Video Production Company vs Agency: How to Choose the Best Fit for Your Project
When it comes to creating video content for your business, you have a few options. You can do it in-house, bring on a video production company, or hire an agency. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and the right choice for your business will depend on a variety of factors. In this post, we'll explore the differences between video production companies and agencies, and help you determine which is the best fit for your needs.
What is a video production company?
Video production companies are experts in creating professional video content for a variety of purposes. They bring together a team of skilled videographers, video editors, producers, and other video crew members to craft everything from corporate videos and commercials to documentaries, promotional videos, and music videos. Regardless of the project, the goal of a video production company is to produce engaging and effective video content that tells a story, communicates a message, or showcases a product or service in a visually appealing way. They are responsible for every aspect of video production, from scripting to filming, casting actors, and editing.
Video production companies often have a specific area of focus or specialization, including corporate video production, commercial video production, event coverage, and music video production. Alternatively, some companies offer a wider range of services and are proficient in all aspects of video production, providing a one-stop-shop for clients looking for a variety of video content.
What is a creative agency?
A creative agency is a company that provides creative and strategic communication services to its clients. These services can include advertising, branding, design, digital marketing, and marketing strategy development. Creative agencies typically work with businesses, organizations, and individuals to develop and execute marketing campaigns that help them achieve their business objectives.
Creative agencies are known for their ability to generate innovative ideas that effectively communicates the client's message. They often have a team of creative professionals, such as writers, designers, and photographers, who work together to develop and execute marketing campaigns.
Some common types of projects that creative agencies may work on include developing and implementing advertising campaigns, creating brand identities, designing marketing materials such as brochures and websites, and developing social media and digital marketing strategies.
When do you hire a video production company?
Hiring a video production company directly is a good option when you have a general idea or plan for your video and need to take it from concept to a polished final product. The company's expertise can be especially valuable if your project involves technical elements related to video. Working with a video production company directly can help you save money and often get the project done more quickly.
Common video production projects:
Video advertisement with a pre-defined concept
Kickstarter video to promote your campaign and attract backers
Explainer video to break down complex ideas in a simple and clear manner
Product beauty video to showcase the features and benefits of your product
Demonstration videos to give your audience a hands-on look at how your product works
Tutorial videos to teach your audience how to use your product
Interviews with experts or industry leaders to share insights and experiences
Video tour of your facility to give your audience a behind-the-scenes look
Event coverage to capture and share the highlights of your event.
When do you hire an agency?
Hiring a creative agency can be a smart choice when you need help generating and executing ideas but don't know where to start. While working with an agency may be much more expensive than hiring a video production company directly, it can offer a higher level of support and general expertise. By partnering with a creative agency, you can take a more hands-off approach and trust that the final product will align with your vision.
Situations where an agency is beneficial:
Video advertisement production from concept creation to publishing the final video as part of a larger marketing campaign
Brainstorming and generating ideas for a social media series, followed by the production of the videos
Video production as a part of a larger marketing campaign, with the video serving as a small component
Ultimately, the decision to hire a video production company or agency will depend on your specific needs and goals. By considering the scope of your project, your budget, and the level of collaboration you desire, you can make an informed decision that will help you. To summarize, If you have a general concept for your video, hire a video production company. If you have a specific goal or objective but need help developing a strategy, hire an agency.