Tesco Mobile – Retail video production in Watford

Creating engaging retail video content inside a live store environment

We were recently commissioned to film video content for Tesco Mobile, filming inside their Watford store while it remained fully operational.

The project involved capturing the energy of the retail environment, showcasing the customer experience of the Tesco Mobile store and creating engaging content featuring television personality Jeff Brazier. Working with a recognisable public figure brought an additional challenge, as members of the public naturally wanted to interact, take photographs and engage with the filming process.

The filming required a flexible approach to capture authentic moments while maintaining control of the filming environment.

Filming in a busy operational store

Filming inside a live retail location requires careful planning and the ability to adapt quickly. Unlike a controlled studio environment, the store continued operating throughout production, meaning we had to manage a number of challenges including:

• Background announcements (although we were able to get the in store music turned off)

• Members of the public entering shots

• Working around customers and staff

• Maintaining health and safety procedures while filming

• Capturing natural interactions without disrupting the customer experience

By working closely with the store managers and managing each setup carefully, we were able to capture the required content while allowing the store to continue operating.

Creating vertical video content for social media

The content was designed for a vertical 9x16 format, requiring a different approach to traditional filmmaking.

To maintain the image quality and cinematic look expected from a high-end production, we used a Canon C300 Mark III camera and created a custom mounting solution using an L-bracket rig. This allowed the camera to be securely configured for vertical filming while maintaining professional camera movement and stability.

The custom setup allowed us to achieve a premium look specifically designed for mobile-first viewing platforms, rather than simply cropping traditional horizontal footage.

Capturing authentic moments with a celebrity guest

Having Jeff Brazier involved in the production created opportunities for engaging interactions with customers and staff, but also required careful management on location.

The team balanced capturing genuine reactions and spontaneous moments with ensuring the production remained organised and efficient within the busy store environment.

Delivering professional content in challenging locations

This project demonstrated the importance of experience when filming in real-world environments. Retail locations often involve unpredictable elements, but with careful preparation, communication and a flexible production approach, it is possible to create polished, professional video content without needing a fully controlled set.

The final film captured the atmosphere of the Tesco Mobile store while delivering engaging content optimised for modern digital audiences.