From television ads to business cards, Hartwell Digital Video can help clients with a wide range of visual media projects.
Richard F. Hartwell launched the business, which is located at 431 1/2 Madison St. in Petoskey, last August.
Previously, Hartwell served as production manager for Charter Media Cable Advertising. He Worked at Charter for five years.
"After working within a traditional business structure, I wanted to experience the creative freedom of being an independent producer, at the same time enjoying the natural beauty and recreational activities unique to Northern Michigan," he said.
Hartwell, 28, can help produce commercials to be shown on cable television and local network affiliates. He can also provide design and layout for printed items like pamphlets, business cards and CD labels.
For those interested in a visual record of a wedding, Hartwell said he offers a variety of packages and prices.
Video slide shows are another of Hartwell's offerings. Often used for business gatherings or occasions like birthdays, anniversaries or memorials, these incorporate a montage of photographs along with music.
Other projects Hartwell has worked on include videos which Michigan attorneys have used to illustrate issues in their cases.
He recently served as an editor for a video production focusing on Irish patriot and Emmet County namesake Robert Emmet. Walloon Lake resident and Robert Emmet Society member George Colburn produced the video, which incorporates a local lecture about Emmet by Irish professor John Tunney.
Hartwell can assemble DVDs complete with on-screen menus, chaptering and personalized cases.
While videography is the focus of Hartwell's business, he can also take digital and traditional still photographs.
"Perhaps the most unique aspect of HDV, given the time-demanding nature of the production business, is that some last-minute projects can even be turned around within a 24-hour time frame," he said.
In the near future, Hartwell said he hopes to add Web design to his range of services and expand his client base for graphic design services.
Hartwell earned a bachelor's degree in film and video studies at the University of Michigan. While at U-M he also took a concentration of courses in English.
The Petoskey resident has a 3 year-old son, Gavyn.
When clients are interested in a media project, Hartwell said he likes to start with a consultation in which options and rates can be discussed. He offers flexible scheduling seven days a week.
For more information, call 231-838-7424.