Meet Hayden Todd, our Senior Video Producer and the creative force behind capturing and crafting the stories that bring our hand painted advertising murals and the painting process to life. Whether managing videographers or actively working in the field, Hayden always thinks two steps ahead.  If you haven't met Hayden in person, you are missing out on his frequent use of sports analogies to explain his thought processes. Like a coach breaking down plays, he often asks, "How can we improve, and how can we elevate?" Hayden's approach goes beyond simply capturing beautiful footage; he delves into the "why" behind every mural to ensure our clients’ murals tell a story with purpose .  Read more about Hayden's journey and the philosophy that fuels his work: ANNA: How did you get into videography, and what drew you to filming murals specifically? HAYDEN:   I attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga for graphic design, which naturally included photography and videography. As I sourced photos and videos for my projects, I realized that if I couldn’t find what I was looking for online, I had to create them myself . I have always been interested in the actual production of content, and this led me to want to learn how cameras operate and understand how to present visuals effectively.  After college, I was able to pursue video when I worked for a friend who painted a lot of commercial signage for local restaurants and businesses in Nashville . We documented our work with my phone. This eventually led to me moving to New York , where I could roll my experience into a career at Overall Murals . ANNA: What’s unique about filming murals compared to other types of videography? HAYDEN:   Mural painting is a process that spans five to seven days, and there’s no immediate "boom, we got it" moment. It’s more about documenting the entire journey and capturing the project as a whole. It’s all about planning, being in the right place at the right time , and finding the perfect angle. Then, in editing, I condense everything into something that tells the full story in a short clip . That’s why there are so many cameras on set to capture the moment’s full impact. ANNA: How does documenting the mural process change the way people experience the artwork? HAYDEN:   It's like capturing posterity, documenting something that will live on forever, especially through video. There's a record of the mural's creation that extends beyond just the people who witness it in person. While some people may have seen the mural being painted in person, the video needs to appeal to people who have no idea what’s going on or aren’t even in the same city as the mural. The goal is to make it engaging for everyone , no matter where they’re watching from. It's about capturing both the documentary side; the raw footage of the mural being made and the production side, where the video is crafted specifically to tell the campaign story, all to create an experience that connects with people beyond just those who are in the right place at the right time . Then, with campaigns like the rain-activated mural we did for Ore-Ida , the experience shifts even more. Someone walking by might only see it change when it rains, but the video tells the full story to those at home, making it clear right away how it works and why it’s special. The campaign is extended through videography, showing the audience the bigger picture. ANNA: Walk us through your camera bag. what’s your go-to setup for capturing a mural in the best possible way? HAYDEN:   The full setup includes: Sony FX3 with 3 lenses - wide (16-35mm), medium (24-70mm), and zoom (70-200mm) Canon 5DSR with 2-3 lenses for timelapse and a sturdy tripod to eliminate shake 2 video tripods with a ball head for stable shots and smooth camera movement Ronin RS2 gimbal for smooth close shots at street-level walls Rhino R2 slider for dynamic movement to time-lapse shots ND filters on all cameras to manage lighting, ensuring optimal exposure, F-Stop, and shutter speed  Drone - Mavic Cine Camera wipes SD & Sony Tough Cards Backup batteries for the two camera systems Ultimately, it’s about knowing how to use these tools with purpose , not just about having them. The right gear doesn’t guarantee great results, it’s the educated shooter who understands lighting, timing, and technique that makes the difference.  The key is knowing when and how to use the tools to tell the best story . ANNA: What’s it like seeing a mural you filmed go viral or get a huge audience reaction? HAYDEN:   It’s cool to see when a project gets posted and gains traction, especially from artists or brands with big followings. After creating around 75 videos last year , most of them circulate internally within the agency or brand, so when one gets published and receives attention, it feels validating. It’s not just about the publicity; it’s about knowing that the creative risks taken as a videographer resonate with the audience. ANNA: What’s your favorite part of filming a mural from start to finish? HAYDEN:   The creative process during mural painting is unpredictable, much like my own editing choices. Each painter