Build an In-House Production Team
Most brands + businesses will hire a video production agency to create a one-off brand film and promotional video. But if yours falls into the category of those that need regularly produced video content, it might save you time and money to build your own in-house production team.
However, many companies have no experience in video production and may not know where to start. If so, this guide is for you. We’ll help you setup your own in-house team that can serve you long-term.
Who should you hire first?
The most effective starting point for your in-house video production team is a PRODUCER (bonus if he/she can also direct) and a CAMERA OPERATOR who also knows how to edit. The producer manages everything from pre-production to post-production and oversee every production element from start to finish.. Producers assist with the initial concepts, scheduling, talent acquisition, crew management, as well as logistics. During the early stages, you’ll want a camera operator that also understands lighting, audio, and editing. An added bonus is finding a cam-op who also has good knowledge of social media optimization as well as specialized post-production skills (like motion graphics and animation).
As your team grows, you should begin to include specialists in the different facets of production; for example, hiring a separate editor and/or an animator so that you’re not relying on your camera operator. You want to avoid a videographer who is simply a jack of all trades, but a master of none; they are typically spread too thin to produce reliable, high-quality work.
Hiring in video is difficult - so delegate the job to a consultant. If your experience in video is lacking, you might find it difficult to differentiate between a good candidate from a bad candidate. It’s worth the hire, especially when your brand is at stake, so it’s important you hire the best.
To buy or rent equipment?
Filming in high-quality has never been more accessible, and gear can be a lengthy discussion on its own. However, ask any production company about equipment and they will agree that owning can be insanely expensive. Most reputable video production companies own their inventory but also leverage rental houses according to production needs. As you begin to grow you in-house production team, buy the cameras, lighting equipment, and audio gear you use the most. Conduct a cost analysis each year to determine if it’s better to purchase or rent. Although HADJI Studios owns plenty of equipment, we still find it more cost effective when we need a specialist (like a sound mixer or an FPV drone operator)
Other Considerations
In-house production teams can become burnt out creatively. You may find that your team may struggle to make creative + original videos because they find themselves within the monotony of producing the same type of content. The good news is that video production agencies work with clients across a broad spectrum of industries every day, resulting in refreshing and original video for your brand.
You may build an all-star in-house production team but you should still work with other video production agencies and freelancers to introduce additional creative energy into your campaigns, especially when your in-house team is running at full capacity.
If you want to discuss a video project or if want help setting up an in-house video production team, reach out to us and we’ll get you pointed in the right direction!
