9 Questions You Need to Ask Before Hiring a Videographer

Videographers are not created equal, so if you’re hiring one, you need to know that they can get the job done. Here are a few questions that you should ask when interviewing a videographer…

1) How long have you been a videographer?

Unless you’re giving your friend a chance to show their skills, are working with a minimal budget, or plan on reshooting later, you’ll want to work with a videographer that credentials. Ask to see their previous client work, their portfolio, and/or their website.

2) Do you have experience with…?

Ask your videographer if they experience working in the type setting you’re shooting at. Do they have experience working with other videographers, photographers, or as part of a team? Do they have experience in shooting the type of video you shoot:

• Brand Story Videos

• Testimonial Videos

• Social Media Videos

• Personal videos

• Product videos

• How to videos

• Promo ads

If you’re shooting at a certain venue, do they experience with that venue? If so, they may be uniquely qualified to help, because they know what works and what might not work in that space.

3) Why is video marketing important?

Videographers must understand that the video they’ll be shooting fits as a part of your video marketing efforts and your brand’s larger campaign. You can weigh the rest of their answer based on personal preference or connection.

4) How would you describe your video style?

Every videographer has their own style. Find one style is comparable to yours. Your video’s style sets the mood and subconsciously tells the viewers what attributes make up your company’s identity.

If you choose a video style that doesn’t resonate with your brand’s identity, you might confuse your viewers and even make them question their trust in you. Videos that are consistent with your brand’s identity can give you an average revenue boost of 23%. A 23% revenue increase can be a game changer.

5) What type of equipment do you use?

Different jobs require different equipment. Ask the videographer you’re interviewing if they have the appropriate equipment. Don’t be afraid to ask why they recommend certain equipment. Their answers will further speak to their experience.

6) In your opinion, what constitutes a successful video?

There are several correct answers to this question. It all depends on if what they consider success aligns with your goals. Do you want to:

• Establish your brand’s identity,

• Build trust,

• Have higher engagement,

• Increase your number of high-quality leads, or

• Stand out by making a statement
  

7) How does your pricing work?

Pricing may vary depending on your videographer’s services. Ask clarifying questions about the services or packages that are relevant to you so that there are no surprises later on. Once you and the videographer are on the same page, get that agreement in writing.

8)Tell me about a mistake that you made during a shoot. How did you deal with it?

Mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow. No one is perfect on their job. Your videographer should be able to answer this question and explain how that experience made them better at their job.

9)What is the most important aspect about working with a client?

We’ll answer this one ourselves: that the client is satisfied with the process and end-product.

Asking these questions will help you better determine if the videographer you’re interviewing is the best fit for your project. If you still have more questions, give us a call!