Smartphone vs. Pro: The Case for Hiring a Videographer

Businesses today are constantly seeking ways to stand out and capture the attention of their target audience. One effective way to do this is through video marketing, which has become increasingly popular in recent years. As a videographer in Tokyo, I’ve worked with many clients who had previously created everything internally; typically by handing an employee any available smartphone and telling them to hit record. While it may be tempting to save money by filming videos on your iPhone, there are several compelling reasons why it is worth investing in a professional videographer. Here are just a few:

1. Professional equipment and expertise

   There’s a reason why you don’t often see TV show and movies being filmed with smartphones. While they’re fantastic tools for capturing impromptu moments, family memories, and photos of your most recent brunch, they lack the professional features needed to capture high-quality, compelling footage.

   That’s where videographers come in. They have access to professional gear that can take the production value of your video to the next level, including cameras with larger sensors (the key to getting those beautifully out of focus backgrounds to make your subject stand out), lighting, and audio equipment. Unless your business revolves around creating video content, odds are you won’t have these tools on hand.

   Now you may be thinking, “ok, but surely I could rent all of that equipment for a day.” You’re not wrong, but in the same way that putting on a lab coat and stethoscope doesn’t qualify you to perform surgery, having professional level equipment available doesn’t mean you have knowledge and experience required to operate it properly. Arguably the most important reason for hiring a professional videographer, they have spent a considerable amount of time mastering these tools and know how to best utilize them in a variety of different conditions.

2. Attention to detail

   Have you ever had the experience where you and a friend take a photo of the same exact thing, but inexplicably, one the photos looks better than the other? More likely than not, this is due to composition. How your subject and background details are arranged in the frame can have a drastic effect on the final image. A professional videographer will have a keen eye for detail and will be able to capture the best shots and angles for your video. They will also be able to edit the footage in a way that is visually appealing and tells a compelling story.

3. Flexibility

   There is no one-size-fits-all approach to videography. For instance, what works for a sit down interview won’t work for concert videography and so on. A professional videographer will be able to adapt to any situation and capture the footage you need, whether it is a live event, an interview, or a promotional video. They will also be able to work with you to develop a concept and script that aligns with your business goals.

4. Time savings

   Filming and editing a video can be a time-consuming process, especially if you are not familiar with the equipment and software. Even with years of experience, editing a one minute video can easily take hours to do when factoring in creating a unified tone and flow of the overall video, seamlessly transitioning between cuts, the addition of motion graphics, etc. By hiring a professional videographer, you can save yourself a lot of time and effort and focus on other important aspects of your business.

5. Brand image

   Think about a big brand whose advertising or social media content resonates with you. Now imagine if that same brand replaced all of that with smartphone footage with echoey audio and unflattering lighting. Would it inspire a sense of trust that this brand takes their work seriously and are professionals in their field? Probably not.

   The quality of your video can have a significant impact on your brand image. A poorly produced video can reflect poorly on your business, while a professional and polished video can help establish your brand as a leader in your industry.

6. Return on investment

   While it may cost more upfront to hire a professional videographer, the long-term return on investment can be significant. A high-quality video can help drive traffic to your website, increase conversions, and build brand awareness, all of which can lead to increased sales and revenue.

7. Versatility

   A professional videographer will be able to create a wide range of video content for your business, including promotional videos, testimonials, educational videos, and more. This versatility allows you to use video marketing to reach a wider audience and achieve a variety of business goals.

In conclusion, there are many compelling reasons why businesses should invest in a professional videographer instead of filming on their own smartphone. From access to professional equipment and expertise to time savings and a higher return on investment, the benefits of hiring a professional are clear. So if you are considering using video marketing to promote your business, be sure to invest in a professional videographer to ensure the best possible results.

Have a project that you’re ready to film? Get in touch with me to discuss the details.