Ten Things You Should Know Before Producing Your Video

By Don Byrne
The Post House

Video production is a very competitive business and the rapid changes in communication technology are dizzying. Not only do these changes allow current video professionals to offer more and better services to their customers, they also allow video producers to own equipment that only a few years ago would have been financially impossible.

Unfortunately, it has also broken down the barriers of entry into the video production business. As the cost of video gear continues to come down, more and more people are buying equipment, printing business cards and calling themselves production companies. But many of these so called "video production companies" are not qualified to serve people like you. But how do you know how to choose?

The following are ten things that you should know before producing your video project. Not only will it shed some light on the practical considerations, but we hope it will also help you in determining the right production company for your project.

1. Your production company should be able to specifically demonstrate that they are capable of producing the type of program you want. Whether you need a sales or promotional video, a training program or a broadcast commercial, make sure the company you choose can show you samples of their work and explain their roles in the production.

2. Your production company should be able to give you free advice on what needs to be done prior to beginning production. Video production is not for the weak of heart, but a qualified production company should be able to explain the pitfalls and areas of concern that you need to consider before beginning production.

3. Your production company should have the experience you need to accomplish your project. Be sure to check not only the company’s experience with the type of program you want but your producer’s and crew’s experience as well. There is a certain degree of security knowing that the company you choose has produced programs that have worked for others.

4. Your production company should have a diverse and capable pool of people to draw on for your project. Don’t even consider a one-man shop if you are looking for a quality program. It’s possible to be good at many things, but truly great programs are created by a team of professionals who love their jobs and specialize in their craft.

5. Your production company should be able to estimate the cost of your production within a few hundred dollars. Beware of those that give you a ballpark figure over the phone. Every production company should be willing to meet with you to give you an estimate to avoid any misunderstanding and explain the steps and personnel needed to accomplish the objectives.

6. Your video project should be handled by an experienced producer.

7. Your editor should be willing to make any changes to get the job done right.

8. Your company should have clean comfortable suites and be happy to have you sit over their shoulder. Many companies will tell you it adds time to the project if they have someone sitting with them, but an experienced editor will be happy to have you sit in, mainly to answer any questions he/she may have early on in the project.

9. Your production company should be using the right equipment for the job. Professional video equipment is not cheap. What may seem like a good deal or rate may add extra costs in rendering time or inefficiencies during the production or post-production process. Ask why they use the equipment they have, and make sure they can justify the equipment used in your production.

10. Video production is not for the poorly prepared. Attention to detail is critical to complete a project on time and within budget. Ask your business associates and friends about any companies they have worked with to see if they are happy with the results.