Gear Doesn't Matter, Until It Does
As a business owner or marketer, there's a good chance you're considering harnessing the power of video to tell your brand's story. But where do you start? The world of video production is complex, and choosing the right company to bring your vision to life can be daunting.
One common question that arises is about gear. Do you need a production company with the latest, most expensive cameras and equipment? It's a fair question, but the answer isn't a simple "yes". Here's why:
1. Gear Comes With a Crew
When inquiring about a vendor's gear, don't just ask about the cameras or lenses. Ask about the size and scope of their crew. Is the team large enough and specialized enough to handle your project effectively?
Both larger and smaller teams offer advantages:
- Small team: May be more budget-friendly, but consider potential limitations in simultaneous tasks or specialized expertise depending on the project.
- Large, specialized team: Offers deeper knowledge and experience in each production role, potentially yielding higher quality output and faster turnaround, although perhaps at a higher cost.
Key question: Will the crew size and skillset achieve the creative vision my brand deserves within my constraints?
2. Gear Needs a Vision
Knowing how to use the gear is one thing; knowing what results to achieve with it is another. A skilled production company will clearly communicate their creative vision for your project. Do they proactively offer you:
- Shot deck: A document outlining proposed shots, angles, and transitions.
- Mood board: A collection of images and references that convey the desired look and feel.
The more detailed and proactive their communication, the more confident you can be in their understanding of your vision.
3. Gear vs. Story: What's Their Priority?
Finally, gauge how important their gear is to their creative process. A good question for this is, "Tell me about situations where the gear itself was essential for getting the desired results."
Listen closely to their answer. Is their focus primarily on showcasing technical prowess, or do they emphasize how gear is a tool to serve the story and the emotion you want to convey? While impressive equipment can certainly enhance production value, the heart of effective video lies in its ability to connect with your audience.
The Takeaway: Don't Be Afraid to Ask
Even if you're not a technical expert, ask questions about a vendor's gear. Their response will offer valuable insights into their experience level, priorities, and approach. Remember, the most impressive gear in the world is useless without a strong creative vision and a team who understands how to use technology in service of your brand's story.
Wondering what our gear has helped us achieve? Explore our portfolio and see the difference for yourself!
