21 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Video Production Company
Thinking about hiring a video production company, but not sure where to start? You are not alone. Choosing the right partner for your video project can feel overwhelming. After all, the stakes are high, video content is often one of the most visible and memorable parts of your brand. And with so many options out there, how do you really know which company will deliver the results you need? Knowing which questions to ask from the outset can give you valuable insight into how a video production company operates, what to expect throughout the process, and whether they are the right fit for your needs. A thoughtful approach leads to more informed decisions, and ultimately, a video you will be proud to share. Let’s take a look at 21 of the most important questions you should be asking.
1. Have you worked on projects like mine before?
Experience matters. It is worth asking if the production company has worked with similar businesses or industries, or created the type of video you want. A good video production company will be able to show examples that match your style, audience, and objectives. If they cannot, it may be worth exploring other options.
2. What is your process for working with clients?
Understanding how the company approaches each stage of production can help set expectations. From discovery to post-production, each video production company should have a clear process in place. Ask how they manage timelines, client feedback, and approvals. This will help you know what to expect, and avoid unwanted surprises.
3. What do your packages include?
Not all packages are created equal. Clarify exactly what is included: pre-production planning, scriptwriting, filming, editing, animation, music licensing, and so on. This helps you compare different companies and avoid misunderstandings later. Knowing what is included from the start can also save you from surprise fees for elements that turn out to be excluded
4. How do you approach creative development?
A good video production company will bring ideas to the table, not just follow instructions. Ask how they collaborate with clients during creative development. Do they provide storyboards, scripts, or mood boards? How much creative input do they expect from you? The answer can help you gauge whether their working style will suit yours.
5. What is your typical project timeline?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the video, but it is important to know how long things will take. A reputable video production company will provide a realistic estimate and outline key milestones. If your project is time-sensitive, be sure to ask whether they can meet your deadline.
6. Who are the key people involved in my project?
Every production is different. Some projects require large crews, while others are handled by a small core team. Ask about who will be involved, directors, producers, editors, camera operators, so you know who you will be working with. Knowing who you will be working with is one thing, but knowing that you have an experienced team involved can put your mind at ease. And remember, size does not always equate to higher quality; often, a small team with multi-skilled individuals is all you need to keep the project focused and efficient.
7. Who will be my main point of contact?
Clear communication makes for smooth projects. Ask who you will deal with day to day, usually a producer or project manager, and whether they will be available throughout the process. Knowing who to contact keeps everyone aligned.
8. How do you handle client feedback and revisions?
No project is perfect on the first edit. It is important to ask how many rounds of revisions are included in the package. Some video production companies offer two or three rounds as standard. Beyond that, additional revisions may incur extra costs. Understanding this up front helps avoid frustration later on.
9. How do you charge for projects?
Video production companies structure pricing in different ways, fixed-fee packages, day rates, or project-based fees. Ask for a breakdown so you understand exactly what you are paying for. This also helps when comparing multiple quotes. Experienced companies often offer different levels of video production that suit various project types, which influences the cost. Having these options can assist you in making the best decision for your project and give you a clearer understanding of why certain companies might quote higher or differently than others.
10. Are there any variables that could increase costs?
It is wise to ask what factors could cause the budget to increase. For example, extra filming days, multiple locations, rush editing, or changes to the original brief. A transparent video production company will explain these possibilities so you can budget appropriately. If you require subtitles or closed captions, these might not always be included in a standard package, so be sure to ask about them.
Additionally, some companies provide internal voiceover artists; however, if you have specific requests, they may offer external voiceover artists instead. Many companies have access to platforms and agencies that can help you select the right voiceover artist for your project, often at an additional fee. These are all aspects that can affect the overall cost. Make sure to specify your expectations clearly to receive the most accurate estimate.
11. What is your payment schedule?
Most video production companies require a deposit, often 50%, with the balance due upon project completion. Others may use milestone payments. Confirm the payment schedule early so you can plan cash flow. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the payment schedule may vary. If the project’s deliverables are spread over time rather than completed all at once, a different payment arrangement may be necessary. Professional companies are often flexible and can work out a schedule that respects the needs of both parties.
12. What happens if we need to change the scope of the project?
Sometimes, needs change mid-project. Ask how scope changes are handled. Will a new agreement be issued? Will there be an additional cost? Having clarity on this makes it easier to manage adjustments if needed.
For example, if you require additional footage to be filmed, this will typically incur extra costs since it involves the crew and equipment returning to a location. Changes in editing may be simpler to accommodate, depending on their complexity. It is important to remember that certain adjustments can expand the originally planned scope, resulting in more labour and hours. If the changes seem minor to you, that might be a sign of the expertise and flexibility of the production company you have chosen, rather than the ease of the task at hand.
13. Who owns the final video files?
Ownership of the finished video is a key point to confirm. Many video production companies transfer full ownership upon final payment, but this is not always the case. If ongoing rights to the content are important to you, clarify this in writing before you start.
