20 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Videography Services

Think you can just hire a videographer with a decent camera and call it a day? Think again. Creating a video that truly captivates your audience and achieves your goals requires far more than just pointing and shooting.

Whether you're a nonprofit organization crafting a compelling fundraising video, a healthcare provider explaining a complex medical procedure, or an educational institution showcasing student life, the success of your video hinges on the expertise of the team behind it.

Don't Fall Prey to the "Lone Wolf" Videographer

It's tempting to go for the seemingly cost-effective option of hiring a freelance videographer, especially when you have a limited budget. But consider this scenario: you need to produce a series of high-quality, evergreen videos for your website, social media channels, and marketing campaigns.

You find a videographer who promises to handle the entire production process for a "bargain" price. They film your interviews, capture some generic b-roll footage, and then... disappear. No customer service line to call. And zero support...

Suddenly, you're left with hours of raw footage and the daunting task of transforming it into a polished, professional video. You need to learn video editing software, master the art of sound mixing, and figure out how to add those eye-catching motion graphics that elevate your video to the next level.

The Hidden Costs of "DIY" Video Production

Not only is this incredibly time-consuming, but it can also lead to a subpar final product that damages your brand's reputation.

Poor lighting, amateurish editing, and inconsistent audio quality can leave viewers with a negative impression, undermining your message and potentially costing you valuable opportunities.

Why Choose a Full-Service Video Production Company Like Goodsides?

A full-service video production company like Goodsides is your one-stop shop for creating high-impact videos that achieve your goals. We're not just about fancy cameras and expensive equipment; we're a team of experienced storytellers, strategists, and creative professionals who are passionate about bringing your vision to life.

20 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring Video Production Services

To help you navigate the world of video production and avoid the pitfalls of the "lone wolf" videographer, we've compiled 20 essential questions to ask potential video production partners:

1. Understanding Your Vision & Their Expertise

• Q1: What is your process for understanding our goals and target audience for this video project?
  • We believe in a collaborative approach. We'll start with a comprehensive discovery session to delve deep into your objectives, target audience, and desired outcomes. We'll ask questions like, "What key message do you want to convey?" and "What emotions do you want to evoke in your viewers?" This ensures we're all on the same page and that the final video aligns perfectly with your vision and resonates with your audience.
• Q2: Do you offer scripting and storyboarding services for video production?
  • Absolutely! We understand that a compelling narrative is the backbone of any successful video. Our team of experienced writers and storyboard artists will work closely with you to develop a captivating script and visually engaging storyboard that brings your story to life.
• Q3: How do you ensure high-quality audio in your video productions?
  • We know that poor audio can ruin even the most visually stunning video. We invest in professional-grade audio equipment and have experienced sound engineers on our team who ensure crystal-clear audio capture and meticulous sound mixing in post-production.
• Q4: What does your pre-production planning process for video projects entail?
  • We believe that meticulous pre-production planning is the key to a smooth and successful video shoot. Our process includes everything from script development and location scouting to casting and scheduling, ensuring that every detail is accounted for before the cameras start rolling.
• Q5: What type of video production equipment do you use?
  • We use state-of-the-art cameras, lighting, and audio equipment to ensure the highest quality visuals and sound. We stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques to deliver a video that exceeds your expectations.

2. Evaluating Production Capabilities

• Q6: How do you handle lighting for different video production scenarios?
  • Our experienced lighting technicians understand the nuances of lighting for different moods, environments, and skin tones. We use a combination of natural and artificial light to create the perfect ambiance and ensure that your subjects are always presented in the best possible light.
• Q7: Do you have experience with multi-camera setups for video shoots?
  • Yes, we regularly utilize multi-camera setups to capture dynamic angles and provide greater flexibility in the editing process. This allows us to create a more engaging and visually interesting final product.
• Q8: Will a director of photography (DP) be on set during the video shoot?
  • Absolutely! Our experienced DPs oversee the visual aspects of the production, ensuring that every shot is framed beautifully, lit correctly, and captured with the highest level of technical expertise.
• Q9: What is your approach to conducting on-camera interviews for video productions?
  • We understand that being on camera can be nerve-wracking. Our skilled directors create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for interviewees, encouraging natural and authentic responses that connect with viewers.
• Q10: Can you handle large-scale video production projects with multiple locations or complex logistics?
  • Yes, we have the experience and resources to manage complex video productions, including those involving multiple locations, large crews, and intricate logistics.
• Q11: Do you have experience working with clients in my specific industry (e.g., healthcare, education, nonprofit)?
  • We've had the pleasure of collaborating with a diverse range of clients across various industries, including library systems, county departments, law enforcement agencies, farmers markets, fire departments, elected officials, school districts, museums, hospitals, and more. This experience has given us valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within each sector, allowing us to create videos that resonate with your specific target audience.

3. Ensuring Post-Production Excellence

• Q12: How do you maintain brand consistency in the visuals of your video productions?
  • We work closely with you to understand your brand guidelines and ensure that the visual style of the video aligns with your brand identity. We pay close attention to details like color palettes, fonts, and graphic elements to create a cohesive and on-brand final product.
• Q13: What is your video editing process like?
  • Our skilled editors use industry-leading software to meticulously craft your video, paying close attention to pacing, storytelling, and visual flow. We believe that editing is where the magic happens, transforming raw footage into a captivating and engaging story.
• Q14: How do you handle color correction and color grading in video post-production?
  • We use advanced color correction and grading techniques to enhance the visual appeal of your video, ensuring consistent color balance, contrast, and saturation across all footage.
• Q15: Do you offer motion graphics, animation, or visual effects services for video production?
  • Yes, our team of talented motion graphics artists and animators can create eye-catching visuals, explainer animations, and special effects that enhance your video's storytelling and engage your audience.
• Q16: How do you ensure high-quality audio mixing and balancing in your videos?
  • Our sound engineers use professional audio mixing techniques to ensure clear dialogue, balanced music levels, and a rich soundscape that enhances the viewing experience.

4. Maximizing Impact & Accessibility

• Q17: What is your approach to making videos accessible to a wider audience, including options like closed captions and foreign language versions?
  • We believe in making video content accessible to everyone. We offer services like closed captioning, foreign language subtitles, and audio descriptions to ensure that your message reaches a diverse audience.
• Q18: How do you handle revisions and feedback during the video production process?
  • We value your input and encourage open communication throughout the production process. We provide opportunities for you to review and provide feedback at key stages, ensuring that the final video meets your expectations.
• Q19: Do you offer video distribution and promotional guidance as part of your services?
  • Yes, we can help you develop a distribution strategy to maximize the reach and impact of your video. We can advise on optimal platforms, social media strategies, and video SEO techniques to ensure your video gets seen by the right audience.
• Q20: What metrics do you track to measure the success of a video project?
  • We track key performance indicators (KPIs) like views, engagement, and conversion rates to measure the effectiveness of your video and provide valuable insights into audience behavior.

Why Choosing the Right Video Production Partner Matters

Choosing between a solo videographer and a full-service video production company like Goodsides is about more than just cost; it's about investing in a partnership that delivers exceptional results and helps you achieve your goals.

Remember:

Full-service companies develop strategies that lead to measurable impact, resulting in a 70% higher conversion rate compared to DIY content.

By asking the right questions, you can avoid costly mistakes and select a team that not only captures stunning visuals but also understands your vision, crafts a compelling narrative, and delivers a high-quality video that achieves your goals.

Ready to bring your story to life the right way? Let’s talk! Contact a Goodsides video expert today.