When it comes to creating video content, it's important to work with the right team. Whether it's a team of one do-it-all videographer, or a full service video production company, it's crucial to find the right fit to create a successful project. In order to find the right team, it's important to ask questions and do some research before hiring. In this article, we will explore seven questions to ask your potential video team before working with them. These questions will help you find the right fit for your project and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

What’s your claim to fame?

Let’s start by finding out what kind of projects the videographer or production company has worked on in the past. What type of projects they have worked on in the past? Find out how many years they have been in the industry, and how they have developed their skills. After all, its good to know if you're speaking with a professional or a hobbyist.

Find out if they have experience in handling projects that are similar to yours on any aspect such as the scale of the project, genre, or industry. If not, perhaps there are transferable skills from another project they wish to share with you.

This enables you to determine if they has specific expertise to ensure the success of your project. Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for work samples!

How much will this cost me?

We know money talks, so it’s important to get to this part of the conversation as soon as possible. Often, this comes after the video team gains a full understanding of what’s required for your project, but before committing to any production dates and creative strategy meetings.

Ask about their hourly, daily, or project rate and whether they charge for additional services like editing or travel expenses. If their pricing is outside of your budget, don't be afraid to negotiate. You'll never know if there's wiggle room unless you ask!

What’s in your bag?

Now, you might not be a camera geek, but it doesn't hurt to ask what kind of equipment they use. After all, you want to make sure they've got the right tools for the job. Find out what cameras, microphones, and editing software they utilize. You want to make sure they have the right tools for the job and that their equipment is up to date. Having the latest technology can make a significant difference in the quality and professionalism of your video project.

Beyond just the basic equipment, it's also worth asking about any additional gear they bring to the table. Do they have lighting equipment, stabilizers, or drones for capturing stunning aerial shots? The more gear they have in their arsenal, the more options and possibilities you have for bringing your vision to life. By inquiring about their gear and additional equipment, you can ensure that they have everything they need to create visually captivating videos that align with your creative vision.

But remember, while having the proper gear is a necessity, you’re ultimately hiring the artist, not the gear, to create your stunning project.

How does the magic happen?

Now it’s time to learn about the process. What is it like to work together? How do they work with their clients to create their masterpieces? It's crucial to ask about their process for working with clients. Find out how they collaborate with you to bring your vision to life. Are they open to your input and feedback throughout the project? Understanding their approach to client collaboration is essential to ensuring a successful partnership.

Additionally, it's important to know if they have a specific process that they follow or if they customize their approach based on each client's needs. Some video teams have a step-by-step method that they swear by, while others prefer a more flexible approach. By asking about their process, you can gauge if it aligns with your desired workflow. Maybe you're looking for a team that sets clear milestones or benchmarks for each phase of the project, or perhaps you prefer a more fluid and adaptable process. Knowing their working style will help you determine if it's a match made in heaven or if you should keep searching for a team that vibes better with your creative process. So don't be afraid to probe into their process and ensure that they can accommodate your preferences.

Are you available?

You want your video project to be a success, and that means making sure your video team is available when you need them. So it's important to ask about their availability and timeframes. When are they free to start the project, and when do they think they can finish it? Do they have other projects going on at the same time that might clash with yours? You don't want them to be juggling too many balls and dropping yours in the process. Also, make sure to ask about their turnaround time. Will they deliver the final product within the timeframe you need? If timing is critical for you, it's best to have a candid conversation about turnaround times before you launch into the project.

Another thing to consider is how they keep you in the loop. Do they have a system in place for providing progress updates, or do you have to chase them down every step of the way? You want to make sure that you're on the same page with them in terms of communication. It's important to know how often they check in with you or whether they schedule regular meetings. That way, you can ensure that the project is progressing according to the timeline and that everyone is on the same page. By finding out all the details about their availability and communication, you can set yourself up for a smooth and successful collaboration.

Conclusion

Now you know how to find the right team to make your video dreams come true. Be sure to dig into their experience, pricing, gear, process, and availability. Once you've found your perfect match, get ready to collaborate and create some mind-blowing content. And remember, don't be afraid to ask any other questions that suit your project. With a little research and the right questions, you'll be on your way to an EPIC collaboration.