This guide is designed to help you make a confident, informed choice no matter the project scope; corporate film, event coverage, conference video production, testimonials, or promotional content. It’s written for real buyers and walks you through exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and how to compare providers fairly. Most of the content of the guide is based on the many genuine queries I have recieved over the years.
A professional video production company manages the entire process of turning an idea into a finished video that works for your audience and your goals. This usually includes:
• Strategy & concept development – understanding your objectives, audience, and message
• Pre‑production – scripting, storyboarding, planning, locations, schedules
• Production – filming with professional crews, cameras, lighting, and sound
• Post‑production – editing, animation, colour grading, sound design, captions
• Delivery & optimisation – versions for web, social media, events, or internal use
The best companies don’t just film - they will help you decide what video to make and why.
Before shortlisting suppliers, get clear on what success looks like. Ask yourself:
• Is this video meant to generate leads, explain a product, document an event, or build trust?
• Where will the video live? (Website, LinkedIn, YouTube, live event, internal comms)
• Who is the audience, and what should they do after watching?
When you brief production companies with clear goals, you’ll get better ideas, more accurate pricing, and far better results.
A polished showreel is important, but relevance matters more.
When reviewing a video production company’s work, look for:
• Projects similar to yours (corporate, event, conference, testimonial, animation)
• Evidence they understand business objectives, not just visuals
• Consistent quality across multiple projects, not one standout clip
If you’re planning something specific like conference video production or event video coverage, make sure they’ve handled live environments, tight schedules, and real‑world constraints before.
Great results come from a strong process. A good video production company should be able to clearly explain:
• How they develop ideas and concepts
• How much input you’ll have at each stage
• How feedback and revisions are handled
• How they keep projects on time and on budget
If the process feels vague or rushed at the proposal stage, that’s usually a red flag.
Some companies outsource most of the work, others use a consistent in‑house team, and many use a hybrid model.
Ask:
• Who will be directing, filming, and editing your project?
• Will the same team be involved from start to finish?
• Do they bring in specialists when needed (animation, drone, sound, live events)?
Consistency and clear ownership often lead to smoother communication and better outcomes.
Video production pricing can vary widely. That’s normal.
Instead of asking “Why is this company cheaper?”, ask:
• What’s included in the price (planning, filming days, revisions, formats)?
• What level of crew and equipment is being used?
• How much strategic input and support is provided?
The best video production company isn’t the cheapest or the most expensive, it’s the one that delivers the strongest return on investment for your goals.
Trust matters. Look for:
• Client testimonials that mention results, not just friendliness
• Case studies that explain the challenge and outcome
• Repeat clients (a strong sign of reliability and value)
If possible, ask for a quick reference call with a past client. A reputable company would usually be happy to arrange this.
The best video production companies think beyond the final edit. They’ll help you consider:
• Different cuts for social media and web
• Captions and accessibility
• Longevity and re‑use of footage
• How video fits into your wider marketing or communications strategy
This mindset is often what separates an average supplier from a long‑term creative partner.
• Choosing based on price alone
• Falling for flashy visuals without substance
• Vague briefs that lead to vague results
• Underestimating the importance of planning and strategy
Avoiding these mistakes can save time, money, and frustration.
How much does a professional video production company cost?
Costs vary depending on scope, crew size, complexity, and post‑production. A clear brief will always lead to more accurate and comparable quotes.
How long does video production usually take?
From concept to delivery, projects typically range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on complexity and feedback cycles.
Should I choose a local video production company?
Working with a local team can be beneficial for last minute logistics when filming on‑site. However, travelling is very normal part of any video production companies remit, especially with events and conferences, so experience and fit matter much more than location alone.
What does a video production company do?
A video production company plans, films, edits, and delivers professional video content. This usually includes creative planning, filming with a crew, editing, sound, and preparing videos for different platforms such as websites or social media.
What is the difference between a videographer and a video production company?
A videographer is often a one‑person operator focused mainly on filming. A video production company usually provides a wider service, including planning, creative input, project management, and post‑production. For business‑critical projects, a production company often offers more support and reliability.
How do I choose the best video production company for my business?
Look for relevant experience, clear communication, and a structured process. The best video production company for you will understand your goals and explain their approach in plain language, without pressure or jargon.
How much does a video production company cost in the UK?
Costs vary depending on planning time, crew size, filming days, and editing complexity. There is no standard price. Clear briefs and transparent quotes make comparisons much easier.
Why are video production quotes so different?
Different quotes usually reflect differences in planning time, crew experience, equipment, and post‑production. A lower quote may exclude important elements such as revisions or multiple formats.
Is video production worth the investment for small businesses?
For many small UK businesses, video can be very effective when it has a clear purpose. Short, well‑planned videos often perform better than expensive but unfocused ones.
What should I include in a video production brief?
A useful brief explains your goal, audience, where the video will be used, and any deadlines. You do not need to know technical details. A good video production company will guide the creative side once they understand the purpose.
How long does video production usually take?
Most projects take between three and eight weeks from initial planning to final delivery. Event and conference video production can move faster but still benefits from preparation.
How many filming days will I need?
This depends on the scope of the project. Some videos can be filmed in a single day, while others need multiple locations or sessions. Planning helps keep filming efficient.
Do I need to appear on camera?
No. Many business videos use voiceover, animation, interviews, or filmed environments instead. A production company should help you choose an approach that feels comfortable.
Can a video production company help with ideas?
Yes. Many UK businesses approach video production companies without a clear idea. A good company will help shape the concept once they understand your message and audience.
How many revisions are included?
Most professional companies include one or two rounds of revisions. It is important to confirm this early so expectations are clear.
What video formats should I ask for?
Common formats include website video, social media versions, and internal use. Asking for multiple formats at the start usually saves time and cost later.
Should I choose a local video production company?
Working with a UK‑based team can make communication and logistics easier. Being centrally located, such as near Grantham, can be practical for filming across the UK. Experience and reliability matter more than location alone.
Who owns the video once it is finished?
Ownership varies. Many companies grant full usage rights once the project is paid for. Always confirm this in writing before production starts.
How do I know if a video production company is reliable?
Look for clear communication, documented processes, realistic timelines, and evidence of repeat clients. Reliability often shows in how questions are answered early on.
If you are exploring specific types of projects, you may find these guides useful:
Choosing a video production company is about trust, clarity, and fit. The right team will help you plan carefully and create video that genuinely supports your organisation.
Taking the time to ask good questions at the start usually leads to better results later.