I will never forget this story from an acquaintance at a networking event. When I shared about my role as a producer, I could tell a lightbulb went off in her head. She then told me this unfortunate story of hiring a camera operator for her past project. He had the lowest bid, so her company went with him. When he showed up on set with his gear, he looked at her and said, "What do you want me to shoot?" She looked at him and said, "Wait. Why are you asking me? I thought we hired you for that."

I thought I'd take this opportunity to talk about things to consider when you are hiring a video production vendor. But before I do, I want to respond to the scenario I described above so you don't make the same mistake.

Video production, especially high-quality, requires a team of experts in camera, lighting, and sound on set, a postproduction team, a director who can give creative direction and a producer who manages everything.

"Ask your network for a referral. Have an introductory call - I call it avibe check. Talk to the principal or an executive producer of the company. Ask questions. Ask about the team. Have a budget parameter in mind."  

To avoid the same mistake described above, here are the ten things to consider when you are ready to hire a video production company:

1. Portfolio and Experience: Review the vendor's portfolio and past work to assess the quality and style of their productions. Check if they have experience in producing videos similar to what you need. Experience often translates to better skills and understanding of the industry.
2. Expertise and Specialization: Consider whether the vendor specializes in the type of video you want (e.g., corporate videos, commercials, event coverage, animation). Video production is a highly specialized field; you will need a team who understands your needs.
3. Creativity and Vision: Evaluate the vendor's ability to bring creative ideas and vision to your project. A fresh and innovative approach can make your video stand out and be more engaging.
4. Budget and Pricing: Discuss your budget with the vendor and ensure they can work within your financial constraints. Having a budget in mind helps select the right vendor.  
5. Timeline and Availability: Clarify the project timeline and make sure the vendor is available to work on your project when you need it. Avoid last-minute rushes by planning ahead.
6. Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication is crucial for successful video production. Ensure the vendor is responsive and willing to collaborate with you throughout the process.
7. Flexibility and Adaptability: Video projects can sometimes change direction or encounter unexpected challenges. Make sure the vendor is flexible and adaptable to handle such situations.
8. SOW and Creative Brief: Have a written contract that outlines the scope of work, deliverables, and payment terms associated with the project. This will protect both parties and prevent misunderstandings.
9. Understanding of Your Brand and Message: Ensure the vendor understands your brand identity and the message you want to convey through the video. Alignment with your goals is essential for a successful outcome.
10. Values: Consider how well the vendor's values align with your company's. A good cultural fit can lead to a more harmonious and productive working relationship.

It's not easy to choose the right vendor who is the right fit for the project. But it can be done. Ask your network for a referral. Have an introductory call - I call it a vibe check. Talk to the principal or an executive producer of the company. Ask questions. Ask about the team. Have a budget parameter in mind. By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find a video production vendor that matches your needs and delivers a high-quality video that aligns with your vision.

If you are interested in an introductory call, DM me on LinkedIn. Happy to chat with you about your next video production needs!

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