approaches their section of the mural with unique micro-decisions, often solving small puzzles with every stroke. Capturing this micro-level creativity is something I’m working to expand beyond the typical 30-second client video. While the process is familiar to those in the industry, I want to highlight these intricate, behind-the-scenes decisions that painters make , which might not make it into the final edit but are essential to the final piece. It’s not just about the finished product, it’s about recognizing and documenting the unique problem-solving that goes into every part of the mural . ANNA: How do you see mural videography evolving in the future, and what new techniques or technologies are you excited to explore? HAYDEN:   I see the future of our content moving towards longer-form, behind-the-scenes pieces. Content has evolved from quick, bite-sized videos to more in-depth, immersive stories. Think of how movies used to be just a two-hour experience. Now, with social media, trailers, and behind-the-scenes content, there's an entire narrative that goes beyond the final product . People become invested in the process, like learning about the director’s methods or the actors’ stories. For us, we're not just producing content for brands but telling our own creative story . I envision the painters becoming personalities in their own right, similar to how movie stars or creators are followed for their behind-the-scenes journeys. This shift is happening now with short content, and I think the next step is expanding it. Just like how people get curious about a film's production after watching it, viewers could dig deeper into how we make our murals and learn more about the painters themselves. It’s about creating a "lore" around our work , something people can follow beyond just the final ad. Hayden has a passion for storytelling and is committed to highlighting the artistry of every mural we hand paint. As video technology and techniques advance, his approach continues to develop how we experience and connect with murals. With his keen eye for detail and a dedication to revealing the ‘why’ behind the art, Hayden ensures that the stories behind our murals resonate long after they’ve been painted.

The Ironic Intersection of Tradition and Technology Like a digital tsunami, artificial intelligence has swept across our world, transforming everything in its wake. While debates rage about AI's promise and peril, we've discovered an unexpected paradox in our corner of the advertising world: our artists, wielding traditional paintbrushes to create murals promoting the very technology that's disrupting human creativity.  There’s a delicious irony in all of this: AI, the technology that’s designed to automate, optimize, and streamline human tasks, is now putting its faith in the one thing it can't replicate: human touch . After all, there’s nothing quite like a hand painted mural, no algorithm can replicate the tactile beauty of brushstrokes on a brick wall. Yet, in the midst of a digital revolution, Overall Murals was chosen to paint massive murals for AI companies. The future of technology is splashed across walls in a very analog way and it's nothing short of genius.  Picture this: AI companies like Claude and AssemblyAI , known for their sleek algorithms, self-improving systems, and ultra-fast data processing, are now being represented by the one thing AI can never fully replicate… human artistry. It’s like watching a robot walk into a jazz club and asking for a piano lesson. A little confusing? Absolutely. But also wonderfully poetic. While AI can help with everything from generating marketing copy to designing websites, when it comes to true artistic expression, those raw unfiltered moments of creative magic, humans still have the upper hand. Our murals, painted by real artists with real brushes, are a testament to this. The very technology that aims to predict the future is now being immortalized on brick walls in different markets across the country. If there’s one thing AI hasn’t figured out yet, it’s how to stand back and admire the sheer beauty of imperfection. In the age of algorithms and social media campaigns that target our every click, there’s something almost revolutionary about the idea of using paint  to advertise tech. Murals, unlike digital ads, can’t be scrolled past or skipped. They don’t pop up between cat videos or Twitter rants. They’re tangible, massive, and impossible to ignore. For AI companies like Inflection AI , this approach is a brilliant way to showcase the mortal side of their technology. Because, let’s face it: AI companies, despite their robotic persona, are made up of people, creative minds pushing the boundaries of what's possible. What better way to showcase that humanity than by commissioning human artists to create something more memorable?  The partnership between AI companies and traditional mural artists reveals a profound truth: as technology races forward, it still relies on humanity's oldest forms of expression to connect with its audience. In the end, even our most advanced innovations need the human touch to tell their story.

