(Mathew Hand of Hand in Hand Productions directing the audio visual suport for the 2023 Bend Venture Conference | Photo by Marisa Chappell Photography)
Hand in Hand Productions, a cornerstone of Bend’s audio-visual industry, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Founded in 2004 by Matt Hand, the company has evolved from a small startup into a dynamic force in virtual and on-location event production.
Hand’s journey began in the cable industry in 1994, where he spent a decade honing his skills. In 2004, he took a leap of faith and founded Hand in Hand Productions. The company started with a focus on providing AV support for events, streaming, and multi-camera productions. However, the advent of COVID-19 in 2020 forced a significant pivot.
“When COVID hit, our business model was completely upended,” Hand recalls. “We had been providing AV support for on-location events, but suddenly, those events disappeared. It was a challenging time, but it also presented an opportunity for innovation.”
With traditional in-person events off the table, Hand in Hand Productions swiftly transitioned to virtual production. Hand began producing a series of online videos and interviews, engaging his extensive network of business contacts. This shift kept the company afloat and paved the way for new opportunities.
In 2021, the company moved into a new space, a significant milestone during a period when light industrial space was scarce in Central Oregon. “This new studio allowed us to conduct our first truly virtual event,” Hand shares. “We set up a multi-camera studio environment that adhered to social distancing guidelines, enabling us to continue producing high-quality content safely.” The ability to host multi-camera productions while maintaining social distancing was a game-changer.
Hand proudly states, “This is probably one of the only multi-camera studio environments east of the Cascades until you get to Boise. We’ve been privileged to do a ton of virtual events, connecting people from around the world with high-quality video and audio.”
One of Hand in Hand Productions’ standout features is its use of advanced technology. Utilizing products like Zoom ISO, the company can deliver high-resolution feeds from cameras around the world, ensuring top-notch quality for virtual events. “We routinely handle monthly virtual events,” Hand notes. “These events are a lot of fun and allow us to facilitate conversations between participants across the globe.”
Hand in Hand Productions boasts an impressive roster of clients, ranging from local organizations to international brands. Some notable clients include the Deschutes River Conservancy, Central Oregon Locavore, OXO, Osprey, and Hydro Flask. The company also works with government and educational institutions, providing AV support for events like school board meetings and venture conferences.
“We’re not just gear pushers,” Hand emphasizes. “We’re production people. We focus on understanding our clients’ needs and producing events that align with their goals. It’s about making every event better than the last.”
Despite its success, Hand in Hand Productions faces ongoing challenges. The unique nature of Bend’s market means that attracting a steady stream of clients can be difficult. However, the company remains committed to serving its community while expanding its reach.
Looking ahead, Hand sees significant opportunities in the realm of remote production, known as REMI. “REMI allows us to switch productions from anywhere,” he explains. “This means we can support clients in globally or worldwide locations without needing to be on-site, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution.”
As Hand in Hand Productions celebrates its 20th anniversary, Matt Hand reflects on the journey with gratitude and excitement for the future. “It’s been a privilege to work with so many amazing clients and to be part of the Bend community. We’re looking forward to continuing to innovate and provide top-quality production services for the next 20 years and beyond.”
Hand in Hand Productions’ story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community. As they celebrate this milestone, they remain dedicated to their mission of elevating events and connecting people through exceptional audio-visual experiences.
In addition to his professional achievements, Matt Hand’s office is a testament to his love of Star Wars. Posters of iconic scenes adorn the walls, and shelves are lined with figurines of beloved characters. This personal touch adds a fun and unique atmosphere to the workspace, reflecting Hand’s passion and creativity both in and out of the studio.
