Value Creation in Videography: Why Professionals Charge What They Do
Experienced filmmakers often charge more for their services than videographers who are just getting started, and it can be confusing to understand why. Many people assume that filming a video is no different than taking a picture, but that could not be further from the truth. Professional videographers possess years of experience and technical expertise that enable them to create unique and valuable videos.
In this blog post, I’ll go over some of the reasons that you get what you pay for in the videography business.
I have 10+ years of experience doing filmmaking and videography for local, provincial and national conservation organizations. And, yes, rates have risen in those 10+ years. But so has the quality of what I film and produce. And there are many factors that have contributed to that growth.
I’m not alone in the rates that I charge for filmmaking work. It’s standard territory for those of us who have cut our teeth for years to get to were we are today.
For me personally, it is no small challenge to hike through a 900-acre forest, boat across a Great Lake, or live off the grid in a cabin in a remote place to create the level of videos that I film and produce for clients. The experience and outdoors skillset has been hard won. Many mistakes, issues, unforseen obstacles, and lessons learned along the way.
Here are some more reasons:
Investment in equipment and technology
Videographers invest heavily in top-notch equipment and cutting-edge technology to ensure excellence in their work. There’s no editing done on Windows Movie Maker or Apple iMovie around here. It’s all Hollywood-grade production software, high-quality cameras, lenses, lighting, and audio equipment can be quite costly. All this investment is crucial for capturing stunning visuals and crystal-clear audio. Additionally, videographers continuously stay updated with the latest advancements in technology, such as drone footage and virtual reality, to offer unique and valuable services to their clients. This investment not only adds value to their work but also showcases their know-how and expertise in using these tools effectively. By prioritizing their clients’ vision and providing guidance through the use of state-of-the-art equipment, videographers are accountable for delivering exceptional results.
Time commitment and expertise
Professional videographers charge more for their services because of the significant time commitment and expertise required for their work. Filming a video is a complex process that involves careful planning, organizing, and coordination. Videographers spend hours setting up shots, capturing footage, and ensuring that everything is visually appealing and cohesive. Additionally, they bring their expertise and creative vision to the table, offering valuable insights and ideas that can elevate the final product. Their years of experience and knowledge allow them to navigate challenging situations and adapt to various filming environments, ensuring that every project is executed with precision. With their time commitment and expertise, videographers provide a level of quality and professionalism that justifies their higher rates.
Additional expenses and overhead costs
When it comes to videography, there are additional expenses and overhead costs that contribute to the higher rates charged by professional videographers. Beyond the investment in equipment, there are other costs that need to be considered. For example, videographers often need to hire additional crew members, such as assistants or lighting technicians, to ensure a smooth production process. They may also need to rent specific locations or props for certain shoots. Additionally, there are expenses related to post-production, such as editing software and colour grading tools. All of these factors add to the overall cost of providing high-quality videography services. So, while the price may seem steep, it’s important to recognize that professional videographers are taking into account these additional expenses and overhead costs to deliver exceptional results.
Unique skills and creativity
Videographers possess a unique set of skills and creativity that set them apart from other media professionals. Their ability to tell a story through visuals and capture emotions is what makes their work so valuable. They have a keen eye for composition, lighting, and framing, allowing them to create visually stunning videos that evoke a range of emotions. Their creativity enables them to think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas that make their videos stand out. Whether it’s capturing the perfect shot or editing the footage to create a cohesive narrative, videographers’ skills and creativity play a crucial role in delivering exceptional results to their clients.
Quality assurance and client satisfaction
Ensuring quality assurance and client satisfaction is a top priority for professional videographers. They go above and beyond to deliver exceptional results that meet their clients’ expectations. From the initial consultation to the final product, videographers maintain open lines of communication with their clients, taking the time to understand their vision and goals. They meticulously review and edit the footage, ensuring that every frame is perfect and every moment is captured beautifully. Additionally, they welcome feedback and make necessary revisions to guarantee client satisfaction. Their commitment to quality and client satisfaction is what sets them apart and justifies their higher rates. With professional videographers, you can trust that your vision will be brought to life in a way that surpasses your expectations.
GOT QUESTIONS?Yes, as professional filmmakers we’re in the business of storytelling. But there’s another story that unfolds that is just as important. It’s the story that clients and organizations tell about the experience of working with us. We value that value too.
