When it comes to video production, planning ahead can save time, money, and stress. Whether you’re working with a local video production company or a freelance filmmaker, preparing properly ensures your vision is realized efficiently.
Here are 5 essential things to do before contacting your local video production company:
1. 📋 Create a Clear Content List
In today’s 4K camera world, shooting beautiful footage is easy — but without a focused content list, you risk wasting your budget.
Think about:
- What is the purpose of your video?
- What visuals or stories best represent your company?
- Are you highlighting products, showcasing your team, or promoting an event?
A solid content list guides your production and helps everyone stay aligned on the goal.
2. 🎞 Gather Video References
Find 2–5 reference videos that resonate with your vision. Search YouTube, Vimeo, or even your competitors’ websites. Look for:
- Tone and pace
- Visual style and framing
- Music and narration
These examples help directors understand your expectations — not to copy, but to build a creative direction that suits your brand.
3. 🎯 Define the Video’s Goal
What’s the core message you want your audience to remember?
Rather than cramming 10 ideas into one video, focus on one key takeaway. Whether it’s a product launch, internal message, or a brand story, clarity is everything.
Remember: today’s videos are often under 3 minutes. You have just seconds to hook your audience.
4. 📱 Know Where the Video Will Be Shown
Will it be published on:
- Mobile apps (Instagram, TikTok)?
- Websites or landing pages?
- TV, cinema, or large event screens?
Different platforms require different formats — short and punchy for mobile, high-res and detailed for cinema. Deciding this early allows the production team to tailor the shoot for the right aspect ratio, resolution, and runtime.
5. 🎥 Ask for the Production Company’s Showreel
Before requesting a quote, always ask for a showreel or portfolio.
Why? Because:
- Some directors specialize in short-form ads (TVCs).
- Others are better at long-form corporate storytelling.
- Some know how to optimize for social media audiences.
Choose a team whose style matches your goals — not just the lowest price.
💼 Work With a Trusted Local Partner
At Shoot In China, we’ve helped hundreds of clients create video content that connects — from startups to Fortune 500 brands.
Ready to get started?
📩 [email protected]
