How does the production process work?

Every project moves systematically through Pre-Production (creative strategy, storyboarding, script development, logistics), Production (on-location principal photography with cinema-grade camera systems and lighting), and Post-Production (editorial sequencing, color grading, sound design, and master exports).

Production FAQ & Terms of Engagement | Northzero Productions

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of projects does Northzero Productions specialize in? +

We operate as a high-end commercial visual architecture and production agency. Our core work includes brand anthems, commercial advertising, documentary brand narratives, executive profiling, and architectural visual showcases across Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and the Greater New York metro area.

How does the production process typically work? +

Every production moves through three clear phases:

Pre-Production: Creative strategy, storyboarding, script development, location scouting, crew coordination, and scheduling.
Production: On-location principal photography utilizing cinema-grade camera systems, precision lighting, and intentional art direction.
Post-Production: Editorial sequencing, color grading, custom sound design, audio mastering, and revision rounds delivered via private review links.

What are your standard revision terms? +

Every fixed-scope production contract includes two structured rounds of editorial revisions at the rough-cut and fine-cut stages. Revisions cover pacing, audio mixing, color adjustments, and cut tweaks within the agreed-upon creative brief. Structural changes outside the original scope or script are handled via a standard change order.

Who owns the footage and licensing rights? +

Upon receipt of the final project balance, the client receives exclusive, worldwide commercial usage rights for the final edited master assets across web, social, digital advertising, and broadcast (per the specific licensing tier in the contract). Raw footage and archival master project files remain the property of Northzero Productions LLC unless buyout rights are negotiated separately.

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Terms of Engagement & Policies

Capital Structure

Retainers & Milestone Invoicing

To lock shoot dates on our production calendar, a 50% non-refundable retainer and an executed agreement are required. No crew, specialized gear, or dates are reserved without a cleared retainer.

50% Retainer: Due upon contract execution to initiate pre-production.
25% Production: Due upon completion of principal photography.
25% Delivery: Due upon fine-cut approval prior to master asset release.

Calendar Management

Client Rescheduling Policy

Specialized gear, production crew, and municipal permits are booked well in advance. Rescheduling dates requires formal written notice:

7+ Days Notice: Rescheduled without penalty to an agreed date within 60 days.
48–72 Hours Notice: Subject to a 20% rescheduling fee to cover incurred crew holds.
< 48 Hours Notice: Production day billed at 100% of daily rate; re-shoots quoted separately.

Environmental Contingency

Weather Postponements

For exterior shoots dependent on specific meteorological conditions, we monitor regional weather data closely with the client:

A joint weather call is confirmed 24 hours prior to call time.
Severe weather postponements move to backup dates with zero penalty fees.
Client covers only direct, non-recoverable hard costs (e.g., location/permit fees).

Contract Termination

Cancellation & Kill Fees

If a commission is terminated by the client after contract execution:

Initial 50% retainer remains non-refundable to cover pre-production labor.
Client is responsible for 100% of accrued out-of-pocket expenses to date.
Treatments, scripts, and creative concepts remain the IP of Northzero Productions LLC.