In-House vs. Freelance Video Crews

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Video production is an essential part of any business strategy. Whether it's for marketing, training, or communication purposes, video content is an effective way to engage with your audience and convey your message. However, one of the key decisions that managers have to make when it comes to video production is whether to use an in-house video crew or hire a freelance crew. Let’s look at the factors that managers should consider when making this decision.

Project Scope

First and foremost, managers should consider the tone and messaging of the project. An in-house team is already familiar with the company, its brand identity and voice. You can be confident that an in-house crew will deliver a video that remains consistent with previously produced content. They will also have easy access to company resources, especially if those resources include a robust archive of already collected footage.

Project Timeline

Another factor to consider is the timeline for the project. With freelance crews, you’re competing with other clients for their availability. If turnaround time is extremely tight, an in-house crew might be the way to go.

Project Budget

Budget is another important consideration. If the video shoot requires your in-house team to travel, it’s important to weigh those expenses against the amount it would cost you to hire a local freelance crew. In some cases, it might make more financial sense to send your in-house crew. However, airline tickets, per diems, salaries, hotel bills, and shipping fees can add up quick. When those costs become too high for the allotted budget, it’s time to look for some freelancers.

Project Vision

Another consideration is the level of innovation required for the project. In-house teams may be limited in terms of their creative capacity, as they are often focused on producing similar-looking content that aligns with the company's brand and messaging. If the project requires a fresh perspective or outside-the-box thinking, a freelance crew may be better equipped to give you something entirely different.

There are a number of factors that managers should consider when deciding whether to use an in-house video crew or hire a freelance crew for video production. By carefully weighing these factors, managers can make an informed decision that will result in a successful project that meets their business goals and objectives.