About Studio 81
When Robert De Corah, our founder, moved to Cedar Rapids, he identified a significant gap in the local market—there were no commercial video studios available for rent in Eastern Iowa. This shortage was driving local video professionals to work out of state. By establishing a purpose-built studio, we aim not only to retain these talents within Iowa but also to attract out-of-state dollars, boosting both our local economy and the film industry here.
Pre-Lit 3 wall Cyc Wall measuring 15'x22'x15' and 10' tall. Fully RGB capable and controllable via our iPad Pro Controller. Our cyc wall can become anything to anyone!
Multiple Sets for Commercials, Interviews, Product Demonstrations, Training Videos, Testimonials, Content Creation, Music Videos, and Photoshoots.
Studio Rental
Available as an add-on to the Studio, or rentable by itself, our 800sqft Green Room is the perfect space for talent, c-suite, or producers to step away between takes. It doubles as additional sets for filming and photoshoots, and is a great space to work and meet with clients if you don't have an office location nearby, or just want to impress a client with ours.
The Green Room
Eastern Iowa's only film equipment rental house. Whether you are filming on-site in one of our spaces, or in need of gear for in upcoming production off-site, Studio 81 has you covered. With cameras, lighting, grip, aerial, and specialty items like camera car/chase car rentals, we are here to help take your next production to the next level.
Equipment Rentals
Whether you are looking to start a video podcast, wanting to create social content to build your brand, or wanting to create assets for your website, we've got you covered.
Content Creation
Studio 81 is the perfect place to host a workshop, seminar, meeting, training, private event, private dinner, or watch party. Studio 81 is fully equipped with state of the art audio and video tools to make your next event a hit.
Event Space
Boasting a Dolby Vision 180" projector, and Dolby Atmos sound system, Studio 81 is the perfect place to showcase your latest film, watch that Taylor Swift Concert, or watch your favorite sports team in all it's glory.
Screenings
Our Services
ROB
Founder
Addicted to Pickleball. Has ADHD. Wine Enthusiast. New Dad. Serial Entreprenuer.
GERLIE
Executive Assistant
Gym Enthusiast. Night Owl by Nature. Energy Level = 100%. Dance Floor Master. Extrovert.
YOU?...
Studio Manager - Editor
Studio 81 is in search of a Studio Manager that will handle the day to day operations of Studio 81, equipment rentals, and client success. Hospitality driven is ideal.
Our Team
Founder Bio
Early Career:
Rob De Corah's journey in the TV, film, and video industry began nearly 20 years ago. A native Floridian and semi-professional surfer, Rob moved to Newport Beach, CA, after high school to kickstart his career as an assistant to a casting director at MTV. His talent quickly took him to Los Angeles, where he evolved from behind the camera to an Associate Producer, contributing to HDNet's high-definition content for four years, a network owned by Mark Cuban.
Transition to Sports Broadcasting:
In 2015, Rob transitioned to sports broadcasting, moving to Kansas City, MO. Starting as a Camera Operator for the Chiefs and the Royals, his skills soon brought him to major networks like CBS, ABC, ESPN, NBC, and FOX. Since 2015, he covered premier events, including the World Series, Final Four, UFC fights, the Field of Dreams games, NASCAR, and 8 NFL seasons.
Entrepreneurial Venture:
In 2018, Rob founded Ajax Media, a bespoke video production company specializing in corporate and commercial projects. Ajax Media quickly amassed a prestigious clientele, including John Deere, Clopay Garage Doors, Goldman Sachs, Honda, and locally Meld Marketing, The District, and the EDC.
Move to Cedar Rapids and Studio 81:
Relocating to Cedar Rapids in 2019 for family reasons, Rob spotted a market need for a professional video production studio in Iowa. After a brief pause in 2020 due to Covid, he resumed his vision in late 2023. By January 2024, Rob successfully negotiated with Armstrong Development Company to transform a storage space into Studio 81. Named to honor the historical linkage between The Armstrong Centre and Granby Building, Studio 81 aims to be a cornerstone for creative production in downtown Cedar Rapids.
Future Outlook:
Committed to Cedar Rapids and motivated by family ties, Rob is dedicated to enhancing the local community. His collaboration with Jon Dusek of Armstrong Development, whom he regards as a mentor, reflects his ambition to foster entrepreneurship and growth within the city.
Studio 81 Assets
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Want to Learn More?
Email hello@bookstudio81.com