A&A MEDIA PRO
Simpson
Strong-Tie Sponsored
Pergola Build
A Multi-Part Branded Content & Editorial Series
Project Role: Director of Photography (DOP), Lead Cinematographer, and Photographer
Production Team: Produced by Fine Homebuilding
Location: Albany, NY
Production Type: 4-Day Field Build / Branded Video Series
Project Overview
This project was a high-stakes collaboration designed to showcase the Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® hardware line through a real-world, expert build. Featuring master builder Jeremy Kassel, the series serves as a technical "A-to-Z" guide for constructing a professional-grade hemlock pergola.
As the Director of Photography and Lead Shooter, I was responsible for the visual narrative of the four-day build. Working alongside the Executive Producer, I managed the primary camera and professional stills for the print magazine. The result was a dual-purpose production: a 10-minute branded overview for the sponsor and a deep-dive, multi-episode educational series for Fine Homebuilding’s subscribers.
The Series Breakdown
To provide a comprehensive look at the technical execution of this build, the project was delivered in specialized episodes. Here are the highlights of my production work on each phase.
Episode 1: Design & Layout
Production Focus: For this phase, I captured the integration of digital tools into the field workflow. I focused on filming the interface of the Simpson Strong-Tie Pergola Planner and how those digital specs translated to the physical job site.
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Key Detail: Capturing the "A-Roll" interview where Jeremy explains the site-specific design challenges.
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Official Episode Link: Designing a Pergola - Fine Homebuilding
Episode 2: Foundations & Post Bases
Production Focus: This episode required precision macro-cinematography. I was tasked with showing the exact alignment of the Titan HD Screw Anchors. I used tight depths of field to highlight the structural "weep holes" and the powder-coated finish of the hardware.
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Key Detail: Using a rotary laser and story pole to show elevation—captured through clear, leveled framing to mirror the builder's precision.
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Official Episode Link: How to Lay Out Post Bases - Fine Homebuilding
Episode 3: Raising & Bracing Posts
Production Focus: On day two, the scale of the shoot grew. As the lead shooter, I managed the primary angles to capture the full height of the 6x6 hemlock posts. I focused on the "belt-and-suspenders" approach of sealing end grains with wax, ensuring the texture of the wood and the product application were perfectly exposed.
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Key Detail: Coordination with the second shooter to ensure multi-angle coverage of the post-raising for safety and clarity.
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Official Episode Link: Raising and Bracing Pergola Posts - Fine Homebuilding
Episode 4: Beams & Rafters
Production Focus: This phase involved "ganging" rafters and intricate decorative cuts. I utilized close-up "action" shots of the circular saw and palm router work to emphasize the craftsmanship. I ensured the Outdoor Accents deck joist ties were the visual focal point of the assembly.
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Key Detail: High-resolution stills of the hardware installation for the Fine Homebuilding Magazine print feature.
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Official Episode Link: Building and Installing Pergola Beams - Fine Homebuilding
Episode 5: Angle Bracing & Finishing
Production Focus: The final day focused on structural integrity and the final aesthetic. I captured the final structural wood screws being driven and the "satisfying" moment the temporary bracing was removed, revealing the finished silhouette of the structure against the rural New York landscape.
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Key Detail: Mastering the final "beauty shots" of the completed pergola for both the sponsor and the editorial gallery.
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Official Episode Link: Angle Bracing & Strapping - Fine Homebuilding
Behind The Scenes:
On Set in Albany
Documenting the production process is a key part of our workflow. Below are stills and clips from my phone showing the field rigs, camera setups, and the collaboration between the production team and the builder.
Credits & Resources
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Builder: Jeremy Kassel (Kassel Construction)
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Sponsor: Simpson Strong-Tie
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Publisher: Fine Homebuilding
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Production: Fine Homebuilding (Lead Shooter/DOP: Andres Samaniego)
Let's Work
Together
info@aamediapro.com
203-979-7894
CT, NY, MA
Notice: The projects featured here represent the professional portfolio of Paul Samaniego and A&A Media Pro. Certain works were produced in collaboration with or under the employment of third-party organizations (e.g., Fine Homebuilding). All rights to the featured brands and logos belong to their respective owners. No content may be downloaded or repurposed without express written consent.