25 Questions to Ask a Video Production Agency
Choosing a video production partner is a significant decision. With video marketing being a critical component for 89% of businesses, the right agency can elevate your brand and deliver a powerful return on investment. The global video production market is booming, expected to reach over $865 billion by 2033, which means you have more choices than ever. But how do you separate the contenders from the pretenders?
The key is asking the right questions. The answers you receive will reveal an agency’s experience, process, and suitability as a partner for your specific needs. Rushing into a decision without proper vetting can lead to misaligned expectations, budget issues, and a final product that misses the mark. A great video production agency should feel like an extension of your own team, one that understands your brand, shares your vision, and is committed to delivering measurable results.
To help you make an informed choice, we have compiled a list of 25 essential questions to ask any video production agency before you sign a contract. As a company with over two decades of experience creating award-winning video content for global brands, we at Beverly Boy Productions know what it takes to deliver excellence, and we welcome these questions from every prospective client.
Section 1: Understanding Their Process and Expertise
These questions focus on the agency’s workflow, creative approach, and how they handle the entire production lifecycle. A clear, well-defined process is a hallmark of a professional operation.
1. Can you walk me through your entire video production process?
A professional agency should have a clearly defined process, typically broken down into pre-production, production, and post-production. Ask them to describe each phase in detail. This demonstrates organization and ensures a smooth workflow. At Beverly Boy Productions, we guide our clients through every step, from initial concept to final delivery, keeping them informed and involved at every stage.
2. Who will be my main point of contact?
Clear and consistent communication is vital to a successful project. You should have a dedicated project manager or producer who will keep you updated, answer your questions, and serve as the bridge between your team and the production crew. Avoid agencies where you are passed from person to person without a clear point of accountability.
3. How do you approach creative development and scripting?
Do they take the time to understand your brand, audience, and goals before developing a concept? A great agency will collaborate with you to develop a creative concept and script that aligns with your vision and message. They should ask probing questions about your brand identity, competitive landscape, and target audience before putting pen to paper.
4. What is your experience in our specific industry?
While not always a deal-breaker, an agency with experience in your industry will have a better understanding of your target audience, competitors, and market trends. They will also be familiar with any industry-specific regulations or sensitivities. Check their portfolio for relevant examples.
5. Can I see examples of projects similar to what I am looking for?
This is non-negotiable. A portfolio is the best indicator of an agency’s quality and style. Look for work that aligns with your creative vision and production value expectations. Pay attention not just to the visual quality, but also to the storytelling, pacing, and overall effectiveness of the videos.
6. How do you measure the success of a video campaign?
Beyond just views, a strategic partner will discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) like engagement rate, click-through rate, and conversions. In fact, 74% of companies measure video ROI using engagement metrics such as views, view rate, and average watch time. An agency that focuses solely on production without considering the marketing outcomes is only doing half the job.
7. What is your approach to video SEO and optimization?
A great video is useless if nobody can find it. Ask the agency about their approach to optimizing videos for search engines and platform algorithms. This includes things like keyword-rich titles and descriptions, custom thumbnails, closed captions, and schema markup. Video content leads to a 157% increase in organic traffic from search engines, so this is a critical consideration.
Section 2: Budget, Timelines, and Logistics
These questions address the practical aspects of the project, including cost, scheduling, and what is included in their services. Transparency in this area is essential for building trust.
8. What does your typical pricing structure look like?
Video production costs can vary widely, with projects ranging from $10,000 to over $50,000 depending on scope and complexity. Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs. Is it a flat project fee or an itemized list? Transparency is key. Be wary of agencies that are vague about pricing or reluctant to provide a detailed estimate.
9. What is included in the quote, and what might incur additional costs?
Clarify what the initial quote covers. Does it include revisions, travel expenses, music licensing, or talent fees? Understanding potential extra costs upfront prevents budget surprises later. A reputable agency will be upfront about what is and is not included in their pricing.
10. What is the typical timeline for a project of this scope?
An experienced agency should be able to provide a realistic timeline for pre-production, shooting, and post-production. This helps you plan your marketing campaigns accordingly. Be cautious of agencies that promise unrealistically fast turnarounds, as this can compromise quality.
11. How many rounds of revisions are included in the post-production phase?
This is a critical detail that is often overlooked. Most agencies include two or three rounds of revisions in their standard pricing. Knowing this in advance helps manage feedback and ensures the final edit meets your expectations without incurring additional costs.
12. Who owns the final video and the raw footage?
Typically, the client owns the final edited video. However, ownership of the raw footage can vary from agency to agency. Clarify this in the contract if you anticipate needing the raw files for future projects or re-edits.
