Should I Shoot Video Content For My Business or Should I Hire a Video Production Team?
If you’re reading this blog it probably means that you’re considering creating some video content for your business. We’ve found that two of the biggest barriers for creating content for your brand are:
Not knowing where to start, and,
Worrying about the cost.
Which, to be honest, completely makes sense.
I think the natural initial response to these concerns is to wonder whether or not you can create what you’re imagining yourself with your phone camera - or maybe even with your own professional camera.
As the owner of a video production company, I think one might imagine that I’d suggest that you should always hire a professional video production team like us. But honestly, that’s not always the case. We are often asked to take on projects that we ultimately decide not to because we think the client would be better off creating this kind of content on their own.
Do I know what we (or any really good video production company) can create something way better than what you’ll create yourself? 100%. But are there cases in which I think it’s probably better for you to shoot your own content anyway? Absolutely.
I think a really common example of this is when people ask us to create reels of themselves speaking on camera for Instagram or TikTok - we just don’t take these projects on because these should usually be shot on your phone and quite honestly, the cost to have a professional create that content for you is probably just not worth it.
Now, with that being said, if you’re looking for really professional and polished videos for LinkedIn or a KickStarter - that’s a different story. When quality matters to your audience (not to you – but to your audience) then you should really consider hiring a professional video production team.
Video marketing is more prevalent than ever, with 89% of businesses using video as a marketing tool in 2024 (Wyzowl).
So let’s just admit it - video matters in today’s landscape and the better it looks, the more legit your brand is going to appear. Despite the intense work that goes into high-quality content, many businesses assume that creating videos of a high caliber is as simple as hitting record on a smartphone. This misconception often leads to DIY video disasters – poor lighting, bad audio, shaky footage, and a lack of strategic messaging.
So look, do I think there are some instances in which you should be creating your own content? Sure do! But if you’re really trying to present brand in a professional manner (usually outside of Instagram or TikTok), then it’s time to take a look at some video production companies in your area that you think might be a good fit for your ideas.
The reality? Professional videography is an art form that requires skill, experience, and specialized equipment. From scripting and storyboarding to filming, lighting, sound, and post-production, every step is crucial to producing compelling content that drives engagement and conversions. Boston businesses that invest in professional videographers consistently see higher ROI than those relying on DIY methods.
So, if after reading all of this you’re still thinking you want to create your own video content (let’s say an “About Me” video for your website), be sure to take the following into consideration:
The Hidden Costs of DIY Video Production
Many businesses assume DIY video production is a cost-saving measure, but in reality, it often leads to wasted time, lost revenue, and poor audience engagement. If you have an absolute miss of a video on your website your credibility is out the window. I, along with just about everyone else I know, am literally hitting the “back” button so hard when I see a trash video on a website. People don’t want to work with or purchase from companies that don’t care about about how people perceive them.
Want to know how you can go wrong with a poorly produced video? Below are the most common issues companies encounter when attempting DIY video content:
1. Poor Lighting & Sound Quality
Mistake: Many businesses rely on natural lighting, which is inconsistent and unpredictable. Similarly, built-in smartphone microphones often capture background noise, echo, and muffled audio.
Why It Matters: Poor audio quality is the #1 factor that makes viewers stop watching a video (Wyzowl). Even if the visuals are appealing, poor sound is enough to turn potential customers away.
Professional Solution: A professional video production team brings studio-quality lighting setups and high-end audio equipment to ensure clear, crisp, and immersive sound and visuals.
2. Lack of Strategic Planning & Storytelling
Mistake: Many DIY videos lack a clear structure—there’s no proper script, direction, or editing to keep the audience engaged.
Why It Matters: 95% of video marketers say video helps people better understand their product or service (Wyzowl). Without a strong narrative, your video won’t effectively communicate your brand’s message.
Professional Solution: Boston’s professsional videographers ensure every video has a strategic purpose, clear messaging, and a strong call to action.
3. Unstable & Unprofessional Footage
Mistake: Handheld, shaky shots give off an amateurish feel, and poorly framed subjects make the video look unprofessional.
Why It Matters: A polished, high-quality look instills trust and credibility. 87% of video marketers say video has helped them increase sales (Wyzowl), which is difficult to achieve with unsteady, low-budget footage.
Professional Solution: Professional videographers use stabilizers, drones, and high-end cameras to produce polished, visually compelling footage.
4. Time-Consuming & Inefficient
Mistake: Many businesses underestimate how much time and effort goes into editing, color correction, and post-production. Think those aren’t things you’ll have to worry about if you shoot and edit your own content? You’re wrong.
Why It Matters: 37% of businesses that don’t use video cite a lack of time as their biggest barrier (Wyzowl). DIY projects often drag on for weeks, delaying marketing efforts and producing subpar results.
Professional Solution: Professional video production teams streamline the process and ensure fast turnaround without compromising quality.
Why Professional Videographers Deliver Better Results
Hiring a professional video production company like Bunker Hill Media eliminates the risks and ensures a high-quality, results-driven video. Here’s how:
Cinematic Visuals & High-End Equipment – We use professional cameras, lighting, and sound equipment to ensure every frame looks polished.
Storytelling That Converts – Our team develops a strategic narrative that aligns with your brand message and marketing goals.
Expert Editing & Post-Production – We handle color correction, sound design, motion graphics, and final touches to create a seamless, engaging video.
Efficiency & ROI – A well-produced video can generate a significant return on investment, with 89% of video marketers reporting a positive ROI from video marketing (Wyzowl).
DIY vs. Professional Video: A Side-by-Side Comparison
The Bottom Line: Invest in Professional Videography
While DIY video might seem like an easy, cost-effective solution, the reality is that bad video hurts your brand more than no video at all. Hiring a professional Boston videographer ensures your content is polished, engaging, and built for success.
At Bunker Hill Media, we work with businesses of all sizes to create cinematic, strategic, and high-impact video content. Whether you need a corporate brand video, event coverage, or a marketing campaign, we bring expertise, efficiency, and top-tier production value to every project.
Ready to take your video marketing to the next level? Let’s create something amazing. Contact Bunker Hill Media today.
