The Magistrates Ballroom is a location that speaks for itself, ornate, dramatic, and drenched in atmosphere. So when we shot a jazz session there, we knew we had to match that energy with visuals that felt just as rich.

But this project wasn’t just about what was in front of the camera. Behind the lens, we brought on four student trainees part of our ongoing effort to give emerging filmmakers real-world experience. It’s something we do on independent projects, and it’s a core part of our values.

On this shoot, they got hands-on with gear, learned how to work as part of a live production crew, and added real content to their portfolios. For us, that’s just as important as the final edit.

We ran a multi-camera setup to give the performance depth and perspective, balancing steadicam footage with controlled static shots to capture both the intimacy of the musicians and the grandeur of the space. Our lighting approach was deliberate, using the architecture’s natural elegance to frame the session in a way that felt immersive and cinematic.

The footage has a rhythm of its own flowing with the music, pausing in the right places, and giving weight to every beat. It’s a visual companion to the sound, built with sensitivity and intent.

The student crew played a key role in making that happen. They weren’t just observing, they were solving problems, adjusting lights, and learning how a live set moves in real time. The kind of experience that can’t be replicated in a classroom.