You might be asking yourself, “Who is Dr. Revolt?” The short answer is… a legend.  When I was 14 years old I discovered the movie “Style Wars” and fell in love with Hip-Hop culture. For those of you that haven’t seen it, “Style Wars” , is a documentary film from the 1980s that follows a group of teenagers from New York City responsible for the birth of Hip-Hop and the graffiti movement. Featured in the film is a young Dr. Revolt, one of the more talented and stand out artists during that time. Revolt is known for his original letter formations and creative use of color along with steadfast work ethic and determination to make a name for himself.   Like many other team members at O verall Murals, I moved to NYC to pursue my dream of becoming an artist and to try to capture some of the magic and mystique from the movie that was so influential to me. After many years of living, working, and participating in the arts here, I have been fortunate to meet many of my artistic idols, including Dr. Revolt .  Getting to know the OM team over the past year, I learned that I was not alone and that many of the people who are a part of this family were also influenced by the same culture. So, when thinking about who the next artist we should collaborate with should be, the idea to ask Revolt was a no brainer. At first glance, it might seem like a contradiction—a graffiti artist working alongside a hand-painted mural company. But for us, it’s a natural connection.  Asking Dr. Revolt to design a t-shirt for us is a tribute to where so many of us at Overall Murals got our start. For a lot of us,   graffiti was the entry point to art itself,   the spark that ignited our creative careers. We grew up tagging walls, absorbing the city's underground energy, and learning to break rules through spray cans before we ever picked up a brush or pencil. Having Revolt—one of the pioneers who defined that culture—bring his unique vision to our brand felt like a full-circle moment, a tribute to the roots of our craft and the rebellious spirit that’s still very much alive in everything we create. That unconventional learning carries over into our work at Overall Murals, where we still bring some of that same grit, energy, and creative freedom to every project, merging street art’s audacity with the precision of traditional hand-painted advertising. After seeing Dr. Revolt’s t-shirt design come to life, it was everything we’d hoped for, a perfect fusion of street energy and creativity. But as much as we loved the design, something felt incomplete. It needed to live beyond fabric. That’s when it hit us: why not have Revolt himself paint it on the outside of our new headquarters?  The idea felt like a natural evolution. His work that had once transformed the subway cars of New York into moving art galleries, would now bring that same raw, unapologetic energy to our shop, the Overall Powerhouse in East Williamsburg. This isn’t just a mural; it’s a symbol of everything that got us here, a physical manifestation of our roots in graffiti culture and the undeniable spirit of the city.

Lincoln Park Get to know the area Lincoln Park emerged from 1860s cemetery grounds and farmland, renamed to honor the assassinated president before transforming into one of Chicago's wealthiest enclaves . The neighborhood's Victorian mansions and row houses survived the Great Chicago Fire, while landmarks like the Biograph Theater (where gangster John Dillinger met his end) and the famous zoo (established 1868) anchor its cultural significance. This north side gem perfectly illustrates Chicago's remarkable evolution from frontier settlement to sophisticated urban center. Today, the neighborhood buzzes with activity along its tree-lined streets, with unique shops and an exciting mix of restaurants. With DePaul University bringing youthful energy and attractions like the popular free zoo and conservatory offering green spaces to enjoy, Lincoln Park strikes a perfect balance between collegiate vibrancy and family appeal . The easy access to the lakefront, variety of entertainment options, and well-preserved historic character all help maintain its reputation as one of Chicago's most treasured residential sanctuaries . Population 69.6K Household income $149K+ $ Median age 32 Personas Income level Middle to upper-middle class Occupation Finance, Law, Medicine, Technology, and Business Interests Dining at trendy restaurants, staying active, enjoying arts and culture, and shopping at local boutiques Lifestyle: Families and young professionals who value an active, family-friendly lifestyle Education Bachelors Degree, Graduate degree Top Destinations Lincoln Park Zoo A historic, free-admission zoo offering diverse wildlife, scenic gardens, and educational experiences. Lincoln Hall A premier music venue known for its top-tier acoustics, and a lineup featuring both emerging and established artists. Green City Market A vibrant farmers market offering fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal goods. Lincoln Park was once a cemetery! In the mid-1800s, the city relocated thousands of graves to make way for the park, though some remain beneath the grounds today. FUN fact Whether it’s