How to choose a production company for your next project.

Choosing the right person or company can be tricky. Hopefully the following will help.

There are many things to consider when choosing the production company to produce your next project.  The first of which should be: Are they capable of doing what I need to have done?  Ask to see a demo reel.  Professionals are more than happy to share their previous works.  If you like their work and they have experience in doing similar work to your project, then you will likely be in good shape.  Additionally, it is perfectly acceptable to ask for professional references.

The second thing to consider: How much will they charge?  While the old axiom “you get what you pay for” is certainly true in film/video production, the company you choose must be able to complete your project within your required time frame and within budget.  Often times a production company may seem very expensive, but if you consider its level of quality, the tools used, and experience of the team, it may end up being less expensive than choosing the wrong company which offers to work for less.  It is also true the price of video production can be smaller if the company needs work.  Call the company you like and see if  there is a way they can work within your budget and time frame.

The last thing: Do I like them?  If you have a feeling the company you are interviewing for your project is not going to get the job done or done right, then you are probably correct in your assumption.  Credentials, experience and titles are all fine, but if the company is not right for your project, then keep looking.  Film/Video production is heavily dependent upon collaboration and communication between company and client.  Choose people with whom you enjoy working.