4 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a
Video Production Company
by Adam Krell
From getting your brand noticed to creating a viral video campaign, producing a flawless, well-executed video can make or break your company’s image. You’ve decided hiring a video production company is a smart move, but aren’t sure how to find a crew and filmmaker that understands your vision. Before hiring a video production company, it’s important to ask the right questions about their fees, equipment and other facets of the process. Here are four of the most important questions:
Do You Have Examples of Your Work?
One of the simplest, most effective ways to gauge a company’s product is by asking for examples. For instance, if you’re interested in producing a new corporate video, ask to watch productions from the last three to four months. If the company is unwilling or unable to oblige, this is a red flag you should look elsewhere. Reputable companies, including Aurora Coast Productions, are happy to showcase their latest works, and provide you with glowing references and recommendations from satisfied clients.
What’s Your Process?
Vision is an integral part of the creative process. Unfortunately, not every production company features the support staff and equipment necessary to create a polished finished product. Don’t be afraid to ask about their staff’s qualifications, their available technology, and how these are utilized and organized. A reputable video production company will provide you with a tentative timeline and keep you updated during the process. You want a company with drive and the expertise to realize your vision.
What Are the Fees?
Discussing the fees associated with producing your commercial or video is often the most indelicate and uncomfortable aspect of the negotiation. No matter if your budget is $5000 or $50,000, a reputable video production company will provide you with a detailed quote based upon a number of factors, including equipment, development, locations, the shooting schedule and potential editing needs. The final numbers will provide you with a prospective range of costs. Snags are sometimes inevitable and this is why a good video production company will admit the final cost could be higher than expected.
What’s Your Availability Like?
This might seem odd, but asking about the company’s availability is a great way to gauge if they’re in-demand or desperate for new clients. Pay close attention to their support staff. Do they seem consistently engaged? A busy production company is a sign of professionalism and a stellar reputation. Conversely, if the company seems too eager for your business, that could mean they haven’t provided quality work in the past.
Hiring a video production company is a potentially daunting task made less exhausting by knowing the right questions to ask. If you’re looking for quality and want the most for your money, it’s important to ask questions that might seem tough, but will help you avoid making a huge and costly mistake.