commuters, students, or families exploring the neighborhood, our clients message reaches an engaged audience in a setting where it truly sticks. Blake Davis, National Account Executive Our WallscapeS Scroll through our premium wallscapes handpicked by our coveted Real Estate team, which seeks the best walls for the best return on your hand painted campaign. N. Clybourn Ave. & W. North Ave. C-06 This bold wallscape makes a splash in Lincoln Park, one of Chicago’s most picturesque and sought-after neighborhoods . Just steps from the lakefront, North Avenue Beach , and the sprawling green of its namesake park, the area buzzes with joggers, families, and locals hitting up high-end shops and wellness spots. From Apple to Design Within Reach , style and sophistication are on full display. Surrounded by tree-lined streets, iconic architecture, and an easygoing, active vibe, this prime location puts your brand at the center of a lifestyle where fitness, fashion, and culture effortlessly collide. Weekly impressions 201.5K+ Dimensions 629 Sq Ft Facing North Why Advertise here? Lincoln Park positions brands before a fashion-forward demographic in one of Chicago’s most vibrant commercial hubs . This coveted location offers more than visibility, it's surrounded by upscale retailers, fine dining, and cultural attractions. With 36 annual parades , 40+ film festivals , 74 music festivals , and more than 200 theaters and 250 live music venues throughout the city, Lincoln Park sits at the heart of Chicago’s dynamic cultural scene. Boasting a mix of engaged locals and over 20 million annual visitors , this is the ideal environment for impactful brand engagement. Get wall alerts straight to your inbox Join our email list and get access to new wall alerts and more! Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!

West Loop Get to know the area The West Loop wears its industrial past like a badge of honor. Back in the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was Chicago’s go-to spot for manufacturing and food distribution. The Fulton Market district was the beating heart of the city’s meat and produce scene, packed with factories and buzzing wholesale markets. As the old industries faded, the vibe shifted. Empty warehouses got a second life as studios, kitchens, and startups. These days, the West Loop is a lively neighborhood where old buildings mix with modern design. Former meatpacking facilities are now popular restaurants , and new lofts have revitalized the area. Population 22.7K+ Household income $133K+ $ Median age 32 Personas Income Level Middle to upper-middle class Occupation Finance, Health Care, and Education Sectors Interests Dining and culinary exploration, arts and culture, wellness and fitness Lifestyle Young professionals with disposable income who embrace a vibrant urban lifestyle centered around trendy restaurants, stylish bars, and converted industrial lofts Education Bachelor's Degree, Graduate Degree Top Destinations Restaurant Row Endless array of award-winning restaraunts, cool bars, hidden speakeasies, and more! Randolph Street Market A year-round market for vintage and antique finds. Greektown A bustling enclave with traditional restaurants, bakeries and delis. Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Studios operated in the West Loop for over 25 years, helping spark the neighborhood's transformation when she converted a former cold storage warehouse into a media hub in 1988. FUN fact West Loop is the perfect neighborhood to showcase our clients brand. Its bustling streets are filled with locals, tourists, and trendsetters, giving wallscapes maximum visibility and impact in one of Chicago’s most vibrant areas." Scott Burdick, SVP, Head Of Sales Our WallscapeS Scroll through our premium wallscapes handpicked by our coveted Real Estate team, which seeks the best walls for the best return on your hand painted campaign. S. Halsted St. & W. Jackson Blvd. C-05 This head-turning street-level wall pops in Chicago's coolest neighborhood hotspot . West Loop draws the city's trendsetters with Instagram-worthy restaurants , shops, and art spaces, all within reach of Google's massive office . Just steps away, Greektown dishes up genuine Mediterranean vibes with family-run restaurants and bakeries. This sweet spot blends hip modern energy with rich culture, getting your message in front of young professionals with money to spend in this buzzing area. Weekly impressions 79.6K+ Dimensions 340 Sq Ft Facing South Why Advertise here? This primo corner spot puts your brand right where tech brains and city adventurers cross paths. It's a round-the-clock hotspot, think Google folks on coffee runs, designers dashing between studios, and weekend crowds lining up for Restaurant Row’s hottest tables. With 41,644 people per square mile and easy access to major transit, you're reaching both the weekday hustle and the weekend crowd chasing that authentic Chicago vibe. Plus, traffic has jumped 215% since 2019 . Talk about prime-time visibility in a neighborhood that’s only going up. Get wall alerts straight to your inbox Join our email list and get access to new wall alerts and more! Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!

