Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction : the business of cinematic storytelling in a video production house -- Creating an independent video production house business. Telling versus showing : the tools of cinema in client-based storytelling -- Creating a vision : the cinematic style video production house -- Making it lega l: filing an llc, writing contracts, using music, and getting insurance -- Building presence : the portfolio reel and website that reflects your style and vision -- Running an independent production house business. Making money : the cost of doing business, generating income streams, setting up invoices, and planning your taxes -- Developing a client's story : making a connection, finding the story, and writing a pitch, proposal, and budget -- Cinematic gear : what you need and what it does -- Crafting the cinematic style case studies -- A book promotion case study : from key words to storyboards in stillmotion's my utopia -- An app promotion case study : directing with spontaneity in Zandrak's moodsnap -- Side projects : finance and distribute your passion films -- Appendix : sample contract and forms.