6 steps to choosing a videographer

If you’re reading this, the chances are good you’re considering having a video done for yourself, your business or organisation. Nice one! But with so many people out there, how do you make the right choice?

It’s not as difficult as you may think, but there are some things you should bear in mind.

1. Track record
Always check to see their body of work. This will tell you something about the range of videos they’re capable of producing and also indicate repeat clients (never a bad thing.) Most companies will have a show-reel, showing off their best side, but I’ve found companies that have a portfolio of work for you to digest are the more successful ones.

Also, importantly, does the videographer have experience of interviewing? Of putting people at ease? Of sniffing out the best stories around your business? Many videographers are former journalists. That experience can make all the difference (and I’m not just saying that because I was a journalist!)

Also check on their website for testimonials – it’ll give you an idea of what their clients think of them.

2. Does size matter?
Despite what you may think, in some instances it does. Very often the temptation is to go with a large company, which is fine, if you’re looking for a big production.

But when you consider how much money you’ll be spending, you have to ask yourself whether a smaller company could do the job as well for dramatically less money.

Working with a smaller company also adds a personal touch and ensures they will go the extra mile. You’re not a job number, you’re a client and the company will work closely with you throughout to get the best results

3. The right format
Any video company worth its salt will ask you where the video is likely to be used. This will ensure that you get the right file format for the job. If they hand you a compressed web file such as an .flv file (flash) for example you’re limited as to what you can do with it. A good company in my eyes will provide a number of formats: one quality rendition of the film and one, perhaps two web friendly formats.

4. You’re in the director’s chair
It’s your video, so you should have a say in how it’s done. I’m not suggesting that you get a megaphone and throw a diva tantrum on set (never pretty), but you should be able to feed in your ideas and thoughts.

Working with a smaller company also means that you’re likely to be working with the person who is selling the service. Having a relationship with that person throughout the process is priceless.

5. Your place or theirs
There are some cases where you might be required to go into a studio, but this is about you, your business or your organisation. So ideally you want the videographer to come to you.

This might sound a little obvious, but it’s important not to simply tell people what you do, show them…it’s a video after all.

6. Phone a friend
Finally, if you like what the company has done for you, pass it on. Many video companies thrive on word-of-mouth and a recommendation from you can go a long way.

And enjoy the experience, if the videographer is good they’ll put you at ease, and also fit in around your schedule. What you don’t want is your business grinding to a halt for the day so they can shoot the video. They should be as unobtrusive as possible and attentive to your aims.

Follow these steps and hopefully you'll find the right person for the job.

About the author

Andrew Burden (inkspotmedia)

Comments (3)

1. 

   Reply by Video Production on January 19, 2012

   Great article, keep up the good work.

   • 

     Reply by inkspotmedia on January 19, 2012

     Cheers, nice of you to say

2. 

   Reply by Jeffrey Smith on February 15, 2012

   Many thanks for the info, and your webpage really looks outstanding. Just what word press theme are you using?