Got questions? You’re in the right place. Every great story begins with curiosity, yours and ours. At Beard & Bowler, we partner with nonprofits to uncover the heart behind their mission through powerful nonprofit storytelling. From the first call to the final edit, our team guides you through every step of nonprofit video production, including strategy, filming, and post-production, so your story inspires real change.
1️⃣ How does Beard & Bowler find the story in our organization?
Before we ever hit record, we listen. Every organization has dozens of good stories, & we help you find the one that truly reflects your mission. Through a thorough pre-production call with simple questions most people don’t think to ask, we uncover the place where your audience connects with the hero of your story. That becomes your hero story, the heartbeat that moves people to feel & act.
2️⃣ Who should be featured on camera?
Usually, your hero is the person most transformed by your work. Someone whose life or perspective has truly changed because of what you do. We may also feature a guide, like a staff member, donor, or community leader, who helps bring that story into focus. If you’re not sure who that is yet, don’t worry. We’ll help you find the person whose story makes your mission real.
3️⃣ How do you prepare people for interviews?
We never script answers. Instead, we create space for honest conversation. Before filming, we share a few reflection prompts to help interviewees think through their story, then spend time off camera making them comfortable. Our goal is simple: to help real people speak in their own voice, not perform, just connect.
4️⃣ What kinds of questions do you ask in interviews?
We ask questions that invite reflection & truth: “How did that make you feel?” “What changed because of this program?” “What would life look like without this support?” These questions open doors to emotion & clarity, the kind of honesty that moves people to act.
5️⃣ Can our staff be interviewed too?
Absolutely. Staff & leadership often serve as the narrators who guide the story, adding context & heart. We just balance the perspective with less “we” & more “them.” It keeps the focus where it belongs, on the people whose lives have changed because of your work.
6️⃣ What happens after filming wraps?
That’s when the storytelling deepens. We review every frame, pull the most authentic moments, & build the emotional arc that carries your audience through. Every choice, from pacing to music to visuals, serves that arc. Every cut is intentional.
7️⃣ How long does post-production take?
On average, 4–6 weeks from shoot to first draft. Timing can shift depending on project size or feedback rounds, but you’ll always know where things stand. We use structured milestones so you’re never in the dark, only excited for what’s next.
8️⃣ Where can I use the finished video?
Everywhere your story needs to inspire action. Our clients use them at gala screenings, in donor meetings, across social media, on websites, in grant applications, & for email appeals. Many even use them internally to remind their teams why their work matters.
9️⃣ Where can I use the smaller, snackable cut-down videos?
Shorter cuts are perfect for places where attention is brief. Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube Shorts, or inside fundraising emails. They’re ideal for follow ups or reminders, helping your story stay alive long after the big moment.
🔟 Can we repurpose or update our footage later?
Yes. We safely archive everything we film so your story can keep growing. Many organizations come back months or years later to create new edits or seasonal updates without reshooting. It’s a smart, sustainable way to keep your message fresh & your impact visible.