentWed, 15 Jan 2025 17:50:39 GMTMatt DonchessDiscover how Monolith approaches corporate videography through The Framework. From internal communication videos to event recaps, we deliver polished, effective video content that builds trust, engages teams, and strengthens brands.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/supporting-the-lafd-through-videohttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/supporting-the-lafd-through-videoWed, 15 Jan 2025 03:10:00 GMTMatt DonchessDiscover how Monolith helped produce an internal training video series for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), supporting effective communication and firefighter training across multiple stations in the LA metro area.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-every-filmmaker-should-shoot-16mm-film-oncehttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-every-filmmaker-should-shoot-16mm-film-onceWed, 15 Jan 2025 02:38:00 GMTZenenExplore why 16mm film remains a valuable experience for filmmakers. Learn about its timeless aesthetic, creative discipline, and connection to cinema history, and how it sharpens skills in the digital age.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/our-showreelhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/our-showreelWed, 15 Jan 2025 01:51:32 GMTMatt DonchessExplore Monolith’s showreel — a diverse collection of work spanning documentaries, music videos, brand stories, corporate content, and more. See how our experience across industries shapes our unique approach to storytelling.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/16mm-filmhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/16mm-filmTue, 14 Jan 2025 20:44:59 GMTZenenDiscover why 16mm film is gaining popularity in brand videos, music videos, and corporate content. Learn how Monolith uses this timeless medium to create unique, nostalgic work that stands out.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/is-the-word-cinematic-overusedhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/is-the-word-cinematic-overusedMon, 13 Jan 2025 16:53:00 GMTMatt DonchessDiscover what truly makes content cinematic. Learn how Monolith combines lighting, sound, and pacing to create cinematic-quality branding and corporate videos that resonate with audiences.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-art-of-creative-videographyhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-art-of-creative-videographySun, 12 Jan 2025 17:42:00 GMTMatt DonchessLearn how Monolith’s Horizon face of work brings timeless creative stories to life. From music videos and sports content to wedding films, we craft emotional, cinematic videos that stand out.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-long-form-content-will-prevailhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/why-long-form-content-will-prevailSat, 11 Jan 2025 16:43:00 GMTZenenExplore why long-form content remains essential despite the rise of short-form videos. Learn how it builds trust, fosters deeper engagement, and delivers the substance modern audiences crave.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/sony-fx6-and-fx3-camerashttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/sony-fx6-and-fx3-camerasFri, 10 Jan 2025 20:09:35 GMTMatt DonchessAt Monolith, we use industry-standard Sony FX6 and FX3 cameras to ensure cinematic quality in every project. Learn how these tools elevate brand videos, corporate content, and creative storytelling.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-art-of-brand-videographyhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/the-art-of-brand-videographyWed, 08 Jan 2025 02:10:00 GMTMatt DonchessLearn how Monolith approaches brand videography by focusing on messaging, tone, and creating long- and short-form content. Discover how we help brands connect through authentic, impactful storytelling.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/starting-monolithhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/starting-monolithFri, 03 Jan 2025 18:26:00 GMTMatt DonchessAfter years in Los Angeles, Monolith’s founders have returned to Northeast Ohio to build something meaningful. Learn how our diverse experience shapes the stories we tell for local brands, businesses, and creatives.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/what-is-monolithhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/what-is-monolithTue, 28 May 2019 15:12:55 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith is a Northeast Ohio video production agency with deep roots and big-market experience. Learn how we craft timeless stories across branding, corporate content, and creative projects.https://www.monolith.productions/blog/case-study-singer-adhttps://www.monolith.productions/blog/case-study-singer-adTue, 28 May 2019 15:12:09 GMTMatt DonchessMonolith created a spec project for Singer Sewing Machines, crafting a humorous, retro-inspired commercial shot in 4:3. Learn how we combined storytelling, nostalgia, and creativity to deliver a unique video concept.