Look, I get it. You need a video production company and you’re probably staring at 20 different websites right now wondering “how the heck do I choose?”
Been there. Done that. Got the overpriced, underwhelming video to prove it.
So let me save you some time (and potentially thousands of dollars) with what I’ve learned after working with dozens of video production companies over the years…
## **First Things First: Know What You Actually Need**
This sounds obvious but you’d be surprised how many businesses skip this step.
Before you even start googling “video production near me” – sit down and figure out:
– What’s the video for? (marketing, training, social media?)
– Who’s gonna watch it?
– Where will it live? (YouTube, Instagram, your website?)
– What’s your REAL budget? (not the “maybe we can stretch it” budget)
Write this stuff down. Seriously. It’ll save you from those awkward conversations where the production company quotes you $50K and you were thinking more like $5K.
## **The Red Flags You Can’t Ignore**
Okay so you’ve found a few companies that look promising. Here’s what should make you run for the hills:
**1. They won’t show you recent work**
If their portfolio is all from 2019… yeah, that’s a problem. Video trends change fast. What looked amazing 5 years ago might look dated now.
**2. Zero process explanation**
Any decent video company (like the folks at Pivotal Moments Media here in Melbourne) should be able to walk you through their process. If they can’t explain how they work – they probably don’t have a system.
**3. “We can do everything!”**
Nobody’s great at everything. If they claim they’re equally awesome at corporate videos, weddings, and TikToks… they’re probably mediocre at all of them.
**4. No questions about your business**
If they’re not asking about your goals, your audience, your brand – they’re just trying to make a quick buck.
## **What to Actually Look For**
Now the good stuff. Here’s what separates the pros from the “my nephew has a camera” crowd:
### **Portfolio that matches YOUR needs**
Don’t get dazzled by their coolest work if it’s nothing like what you need. Looking for training videos? Make sure they’ve done training videos. Need social media content? Check if they understand the difference between a YouTube video and a TikTok.
### **Clear communication**
This is huge. HUGE.
You want someone who:
– Responds within 24-48 hours
– Speaks human (not film jargon)
– Actually listens to your ideas
– Pushes back when your ideas won’t work (trust me, you want this)
### **Transparent pricing**
Nobody likes surprises when the invoice comes. Good companies will give you a detailed quote that breaks down:
– Pre-production costs
– Filming day rates
– Editing time
– Any extra fees (travel, equipment rental, etc.)
### **Local knowledge matters**
Especially if you’re in Melbourne or regional Victoria. Local crews know the best locations, they understand the market, and you can actually meet them face-to-face. Plus, no crazy travel fees.
## **Questions You MUST Ask**
Don’t be shy. This is your money and your brand we’re talking about.
Ask them:
**”What happens if we need changes during editing?”**
Most companies include 2-3 rounds of revisions. If they say “unlimited revisions” they’re either lying or they’ll hate you by the end.
**”Who owns the raw footage?”**
This is a biggie. Some companies keep the raw files hostage. Make sure you know what you’re getting.
**”What’s your backup plan if someone gets sick on shoot day?”**
Professionals have backup plans. Amateurs cross their fingers.
**”Can I see testimonials from similar businesses?”**
Not just any testimonials – ones from businesses like yours.
## **The Budget Talk (Yeah, We’re Going There)**
Let’s be real about money.
Video production isn’t cheap. But it shouldn’t bankrupt you either.
Here’s my rule of thumb:
– Social media videos: $2K-$5K
– Corporate/promotional videos: $5K-$15K
– High-end commercial production: $15K+
But here’s the thing – a $20K video that sits on your hard drive is worth less than a $5K video that actually connects with your audience.
## **Making the Final Decision**
You’ve done your homework. You’ve asked the questions. Now what?
**Trust your gut.**
Seriously. If something feels off, it probably is. The right video production company should feel like a partner, not a vendor.
They should:
– Get excited about your project
– Bring ideas to the table
– Make the process feel manageable
– Have a clear timeline
– Make you feel confident, not confused
## **One Last Thing…**
Don’t wait until you need the video next week to start this process. Good video production takes time. Great video production takes a bit more.
Give yourself at least 6-8 weeks from first contact to final delivery. Your future self will thank you.
And remember – the cheapest option is rarely the best value. But the most expensive isn’t always the best either. Find that sweet spot where quality meets your budget and you actually enjoy working with the team.
That’s when you know you’ve found the right video production company.
Now stop reading and start reaching out to those companies. Your perfect video partner is out there waiting.
_P.S. – If you’re in Melbourne or Ballarat and looking for a team that actually gives a damn about your business goals (not just making pretty pictures), maybe give the crew at Pivotal Moments Media a shout. Just saying._
