How To Film A Grand Opening.

Decide What It's Really About

The strongest opening films are about more than the event. When we filmed the Heartless Ink tattoo studio, the story was how its owner's skills as a painter translate into tattoos. For Gomoku Kitchen, a fusion restaurant, it was a cultural piece, with music and local artists performing at the opening.

Film Before The Doors Open

The space looks its best when it's empty and lit properly, and nobody has time for portraits once guests arrive. Book time beforehand for the space, the product and any interviews with the owners.

Plan For Every Format

Heartless Ink needed a full-screen brand film for its website plus social cutdowns. Gomoku Kitchen needed a vertical video for social media and Meta ads. Decide this early, because the framing has to be planned on the day.

On The Night

• List the moments you can't miss: speeches, ribbon cuttings, performances.
• Tell guests filming is happening, and put up a notice at the door.
• Get releases from performers and anyone featured.
• Clear any music you plan to use in the final film.

Keep Using It

Put the main film on your website and YouTube channel, run short cuts on social media, and use the strongest clip in ads. The film should still be working long after the opening.