Professional video production companies are becoming a big part of business marketing.
Professional video production companies make up a large part of any marketing and advertising budget. By 2017, videos are going to make up 74% of Internet traffic. It’s already viewed as one of the best forms of marketing due to its good Return on Investment (ROI).
As you’re thinking of incorporating videos into your marketing strategy, learn about what it takes from John Foundas, an Emmy award-winning Director of Photography, Editor and Producer. John is currently Executive Producer | CEO at Foundation Digital Media, a video production company based in Washington DC.
Question (Q): What’s one of the most common questions people ask when interested in having a video created?
(A): When referring to professional video production companies, the absolute number one question is “how much does it cost?” Not an easy question to answer right off the bat. There are many moving parts to video production that can add to cost and expenditures. Style, location shoots, small crew vs. large crew, graphics or animation.
The list goes on and on. I always try to use a home building analogy. “Do you want a single-family, townhome or condo?” “What extras do you want inside?” It’s a very similar process. Ultimately, a reputable company will assist and guide you within the budget. We (FDM) love the process. Don’t be reluctant about divulging your budget. It’s the best barometer to use when determining the best video production for your business.
Q: What does it take to create a high-quality video?
A: One word…”professionalism”. With the advent of DSLR HD video from cameras that you can purchase at box stores, there has been a flood of filmmakers and production specialists on the scene in recent years. Experience matters.
Not just behind the camera, but out front as well with the client. To communicate, have meetings and present yourself (and the company) in front of clients is 40% of the job. Clients don’t care about how fantastic professional video production companies are if there’s an attitude.
There will be no repeat business in that scenario. Video production is fun for us and the client. We love our work. Nothing brings down a shoot faster than a crew member or company that takes itself too seriously or is a bit too cool for the room.
Q: What happens after the video is created?
A: Post-Production or editing is where a lot of the magic happens. Blending the images, sounds, and thoughts to make a cohesive narrative is the essence of good storytelling. Editing is a powerful tool.
A master editor can make you laugh, make you cry and most importantly force a call to action. Ultimately, that’s what the clients want and need. Regardless if you’re selling widgets, promoting a cause or highlighting your company, we all want a call to action.
A phone call, email or meeting. To dig deeper and find out “what’s this all about.” That’s the true power of video. People trust what they know and video makes that connection.
Q: What do you see as the future in the use of videos for businesses?
A: I think we’re just scratching the surface really. The potential uses for professional video production are immense. Product placement, infomercials, marketing, training, video emails, commercial spots, documentaries, testimonials…the list goes on.
We have clients that get it and some that don’t. Some dabble, and then some clients want full-blown marketing packages. The beauty of video is that it’s evergreen. It has an infinite shelf life. Traditional marketing/advertising campaigns (brochures, flyers, coupon packs) have a short life span.
When produced properly, video assets can be repurposed months if not years later and transformed into other vehicles. The ROI of video production can be staggering in the long run.
Q: How would you describe your business?
A: One of a few small, professional video production companies that does very big things…Our entire staff are all Emmy award-winning videographers, editors and producers.
That pedigree runs deep and ultimately the client knows they are in excellent hands. We pride ourselves on client support. As a boutique production company, we have an incredible amount of flexibility both with our price points and customer service over our competitors. It’s that flexibility that really sets us apart I think.
Q: Do you have a success story you would like to share?
A: I never get tired of mentioning our Emmy awards that we have received or been nominated for. Our clients certainly get a kick out of it too! Most of the recognition has been in craft categories for Editing, Lighting, and Videography.
However, when the vehicle for that recognition was that of clients, we love sharing the honor with them. There are a lot of bragging rights for our clients when a project is recognized. I overheard a client once at a networking event proudly mentioning how we (FDM) won an Emmy award while featuring his business.
That kind of sentiment or promotion for professional video production companies is lighting in a bottle. We really enjoy what we do, the process and simply telling good stories. I wish I could tell you it’s just work, but I’d be lying. It’s a passion. I think that sentiment is infused into everything we do.
If you would like to learn more about the team at FDM, contact them today at 301-651-7921. You can also contact them via email at info@fdmvideo.com
