About

Story North Productions is the result of dreaming, drive, and determination. Wife and husband duo, Annie and Kevin, built the business to cater to the demand for high quality visual storytelling. We work with our partners to elevate their stories to create lasting change.

Kevin Jacobsen

Creative Director

Kevin Jacobsen is an Emmy award-winning storyteller who invested 20 years in the television news business. Kevin spent much of his career reporting on everything from politics to people making a difference in their communities. He’s a graduate of Lyndon State College in Vermont where he earned a B.S. in Television News. When he’s not chasing his two toddlers around, he dabbles in photography and golfing and loves traveling and date nights with his wife Annie.

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Annie Harala

President + Director of Strategy

Annie Harala has spent the last 14 years working in business, non-profits, schools and local government. She has extensive experience working in greater Minnesota’s rural and urban communities in policy, community strategizing, and public relations. She holds a degree in Public Relations with a minor in English from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. She is a present member of her family, the shores of Lake Superior and enjoys a deep laugh at least twice daily.

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what sets uS apart

Unique blend of journalistic expertise and community insight

Ability to humanize complex organizations and issues

Strong focus on creating actionable, hope-driven narratives

Deep roots and connections within the local community

Commitment to ethical storytelling and positive community impact

Our Process

Story North Productions builds strong partnerships to capture and share stories effectively, with thoughtful creative development, skilled production, and efficient project management to deliver on time and within budget.

Step 1

Unlock Story

We start by discovering the why because it's the foundation of every compelling story. Through deep conversations and research, we uncover the core purpose that drives your mission.

Step 2

Develop the Narrative

We distill the essence of your story into 5 Story Keywords that serve as your North Star. These aren't just words, but powerful guideposts that keep your film's message focused, authentic and impactful throughout the entire creative process.

Step 3

Find Our Voices

A story is only as strong as its character and plot. Once we've determined the objective of the film, we thoughtfully identify the characters whose journeys will best illuminate your message. We look for those authentic moments and personalities that will resonate with viewers, creating emotional connections that inspire action.

Step 4

Connect the Dots

A story needs to be clear from beginning to end. Here we develop a structure through a storyboard to ensure everyone is on board with the vision before we move into the production phase.

Step 5

Production

We understand that authentic stories emerge when people feel at ease and trusted. Our approach combines technical expertise with genuine human connection, ensuring that every interview, every scene and every moment captures the true essence of your story while maintaining the highest production values.

Our Process

Step 1

Unlock Story

We start by discovering the why because it's the foundation of every compelling story. Through deep conversations and research, we uncover the core purpose that drives your mission.

Step 2

Develop the Narrative

Step 3

Find Our Voices

Step 4

Connect the Dots

A story needs to be clear from beginning to end. Here we develop a structure through a storyboard to ensure everyone is on board with the vision before we move into the production phase.

Step 5

Production

Words of trust

Pohaki

Tapping into Story North Productions' services has been an integral part of our strategy when it comes to growing our small Iron Range business. It's a pleasure to work with the Story North team to tell our story. They are timely (deadlines are met). They communicate. And our needs, as the customer, have always been their top priority.

Upper Midwest Film Office

One of my favorite parts about the experience was the initial brainstorming meeting when they helped us de tangle messaging and helped to set priorities. The turn around we asked for was tight and they delivered everything EARLY. Would (will) work with them again any time!

Lakehead Constructors

“They made all of our employees feel comfortable in front of a camera, they understood our markets and the safety that goes along with working in the industrial world and we were very pleased with the finished product.”

MILLLER-DWAN FOUNDATION

“From the excellent communication before, during and after a shoot, to the ease and comfort they provide to those being interviewed, to the true passion for their craft, Story North Productions is the best around. They are an asset to our community!

SOAR Career Solutions

“Their team was professional, creative, and truly committed to our mission. The final deliverables exceeded our expectations, beautifully highlighting our clients' achievements through compelling storytelling.”

Heliene

“Their work is outstanding, their communication clear, concise and accurate. I look forward to our next engagement with them !”

Duluth Chamber of Commerce

The expertise of Kevin, Annie, and the team was clear from the minute we sat down together. Throughout the process they communicated with clarity and frequency. Ultimately, they delivered a product that was beyond our expectations

POP & DOT

“Their professionalism, kindness, and patience were at the forefront every step of the way. As if the perfectly produced video assets we received weren't enough, we would work with Kevin and his team again in a heartbeat solely due to the phenomenal experience they provided. A++”

APi Group

Working with Kevin and Story North Productions team has been a great experience. They pivot when needed, are a true partner in thought and process, and provide an amazing end product. Thank you, Story North Productions!

About

what sets uS apart

Our Process

Unlock Story

Develop the Narrative

Find Our Voices

Connect the Dots

Production

Our Process

Unlock Story

Develop the Narrative

Find Our Voices

Connect the Dots

Production

Words of trust

Let’s Connect