Visualizing Before You Build: How Studio Planning Improves Creative Collaboration
I like to visualize projects.
This year we are closing in on a new studio build, and upon Marc Scott’s suggestion, I am mapping out how the space will live inside our existing room before committing to actual dimensions. With some old fashioned painter’s tape on the floor and a couple fuzzy chuckleheads supervising my process.
It sounds simple, but it can save you a LOT of headache. You can physically feel the flow, scale, and friction of a space before anything becomes permanent. You get to ask an important question early:
"Does this layout support how I actually work?"
Feeling the Flow Before It’s Final
When you outline a space instead of immediately building it, you physically see the problems while they are still easy to fix. You notice bottlenecks. You notice wasted space. You notice when something looks good on paper but doesn't actually work in real life.
This same principle applies far beyond just construction.
Fuzzy Chuckleheads inspecting my craftsmanship:
How I Apply This to Production Work
I treat my roles in production projects the same way.
Every project has a scope and a vision, whether it is a commercial, an explainer, or an on-camera role. My job is to fit into that structure intentionally. Sometimes I am the focal point. Other times I am supporting the principal role.
If I am over the top with reactions, delivery, or presence when the project does not call for it, I am no longer helping. I am creating friction. Just like a wall placed in the wrong spot, even good work can disrupt the flow.
A Lesson From an Acting Workshop
I was in a workshop recently where an actor shared how he approaches every role. He said: “I ask myself, what can I do to support my cast mate, to make them look good and feel confident?”
That really shifted my approach to acting. It is not about shrinking yourself. It is about understanding where you belong within the vision of the entire project. (Seeing the big picture)
A Principle That Extends Beyond Work
The idea does not stop with acting and production. Every relationship is a collaboration. Every transaction has shared outcomes. Whether it is a client, a collaborator, or my spouse, the question stays the same:
How can I help this person, or this company, win today? When you start there, the rest tends to fall into place.
Got an upcoming project?
Maybe you need talent that is able to see the big picture and scope of what you're trying to convey for a commercial, PSA, tourism, or even a training module. I'd love to hear your vision.
