Creator Convos: Videography On A Budget with Justin Brunelle

October 7, 2025
5 min read

Creating top-quality video content doesn’t have to break the bank.

That’s why we sat down with Justin Brunelle, founder of award-winning video production company Moving Artistry Productions Inc. He shares his insights on creating video magic, no matter your budget.

When you listen to Justin’s full interview above, you’ll learn:

  • One decision that matters more than the camera in your hand
  • Repeatable approaches for high-quality videos
  • The basics of lighting and sound on set
  • When to work for free (and when not to)
  • How to set up your documentary interviewee for success
  • When to use a big crew or a small crew
  • How to value yourself as a creative in the industry
  • Tips on travelling with camera equipment
  • How AI can help the filmmaking industry (hint: it’s not what you think)
  • Optimal workflows and budgets for production teams
  • How to shoot content as a one-person team

This conversation is part of our series, “Creator Convos,” in collaboration with Creator Canteen, a community of creative professionals in Edmonton, Alberta. If you’re a creative in Edmonton, stay up to date with future networking events on Instagram

Here are a few of our highlights! ✨

Q1: Small Crew, Big Impact

Michelle: Do you have a story that really captured how much can be done with a small crew?


Justin: We filmed across Canada for 150 days on a shoestring budget. I shot, directed, and edited from the backseat of a car. That project proved that you don’t need $10,000 of gear with a mirrorless camera and a good team; you can still create something impactful.

Q2: More Important Than the Camera

Michelle: What matters more than the camera in your hand?


Justin: The story. If your story isn’t strong, no one cares how good it looks. Surround yourself with good people, pick strong locations, and be intentional. You can have the best camera in the world, but if the story isn’t there, the film falls flat.

Q3: Repeatable Approach

Michelle: Do you have a repeatable approach that always works, no matter the budget?


Justin: Every project is different, that’s the point. But what’s always repeatable? Communication. With your team, with your client, with yourself. Being organized, being upfront when something goes wrong, and staying adaptable. That consistency pays off more than any “template.”

Q4: Working with Limited Light

Michelle: What’s your go-to move when you only have one light or none at all?


Justin: Use the sun. Position your subject so one side is lit and the other has soft shadow. Put the camera on the shadow side, which creates depth and looks flattering. It’s called Rembrandt lighting. You don’t need expensive gear; the sun is your best light.

Q5: Opportunities for Filmmakers Starting Out

Michelle: Where do you see the biggest opportunities for filmmakers today, especially those without a big budget?


Justin: Embrace AI for the time-saving side of the work. We used to spend three weeks organizing 20 hours of interviews. Now with AI transcripts, we do it in three days. It saves time, lowers costs, and gives us the capacity to take on more projects. But at the end of the day, authentic human stories can’t be replaced.

Create Video Magic On A Budget

If you’re a business owner working with a tight budget, or a videographer looking to create great work without tons of $$$, this interview is just for you!

👉 WATCH HERE

We encourage you to give it a listen and feel inspired. 

Want to learn more from creative industry leaders? Read our interview with Eric Cheng, founder of 12 Creative, here. 

Share this post

Previous

There is no previous post
Back to all posts

Next

There is no next post
Back to all posts

Connect With Us