How to know whether a video production company is right for you

You know you need video content. You’ve even worked out what type of video you have in mind and where you’ll ideally use it. All you need to do now is appoint a video production company and get cracking… Wait a minute, HOW many options are there?  Short of sticking a pin in the Google results page (disclaimer: please do not do this, it will not do your screen any good at all), how do you narrow down the options to find a video production company that’s a good match for your organisation?

Because, let’s face it – most of the video production companies out there will do a decent job of your film. We’re all professionals and most of us want to create an outstanding result every time. We certainly do at Ally & Mo Media! This is why it’s important to shortlist a few options and get in contact so that you can make an informed decision. 

What are you looking for, though? We’re here to give you the lowdown on what to consider beforehand, what questions to ask, and what to take note of. From detailed brief documents to gut instinct, we aim for you to appoint your video production company with confidence. 

Why does it matter?

Video content is powerful. Whether you’re creating an internal comms video, showcasing your services, building your employer brand, or launching a marketing campaign, the right video can deliver engaging and versatile results. Remember that the reason that video is so engaging is because it’s able to convey complex and multiple messages in a short space of time. Through imagery, script, narrative, soundtrack, edit, production values, even the hue of lighting and caption fonts, a plethora of signals are being sent to your audience. 

This is why the wrong partnership could lead to misaligned expectations, inferior quality, or a video that misses the mark entirely. So it’s really crucial that your video production company truly understands your unique values and mission, and is equipped to reflect your message accurately. 

1: Define your business needs

Before reaching out to any video production company, it’s essential to clearly outline your goals. This will help you to understand your own business needs and expectations. If you’re not clear on your own goals, how can you communicate accurately to your video partner? Use these questions to get started:

• What is the purpose of the video? Is it for internal communications or enhancing your employer brand? Showcasing a product or service, explaining or training, or a public marketing campaign?
• Who’s your target audience? Knowing who you’re speaking to will play a key role in determining the style, tone, and messaging of your video.
• What outcomes are you aiming for? Are you looking to boost engagement, inform or educate your team, or generate sales? Identify all of the potential places you’d like to use the video, from internal platforms to a social media campaign.

Once you’ve clearly defined what you need, you’ll be better positioned to find a production company with the expertise to meet your objectives. 

2: Look beyond cost alone

While budget is an important consideration, it shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor. The cheapest option might save you money upfront. However it could cost you more in the long run if the results don’t meet your expectations. A good video production company will be able to engage in a conversation to help you to manage your spec to fit your budget. 

In order to shortlist, evaluate potential video production companies based on the following:

• Previous clients and industry expertise: Have they worked with businesses in your industry? Do they have experience creating videos similar to what you’re envisioning?
• Portfolio of work: Watch showreels and existing work. Clearly, these videos have been produced to fit the client’s spec. So assess them based on how clearly they convey a message rather than just whether you ‘like’ the video. 
• References and reviews: Forums like Google reviews and other testimonials are a great source of feedback. Look for evidence of positive communication, creative collaboration and support through the filming process. 

3: Communication is key

When working with a video production company, clear communication is critical. Your video needs to reflect your organisation’s core values, and that requires a deep understanding between both parties. At Ally & Mo Media, we support and advise our clients throughout the filming process. This is down to the fact that we genuinely listen to our clients’ needs. 

• Initial contact: A great company won’t try to force a hard sell during an initial conversation. Instead, they’ll take the time to listen and understand your needs. Use this opportunity to gauge their interest, engagement, and willingness to collaborate.
• Asking the right questions: By exploring the video production company’s creative process, you’ll understand what to expect. Ask them to talk you through the creative process. For example how they normally incorporate client feedback, how they manage deadlines and challenges, and where the stages of production take place. 
• Warning signs: During initial conversations, be wary of companies that avoid discussing budgets or timelines transparently or seem to be overpromising outcomes compared with other companies you have spoken to. 

4: Trust your instincts

Ultimately, working with a video production company should feel like a partnership. If you can see yourself building a positive, collaborative relationship with their team over the coming months, that’s a great sign. Feeling understood is often something that you can’t quite put your finger on, but this instinctive reaction shouldn’t be ignored. 

Video production is a creative process, and you want to work with a team that’s not only technically skilled but also personable, professional, and easy to work with. Remember that with the right match of a video production company, you’ll have a partner on whom you can reliably call for video content in the future. 

Choosing the right video production company isn’t about finding the cheapest option or the one with the shiniest website. It’s about identifying a partner who understands your goals, aligns with your vision, and delivers a seamless, professional experience from start to finish. For many organisations, Ally & Mo Media have been and continue to be that partner. Let’s talk if you’d like to see if we can be your perfect match too!