Video Production FAQ

Are you curious about the ins and outs of video production companies? From the cost of producing a high-quality video to the latest trends in the industry, we have the answers to your burning video production FAQ questions. We'll share with you our experience from over a decade in the industry. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, our expert insights will guide you through the process of content creation!

What is the video production process like?

1. How much does video production cost?
2. How do I choose the right video production company for my project?
3. What equipment do I need to produce high-quality video?
4. What are the most common mistakes to avoid when producing a video?
5. How can I ensure that my video gets seen by the right audience?
6. What is the difference between 4K and 1080p video resolution?
7. How can I use video to promote my brand or business?
8. What are some of the emerging trends in the video production industry?
9. How can I measure the success of my video marketing campaign?

We will approach things from a somewhat universal perspective - but know that our team at Provid Films is a corporate video production company in Minneapolis. That's just our background and expertise - but this applies to a variety of corporate, commercial, non-profit, government, fundraising, type of video. Perhaps the tips here are less related to feature film movie production, personal events, or the likes.

What is the video production process like:

The video production process for corporate video production typically involves several stages, including:

1. Pre-Production: This is where the planning phase takes place. It involves identifying the purpose of the video, setting goals, and creating a storyboard. During this phase, the script is also written, and the cast and crew are selected.
2. Production: This is the actual filming stage. During this phase, the crew will set up the equipment, lights, and sound. The director will direct the actors and crew, and the footage will be captured.
3. Post-Production: This phase involves editing the footage, adding special effects, and sound design. This is where the video is polished and refined to achieve the desired final product.
4. Distribution: This is the final phase, where the finished video is shared with the target audience. It can be distributed through various channels, such as social media, email, or a company website.

Throughout the entire process, it's essential to have clear communication between the client and the production team to ensure that the final video aligns with the client's goals and objectives.

Corporate video production is often used to showcase a company's products, services, and values to customers and stakeholders. By following a well-planned production process, businesses can create high-quality videos that effectively communicate their message and achieve their desired outcomes.

How much does video production cost for corporate and commercial video quality?

Determining the cost of video production for the corporate or commercial industry can be a complex process influenced by various factors. The production cost may differ depending on the type of video, its duration, script complexity, number of locations, equipment needed, talent involved, and post-production requirements.

On average, a professionally produced corporate or commercial video can cost between $1,500 to $10,000 per minute of finished video. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is an estimate, and the actual cost could vary based on the unique demands of the project.

It is also crucial to consider the tradeoff between cost and quality. To reduce production costs, simplifying the script, minimizing the number of locations, or using stock footage can be viable options. However, it is vital to maintain a high level of production value and quality to effectively communicate the intended message and achieve the client's goals.

For a comprehensive and accurate estimate of video production costs, it is advisable to consult with a professional video production company. They can provide tailored quotes based on the specific requirements of the project, and offer guidance on how to achieve the desired outcome within the client's budget.

How do I choose the right video production company for my project?

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a video production company:

1. Experience: Look for a video production company with a proven track record of producing high-quality videos that align with your project's goals and objectives.
2. Portfolio: Review the company's portfolio to get an idea of their style, creativity, and quality. Make sure their work is in line with your project's needs and vision.
3. Equipment: Check to see if the company has up-to-date equipment and technology to ensure the best quality video.
4. Crew: Make sure the video production company has a skilled and experienced crew, including producers, directors, and camera operators.
5. Communication: Good communication is essential for a successful project. Choose a company that values clear communication and understands your project's needs.
6. Cost: Consider the company's pricing and whether it fits within your project budget.
7. References: Check references and testimonials from previous clients to gain insight into the company's professionalism and work ethic.

What equipment do I need to produce high-quality video like TV commercials and Fortune 500 type corporate videos?

Here are some essential pieces of equipment you'll need:

1. Camera: A high-quality camera is essential to capture clear and sharp images. Popular models for professional video production include the Sony PXW-FS7, Canon EOS C300 Mark II, and Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 4.6K.
2. Tripod: A sturdy tripod is necessary to keep the camera steady and prevent shaky footage. Some popular brands include Manfrotto and Gitzo.
3. Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial to achieve a professional look. You'll need to invest in a lighting kit, including softboxes, diffusers, and other light modifiers. Popular brands include Aputure, Kino Flo, and Litepanels.
4. Audio: High-quality audio is just as important as video quality. You'll need a microphone and audio recorder to capture clear and crisp audio. Popular models include the Rode NTG-3 shotgun microphone and the Zoom H6 audio recorder.
5. Editing software: After capturing your footage, you'll need editing software to put everything together. Popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve.

For high-end corporate and commercial TV production, the equipment needs can vary depending on the project's complexity and requirements. These productions often use a combination of high-end cameras, lighting, audio equipment, and post-production tools to achieve the desired look and feel. Some popular models used in high-end production include the ARRI Alexa Mini and Sony Venice cameras, the Kino Flo Celeb 401 and Arri SkyPanel S60-C lights, and the Sennheiser MKH 416 shotgun microphone.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when producing a video?

