5 mistakes when ordering video production that can cost you your budget and time

Ordering a video production seems like a simple process: you contact a contractor, explain what you want to get, and after a while you receive a finished video. However, the reality is often more complicated. Companies that do not have experience in creating video content can face serious problems: unclear expectations, over-budget, delayed deadlines, or even inadequate results. To avoid these troubles, it is important to be aware of common mistakes and organize the process correctly.

Unclear Terms of Reference: When the Production Team Works "Blindly"

One of the biggest problems is the lack of a clear technical specification (TOR). Often, customers limit themselves to general words like "we need something dynamic and stylish" or "we want a video about the company, like our competitors'." However, such formulations do not give the production team specific guidelines, which can lead to misunderstandings, the result not meeting your expectations, and numerous rework.

To avoid this mistake, it is worth thinking through and writing down all the key details in advance: the purpose of the video, its style and tone, main messages, desired length, references, locations, and even wishes regarding the color scheme or soundtrack. The more detailed the requirements are formulated, the less likely you are to receive a product that does not meet your expectations.

Focusing only on price: the cheapest video can turn out to be the most expensive

It’s natural to want to save money, but when it comes to video production, saving money can backfire. Companies often choose the cheapest offer without paying attention to the contractor’s portfolio, experience, or customer reviews. As a result, the quality of the video can be poor, and the cost of fixing errors or reshooting can significantly exceed the original budget.

It’s important to consider not only the price, but also the level of professionalism of the performers. A good contractor will have a quality portfolio, experience in your field, and clearly stated terms of cooperation, including the ability to make edits. Before making a decision, review examples of work, read reviews, and ask if the team has experience creating videos for your niche.

Unrealistic expectations and deadlines: a quality video cannot be made in three days

Another common mistake is a misconception about the video production process. Many people think that it’s enough to record a video in a day, quickly edit it, and that’s it. However, the reality is completely different: a quality video requires detailed preparation, filming, editing, color correction, sound work, and final editing.

For example, even for a short commercial, you need to think through the concept, develop a script, prepare the location and props, organize the filming process, and then spend a few more days working on editing and post-production. If the video is more complex, for example, contains graphics, 3D animation, or special effects, the timeline can be even longer.

To avoid unnecessary haste and disappointment, it is worth discussing realistic deadlines and stages of work with the team in advance. This way, you will not only save your nerves, but also receive a quality product without the need to make hasty corrections.

Ignoring the preparatory stage: when chaos on set ruins the entire project

One of the most important stages in video creation is pre-production. Mistakes made at this stage can have costly consequences during filming and post-production.

For example, if the script is poorly written or non-existent, the crew may not understand what exactly needs to be filmed. If the locations, props, and technical equipment are not well thought out, the filming process may be delayed, which will lead to an increase in the budget.

To avoid this, it is important to have a detailed script, storyboard, an agreed shooting schedule, a list of necessary equipment, and a clear division of responsibilities within the team before filming begins. The better the preparation, the more efficient the filming process will be.

Lack of a promotion strategy: even a high-quality video doesn’t work on its own

Creating a video is only half the battle. If you don't think about how and where it will be distributed, all the production costs may be in vain.

For example, a video can be great, but if you just put it on YouTube without optimization, it can get lost among thousands of other videos. If it is designed for social media but not adapted to the short clip format, the audience simply will not watch it to the end.

For a video to really work, it is worth determining at the planning stage which platforms it will be posted on, adapting it to the specifics of these platforms (for example, vertical formats for TikTok and Instagram, longer versions for YouTube), planning advertising promotion, and analyzing the results after publication.

Conclusion

Ordering a video production is a complex process that requires a thoughtful approach. A clear technical brief, choosing a professional team, realistic deadlines, thorough preparation, and an effective promotion strategy all affect the final result. By avoiding common mistakes, you will not only save time and money, but also get a video that will work for your company and attract customers.