A Simple Guide for Business Owners and Teams New to Video Projects
If you’re thinking about creating a video for your business, one of the most important steps is choosing the right video production company. Whether you need a commercial, a product demo, a brand video, or client testimonials, the quality of your video will reflect directly on your business.
But if you’ve never worked with a video team before, the process can feel overwhelming. There are lots of companies out there—so how do you choose the right one?
Here’s a straightforward guide that will help you make a smart decision.
Start With Referrals and Reviews
One of the easiest ways to begin your search is by asking for recommendations. Reach out to:
- Business colleagues
- Industry contacts
- Clients you trust
Ask if they’ve worked with a production company they’d recommend. Personal referrals can save you a lot of time and point you toward trusted professionals.
After that, do some online research:
Check Google, Yelp, or industry directories.
Read reviews to see what other businesses have said.
Visit the company’s website to look at their past work and client feedback.
Define Your Project Goals
Before you reach out to anyone, take some time to get clear on what you want.
Ask yourself:
- What’s the purpose of the video?
- Who’s the audience?
- What outcome are you hoping for?
Whether your goal is to boost sales, explain a product, attract talent, or build brand awareness, sharing this information with a video team will help them plan the right approach.
Know Your Budget
Video production can range in price depending on the size and scope of the project. You don’t need an exact number, but having a budget range will help you narrow down your options.
Be upfront about your budget when you start talking to companies. A good video production team will work with you to create a solution that fits.
Review Their Portfolio
A company’s past work will tell you a lot.
Look at:
- The quality of the video and sound
- The editing and visuals
- The variety of styles they offer
- How well they tell a story
Does their work feel polished? Does it match the style you’re aiming for? If their videos feel like a good fit, that’s a great sign.
Read Client Testimonials
Don’t just look at the video—read what clients have said about working with them.
Did the company meet deadlines? Were they easy to work with? Did they stay on budget?
Real feedback gives you insight into what it’s like to partner with the team.
Evaluate Communication
You’ll be working closely with this company, so make sure communication feels smooth from the start.
Pay attention to:
- How quickly they respond
- How clearly they explain things
- Whether they ask the right questions about your goals
A team that listens and communicates well will make the entire process more enjoyable and less stressful.
Ask About Equipment and Technology
- You don’t need to be a tech expert, but it’s okay to ask about the equipment and software they use.
- Are they using professional-grade cameras, lighting, and editing tools? This affects the final quality of your video.
Talk Timelines and Deadlines
A solid production company should be able to provide a clear timeline.
Ask:
- How long the planning, filming, and editing will take
- When you’ll see drafts
- When the final version will be ready
Setting expectations early helps prevent surprises later.
Understand Ownership and Usage Rights
Make sure it’s clear who owns the video after it's done.
Can you post it on your website? Use it in ads? Share it on social media?
Get these details in writing, so you know exactly how you can use your video.
Schedule a Consultation
Before signing any contract, set up a call or in-person meeting. This gives you the chance to:
- Meet the team
- Ask questions
- See if there’s a good working fit
Trust your instincts. If they listen, offer helpful ideas, and seem excited about your project, that’s a good sign.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a video production company isn’t just about finding someone with a camera. It’s about finding a partner who understands your business, shares your vision, and delivers high-quality work.
Take your time, do your research, and ask questions. The right team will make your video project smooth, successful, and even enjoyable.