1. Poor planning: Rushing into production without proper planning can lead to a subpar end product. Make sure to take the time to create a detailed plan, including scripting, storyboarding, and scheduling.
2. Lack of a clear message: A video without a clear message or call-to-action can leave viewers confused and disengaged. Make sure your video has a clear message and that it effectively communicates your brand's values and goals.
3. Neglecting audio quality: Audio is just as important as video quality. Poor audio can detract from the overall quality of the video and leave viewers frustrated. Invest in high-quality audio equipment and ensure proper sound mixing and mastering.
4. Overusing special effects: While special effects can be a valuable tool, overusing them can distract from the video's message and goals. Make sure to use special effects sparingly and only when they enhance the overall quality of the video.
5. Failing to consider the target audience: The video should be tailored to the target audience's needs and preferences. Neglecting to consider the audience can lead to a video that fails to engage and connect with viewers.
6. Ignoring brand identity: The video should be consistent with the brand's identity and values. Failing to consider the brand's identity can lead to a video that is disjointed and fails to effectively communicate the brand's message.
7. Skimping on post-production: Post-production is a crucial step in creating a high-quality video. Skimping on post-production can result in a video that looks unfinished or unprofessional. Make sure to invest in proper post-production, including color grading, sound mixing, and editing.

Even if you have the worlds best videos, the don't help you much if nobody sees them. Now, you don't need your video to go viral, but you need it to be seen by some people to be effective right?

How can I ensure that my video gets seen by the right audience?

Creating a high-quality video is just one part of the equation. You also need to make sure that your video reaches the right audience. Here are some ways to ensure that your video gets seen by the right audience:

1. Define your target audience: Start by defining your target audience. This includes demographic information such as age, gender, and location, as well as psychographic information such as interests and behaviors. Understanding your target audience will help you create a video that resonates with them.
2. Choose the right platform: Choose the right platform to distribute your video based on your target audience's preferences. For example, if your target audience is primarily on social media, consider posting the video on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. If your audience is more professional, consider hosting the video on LinkedIn or Vimeo.
3. Optimize your video for SEO: Optimize your video for search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure that it shows up in search results for relevant keywords. This includes adding keywords to your video title, description, and tags, as well as including a transcript of the video.
4. Leverage paid advertising: Consider using paid advertising to reach a larger audience. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube offer targeted advertising options that allow you to reach specific demographics and interests.
5. Use email marketing: If you have an email list, consider using email marketing to promote your video. This can help you reach a more targeted audience that is already interested in your brand.
6. Partner with influencers: Consider partnering with influencers or other brands that have a similar target audience. This can help you reach a wider audience and increase your video's exposure.

I would be remiss to not mention paid video ads.

There are many platforms where you can run video ads, depending on your target audience and advertising goals. Here are some popular platforms for running video ads:

1. YouTube: YouTube is the largest video sharing platform in the world, and it offers a variety of ad formats, including pre-roll ads that play before a video and in-stream ads that play during a video.
2. Facebook: Facebook offers in-feed video ads that appear in a user's newsfeed, as well as Stories ads that play in between users' Stories.
3. Instagram: Instagram offers video ads that appear in users' feeds and Stories.
4. LinkedIn: LinkedIn offers sponsored video ads that appear in a user's newsfeed and can be targeted based on job title, company, and other professional attributes.
5. Twitter: Twitter offers promoted video ads that appear in a user's timeline and can be targeted based on interests and demographics.
6. OTT platforms: Over-the-top (OTT) platforms like Hulu and Roku offer targeted video ads that play during TV shows and movies, allowing advertisers to reach audiences who are increasingly consuming content through streaming services.
7. Programmatic advertising: Programmatic advertising allows advertisers to target audiences across a variety of platforms, including video sharing platforms, social media, and OTT platforms, using real-time bidding and automated ad placement.

By following these strategies, you can ensure that your video gets seen by the right audience and has a greater chance of achieving your marketing goals.

What is the difference between 4K and 1080p video resolution?

The main difference between 4K and 1080p video resolution is the number of pixels used to create the image.

4K video resolution is four times higher than 1080p resolution, with a total resolution of 3840x2160 pixels, while 1080p resolution has a total resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. This means that 4K video has a much higher level of detail, with sharper and more vibrant images.

On a more practical purpose - uploading videos to Youtube or Vimeo or other social platforms - you will see better image (and potentially audio quality) by uploading a 4k video and watching it back at 1080 compared to uploading your video in 1080 and watching it at 1080. It has to do with how the platform compresses your videos and saves them in their system.

We suggest for the best video and audio quality, upload at least 4k (or even 8k) for archive purposes and playback.

But isn't 1080p FullHD good enough?

Well, kinda.

Look at most flat screen TV's sold for every home living room. Do they even sell 1080p TV's anymore?

