From Curiosity to Craft: Steph’s Approach to Video Storytelling

Steph’s passion for video began in childhood, inspired by a father who worked with technology and photography. Early access to cameras and editing software sparked an interest in visual effects and storytelling. Experimenting with video eventually grew into a career built around helping organizations communicate through visual stories.

Today, Steph works with the video production company Atomic Spark and specializes in corporate, commercial, university, municipal, and training projects, bringing both technical and creative experience to each production.

Start with the story

For Steph, every project begins with three questions: What should the video accomplish? What should people feel? And what should they do afterward?

That focus on emotion is central to the work. Video has the ability to communicate ideas while also creating an emotional response that other formats may not achieve. As Steph puts it, “I think it’s whatever one makes you feel.”

Rather than overwhelming audiences with information, strong video connects through people, experiences, and stories that feel familiar and genuine.

Planning makes the difference

Steph moved from editing into production to have more creative influence from the beginning of a project. Pre-production can involve choosing locations, casting, developing interview questions, and helping subjects feel comfortable on camera.

Getting the right people involved early is equally important. When too many stakeholders offer opinions late in the process, the original idea can become diluted, leading to what Steph describes as “death by committee.” Having a clear decision maker and establishing expectations early can make the creative process much smoother.

The editor shapes the story

Editing is more than simply assembling clips. Steph gives editors direction while leaving room for creative decisions and interpretation. Interview footage can reveal unexpected emotional moments, so editors need to recognize when the story on screen differs from what was originally expected.

Music, pacing, and small editing choices can also dramatically change the tone of a video. The goal is to shape the footage into something clear and engaging while allowing the people on screen to remain authentic.

Story over statistics

Video is particularly effective when it focuses on people, lifestyles, experiences, and practical ideas. Steph believes “A story is better than presenting facts.”

Authenticity is just as important. Real people and genuine experiences can create stronger connections with audiences than overly polished or scripted content. 

As Steph explains, “You go more viral and connect with more people when you’re real.”

Less is more

One common mistake is trying to communicate too much, especially in short videos. Six-, 15-, or 30-second pieces have very little time to make an impression, so Steph recommends focusing on one clear message rather than trying to explain everything.

The philosophy is simple: “Less is more, simple is better.”

A focused idea gives the audience something they can understand quickly and remember afterward.

The work behind the final product

Some of Steph’s most challenging and rewarding projects have involved extensive planning, crews, locations, permits, vendors, set dressing, and logistics. What appears simple on screen can require significant coordination behind the scenes.

For Steph, that combination of planning, creativity, collaboration, and authentic storytelling is what makes a project memorable. The strongest videos are not simply about having the right equipment or techniques. They are about understanding the audience, finding the human story, and creating something that makes people feel.

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