
5 Things to Look for in a Videographer’s Portfolio
Fortunately, the world isn’t populated by film nerds. That would result in wars being waged over whether the new Star Wars films are better than the old ones (the aren’t, by the way).
Unfortunately, this means that not everyone can tell the difference between good filmmaking and bad filmmaking, particularly when the margin of difference is slim.
Fortunately, enough of us helpful film nerds exist to guide people looking to hire someone for their video services to the best option. Here are some of our criteria for factors to consider in a filmmaker’s portfolio that may help you narrow down your choices:
- Professionalism: This is a running theme with our filmmaker recommendations, but in every list it tends to come near the top. That’s due to its significant relationship to the quality of video output you’re going to get. What does professionalism in film look like? A reliable link to the portfolio, a well-developed website, businesslike confidence when presenting their work to you (they should be eager to show themselves off).
- Detail: Or, more specifically, the attention paid to it. If they can get their videos done on time with a good attention to production design (organised and artistic objects on camera), then you want them on your team. Film quality has a lot to do with detail. Just ask Wes Anderson.
- Innovative Filmmaking: There are ways to just direct through the motions. Get someone in front of a camera, let them speak, then cut away. This is a highly effective method that has been used for decades. Unfortunately, this is a highly effective method that has been used for decades. Directors have been experimenting with incredible new ways to film even the most mundane subjects, so don’t settle for someone who settles. Look for someone whose work reflects a desire to adapt, change, and advance at every opportunity.
- Popularity: Sometimes it pays to go with the flow. If you’re caught between two options, one who gets five thousand views on their videos and one who gets ten thousand, think about why so many more people are drawn to one than the other. It may pay off to side with the opinions of others.
- Connection: You know what you want out of your video. The feelings, messages, quality, impact, you name it. These things are usually very difficult to communicate to someone else — which is why you’re making a film about it. But first, you have to feel that the filmmaker working with you can understand you. Even if everything else checks out, don’t go with someone you don’t feel can execute the film the way you want it.
Judging filmmaking quality is incredibly difficult. Very few filmmakers can be certifiably labeled better than others. But, using this approach, you can start to get a feel for how to sort out who is best to work with you.
If you’re looking for tips on how to grow your following with or without video check out our group: www.facebook.com/groups/videogrowthhackers
