When a story is rooted in purpose, it deserves to be told with care.
That was our mindset when Lenny Learning reached out to Film Label to help them share their mission — a platform created to support the mental health of students and educators. What started as a single-day shoot in a Brooklyn school turned into one of the most meaningful projects we’ve ever worked on.
Finding the Heart of the Story
In our first call with the founders, Bryce shared something deeply personal: the company was inspired by the loss of his brother, Chase, whose struggle with mental health went unseen until it was too late.
That conversation reframed everything. We weren’t just producing a brand video — we were helping tell a story about why this work matters.
Our goal was to highlight hope, not tragedy. We wanted viewers to walk away inspired to support, partner, or donate — to feel the impact of Lenny Learning’s work without ever feeling preached to.
Planning for Purpose
With only one day to shoot, preparation was everything.
We focused on three key elements:
- Authentic voices – Interviews with Principal Alicia Wilson and counselors Jolene Shillingford and Sasha, who live the mission every day.
- Natural b-roll – Classroom moments, team collaboration, and real student interactions that captured the spirit of the program.
- Clarity in narrative – Every shot and soundbite had to reinforce one central message: Lenny Learning is making an impact where it matters most — in the classroom.
Our crew arrived at Uncommon Excellence Boys School in Bed-Stuy before sunrise, ready to capture the school’s energy as students and teachers began their day. The schedule was tight — five hours from setup to wrap — but with careful planning, we left with every piece we needed.
Shooting with Sensitivity
Filming in a live school environment means being adaptable and respectful. You’re stepping into someone else’s daily rhythm — and in this case, we were documenting a community built on trust.
We kept a low footprint, capturing genuine moments without interruption. The result was footage that felt real — not staged or overly produced.
It’s easy to make a video look polished. The challenge is making it feel honest.
Turning Footage into Feeling
In post-production, our priority was pacing and tone. We used music that carried warmth and optimism, and let the interviews breathe.
Each voice in the video — from the principal to the counselors — added a different layer to the story, showing how mental health support can ripple through an entire school.
When we delivered the final cut, the Lenny Learning team told us it perfectly captured who they are and why they do what they do. That’s the kind of feedback that reminds us why we do this work.
What Clients Can Learn from This Project
Whether you’re a non-profit or a Fortune 500 brand, the takeaway is the same:
Purpose-driven storytelling isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection.
When you lead with authenticity, people don’t just watch your video; they feel it.
That’s the moment when awareness turns into action.
About Film Label
Film Label helps organizations bring their stories to life through clear, collaborative, and strategic video production. From purpose-driven nonprofits to industry-leading brands, we create videos that connect with audiences and drive results.
Interested in telling your story? Contact us to start the conversation.
