Video has become an increasingly important marketing tool for businesses of all sizes. From product demos and explainer videos to brand commercials and customer testimonials, video has proven to be an effective way to engage audiences and communicate important messages. However, the decision to produce a business video in-house or to hire a third-party or freelancer can be a challenging one.

In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each approach and provide practical guidance on how to make the right decision for your business needs.

The Pros and Cons of Making a Video In-House

Making a video in-house can offer several benefits, including cost savings, greater control over the creative process, and faster turnaround times. However, it also comes with some potential drawbacks.

Pros:

Cost savings:
One of the primary advantages of making a video in-house is cost savings. By using existing equipment and personnel, you can avoid the costs associated with hiring a third-party or freelancer.

Additionally, you may be able to reuse footage and other assets for future projects, further reducing costs.

Related: The Complete Cost To Produce Video Content In House

Greater control:
Producing a video in-house gives you greater control over the creative process. You can have more direct input into the script, visual style, and other aspects of the production.

Faster turnaround times:
Because you’re not relying on a third-party or freelancer, you can complete the video production process more quickly. This can be especially beneficial if you have a tight deadline or need to get a video out quickly.

Cons:

Skill and equipment requirements:
Making a high-quality video requires skill and specialized equipment. If you don’t have the necessary skills or equipment in-house, you may need to invest in training or new equipment, which can offset some of the cost savings.

Potential limitations:
Depending on your in-house resources, you may be limited in what you can achieve in terms of production value, visual effects, and other aspects of video production.

Time-consuming:
While making a video in-house can be faster than hiring a third-party or freelancer, it can still be a time-consuming process.

This is especially true if you’re not experienced in video production or if you’re trying to juggle video production with other business responsibilities.

The Benefits of Hiring a Third-Party/Freelancer to Produce Your Business Video

Hiring a third-party or freelancer to produce your business video can offer several benefits, including access to professional equipment and skillsets, creative input, and an outside perspective.

However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider.

Pros:

Access to professional equipment and skillsets:
Professional videographers and video production companies have access to specialized equipment and software that can help you achieve high-quality results.

They also have the necessary skills and experience to use this equipment effectively.

Creative input:
Working with a third-party or freelancer can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to your video project.

They may be able to suggest new approaches, techniques, or styles that you hadn’t considered.

Outside perspective:
Third-party videographers and production companies are often able to provide an objective perspective on your video project.

They can assess your business needs and goals and recommend solutions that you may not have considered.

Related: Pros & Cons Of Hiring A Video Production Team

Cons:

Higher costs:
Hiring a third-party or freelancer can be more expensive than producing a video in-house.

You’ll need to pay for their time and expertise, as well as any equipment rentals or other expenses.

Communication challenges:
Working with a third-party or freelancer can sometimes lead to communication challenges.

It’s important to establish clear communication channels and expectations from the outset to avoid misunderstandings or delays.

Loss of control:
By outsourcing your video production, you may lose some control over the creative process.

While you can provide input and feedback, ultimately the third-party or freelancer will be responsible for executing the project.

Making the Right Decision for Your Business

So how do you decide whether to produce your business video in-house or to hire a third-party or freelancer? There are several factors to consider.

Assess your business needs and resources

Start by assessing your business needs and resources. Do you have the necessary skills and equipment in-house to produce a high-quality video?

Are you working with a tight budget or deadline?

Consider the specific requirements of your video project and determine whether you have the resources to meet those requirements in-house.

Consider the complexity and purpose of the video

The complexity and purpose of your video can also impact your decision.

For example, if you’re producing a simple explainer video, you may be able to handle the production in-house. But if you’re producing a brand commercial or customer testimonial, you may want to hire a third-party or freelancer to ensure a high-quality result.

Evaluate costs and benefits of each option

Finally, evaluate the costs and benefits of each option. Consider the upfront costs of hiring a third-party or freelancer versus the potential cost savings of producing the video in-house.

Also consider the potential benefits of working with a third-party or freelancer, such as access to specialized equipment and expertise, and the potential drawbacks, such as loss of control and communication challenges.

Related: Outsourcing Content Creation: How Much Does It Cost?

Tips for Successful In-House Video Production

If you decide to produce your business video in-house, there are several tips to keep in mind to ensure success:

Invest in quality equipment:
While you don’t need the most expensive equipment, investing in quality equipment can make a big difference in the final product. Consider renting or purchasing a high-quality camera, microphone, and lighting equipment.

Plan and storyboard your video:
Before you start filming, take the time to plan and storyboard your video. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you capture all the necessary footage.

Practice and refine your skills:
If you’re not experienced in video production, take the time to practice and refine your skills before starting your project. Watch online tutorials, read guides and books, and practice filming and editing to improve your technique.

Get feedback from others:
Once you’ve completed your video, get feedback from others in your organization or from outside sources. This can help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your final product effectively conveys your message.

Related: How Any Business Can Create Consistent Video Content (+Tips)

Tips for Successful Third-Party/Freelance Video Production

If you decide to hire a third-party or freelancer to produce your business video, there are several tips to keep in mind to ensure success:

Hire a professional with a portfolio:
When selecting a third-party or freelancer, look for professionals with a strong portfolio of previous work. This can give you an idea of their style, skillset, and expertise.

Establish clear communication channels:
From the outset, establish clear communication channels and expectations. This can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that the project stays on track.

Provide detailed feedback:
While you want to trust your professional to execute the project, it’s important to provide detailed feedback along the way to ensure that the final product meets your expectations.

Work collaboratively:
Instead of outsourcing the entire project, consider working collaboratively with your third-party or freelancer. This can allow you to provide input and feedback throughout the process and ensure that the final product meets your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether to produce your business video in-house or to hire a third-party or freelancer is a decision that should be carefully considered.

While there are potential cost savings to producing a video in-house, there are also benefits to working with a professional, such as access to specialized equipment and expertise, creative input, and an objective perspective.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your business needs and resources, the complexity and purpose of the video, and a careful evaluation of the costs and benefits of each option.