13. Do you handle all aspects of production in-house, or do you outsource?
Many agencies use a network of trusted freelancers and specialized vendors. This is a common and effective model, especially for a company like ours that operates in locations worldwide. The important thing is that the agency takes full responsibility for the quality and professionalism of their entire team, regardless of their employment status.
14. What kind of equipment do you use?
While you do not need to be a gear expert, this question gives you a sense of their commitment to quality. A professional agency will use high-end cameras, lighting, and audio equipment to ensure a polished final product. They should also be able to explain why they choose specific equipment for specific types of projects.
Section 3: Collaboration and Communication
These questions explore how you will work together and what the client’s role is in the process. A good partnership requires clear expectations on both sides.
15. How much involvement will you need from my team?
Understand the time commitment required from your team for things like providing brand assets, script approval, attending shoots, and giving feedback on edits. A good agency will clearly outline the client’s responsibilities and the expected turnaround times for feedback.
16. How will you keep me updated on the project’s progress?
Will they provide regular email updates, schedule check-in calls, or use a project management tool? A clear communication plan is essential for keeping the project on track and ensuring there are no surprises.
17. How do you handle feedback and revisions?
A good agency will have a structured process for collecting and implementing feedback. They should use a collaborative review tool or a clear system for consolidating notes. This ensures the project stays on track and on budget, and that feedback is addressed efficiently.
18. What happens if we are not satisfied with the final video?
This question helps gauge their commitment to client satisfaction. A reputable agency will work with you to address your concerns and find a solution. Look for agencies that have a clear policy for handling disagreements and that prioritize the client relationship.
Section 4: Experience and Credibility
These questions help you verify the agency’s track record and reputation. Experience is not everything, but it is a strong indicator of reliability and expertise.
19. How long have you been in business?
Experience matters. An agency that has been around for a while has likely navigated a wide range of challenges and has a proven track record. Beverly Boy Productions, for example, has been a leader in the industry since 2002, producing over 25,000 videos for clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
20. Can you provide references from past clients?
Speaking to past clients is a great way to get an unbiased perspective on what it is like to work with the agency. Ask about their experience with communication, adherence to deadlines, and the quality of the final product. You can also check online reviews for additional insights.
21. What makes your agency different from others?
This is their chance to sell you on their unique value proposition. Is it their creative approach, their customer service, their technical expertise, or their global reach? Listen carefully to their answer. It should feel authentic and specific, not generic.
22. Do you have experience with different distribution platforms?
Creating a great video is only half the battle. You also need to get it in front of the right audience. An agency with distribution expertise can help you optimize your video for different platforms, from YouTube and social media to Connected TV (CTV) and your own website. They should understand the technical specifications and best practices for each platform.
23. Are you fully insured?
A professional agency will have comprehensive liability insurance to cover any accidents or damages that may occur during production. This protects both the agency and the client. Beverly Boy Productions carries $2 million in liability insurance plus workers’ compensation coverage, providing peace of mind on every project.
Section 5: The "What Ifs" and Final Considerations
These questions prepare you for potential challenges and changes, and help you make your final decision with confidence.
24. How do you handle unexpected challenges or changes in project scope?
Flexibility is important in any creative project. A good partner will have a process for managing scope changes and addressing unforeseen issues without derailing the project. Ask them to describe a time when they had to adapt to a significant change and how they handled it.
25. Why should we hire you?
This final, direct question gives them an opportunity to summarize their strengths and make a final pitch. It is a great way to gauge their confidence, passion, and genuine interest in your project. The best agencies will not just talk about their capabilities; they will talk about how they can specifically help you achieve your goals.
Making Your Decision: A Quick-Reference Checklist
After you have asked these questions, use this checklist to evaluate each agency:
Evaluation Criteria | What to Look For |
|---|---|
Process | A clearly defined, multi-phase workflow with client touchpoints |
Portfolio | High-quality work that aligns with your vision and industry |
Communication | A dedicated point of contact and a clear communication plan |
Transparency | Detailed, itemized pricing with no hidden fees |
Experience | A proven track record with relevant industry experience |
Credibility | Positive client references, reviews, and insurance coverage |
Strategic Thinking | Focus on KPIs, distribution, and measurable ROI |
Flexibility | A clear process for handling scope changes and challenges |
The Right Partner for Your Vision
Hiring a video production agency is a partnership. By asking these 25 questions, you can find a team that not only has the technical skills to produce a great video but also shares your creative vision and commitment to results. The right partner will make the entire process smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately more successful.
Ready to create a video that drives growth? The team at Beverly Boy Productions is ready to help. We offer a full range of video production services, from creative development and corporate video production to live streaming and final delivery. We have been trusted by brands like Forbes, Dr Pepper, and OWN, and we bring that same level of dedication to every project.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us discuss your next project. You can also request a quote directly.
