Collaboration and Craft: The Timeless Pillars of Post-Production
Laura Relovsky, Executive Producer, Bandit Edit
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In the fast-moving world of post-production, technology is always changing. New tools and digital workflows are always popping up, shifting the way we work. But even with all the changes, some core principles of post-production stay the same. After 25+ years in the industry, I have realized that the most important part of what we do is retain our passion for storytelling.
My entry into post-production wasn’t traditional. In 1990, I joined Vito DeSario Editing as a business manager, completely unfamiliar with the craft. I learned quickly through hands-on experience, which laid the foundation for my future. From co-founding Progressive Image Group to spending years at Mad River Post, and now working with Bandit, I’ve seen how the industry has changed.
While technology gets better and more efficient, the heart of post-production is still about telling a great story. Since I started in the industry, post-production has evolved from analog workflows with flatbeds and 1” reels, to using software like Premiere, Final Cut Pro, and now even AI. Yet, despite the changing landscape, great work is always defined by the talent behind it and the collaboration that occurs within a team.
At the heart of great storytelling is the partnership between the post-production team and the agency. In my experience, the best work happens when teams are on the same page, with trust and respect allowing creativity to flow. When all parties share a clear vision, it makes it easier to keep everything moving in the right direction. With a foundation of trust, everyone can rely on each other's expertise, bring their best ideas to the table, and let creativity thrive. The result is a more polished, cohesive final product, where every contribution—whether from the agency or post-production—plays a role in telling the bigger story.
On the same note, the office atmosphere really helps keep everyone aligned. When you work in a space where egos are checked at the door and open communication is the norm, it encourages the free flow of ideas. This makes it easy for everyone to share their input, no matter their role. When teams are in sync and feel respected, they’re better at handling challenges together and rolling with any changes that come up. This kind of environment sparks creativity, as everyone feels supported enough to take risks and push boundaries, leading to fresh, innovative solutions. At the end of the day, it’s that mix of alignment, trust, and a positive vibe that makes great storytelling shine, no matter how tech or workflows change.
The collaborative spirit extends beyond producers and editors. I’ve seen firsthand how assistants, often unsung heroes, play a pivotal role in making sure everything runs smoothly and who are often the backbone of every post house. They are expected to master the technology, work quickly, juggle multiple projects, step in for editors when needed, stay organized, all while remaining positive and enthusiastic. A solid assistant is invaluable to the team, often rising through the ranks to become an editor. This growth from within feeds directly into collaboration. When people learn from each other, share experiences, and rise through the ranks, the whole team becomes more versatile, making storytelling stay at the forefront of every project.
Post-production may look very different today than it did when I first started, but many factors remain ever green. Whether we’re using the latest software or a decades-old system, what matters most is the passion, talent, and collaboration that go into each project. I like to remind myself that no matter how much technology advances, the spirit of creativity, teamwork, and craft will always be what makes great work possible.
About Laura Relovsky
Laura Relovsky is an accomplished executive producer veteran who has worked in the advertising post-production industry for over 25 years. Before joining Bandit (formerly Fluid) as Executive Producer, served as Executive Producer at Mad River, was a founder at Progressive Image Group, and had her start with Vito DeSario.
She has worked with numerous brands including Samsung, Pepsi, Canon, Meta, Nike, ESPN, Miller Lite, Cadillac, MTV, NY Lottery, United, Wild Turkey, Little Caesars, Verizon, NFL United Way, Dove, ACLU, among many others. She is a graduate of Rutgers University, lives in Glen Ridge NJ and is proud mom to Olivia Boss.