A company may want their video in 4K resolution for several reasons.

Firstly, 4K video offers a superior viewing experience, especially on larger screens or when viewed up close like digital signage in a company lobby or office hallway setting.

Aside from just looking more professional and visually impressive, which is valuable in itself, 4K video offers more flexibility in post-production, allowing for better cropping and zooming without sacrificing image quality. We film most content in 6k Raw to then allow cropping while still outputing 4k finished videos.

It also future proofs you as technology keeps advancing.

How can I use video to promote my brand or business?

If there's one thing brands have adopted since 2020, it's that video is an amazing tool to communicate!

We didn't go from in-person to just email, or just phone call, we switched to Zoom - because video is SO POWERFUL!

But when it comes to promoting your brand or business? Here are some ideas to increase your brand awareness and engage with your target audience through digital content:

1. Brand video: A brand video tells your company's story and helps establish a connection with your audience. This can include your brand values, mission, and history, and is an opportunity to showcase your unique identity and personality.
2. Explainer videos: Explainer videos are short, engaging videos that explain how your product or service works. These videos can help to simplify complex ideas and showcase the benefits of your product or service through short (under 3 minute) videos.
3. Case Studies / Stories / Customer testimonial videos: Customer testimonial videos can help to build trust and credibility with potential customers. These are incredibly powerful - so powerful that they are actually illegal to use in some industries because people trust them too much - even if you include disclaimers people still subconsciously get impacted by them.
4. Social media shorts: Social media platforms offer a variety of video ad formats, including in-feed and Stories ads. These ads can be targeted to specific audiences based on interests and demographics, allowing you to reach potential customers who are most likely to be interested in your product or service. They don't need to be (and ideally are not) long format.
5. Thought leadership videos: Thought leadership videos showcase your expertise in your industry and can help to establish your brand as a trusted authority. These videos can include interviews with experts, educational content, and industry insights. Examples include video podcasts, weekly live shows using livestreaming on-site.

By using video to promote your brand or business, you can engage with your target audience in a more dynamic and compelling way, and increase your brand awareness and sales. Consider hiring a video strategist for a small project to outline the different videos and put together a content plan. This can be a game changer for promotions.

What are some of the emerging trends in the video production industry?

The video production industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging each year. Here are some of the emerging trends in the video production industry:

1. Live streaming: Live streaming is becoming more popular, as it allows brands to connect with their audience in real-time. Live streaming can be used for events, product launches, and behind-the-scenes content.
2. Interactive video: Interactive video allows viewers to engage with the content in real-time, providing a more engaging and personalized experience. This can include clickable links, quizzes, and interactive 360-degree videos.
3. Personalization: Personalized video content is becoming more popular, as it allows brands to connect with their audience on a more personal level. This can include personalized messages, recommendations, and tailored content.
4. Vertical video: With the rise of mobile usage, vertical video is becoming more popular. This format is optimized for mobile devices, providing a more immersive and engaging viewing experience.
5. Social Media Shorts: short form (15-60 seconds - vertical with text on screen) TikTok style videos are often called snackable videos, micro-videos, social video, mobile video, and vertical video. These videos are designed to be easily consumable on mobile devices.

How can I measure the success of my video marketing campaign?

Here are some ways to measure the success of your video marketing campaign:

1. View count: One of the most basic metrics for measuring the success of a video is the number of views it receives. While view count alone doesn't necessarily indicate success, it can give you an idea of how many people have seen your video.
2. Engagement metrics: Engagement metrics measure how users interact with your video, such as likes, shares, and comments. These metrics can help you understand how your audience is responding to your video and can help to identify areas for improvement.
3. Conversion rate: Conversion rate measures the number of users who take a desired action after watching your video, such as visiting your website or making a purchase. By tracking conversion rate, you can measure the effectiveness of your video in driving user actions.
4. Brand lift: Brand lift measures the impact of your video on key brand metrics, such as brand awareness and consideration. By tracking brand lift, you can determine whether your video is effectively communicating your brand messaging to your target audience.
5. Return on investment (ROI): ROI measures the financial impact of your video marketing campaign. By comparing the cost of creating and promoting your video to the revenue generated by the campaign, you can determine the overall success of your campaign.

By measuring these metrics, you can gain insights into the effectiveness of your video marketing campaign and make data-driven decisions to improve your future campaigns.

Summary of Video Production FAQ Article:

In this article, we've covered some of the most frequently asked questions about the video production industry, including the video production process for corporate videos, equipment needed for high-quality video production, mistakes to avoid, and how to promote your brand or business through video. We also discussed emerging trends in the industry and how to measure the success of your video marketing campaign.

If you're looking to create a corporate video, a TV commercial, or any other video content for your brand or business, it's important to work with an experienced and reputable video production company.

Do you have a project in mind and want to explore your options of working with our team at Provid Films?

Reach out using the form below or check out our work at ProvidFilms.com

We can guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with the support you need to bring your vision to life.