When it comes to briefing a video production company, clarity is everything. Without a proper understanding of your goals, market, or the purpose of your project, video companies are often left guessing—and that’s a fast track to misalignment and disappointment on both sides.

Here’s the thing: if you don’t provide enough context, video production becomes a commodity. And when you’re only comparing quotes, the focus inevitably shifts to price—a race to the bottom, where no one wins.

But if you’re looking for more than just a service provider—if you want a video partner who truly understands your business and helps guide your creative vision—then the briefing process is crucial.

Here’s how you can help us (and yourself) get the best results:

1. Start with your “What”

What exactly is the project about? Clearly outline the main objective, whether it’s a promotional video, customer testimonial, or an explainer video. Having a firm grip on your “what” allows the production team to understand your vision from the get-go.

2. Explain the “Why”

Why are you doing this project? Is it to address a particular pain point, attract new customers, or build brand awareness? Sharing the deeper reason behind the video gives us the context to craft something meaningful, not just visually appealing. We’ll know how to position the content to meet your business goals.

3. Be Open About Your Challenges

Let us know what keeps you up at night. If your last campaign didn’t hit the mark or your current videos aren’t driving the results you want, tell us. When we know your challenges, we can suggest creative solutions that actually work for your market. It’s not just about making a video—it’s about solving a business problem.

4. Discuss Your Audience

Who are you speaking to? The more we know about your target audience—demographics, behavior, what resonates with them—the better we can tailor the video to engage them. This can dramatically shift our creative approach.

5. Set a Realistic Budget

A good production company can work within your budget to deliver the best value. But being transparent about what you're working with helps set expectations on both sides. It avoids misunderstandings and ensures you get the most out of your investment.

6. Be Clear on Deliverables

What exactly do you want to walk away with? One video? Several edits for social media? Behind-the-scenes footage? Knowing the full scope upfront lets us create a plan that fits your needs—and helps us give you the best price.

By being clear on these points, you’ll help video partners like us provide an informed quote based on value—not just cost. Great clients appreciate this approach because they aren’t just looking for the cheapest option; they want the best value within their budget and the lowest risk.

So, the next time you brief a video production company, think partnership, not price tag. The results will speak for themselves and you might find someone who completes you too.