What kind of work do you specialize in?
I’m a documentary filmmaker and photographer. I make independent films, cover editorial assignments, and tell stories for businesses, nonprofits, schools, and universities. I’m drawn to real people and real moments. I listen, help people feel at ease, and take care with how their stories are told.
How do you approach ethics and representation?
On editorial assignments, I follow newsroom standards and don’t stage events or manufacture drama. Commercial and nonprofit projects can involve lighting and direction, but the same care applies. I’m clear with people about the project and take responsibility for representing them honestly.
Can you help develop an idea?
You don’t need a finished idea. Lindsey and I can help find the story, identify the right voices, plan interviews, and develop scripts or narration when needed. A rough idea or a problem you’re trying to solve is enough to get the conversation started.
Can you work with our in-house team?
Absolutely. I can join your team for an assignment, handle filming or photography, or collaborate through Tiny Window on producing and editing. We start by understanding your goals, your audience, and where you need us.
Do you work with a film editor?
Yes. Our full-time editor, Renny McCauley, shapes everything from short videos to feature documentaries. Through Tiny Window, we can edit footage we’ve filmed or footage you already have. We also make trailers, captioned clips, and vertical versions for social media.
What is the typical turnaround time for a film or photo project?
For a short documentary or organizational film, a first cut typically takes two to four weeks after filming. Timing depends on the scope and review process, and we’ll agree on a schedule before starting. If you have an event or a tight deadline, let us know early.
Do I get to keep the raw footage or high-res files?
Photography assignments include edited, high-resolution JPEGs delivered through a private online gallery. Film projects include the finished videos and formats agreed on in our proposal. If you need raw footage or editing project files, let’s discuss that at the outset, along with usage rights and delivery.
How much does a project cost?
It depends on the scope: filming days, travel, editing, and what you need delivered. Share your goals and budget if you have one, and I’ll put together a clear proposal with costs, deliverables, and a timeline. If needed, we can explore a simpler approach that fits your budget.
Would you travel for a project?
Yes. I’m based in Minneapolis and regularly travel for photography, documentary, and video assignments. Tiny Window works across the country. We’re happy to go wherever the story takes us.
What equipment do you bring?
I bring professional cinema cameras, lighting and audio kits, plus sliders, stabilizers, and a drone when needed. The setup fits the assignment, from a small documentary crew to a carefully lit interview. For projects that need more hands, I bring in trusted collaborators, including a dedicated sound recordist.
Do you offer nonprofit rates?
Yes, I offer nonprofit rates and welcome conversations with community organizations and independent artists. Tell me what you’re working on and what you have available, and we can discuss an approach that makes sense.
Do you offer drone photography and video?
Yes. I’m an FAA Part 107 licensed drone pilot, equipped for aerial video and still photography. We’ll check the location, airspace, and conditions as part of planning the shoot.
Who do you work with on larger productions?
You can hire me directly for photography or cinematography. For full productions, I often work through Tiny Window, the film company I co-founded with Lindsey Seavert. Together with full-time editor Renny McCauley, we make documentaries and tell stories for businesses, nonprofits, and educational organizations. Our studio is in South Minneapolis, and we work across the country.
What’s the best way to get started?
Email, call, or text me with whatever you have: an idea, an assignment, or a project that needs a fresh set of eyes. A rough timeline and budget are helpful if you know them, but you don’t need a polished brief. We’ll talk through the possibilities and take it from there.
Let's Work
Together
bengarvin@gmail.com
612-910-1499
2717 E 42nd St
Minneapolis, MN 55406
© 2026 by Ben Garvin Media
