From Agency Introduction to Direct Partnership: Growing With NLP Logix
In 2024, I was introduced to NLP Logix through an agency partner to help produce the opening brand video for their annual AI Collaborate conference.
The agency developed the initial script and storyboard and facilitated the introduction. From there, my team worked directly with NLP Logix leadership to handle planning, production, and delivery. The agency’s involvement was intentionally light — and that structure worked for everyone.
We produced:
A brand opener for the conference
Full event coverage
A recap video built from interviews and observational b-roll
On site, I was directing interviews, capturing still photography, and overseeing production. Jon Noeth and Chase Dela Cruz handled b-roll coverage and multi-camera recording of the keynote sessions.
We delivered strong work. The event felt thoughtful and collaborative — and the videos reflected that.
But during our debrief, we identified something important.
Year One: What We Learned
Because we were all wearing multiple hats, there were moments where coverage became thin.
If I was mid-interview, I couldn’t photograph a keynote speaker.
If cameras were locked on stage, candid networking moments sometimes went uncaptured.
Nothing failed.
But we saw opportunities to build a better system.
That conversation became the foundation for 2025.
Year Two: Client Relationship Growth
In 2025, NLP Logix reached out directly to produce the next year’s brand video and conference coverage.
There was no agency involved — not because of pressure or persuasion, but because the relationship had naturally evolved. After working together the previous year, NLP felt confident working directly with me and my team to streamline communication and planning.
That trust is earned.
It’s built through:
Clear communication
Professional execution
Honest post-project evaluation
Delivering on what you promise
When a client comes back — and expands the scope — that’s not just repeat work. That’s relationship growth.
Year Two: Systems & Process Improvement
With lessons from 2024 in mind, we made intentional changes.
1. Dedicated Still Photographer
I brought in Rob Futrell to handle all conference photography. Removing stills from my plate allowed me to focus entirely on interviews and overall production management.
2. Defined Crew Roles
Jon Noeth and Chase Dela Cruz returned, now fully focused on b-roll and multi-camera speaker coverage — without the distraction of juggling other responsibilities.
3. Dedicated Interview Space
In 2024, interviews had a more “man-on-the-street” feel due to venue limitations.
In 2025, we advocated for and secured a dedicated interview room that remained lit and set for the full two days.
The result:
Visual consistency
Elevated production value
Stronger brand cohesion
A calmer workflow for everyone involved
4. Visual Differentiation in the Brand Video
To avoid repeating the visual approach from 2024’s clean white background setup, we filmed 2025 speakers in their actual working environments.
The shift added texture and authenticity while maintaining the polished tone NLP expects.
The Real Takeaway
This project wasn’t just about making a better video.
It was about refining a system.
When clients return year after year, you’re not just showing up with cameras — you’re showing up with experience. You remember what worked. You adjust what didn’t. You build structure around creative instinct.
That’s how production evolves.
There are already notes from 2025 that will improve 2026. But those are for next year.
For now, I’m grateful to partner with a team like NLP Logix — a company focused on solving complex problems through data and machine learning — and to apply that same mindset to how we approach visual storytelling.
Because at the end of the day, production is problem solving too.
Crew
Michael LeGrand — DP / Director
Rob Futrell — Photographer
Jon Noeth — Camera Operator
Chase Dela Cruz— Camera Operator
NLP Logix — Client
