After years as a cameraman, director, and owner of a video production company, Tom Castricum decided to rethink the recording process. What if you could create professional video and audio without needing someone behind the controls at all times?
That idea led to the creation of Record Room: a professional studio where a large part of the recording and editing process is automated. Creators and companies can independently record podcasts, webinars, video presentations, e-learning modules, and voice-overs.
We sat down with Tom to talk about his background in film, the origins of Record Room, and why he believes creating professional content can be much more accessible.
Hey Tom! You originally come from the film world. How did you end up with Record Room?
“I was a cameraman and director for a long time and also owned a video production company. I sold that a few years ago. I noticed that I didn't necessarily want to be behind the controls anymore and wasn't getting the same enjoyment out of it.
At the same time, clients often asked me if a production could be done more cheaply. That got me thinking: if you don't need anyone behind the controls, it can be cheaper.”
And that was the spark for developing Record Room?
“Yes. I started figuring out how everything could work together and then just started building it. At a certain point, I dove behind the computer and started developing the app. That’s how Record Room came to be, step by step.”
What did you want to do differently compared to a traditional recording or film studio?
“The most important thing for me is to make it accessible. It shouldn't just be companies with big budgets that can record professional content. In principle, everyone should be able to make a podcast or video themselves.
Normally, you book a studio and need a technician and all sorts of other people. That quickly makes it expensive. Here, you can do much more yourself.”
But there’s a lot of technical work happening in the background. How does that work?
“There are multiple cameras in the studio, and the technology automatically registers who is speaking. Part of the editing process is also automated.
The idea is that as a user, you have to think about that as little as possible. You walk in, record, and the technology does its job in the background.”
What are people using Record Room for these days?
“Podcasts are important, but people also record webinars, video presentations, and e-learning modules. I’ve also had clients who use the studio just to record a voice-over.
You get the option for video and everything that comes with it, but sometimes someone just needs good audio. It works for that, too.”
What is your ultimate goal with Record Room?
“To make professional recording accessible to many more people. You shouldn't necessarily need a big budget, a full crew, or technical knowledge to create good content. The whole point is that you can just do it yourself.”
Curious about Tom and Record Room? Visit the Record Room website. A Lab community members get 50% off studio use. Sound good? Stop by and see Tom or send him a message.
Can you see yourself working alongside entrepreneurs like Tom and want to know more about becoming a member?
Email A Lab Community Manager noa@a-lab.nl.
