When it comes to choosing a video production company to work with, not all are created equal. While doing your research, you’ll find there are three distinct types of businesses in the industry – Freelancers, Boutique Firms and Commercial Companies. Depending on your specific needs and budget, one may be a better fit over another. What’s the difference between them? Keep reading to find out!
3 Types of Video Production Businesses
Freelancer
If you have a small budget or project that needs to be done, a freelancer may be an option to consider. Since they typically work for themselves, they have little to no overhead to worry about. What this means is that they are able to pass those savings onto their clients. On the flipside, a freelancer doesn’t have a hired team to help them with projects so they are only able to take on what they have time for.
Another consideration with a freelancer is their experience and skills. This can range greatly from someone who has all the skills and knowledge from years of being in the business, to someone who is just starting out and trying to build their portfolio. When it comes to skills and experience, you’ll also want to make sure that they have the ability to produce a video for business purposes, not personal enjoyment.
Lastly, they may not have access to the equipment needed to meet your needs, especially if they are just getting started.
Projects that would work well for a freelancer: Social media videos, short informative interviews and demonstration videos.
Boutique Firms
This is where Tabrizi Productions stands in the mix. Boutique firms are a great option for businesses who are budget conscious and have a wide range of video needs. With this type of video production company you still get personalized one-on-one interaction like you would with a freelancer, but they have a team to back them up and help you reach your business video goals.
Boutique firms also usually have access to better equipment and have the skills to use it. Most have years in the field or corporate setting (like me!) so they are able to anticipate needs and determine the best solutions to make your video dream a reality. It is also easier to find a company in this level who are able to produce a wide range of projects for business - from training to videos welcoming guests to your website.
Because they have the equipment, skills and a team to work with, they have higher overheard costs compared to freelancers. This translates into a higher cost, but it also means that the final product is also likely to be better than someone who is doing all on their own with less equipment.
Projects that would work well for a boutique firm: Same as a freelancer, plus training and onboarding videos, website videos, other web-based videos.
Commercial companies
Many commercial video production companies have been around for 20-30 years and were started when it was more expensive and difficult to produce videos. Typically, they work on a larger scale with much larger brands than a freelancer or boutique firm, producing commercials and high visibility pieces.
With their expansive teams, equipment and types of video they produce, these companies are much more expensive than the other two options, frequently working on a retainer basis.
While you probably won’t need to vet the skills of a company of this size, you will still want to check to see if they have experience in your industry and if they can answer your other questions to see if they are the right fit for your business and the money you will be spending.
Projects that work well for commercial companies: Television commercials as well as internal and external business videos.
Considering your needs and how much you are able to spend will help you in the decision making process. But don’t forget to do your homework with any potential video producers you’re thinking about hiring. Want to know if Tabrizi Productions can meet your needs and budget? Contact me today to find out!