River North Get to know the area Back in the '70s, River North was where the cool kids flocked when they needed space to create. Artists with big dreams and small budgets snatched up dirt-cheap warehouses, splashing color across this former industrial zone. Almost overnight, what was once a forgotten chunk of Chicago north of the river blossomed into a gallery-packed paradise that put the city's creative spirit on full display. Fast forward to today, and River North is Chicago's playground for the senses . Foodies feast at trendy hotspots while cocktail enthusiasts chase the perfect skyline sunset from swanky rooftops. The streets pulse with energy as gallery-hoppers, shoppers, and night owls weave between architectural gems both historic and modern. It's where Chicago shows off its fun side - no reservations required. Population 24.2K+ Household income 150K+ $ Median age 37 Personas Income Level Middle to upper-middle class Occupation Creative Directors, UX Designers, Financial Analysts, Corporate Attorneys, Gallery Curators, Tech Startup Founders, and Digital marketers Interests Contemporary art exhibitions, dining experiences, craft cocktails, architecture, high-end shopping, rooftop socializing and wellness pursuits Lifestyle F ast-paced urban lifestyle balancing demanding professional work in creative or financial fields Education Bachelor's Degree, Graduate Degree Top Destinations The Merchandise Mart A hub for design showrooms, tech companies, and exhibitions, and the Art on theMART digital art projection. House of Blues Chicago A lively venue known for live music, Southern-inspired cuisine, and iconic nightlife. Chicago Riverwalk A scenic waterfront path lined with restaurants, bars, and public art. River North is where the famous Chicago-style deep-dish pizza was popularized, with iconic spots like Pizzeria Uno calling the neighborhood home since 1943. FUN fact We’re proud to be the only hand- painted mural in River North! This neighborhood is where art meets commerce, buzzing with professionals by day and transforming into a vibrant social scene by night. It’s an unbeatable location for advertising. Jordan Leibstein, National Account Executive Our WallscapeS Scroll through our premium wallscapes handpicked by our coveted Real Estate team, which seeks the best walls for the best return on your hand painted campaign. W. Grand Ave. & N. State St. C-08 Positioned at the epicenter of the city's cultural and commercial hub , this wallscape captivates an upscale audience of design-conscious professionals , luxury shoppers , and affluent tourists as they traverse this high-traffic corridor . Surrounded by acclaimed destinations like Maple & Ash steakhouse, the prestigious 21c Museum Hotel, ACME Hotel, AMA Plaza, the world-renowned Merchandise Mart , and just steps from Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile , this strategic location leverages River North's unmatched demographic advantage. Weekly impressions 166K+ Dimensions 931 SQ FT Facing East Why Advertise here? With over 100 restaurants packed into these streets, plus 50+ art galleries drawing crowds year-round, you're tapping into serious foot traffic . The area scores a walkability rating of 95/100 , meaning people actually see your mural while strolling between their $16 cocktails and shopping sprees. River North attracts roughly 50 million visitors annually , who come specifically to splurge on good times. Why advertise here? Because this is literally where your target audiences hang out . Get wall alerts straight to your inbox Join our email list and get access to new wall alerts and more! Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!