Chicago Video Production Buyers Guide
Tips for Planning a Video Shoot Around Illinois… or Anywhere Else!
Picking a Chicago video production company can be a tricky proposition. First, there are a ton of them to choose from. Second, it can be difficult telling them apart. Finally, many don’t list even ballpark prices at their website.
That drives me nuts, but more on that later.
I’d like to make it simple on you and say, “Hire Us! Your mission is accomplished.” But that’s just lousy advice. Not because we aren’t good at what we do… we’re actually pretty awesome. No, the reason why is it’s important to shop around and pick the right production company for the right project.
Why you need to look at multiple video production houses
Not all production houses are created the same, or equal for that matter, which is why it’s important to find the right fit.
For example, if you need a big production… think lots of video equipment… lights, multiple videographers and sound technicians, maybe a drone or a crane to get some cool shots… yeah… a crane. Not every production company can pull that off.
On the other hand, let’s say you want a small production crew… or a single videographer… for something that would be less disruptive to daily operations? Maybe you need a company with a strong emphasis on storytelling? That same company that handled the big shoot might not be right for those videos.
If only there was a handy-dandy guide that could help you make sense of all of this. Well, that’s what we aim to do.
First Step: Watch and Listen
Start Googling… every company you look at should have sample work at its website. Check out its previous work.
Insiders Tip: if they have a single “sizzle reel” of their work… don’t bother watching. It’s a highlight reel. How’s that going to help you? Instead, watch the client work they’ve posted.
Also, have they produced a video about themselves telling their own story?
What? They haven’t? They have an About Us page, but no video?
So a company that produces videos for other organizations doesn’t see the value in producing one on itself? Seems… weird… doesn’t it?
Also… just surf on past any company promising to produce a viral video for you. No video company has that secret sauce. If it sounds too good to be true…
Second Step: Vetting
The next step is vetting them. Who are their clients? The Fortune 500 or mom-and-pop shops? Are their businesses or brands that appear to be the same size as yours? Any that are in related industries?
One of the main things you’ll to want to know is cost. This is going to take some leg work… or at least some time on the phone.
I’m with you… this drive me crazy. Why don’t production companies list their prices!? As someone who started his own production company, let me fill you in. Every project is different, so it’s tough to publish a price list.
However, just because it’s tough, doesn’t mean it’s impossible. We manage to post our ballpark prices… even how to figure out video production cost. I wish more companies would do this for you, but many (most) don’t. That means picking up the phone and asking questions.
Here are some good ones:
- What will it cost? Tell them what you have in mind for your video and ask how much it will cost. They’ll ask you some questions and should be able to give you some sort of an idea on pricing.
Insider’s Tip: ask them if it’s a fixed cost, or is it possible things will change during production. We’ve had lots of clients burned by other companies in the past because they thought the price in the contract was fixed, but during the production process things were added (more shooting days, special equipment, additional personnel, etc.) all driving up cost without them knowing. Make sure it’s a fixed cost, or the production crew will notify you of any additional costs before they happen.
Another option is to work backwards. Give them your budget and ask what they can do for that amount. I know, a lot of people don’t like to do this because they don’t want to pay more than they have to. I get it, but this method will often get you a more accurate picture of what you get for your money. Also, if you’re shopping around, you’ll be able to compare between companies.
- Once you have a price, ask them what that gets you. How big of a crew? How many hours will they spend on it?
- Will they help with content ideas? What about help with storytelling? Some production houses are just that… they’re all about the production and only the production. If you’re providing all the direction on content, this might be fine with you. But if you need a little help, it’s good to know upfront if they can provide some creative ideas.
- What is their video production process? How long will it take? Every company has a different way of doing things. Find out how each of them works.
- Are revisions included? Once the video has been edited, it’s important to know if you can make changes. Sometimes making changes costs more.
Last Step: Get a Written Proposal
Okay… you’ve looked at a bunch of videos and like a particular company’s style. You’re okay with their price estimate and their production process. Now you need a formal proposal.
What you’ll receive will likely put into writing what they’ve told you over the phone. Hopefully, it will also include more details on things like how much time is devoted to each aspect of the production.
Once you sign-off on that, get a contract, sign, and you’re off and running!
Bonus Tip!
This isn’t for everyone, but if you’re interested in producing multiple videos or you might be producing videos on a regular basis… you might want to look into a video retainer.Many video companies offer them and they’re a great way to get greater access and save money.
Having said that… I wouldn’t jump into one right away. When someone is interested in applying to our VIP Video Club, we always suggest producing a single video first. That way we get to know one another first before making a big commitment.
In other words, you should date before you get married!
You’ve Selected Your Chicago Video Production Company
I hope all of this didn’t sound too daunting. It really shouldn’t be now that you have this trusted guide.
The best part… once you’ve picked the right Chicago video production company for you, it’s time to actually produce the video. And producing videos is fun.
Whether it’s an internal project or something you’re working into your marketing funnel, video is an awesome communications tool you can use time and time again.
Tony Gnau is the Founder and Chief Storytelling Officer at T60 Productions.
He’s a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, has led T60 Productions to winning 18 Telly Awards for its corporate videos, and is the author of the Amazon #1 Bestseller “Lights, Camera, Impact: storytelling, branding, and production tips for engaging corporate videos.”