Navigating the Hiring Game: The Do's and Don'ts of Choosing a Videographer

Jamie Perez • November 1, 2023

A skilled videographer can be the bridge between your creative vision and its captivating execution. Whether you're working on a corporate project, a wedding video, or a promotional campaign, finding the right videographer is paramount to achieving your desired outcome. Things you should consider when you’re on your way to hiring a videographer: What questions should I ask when hiring a videographer? Who owns the footage? What things should I look for in a good videographer? What should be expected of them?


To ensure a a great collaboration, let's explore the essential do's and don'ts of hiring a videographer.



Do: Prioritize Creativity and Compatibility


Creativity should top your list of must-haves. Review their portfolio to gauge their versatility and style. Do their previous works align with your vision? Equally important is compatibility. Choose someone who not only understands your ideas but is also enthusiastic about bringing them to life. Ask them about their initial ideas on your project and how you might be able to work collaboratively together. A videographer who shares your passion will infuse your project with an extra layer of dedication.


Don't: Underestimate Fair Compensation


Quality work deserves fair compensation. While budget constraints are common, compromising on rates can lead to a compromised outcome. Invest in a videographer who values their craft and expertise. Remember, paying fairly not only shows respect for their skills but also ensures they can focus on producing their best work without financial stress.


Do: Set Clear Expectations and Timelines


Communication is the bedrock of successful collaborations. Clearly outline your expectations, project scope, and preferred timeline from the outset. This prevents misunderstandings and paves the way for a seamless working relationship. (Note: addressing who owns rights to the footage is a great question to ask each videographer — everyone has a different process of how they handle this. Make sure you have a CLEAR understanding of this.) Avoid unwelcome surprises by discussing potential challenges or delays that might arise during the project and planning accordingly.


Don't: Rush the Hiring Process


Hiring a videographer is an investment in your project's success, and like any investment, it deserves due diligence. Rushing through the hiring process can lead to regrettable decisions. Take your time to research, interview, and assess candidates thoroughly. This ensures you're entrusting your vision to someone who truly aligns with your needs and values.


Do: Select the Right Fit for Your Project


Every videographer has their unique strengths and specialties. Don't make the mistake of assuming one-size-fits-all. Ask them questions (no question is off the table). Evaluate whether their past work aligns with your project's requirements. If you're seeking a wedding video, for instance, look for a videographer experienced in capturing emotional moments. For corporate projects, prioritize those who understand your brand's identity and goals.


Don't: Micromanage; Trust Their Process


Once you've selected a videographer, relinquish some control and trust their creative process. Micromanaging can stifle their creativity and hinder the collaborative spirit. Provide your input and feedback, but also allow them the freedom to work their magic. You hired them for their expertise, after all, and allowing them space to shine often leads to remarkable results.


In Conclusion


Hiring a videographer is more than just checking an item off your to-do list. It's a partnership that can elevate your project to new heights. By adhering to these do's and don'ts, you're setting the stage for a successful collaboration that ensures your vision is expertly brought to life. Remember, finding the right videographer is an investment in the success of your project – one that pays off in captivating visuals and storytelling that resonates.

Camera Lens

Here's Why Nonprofits Should Be Sharing Donor Stories

By Jamie Perez • May 29, 2025
Most of the time when nonprofit organizations are sharing stories, we are hearing from staff members, the founder and clients. All of these are perfectly fine stories to tell... but what about sharing the donor stories? When a nonprofit has regular donors, there's probably a story behind WHY they believe in your cause so much. There's a heartfelt element to why out of all the nonprofits they could donate to -- why do they choose YOURS to give to time and time again? They most likely relate to your mission. They believe what you believe about a problem that needs to be addressed and they wanted to be part of the solution. Maybe they went through a traumatic situation that your organization is helping people solve. Get to know your donors. Be curious. They're just as much a part of your organization as your staff and clientele. By sharing their stories, they not only feel more involved in an organization they already care so deeply about, but it also could be a great way to attract MORE donors who can relate to their story. Donors give because of stories -- their gifts don't come from coercion; they come from emotion, a desire to connect. It opens up a relationship and this is how wallets open and lives are transformed. People want to know they belong to something and that they're making a difference. It feels good for anyone to know they're needed, wanted and appreciated. Show them the impact of their gift through storytelling. Don't just focus on them when you need something from them. Engage them. Make them part of the organization's journey. To help get you started, here are a couple questions that could ignite some great soundbites when interviewing your donors: What happened in your life that makes you so compelled to support our cause? Why is this need so important to address? With these questions, you're not only asking them to address the need that your organization is addressing, but you're still focusing on THEIR story. By bringing them along this journey and asking these questions, it helps remind them why they give monetary gifts to you. And their story and their reasons could encourage others to do the same. BE CURIOUS. THESE ARE THE TYPES OF STORIES THAT ARE NEVER TOLD BECAUSE WE NEVER ASK . By being curious, sharing THEIR story, you're showing them you not only care about them helping your cause, but you care about them as people. And who doesn't like to share their story with someone who is truly interested?
Owner of Beyond Words Jamie Perez interviews woman on camera in studio setting

3 Tips for Ethical Storytelling

By Jamie Perez • April 30, 2025
Owner of Beyond Words Jamie Perez interviews woman on camera in studio setting
A person is holding a video camera on a tripod.

Three Mistakes Organizations Make When Creating Video

By Jamie Perez • April 28, 2025
We see this time and time again... organizations wanting to tell an emotive story through video and then being disappointed that the final product wasn't as heart-tugging as they'd hoped. This mainly happens for three reasons: 1. Controlling the narrative. There are too many cooks in the kitchen. Organizations want to include everyone in the conversation and then there's too many opinions on what should be included in the video, who should be included, what should be shown, etc. This convolutes the message and becomes a jamboree of information and takes away from the natural flow of what the true story should be. 2. Trying to fit everything into one video. Organizations often don't think about what it truly means to tell a story. It's not talking about all the facts and features of the organizations, the different types of programs, showing the building, etc. We don't need to know everything about you. We KNOW you're doing incredible work, but we can read the facts and figures through the caption or text on your website. What we want to see and feel is the stories and emotions that accompany what you do. Which brings us to the next point... 3. Focusing on the features rather than the people. While it's great to inform people of the logistics of your organization -- those things are often not unique and they don't really retain people's attention. What does accomplish these two things, however, is gripping people by the heartstrings by focusing on one or two people's stories to show the audience the impact you make. It's not about telling me all the generalities of your organization. We really need to hyperfocus on ONE story that embodies the difference you make in people's lives. Remember what a story truly is. It has characters, it follows a journey, it presents a problem, a solution, has layers, and evokes emotion. If your videos are mostly just a summary of what you do as an organization, then you haven't really told a story. You've told me WHAT your organization does. The true heartfelt stories are always found in the WHY.
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