Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about planning, production, scheduling, travel, pricing, and working with MacBean Productions.
Working Together
What types of projects do you handle?
MacBean Productions specializes in commercial photography, video production, and drone services for businesses across a wide range of industries. We produce marketing campaigns, brand imagery, product photography, corporate videos, recruitment content, manufacturing and industrial photography, construction documentation, aerial media, and more. Whether you need a single photographer or a full production team, we can tailor our services to fit your project.
Do you work with agencies, corporate teams, and manufacturers?
Yes. We regularly partner with marketing agencies, in-house creative teams, manufacturers, construction companies, industrial businesses, and corporate marketing departments. We're comfortable integrating into existing creative teams or managing productions from concept through final delivery.
Can you handle both small shoots and larger productions?
Absolutely. Some projects require a single photographer for a half-day shoot, while others involve producers, multiple camera operators, drone crews, lighting specialists, editors, and production assistants. Every production is staffed according to the project's needs.
Who will be my main point of contact?
You'll work directly with Ben Bean throughout your project. From planning and estimating to production and final delivery, Ben serves as your primary point of contact, ensuring clear communication and a consistent experience from start to finish.
Planning & Scheduling
How far in advance should we book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for multi-day productions or projects with fixed deadlines. While we often accommodate shorter timelines, advanced scheduling provides the greatest flexibility for securing production dates and assembling the appropriate crew.
Can you help with creative planning and shot lists?
Yes. We regularly assist clients with production planning, shot lists, scheduling, location logistics, and creative recommendations to help ensure every shoot runs efficiently and captures the content your team needs.
What information do you need to prepare an estimate?
The more information you can provide, the better. Helpful details include project goals, location, anticipated shoot dates, deliverables, intended usage, timeline, and any creative references or shot lists. If you're still defining the project, we're happy to help guide the planning process.
What happens if weather affects the shoot?
Outdoor productions are always subject to weather. We'll work with you to determine the best course of action based on the project requirements. If weather contingency days are reserved, those dates are held exclusively for your project and are billed whether or not they are ultimately used.
Photography, Video, and Drone
Do you provide photography, video, and drone services together?
Yes. Many clients combine photography, video production, and aerial drone services into a single production, creating a cohesive visual library while maximizing efficiency on location.
Are your drone pilots FAA Part 107 certified?
Yes. All commercial drone operations are conducted in accordance with FAA regulations by FAA Part 107 certified remote pilots.
Can you work inside active industrial facilities and job sites?
Yes. We have extensive experience working in manufacturing facilities, construction sites, mines, warehouses, and other active industrial environments while complying with site-specific safety requirements.
Do you provide editing and post-production?
Yes. We offer professional photo editing, color correction, retouching, video editing, color grading, motion graphics, sound design, and final delivery optimized for print, web, social media, presentations, and broadcast applications.
Travel and Locations
Do you travel for projects?
Yes. MacBean Productions regularly travels throughout the United States and internationally for commercial productions.
Do you work internationally?
Yes. We are available for international assignments and can assist with planning logistics for productions outside the United States.
Can you help coordinate crews and equipment in other locations?
Yes. Through a trusted network of creative professionals and production partners, we can assemble experienced crews and coordinate equipment rentals wherever your project takes us.
Are travel expenses included in the estimate?
Travel expenses are outlined separately within each estimate whenever applicable, providing clear visibility into production and travel costs before work begins.
Estimates, Usage, and Delivery
How is pricing determined?
Every project is unique. Pricing is based on factors such as production scope, crew requirements, travel, deliverables, equipment, post-production, licensing, and scheduling. We provide customized estimates tailored to each project's specific needs.
What is included in an estimate?
Each estimate outlines the scope of work, production services, crew, equipment, travel (when applicable), post-production, deliverables, estimated schedule, and any applicable licensing or usage terms.
How are image and video usage rights handled?
Usage rights are clearly outlined within each estimate and tailored to the client's intended use.
How long does delivery usually take?
Delivery timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. During planning, we'll establish an expected delivery schedule that meets your production needs. Expedited delivery is also available for many projects.
Can you accommodate expedited delivery?
Yes. Rush editing and expedited delivery are available for many projects. If you have a tight deadline, let us know during planning and we'll discuss available options.
Safety and Insurance
Are you insured?
Yes. MacBean Productions carries commercial liability insurance and can provide proof of insurance upon request.
Can you meet vendor and site safety requirements?
Yes. We regularly work on active industrial sites and can comply with site-specific safety requirements, orientations, PPE requirements, and client onboarding procedures. We also have MSHA Part 48 surface and underground certified crew.
Can you provide certificates of insurance?
Yes. Certificates of Insurance (COIs) can be provided upon request and tailored to your project's requirements.
Are you able to work under NDAs or confidentiality agreements?
Yes. We regularly work with confidential products, facilities, and proprietary information. We are happy to execute non-disclosure agreements and follow client confidentiality requirements.
