How to Get Around Using a Video Production Company (and Why You Might Not Want To)
In an age where smartphones and affordable cameras make video production more accessible than ever, many individuals and businesses consider skipping professional video production companies and taking a DIY approach. With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube prioritizing video content, it seems easy enough to pick up a camera or phone and start filming. However, while DIY video production can save money and offer creative freedom, it comes with significant challenges. The lack of professional knowledge, equipment, and experience can hinder the quality and effectiveness of your video content. Here, we explore how you can create videos without hiring a professional company, the steps you’ll need to take, and the potential downfalls to consider.
DYI Video for Businesses
If you’re determined to create your own videos, you’ll need to invest in some equipment. A DSLR, mirrorless camera, or a high-quality smartphone with 4K capability can serve as your primary tool. External microphones like lavaliers or shotgun mics are crucial for improving audio quality, while basic LED lights or ring lights dramatically enhance your visuals. Stabilizing tools like tripods or gimbals ensure smooth, steady footage.
Learning video basics is essential. Study tutorials on camera framing and angles to avoid awkward shots or poor compositions. Understand lighting techniques, including three-point lighting, for professional-looking results. Familiarize yourself with editing tools like iMovie, Adobe Premiere Rush, or CapCut to ensure your videos are polished and cohesive.
Story is Kind for Video
Storytelling is another critical aspect. Plan your video with a clear structure, including a strong opening, engaging middle, and memorable ending. Use a storyboard to map out your shots and ensure the video flows well. Free or affordable software like DaVinci Resolve, Lightworks, and Audacity can help refine your video and audio, while royalty-free music from platforms like Epidemic Sound or Artlist adds a professional touch.
While DIY video production may seem straightforward, it requires practice and experimentation to master. Test different camera angles, lighting setups, and editing techniques to refine your style. Despite the possibilities, DIY video production has significant drawbacks. Poor camera framing and angles can make your shots feel awkward or lack the cinematic quality viewers expect. Without professional knowledge of storytelling, your video may feel disjointed and fail to resonate with your audience.
Sound is 50% of the Production
Audio quality is often overlooked in DIY videos, but poor sound can make even visually stunning videos feel amateurish. Background noise, echoes, or muffled voices are common problems without professional equipment. “If your sound is bad, your video is terrible”, says Tony Davis, Sound Engineer. Inconsistent lighting is another challenge, as natural light is unpredictable, and basic setups may not provide the control needed to achieve a professional look.
Producing a video is a time-consuming process that involves planning, filming, editing, and refining. Without professional experience, this can take significantly longer and divert your attention from other priorities. Additionally, DIY setups often lack advanced tools like high-end cameras, drones, or special effects, which can limit the polish and impact of your video.
Brand Consistency is Important
Consistency is crucial for building audience recognition and trust. DIY videos often lack a cohesive style, tone, and message, which can weaken your brand identity. Identifying suitable trends and adapting them authentically can also be challenging without professional guidance, leading to content that feels out of touch or forced.
While DIY video production can work for simple projects, hiring a professional video production company is often the best choice for high-stakes projects like brand videos, promotional campaigns, or complex projects involving multiple locations or special effects. Professionals bring expertise, high-quality equipment, and storytelling skills that ensure a polished and effective result.
Conclusion
DIY video production can be a cost-effective and exciting option if you’re willing to invest the time and effort to learn the necessary skills. However, poor framing, weak storytelling, and subpar audio or lighting can undermine your video’s impact, especially for professional purposes. Hiring a video production company like Episode 11 Productions ensures expertise, quality, and efficiency, helping you create polished, engaging videos that achieve your goals. Whether you choose to DIY or hire professionals, align your approach with your video’s purpose, audience, and desired outcome.