If your videos contain sensitive information about your industry or internal processes that you prefer to keep private, it is important to establish an agreement with the video production company regarding how the video may be used. Many production companies showcase their previous work to attract future clients, so be sure to clearly state if you do not want your video featured publicly.
14. Do you provide the raw footage?
Raw footage can be valuable for future edits or repurposing. However, it takes up large amounts of storage space, and many production companies charge extra to deliver it. Ask whether raw footage is available, what it includes, and what costs might apply. Many production companies store raw footage regardless of whether it is requested, but nothing guarantees they will keep it indefinitely. It is wise to ask if they can store it for you; depending on the amount of footage, they might even be able to do so with little to no additional cost.
15. What happens after the project is completed?
It is a good idea to understand how the company handles post-project requests. Can they provide future edits or re-cuts? What are the costs involved? How long do they keep project files on hand? Asking this ensures you know what to expect if you need changes later.
This also connects back to earlier questions about feedback and revisions. Production companies typically include multiple rounds of feedback during the project, but understandably, this is within limits. If re-cuts or edits fall outside of the agreed revision rounds, or if you request significant changes after certain aspects of the project have already been approved, these will likely incur extra costs. Clear communication and context are key here. It is always wise to ask about hourly rates or post-project service fees so you know exactly what to expect.
16. How do you measure the success of a video project?
Success looks different for every project, brand awareness, engagement, leads, conversions. A thoughtful video production company will ask about your goals and suggest ways to measure them. Discussing this helps both parties stay focused on the results that matter.
This type of question should really be one of the first things you ask, it ties back to your target audience and the purpose of the video, which should be nailed down long before planning starts. These discussions guide the entire project. If your production company only brings this up after the video is made, you might be looking at some costly reshoots.
17. Do you handle video distribution?
Some video production companies also manage video distribution, for example, uploading to your website, YouTube channel, or social platforms. Others focus solely on production. If you need help with distribution, ask whether this is a service they offer.
Many production companies specialise in marketing too, which is an added bonus. Beyond posting to the correct platforms, they can also track key performance metrics to ensure your video is achieving the right results. Investing in this extra service can extend the impact of your video and help inform your future content decisions.
18. What distribution methods do you recommend?
A professional video production company will have experience in advising clients on where and how to share their videos. Ask which channels they recommend based on your goals, for example, social media, paid ads, landing pages, or internal communications.
19. Can you provide examples of results from past projects?
Past performance can tell you a lot. Ask whether the company can share examples of video projects that achieved good results, such as increased engagement or higher conversions. It is not just about how the video looks, it is about whether it works.
20. When would my project be able to start?
Production companies often juggle multiple projects. Ask when they would be available to start yours, and whether that fits with your timeline. This helps with planning and ensures that everyone is aligned on expectations.
And remember, when a production company gives you a timeline, for example, eight working days, that does not necessarily mean they will be working exclusively on your project for eight consecutive days. Be sure to clarify when the project should be completed, and discuss dates for the delivery of each draft. A professional company will take the lead, so all you need to do is provide feedback and enjoy the fruits of their labour.
21. What do you need from me to get started?
Finally, be sure to ask what is required from you. Often this includes a clear brief, access to brand assets (logos, fonts, guidelines), and timely feedback during the process. A collaborative approach works best, the more you can provide, the smoother the project will run.
Remember, having a timeline is not just for the production company to remain on schedule. If they do not receive feedback within the required time, you risk delaying your own project. Collaboration requires just that, both parties working together to create something special.
FAQs About Hiring a Video Production Company
A video production company handles all aspects of creating professional video content, from planning and filming to editing and post-production.
Costs vary depending on the scope of the project, but a good company will provide a clear quote based on your needs.
Timelines depend on the complexity of the video, typically between four to eight weeks for most projects.
Usually, services include pre-production planning, filming, editing, and delivery of the final video. Always confirm what is included.
Not necessarily. Many companies will help develop the creative concept with you. If you already have a script, they can edit and refine it to better fit the video’s style and goals. And if you need a script created from scratch, this service is often included in their production package.
Ready to Get Started?
Hiring a video production company should feel exciting, not stressful. Armed with these 21 questions, you will be better prepared to choose the right partner, understand how they work, and ensure a smooth, successful project.
Remember: a great video production company will not just produce beautiful visuals, they will guide you through the entire process and help you achieve your goals. While an experienced team can take the lead, you must also be ready to work together, it is a true partnership.
At Sound Idea Digital, we value exactly that. If you are looking for an experienced production company that can answer all of these questions, you are in the right place. Get in touch with our team, and we will talk through your project in whatever way suits you best — old school phone calls, a meeting, or an email. We are ready when you are.
We are a full-service Web Development and Content Production Agency in Gauteng specialising in Video Production, Animation, eLearning Content Development, Learning Management Systems, and Content Production.
Contact us for a quote. | enquiries@soundidea.co.za | https://www.soundideavideoproduction.co.za| +27 82 491 5824 |
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