Behind the Scenes: Filming with Darius Garland & Tristan Thompson

Behind the Scenes: Filming with Darius Garland & Tristan Thompson for Cleveland Magazine

At Black Valve Media, we’re always looking for projects that combine creative storytelling with the energy of our city. So when Cleveland Magazine tapped us to film an interview with Cleveland Cavaliers stars Darius Garland and Tristan Thompson, we were all in.

This collaboration wasn’t just about shooting a standard sit-down interview. It was about capturing personality, chemistry, and insight from two of the Cavs’ most recognizable figures—and turning that content into multiple engaging video pieces for both social media and digital rollout.

A Collaborative Process

Working alongside Cleveland Magazine’s editorial team, we developed a production plan that would keep the atmosphere relaxed while still delivering premium visuals and audio. Our crew set up a multi-camera interview at a location that gave the footage both style and substance—balancing clean lighting with a conversational, player-to-player vibe.

Darius and Tristan brought exactly what you’d hope for in this kind of shoot: authenticity, humor, and the kind of behind-the-scenes perspective fans don’t usually get to see. From their insights on leadership to moments of laughter, we captured a range of moments that made the edit room work especially rewarding.

Photo: Shelly Duncan

Creating Multiple Edits for Multiple Audiences

After the shoot wrapped, our post-production team got to work creating several video cuts from the interview. The goal was to deliver not just one long-form piece, but a series of edits that could live across Cleveland Magazine’s platforms—from web features to social media teasers and Instagram Reels.

Each cut was tailored to highlight different themes: leadership on and off the court, the evolving culture of the Cavaliers, and the personal connection these players have to the city of Cleveland.

Why This Project Mattered

At Black Valve Media, we don’t take it for granted when we get to work with hometown talent—especially when it involves creating content that connects Cleveland sports, culture, and media. Projects like this give us a chance to collaborate with respected local partners like Cleveland Magazine while showcasing our skills in interview production, multi-cam shooting, and versatile content delivery.

We’re proud of how the videos turned out—and even prouder to play a small part in telling Cleveland’s sports stories in new and creative ways.

Need Video Content?
Whether you’re building out branded content, documentary-style interviews, or social media features, Black Valve Media can help. Get in touch with us to talk about your next project.

Getting Started with the Polaroid Impulse

The Polaroid Impulse is an instant film camera produced by Polaroid between 1988 and 1994 as part of the 600-series lineup. This camera is known for its always-on flash, ergonomic grips, and a larger-than-average viewfinder, making it a user-friendly option for instant photography enthusiasts. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use the Polaroid Impulse effectively.

Features of the Polaroid Impulse

Film Type: Uses Polaroid 600-series film (available in color and black & white)

Built-in Flash: Always on and required for every shot

Viewfinder: Larger than many other 600-series models

Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to hold with binocular-style grips

Exposure Adjustment: Slider for controlling brightness

How to Use the Polaroid Impulse Camera

Taking a Photo

Press the flat button on the back of the camera to take a picture.

The flash will activate automatically, and the lens will open.

Adjust the exposure slider on the front:

Slide to the white arrow for a brighter photo.

Slide to the dark arrow for a darker photo.

Loading Film

Open the film compartment by pushing the small button on the lower side of the camera.

Insert a Polaroid 600 film pack, ensuring it aligns with the guides.

The battery is built into the film cartridge, so no separate battery is required.

Close the compartment, and the camera will be ready to shoot.

Focusing

2 to 4 feet range: Use for close-up subjects.

4 feet to infinity range: Use for distant subjects.

Developing Your Photos

Do not shake the photo after it ejects from the camera.

Place the photo in a dark place and wait 10 to 15 minutes for full development.

Final Thoughts

The Polaroid Impulse is an excellent choice for those looking for an easy-to-use instant camera with a unique design. The larger viewfinder improves shot framing, and the built-in flash ensures consistent lighting. If you find one at a good price, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Polaroid collection.

Heart Attack Man Spit Music Video

Cleveland-based punk rock band Heart Attack Man once again brought their creative vision to Black Valve Media, this time for the filming of their music video for Spit. Unlike their other recent video, Laughing Without Smiling, which was partially filmed at our studio, Spit was entirely shot on-site, allowing us to witness every step of the process firsthand.

What made this project especially exciting was the construction of two distinct well sets for the video. Watching these intricate sets come together inside our studio was an unforgettable experience, showcasing the dedication and craftsmanship that went into making Spit a visually stunning piece of work. The transformation from raw materials to immersive, atmospheric sets was incredible, and we were honored to provide the space for such an ambitious shoot.

Directed by Michael Herrick, the video for Spit delivers a visually intense and thought-provoking experience.

Seeing the band’s vision come to life from start to finish in our studio was truly inspiring, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with how it turned out.

A huge thank you to Heart Attack Man for choosing Black Valve Media to bring Spit to life. We love supporting artists who push creative boundaries, and we can’t wait for everyone to see the video. Check out some behind-the-scenes photos, and check out the finished video now!

Also Evan makes a cameo in the video! Also also Eric is a trooper for staying in the cold well for as long as he had to, real dedication!

Heart Attack Man Laughing Without Smiling Music Video

Cleveland-based punk rock band Heart Attack Man recently filmed part of their latest music video, Laughing Without Smiling, at Black Valve Media, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have been a part of the process. As longtime supporters of independent musicians and creatives, we are honored to have provided the space for this visually striking and energy-packed project.

Directed by Michael Herrick, Laughing Without Smiling showcases the band’s signature blend of raw punk energy and captivating storytelling. The video features a unique, horse-themed narrative that aligns perfectly with the themes of their upcoming album, Joyride The Pale Horse, set to release on April 25th. From dramatic lighting to the immersive set design, every element of the shoot at our studio played a role in bringing their vision to life.

The production process was a creative whirlwind, with the band and crew working seamlessly to craft a video that complements the intensity of the song. The combination of high-energy guitar riffs, spoken word segments, and visually dynamic cinematography creates a striking atmosphere that fans won’t want to miss.

While Laughing Without Smiling was a major highlight, Heart Attack Man also filmed the video for their second single, Spit, at our studio.

We’re incredibly grateful to Heart Attack Man for choosing Black Valve Media for both of these projects and for supporting local artists and production teams. Their dedication to their craft and to collaborating with independent creatives is truly inspiring.

Enjoy some exclusive behind-the-scenes photos from the shoot! We can't wait for everyone to see the final product!