10 things to look out for when hiring a video production company

Finding the right video production company can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack—there are so many options, and everyone promises to be "the best video production company." But as a video production company ourselves, we like to think that we know the signs of a great team (and the red flags of a not-so-great one). Here’s our advice for what you should be looking out for:

1. Do They Actually Listen to You?

Let’s start at the bare minimum. A good production team should be all ears. If they’re not asking questions about your goals, target audience, and vision, that’s a problem. Beware of companies who jump straight into pitching their ideas without understanding your needs first.

2. Check Out Their Portfolio (Not Just the Highlights Reel)

Every company has a flashy demo reel. Dive deeper—watch the full videos they’ve created. Look for variety, storytelling, and quality throughout. If all their projects look the same, they might struggle to adapt to your brand.

3. Do They Understand Your Industry?

While a good production company can learn about any industry, having some experience in your niche can be seen as a bonus. They’ll already know what works, what doesn’t, and how to communicate effectively with your audience.

4. Ask About the Process

A clear and structured process and timeline is a hallmark of a professional video production company. From pre-production planning, including scripting and storyboarding, to filming, post-production and final edits, they should be transparent about every stage of the workflow. This clarity not only builds trust but ensures your project stays on track. If a company provides vague answers or seems unsure about their process, it’s a major red flag. Choosing a team with a well-defined production process will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress while ensuring a high-quality video.

5. Don’t Get Blinded by Gear Talk

Yes, fancy cameras and drones are cool, but great storytelling and creative vision are what really matter to your brand. A production team obsessed with equipment but lacking a solid creative approach might leave you with a shiny, but soulless video.

6. Communication is Key

You’ll want a video production team that keeps you in the loop at every major stage of the process. Clear communication is key—whether it’s during initial discussions or throughout the production phase. If they’re slow to respond or difficult to reach when you're just getting started, imagine how frustrating that will be once the project is underway.

7. Look for Collaborative Vibes

Video production is a team sport. The best companies treat you as a creative partner, not just a client. If they’re dismissive of your input or overly rigid, it’s a sign they’re not invested in your vision.

8. What’s Their Track Record on Deadlines?

Missed deadlines can throw your entire campaign off track. Ask for references or reviews that specifically mention timeliness. Bonus points for any video production companies that builds in contingency plans for unforeseen delays.

9. Budget Transparency

A professional team should provide you with a clear, detailed quote that breaks down costs—equipment, crew, editing, and any extras—so you know exactly where your money is going. If a company is promising the world at a price that seem too good to be true, it probably is.

10. Do you like them?

This might sound basic, but trust us, it’s important. You’ll be working closely with this team, so a good personality fit matters. You’ll be spending a lot of time discussing ideas, refining scripts, reviewing edits, and problem-solving together. If the team’s personality or work style doesn’t click with yours, the entire process can feel draining. If the vibes are off, the project will feel like a chore.To round things up, hiring a company for video production services is a significant investment, so it’s crucial to choose wisely. Look for a team that truly listens to your needs, collaborates effectively, and is genuinely invested in your success—not just in adding another project to their portfolio. The right team will treat your goals as their own, delivering a video that not only looks great but also drives real results.