Barking Squirrel Media

Inspiring Video StoryTelling:
Why We Love Filming for CSX

At Barking Squirrel Media, we are passionate about Inspiring Video StoryTelling that connects audiences to purpose, people, and community. That’s why our work with CSX stands out as one of the most meaningful projects we’ve undertaken. More than just a film shoot, it was a chance to tell a story that uplifts and inspires—rooted in real people making a real difference. With production offices in Cincinnati and Chicago, we bring this same storytelling philosophy to every project we touch across the region and beyond.

At Barking Squirrel Media, we believe every project should stir the heart and inspire action. That’s why our experience filming for CSX has been so fulfilling—not just as filmmakers but as storytellers rooted in the communities we serve. With offices in Cincinnati and Chicago, we’re perfectly positioned to collaborate with mission-driven organizations like CSX that are doing impactful work across the Midwest and beyond.

One of our most moving collaborations was the CSX Greenup Playground Project, a story that demanded more than just coverage—it deserved Inspiring Video StoryTelling.

Inspiring Video StoryTelling: Behind the CSX Greenup Project

What makes a corporate story resonate with real people? It’s not just about capturing what happened—it’s about capturing why it matters. That’s what we did when we filmed the CSX Greenup Elementary School playground build in rural Ohio.

In partnership with Crop Media, Barking Squirrel Media helped produce a video that shines a light on CSX’s community engagement. We documented the entire journey—from the deconstruction of the old playground to the elated laughter of kids exploring their new space. It was a story of generosity, teamwork, and transformation, all brought to life through Inspiring Video StoryTelling.

How Video StoryTelling Captures Community Impact

Our job wasn’t just to roll the cameras; it was to find the emotional core of the story. That began with authentic interviews—students, teachers, and community members expressing what this new playground meant to them.

But we went further. Our team captured detailed b-roll of children running, laughing, and exploring the new equipment. We layered in audio that immersed viewers in the moment—footsteps on mulch, shouts of excitement, swings slicing the air. These details, often overlooked in traditional video work, are what elevate our approach to Inspiring Video StoryTelling.

Why Video StoryTelling Works for Corporate CSR

Companies like CSX understand that good storytelling doesn’t just promote—it connects. By documenting this community project through an emotionally rich, visually compelling lens, CSX showed its values in action.

This video became a powerful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) asset. It wasn’t just shared on social media; it was shared in hearts. Leadership, employees, and stakeholders saw themselves reflected in the mission. Customers felt aligned with a company that gives back.

That’s the impact of Inspiring Video StoryTelling—it turns goodwill into loyalty.

Inspiring Video StoryTelling Through Cinematic Craft

Our storytelling is only as powerful as the tools and techniques we bring to set. For the CSX Greenup project, we utilized our RED V-Raptor 8K Cinema Camera, RED Komodo cameras, and professional Zeiss lenses to deliver a cinematic look typically reserved for feature films.

From gimbal-based dolly shots to carefully composed wide frames that capture the entire school playground, our visual strategy was rooted in intention. Lighting was natural and unobtrusive. Sound design was intimate and textured. We used soft, uplifting music to underscore the emotional arc of the story.

This is what defines Inspiring Video StoryTelling—a marriage of narrative and technical excellence.

Video StoryTelling from Cincinnati and Chicago Studios

With production offices in Cincinnati and Chicago, Barking Squirrel Media brings big-city resources to regional stories. This geographic flexibility enabled us to easily crew up, transport equipment, and deliver post-production without delay.

Our dual-city footprint also allows us to scale for projects across multiple states—ideal for companies like CSX with operations spanning the Midwest and beyond. Whether we’re filming in a rural elementary school or a downtown headquarters, we bring the same commitment to Inspiring Video StoryTelling.

Inspiring Video StoryTelling Across the CSX Video Series

The Greenup Elementary story is just one of several Inspiring Video StoryTelling projects we’ve completed for CSX. Other notable productions include:

•CSX Family Day: A heartwarming look at the people behind the brand—employees and their families enjoying a company-hosted event that speaks to workplace culture and camaraderie.

Responder to Incident Training: A safety training initiative shot with cinematic precision, turning complex procedures into engaging, visual narratives.

Meet Rob of CSX Engineering: A character-driven mini-documentary showcasing Rob’s dedication to innovation and infrastructure.

Advanced Freight Technology: A dynamic piece highlighting CSX’s cutting-edge freight systems.

Tracks to Success: A student mentorship and workforce development story showing CSX’s investment in future generations.

Each video builds on our core strength: Inspiring Video StoryTelling that connects audiences to mission, values, and people.

Tips for Crafting Inspiring Video StoryTelling in Corporate Projects

What makes a corporate video inspiring instead of stale? Here’s our proven method:

Pre-Production: Discovery and Insight

We begin every project with a deep dive into your brand—your goals, your people, your mission. For CSX, that meant understanding both the technical and emotional facets of their story.

Production: Emotion and Atmosphere

We shoot with intention. Our goal isn’t just coverage—it’s emotional depth. By focusing on facial expressions, hand gestures, and real-time reactions, we give stories heart.

Post-Production: Rhythm and Resolution

Editing is where the magic happens. We use pacing, color grading, and music scoring to give stories a polished, cinematic feel. Every cut is purposeful. Every moment matters.

That’s the difference Inspiring Video StoryTelling makes.

Why Clients Choose Video StoryTelling with Barking Squirrel Media

Our clients choose us not just for our equipment or experience—but for our vision. We don’t just produce videos; we tell stories that move people.

Working with CSX and Crop Media was seamless and collaborative. Together, we crafted a narrative that brought visibility to CSX’s community investment and earned genuine emotional engagement.

Here’s what sets us apart:

•Cinematic visuals that elevate your brand

•Deep collaboration in pre-production

•Story-first editing that captivates viewers

•Emotional resonance that creates lasting impressions

We believe storytelling is the soul of effective marketing. And when you work with Barking Squirrel Media, Inspiring Video StoryTelling isn’t a bonus—it’s the foundation.

Benefits of Inspiring Video StoryTelling for Brands and Communities

Why invest in storytelling? Because it works.

Employee Morale: Videos like these make employees proud of their company—and motivated to share that pride.

Customer Trust: People are drawn to companies that show, not tell. Inspiring stories demonstrate integrity, care, and leadership.

Marketing ROI: These videos become versatile assets. You can slice them into social clips, repurpose them for internal training, or showcase them at conferences and meetings.

The value of Inspiring Video StoryTelling multiplies long after the final cut.

Bringing It All Together with Inspiring StoryTelling

Filming for CSX reminded us why we do what we do. It’s not just about perfect lighting or clean audio. It’s about creating something that matters—something that inspires.

At Barking Squirrel Media, we’re honored to use Inspiring Video StoryTelling to elevate brands that are making a real difference. Whether you’re building a playground, training the next generation, or celebrating your employees, we’re here to help you tell that story.

With offices in Cincinnati and Chicago, our team is ready to bring your vision to life—wherever you are, and whatever you stand for.

Let’s tell your story. Let’s inspire.

Agency: Crop Media
Video Production: Barking Squirrel Media
Director: Dr. David K Bray
Director of Photography: Dan Marque
Gaffer: Dan Wagner
Photographer: Christine Marque
Audio: Reid Rice
Editor: Crop Media