From Slide Projectors to Prime Video: The Story Behind Production Studio 29
- Jason Farrington
- Jul 10
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 15
Starting a business is often rooted in a dream. For me, it was about more than simply building something profitable—it was about building something purposeful. I founded Production Studio 29, specializing in audio/video & lighting (AVL) integration, commercial photography, and video production for two main reasons:
To build a career that lets me be present in my children’s lives as they grow up.
To use my passions to help others bring their vision to life.
Inspiration Strikes Early
Growing up, I was mesmerized by photos, movies, and the power of visual storytelling. I have fond memories of my family gathering together as my dad set up the slide projector to share photos from his work trips around the country. Each image carried a story, and each story captured our imagination.
As the last slide passed, we would end those family nights with shadow puppet shows, inventing our own stories—a tiny spark of the creative drive that would later fuel my career.
Trips to the video rental store were a regular occurrence throughout my childhood and teenage years. I like to think that we single-handedly kept our local Family Video in business. I would get lost in the stories that these movies would tell. As soon as the movie ended, I would find myself pretending to be one of the characters and creating imaginary worlds. One day, I was Raphael from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the next, I was trying to master the Mighty Ducks’ triple deke and knuckle puck.
My passion for movies continued in high school and college, where I worked at a movie theater and watched nearly every film released between 2000 and 2006 on the silver screen.
The Soundtrack of My Life
In my teens and early twenties, I also developed a love for music. It was remarkable to me how a song could evoke such a range of emotions - joy, comfort, and understanding. An opportunity at church allowed me to learn the bass guitar, which led to forming four bands, releasing two albums, and performing in countless concerts. The late-night studio sessions are among my fondest memories, and it’s there that I discovered my passion for music production. Although I didn’t realize it at the time, these experiences were shaping my future.
Turning Childhood Passion Into a Career
Fueled by that passion, I attended a technical school in Saint Paul, MN, and earned a degree in live sound and recording technology. After graduation, I relocated to Madison, WI, and became involved in my church. In addition to playing bass and leading worship, I was tasked with overseeing the media production department and assembling a team of talented creatives.
Although I was well-versed in live audio production, I had to learn everything about video production from scratch. Before this, I had only taken one multimedia course in college and had limited experience with a point-and-shoot camera. I learned through trial and error, as well as from my team and other colleagues in the media industry.
Over the course of a decade, I applied the skills I had acquired to capture images and video of numerous conferences and events. Additionally, I helped produce a short film and two documentaries, designed and installed AVL systems in our various locations, co-wrote, produced, and mixed an album, ran sound for nationally known worship artists, and traveled to India, Israel, Cambodia, and Ghana to document our work there.
All of these experiences taught me how to prepare for almost anything, solve problems on the fly, and, above all, serve a larger vision and execute a desired result.
Creative Freedom—and Why It Matters
While my family was the driving motivation behind starting my own business, another significant benefit was the creative freedom it afforded. I have been able to refine my focus and identify my true passions, which has resulted in better experiences and outcomes for my clients. They can see my passion and that I genuinely want to help them succeed.
It’s Always About the People
I find that one of the most enjoyable parts of my work is the opportunity to connect with people. Whether I’m working with business owners and marketing teams creating high-quality photo and video content, or designing and installing a state-of-the-art sound system for a church, it’s always a pleasure to work with people from diverse backgrounds and hear their unique stories and experiences. I’ve formed strong bonds with many of my clients, and it brings me great joy to see them succeed and grow.
Live, Learn, and Grow
Every project has its distinct challenges that require unique approaches. Although I always come prepared with a plan, I must remain flexible, as circumstances may dictate a different course of action. This keeps me on my toes, sharpens my skills, and constantly pushes me to find innovative solutions to achieve the desired outcome. I enjoy the unpredictability of each day and the opportunities it provides for growth.
Living the Dream
As I reflect on the past eight years of Production Studio 29, I feel nothing but gratitude.
I’ve had the pleasure of serving multiple churches with their AVL needs, from installing brand new sound systems, acoustically treating their sanctuaries, and training their tech teams to be able to serve their congregation better.
I’ve helped companies with product launch photos, and my photos for LP Building Solutions have been featured in their catalog, with one of them making the cover last year.
I’ve also had the opportunity to be a part of some incredible video projects. See below for some highlights.
Each project has been a reminder that I’m doing what I love—and more importantly, using my gifts to help others succeed while providing for my family.
Production Studio 29 Will Bring Your Vision to Life
Whether you need a partner for commercial photography, video production, or AVL integration, I’d love to hear your story and help bring your vision to life.
Let’s connect and create something extraordinary together.
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