We are story tellers, communicators, teachers and adventure seekers. We thrive on helping businesses spread their message, and are thrilled (but not surprised) when they tell us they see a tangible increase in traffic, sales and exposure as a result of our videos.
Serving a diverse and varied client base, Empire Studios is dedicated to getting your content out there to the masses. We approach each and every project as a partnership. We want to see you succeed, and we will hustle to make sure you do.
From a mozzarella video to a full digital agency
It started with an email in December of 2005. Chris Bryant, then working at a grocery store, had just gotten married and used the majority of the wedding gift money to buy his first professional video camera, a Sony VX2100. He told the CEO of Stew Leonard's that the mozzarella video playing on a loop in the stores was not up to the brand's standards, and that he could do it better.
He reshot that video for free to prove it. Stew Leonard's quickly became his biggest client, and that video, in fact, is still looping in the stores today. What began as Bryant Productions, LLC grew, rebranded as Empire Studios, and expanded into a full digital agency serving clients across the country, with a particular love for the plastics industry and its trade shows.
Meet the team
Chris Bryant
At the helm of Empire Studios is Chris, who handles everything from concept development and editing to which font belongs on a client's website. He credits Jurassic Park for his love of film, founded the company in 2005, and is the author of "The Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing Your Video Views," published on Amazon. His work has been featured in Momentology, Inc, and Business News Daily.
Erin Bryant
When on-screen talent needs to look their best (or their worst), Erin is called in to make them look amazing. From hair styling and extensions to natural makeup and prosthetics, she is an ace. A graduate of Paul Mitchell The School, Erin has worked New York Fashion Week and with area theaters on live productions.
Frank Chieffalo
For projects that require multiple live camera operators, you will often find Frank on set, where he also coordinates logistics. Frank has worked with MTV, Outdoor Life Network, The History Channel, A&E and the TriBeCa Film Festival. He and Chris met while both working on the New Haven, CT unit of Indiana Jones 4.
James Braxton
Always hustling for the best angle, James seems to have a camera glued to his hand, making sure every shot is captured in the best possible light. He has worked on a multitude of music videos and promotional content for businesses and brands, and reviews gear on his own YouTube channel.
What we believe
Story is king, and everything else is secondary. The best gear in the world cannot save a weak narrative, and a great narrative can shine on a two-year-old point-and-shoot. We bring that philosophy to every project, pairing it with the latest tools and a reputation for fast, reliable turnaround.