Instafilms completed a unique documentary video production in Chios Greece for the Mastiha Research Center, in collaboration with Ogilvy Belgium, with the European Union as the final client and supporter of the research center’s development.
The purpose of this documentary production was to showcase the unique connection between scientific research, tradition, innovation, and the cultural heritage behind Chios Mastiha, a natural product unlike any other in the world and a tradition recognized by UNESCO as an element of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
A Two-Day Documentary Video Production in Chios Greece
The Documentary video production in Chios Greece took place over two full days of filming across different locations on the island of Chios.
The Instafilms production team captured:
- The facilities and research activities of the Mastiha Research Center
- Laboratory research, scientific analysis, and product testing
- The development and production process of innovative mastiha-based products
- Mastiha harvesting in the fields during the first morning light
- The traditional Mastiha villages of Mesta and Pyrgi
- Cinematic aerial drone footage and ground-based filming
The final documentary combines the natural beauty of Chios with the scientific, cultural, and economic importance of mastiha, creating an authentic visual story about tradition meeting innovation.
Cinematic Interviews and Professional Filming Approach
As part of the production, Instafilms, Documentary video production in Chios Greece filmed two interviews in carefully selected indoor locations.
Our team designed and created a professional lighting setup for each interview environment, achieving a cinematic visual style. The interviews were filmed using a two-camera high-definition setup, providing creative flexibility during editing while maintaining premium image quality.
The interviews explored:
- The origins and unique characteristics of Chios Mastiha
- Its applications in health products, dietary supplements, oral hygiene, gastronomy, beauty, and personal care
- The cultural importance of mastiha for the island of Chios
- The role of the Mastiha Research Center as a bridge between scientific research and industrial innovation
- The contribution of European Union funding to the establishment and development of the center
- The future economic impact of mastiha research on local communities and producers
The Story Behind Chios Mastiha
Chios Mastiha is a truly unique natural product produced exclusively in the southern part of Chios, from the mastiha tree (Pistacia Lentiscus var. Chia). The famous “tears” of mastiha are collected through a traditional manual harvesting process that has been preserved for centuries.
The cultivation of Chios Mastiha represents much more than agricultural production. It is deeply connected with the identity, history, and economy of the island, with approximately 5,000 mastiha growers continuing this heritage through generations.
Through this documentary, Instafilms, Documentary video production in Chios Greece, highlighted how ancient knowledge meets modern science. The Mastiha Research Center conducts applied research, performs laboratory analyses, develops new products and applications, supports pilot productions, and collaborates with universities, research institutions, businesses, and producers.
The center operates as a Knowledge Bridge between academia and industry, helping maximize the added value of mastiha while supporting the sustainable future of this unique traditional cultivation.
Business Documentaries and Corporate Storytelling
Business documentaries and documentary-style video production transform corporate narratives into cinematic stories. Unlike traditional marketing videos, these projects prioritize emotional storytelling, origin stories, and social impact.
They are highly effective for building brand trust, attracting investors, strengthening corporate identity, and boosting internal employee morale.
By combining authentic human stories, cinematic visuals, and strategic storytelling, documentary-style productions allow organizations, institutions, and companies to communicate their values in a deeper and more memorable way.
The Mastiha Research Center documentary is an example of how corporate storytelling can connect science, heritage, people, and innovation into a powerful visual narrative.
Capturing Authentic Moments in Chios
Beyond the research facilities and laboratories, the production focused on the people behind the story.
We filmed local farmers during the mastiha harvesting process, capturing authentic moments from their daily lives and the traditional techniques passed down through generations. We also documented the creation of mastiha-based products and the connection between local communities and this unique natural resource.
During filming in the Mastiha villages of Mesta and Pyrgi, we exchanged warm conversations with local residents and invited them to share their genuine smiles and hospitality with the camera. These authentic human interactions added emotional depth and character to the documentary.
Drone cinematography revealed the unique landscape of southern Chios, while ground filming captured the details, textures, and atmosphere of everyday life on the island.
Production Team
The project was produced by Instafilms in collaboration with Ogilvy Belgium, following international standards for documentary and corporate video production.
A significant contribution came from photographer and now close creative collaborator George Rigopoulos.
Documentary Video Production in Chios Greece
If you are looking for professional documentary video production in Chios Greece, Instafilms.eu creates cinematic stories that combine technical excellence, authentic storytelling, and emotional connection.
From scientific documentaries and European-funded projects to corporate films, cultural productions, and brand documentaries, we help organizations communicate meaningful stories through high-quality visual storytelling.
Our goal is to transform real experiences, people, and places into powerful films that inspire audiences and create lasting impact.
