How to start a video production.

What’s included in a typical video project?
Find out what comes with a standard video project, and what’s going to cost you extra. For example, does the video include scriptwriting, music, graphics, editing, actors, etc.?

What is the provider’s core area of expertise?
Learn what types of videos are in their comfort zone. If the company has built their portfolio on events coverage but you are looking for a company profile video, then it may not be the best fit for your needs.

Where can they shoot videos?
The location of your shoot can instantly narrow your search. For example, if you need to have a customer testimonial shot in Sacramento, do they have videographers there or do you need to pay for their travel?

Do they offer fixed prices that will work with your budget?
Everything can sound perfect until you see the price tag, especially if the provider has added on “extras” to your project. It’s important to ensure they can realistically stick within your budget without compromising on quality and timing.

How long does it take from project request date to delivery?
It can often be a lengthy wait from the day you put down your deposit to the day your video is delivered. To ensure your video content is timely, it’s best to go with a provider who can deliver your video within 20 business days.

Do they have a satisfaction guarantee?
Not all video providers offer satisfaction guarantees, like many crowdsourced marketplaces where it’s difficult to control the quality of freelance videographers. If there is a guarantee, read the fine print to see what it includes. Some guarantee the entire cost of the video; some only cover the referral fee.

How many projects can they handle at one time?
Some video production companies or freelancers can only handle a certain number of projects at once. If you have a few videos in mind or have tight deadlines, make sure they can meet these requirements.

How do you find out the status of your project?
Ask your video provider if they provide a window into your projects so that you can check the status, confirm deadlines, and offer feedback in real time.

Do they provide project managers?
With many crowdsoured marketplaces, you have to manage the project and the videographers, which can be difficult if producing videos is not your area of expertise. If you’re looking for a full-service team, then start your search with production houses and agencies who can manage your projects.

What marketing/sales support and resources do they offer with video production?
Once your video is complete, the next step is getting your target audience to see it. Ask the provider if they offer marketing resources so that you know what best practices to follow to get your video seen.

Do they offer video hosting? If so, is there an additional cost?
Before adding a video to your site, you will have to host it in either a free or paid video player. Find out if the video provider can host it for you, which will save you time and money from trying to find this service elsewhere.

Do they offer customizable video players?
If they offer players with their videos, inquire about special features that can help boost engagement, conversions and SEO. For example, can you add plug-ins to your player so that viewers can easily share your video on social media, contact you, or see your company’s special offers? Can you adjust the look of the player? Can you easily add metadata such as your description and keywords?

Do they offer video analytics to track performance? If so, is there an additional cost?
How did your video do? Did it achieve its goal? Results are the main reason to produce anything at all, so it’s important that you’re able to see data-based results and the value behind your video. If your provider does offer analytics, find out if they can collect the data that you need.

Can you export the data from the reports?
You might be able to see your data, but can you easily export it and format it? Can you drill into each metric to gain more individual insights?

Are there any built-in split-testing features available?
In an era where marketers are encouraged to test everything and create their own benchmarks, it would be great if the video player you use can make it easy to do so. See if you can split-test your videos, how many tests you can do, and what you can test on.