Turning Every Shoot into Extra Content: How to Promote Your Production Company from the cutting room floor
As a video production company, every client shoot you take on is an opportunity—not just to deliver a polished final product, but to create a library of content that can help grow your own brand. While the final cut might be the star of the show for your client, the “extra” footage left on the cutting room floor often holds untapped potential.
Client Hero Video: Shoal Developments
Why Extra Footage Matters
Think about it: during every shoot, you capture moments, angles, and behind-the-scenes action that don’t make it into the final client video. These moments are more than just filler—they’re valuable, authentic content that can showcase your style, your workflow, and your creative eye. Using this footage thoughtfully can help potential clients see not just what you produce, but how you produce it.
Our edit from cutting room floor
Respecting Your Client’s Content
It’s important to be respectful of your clients’ final product. Using leftover footage while their content is live or before it’s released can feel like stepping on their toes. A simple rule of thumb: wait until the client’s video has gone public, then repurpose your extra clips in ways that don’t compete with or overshadow their campaign. For example, you could create behind-the-scenes reels, teaser clips, or social media posts highlighting the production process.
Mutual Benefits
The beauty of this approach is that it’s a win-win. You get to show your creative skills and range, attracting potential clients and collaborators. Meanwhile, your clients can benefit from extra promotion as well: your posts can tag them, link to their original video, and even highlight your collaboration. It’s a subtle way of extending the lifespan of their content while strengthening your professional relationship.
Ideas for Repurposing Footage
Here are a few ways to use leftover footage effectively:
Behind-the-scenes clips: Show the process, equipment, and creative decisions that went into the shoot.
Teaser trailers: Short, punchy videos highlighting moments that didn’t make the final cut.
Social media content: Instagram Reels, TikToks, or YouTube Shorts that give a taste of your work.
Portfolio updates: Add interesting clips to your demo reels or case studies.
Educational content: Break down your techniques or storytelling choices for aspiring filmmakers.
Final Thoughts
Every shoot leaves you with more than just the final video—it leaves you with the building blocks to grow your own presence. By thoughtfully repurposing leftover footage, you can promote your production company, showcase your creativity, and even give your clients a little extra exposure along the way.
The key is to balance creativity with respect. When done right, the extra content you create from client shoots becomes a bi-product that benefits everyone involved, helping both your company and your clients reach wider audiences.