Top 7 Costly Mistakes Brands Make in International Video Production and How to Avoid Them

Brands are turning to video content to connect with audiences around the globe. However, the journey into global video production is fraught with challenges that can lead to costly mistakes. These missteps can drain budget, internal resources and lower the quality of your final product. By recognising common pitfalls and proactively avoiding them, you can ensure your video production is both effective and impactful. Here are the top seven mistakes brands often make in international video production and strategies to bypass them. At Vidsta, we have shot hundreds of global campaigns for companies in many different industries, and we have found the mistakes below are common for brands prior to partnering with us.

1. Using Page 1 Google Results and Choosing Top-Tier Production Companies in Each City

You would think going straight to Google and searching for Video Production New York City would be the best way to find a videographer for your next video shoot. The results on Page One probably look to be top-tier options! It might seem sensible to hire one of these video production companies that promises high quality - and you're right! Some of these page one options are the best of the best - with other giant global brands amongst their portfolio of clients, huge amounts of credibility. However, this decision can quickly inflate your budget, especially if you need multiple shoots in different cities. For example, hiring a renowned company can cost you upwards of 150% more than working with local talented videographers. Using our example of New York City, a page one video production company may charge between $15,000 and $30,000US for a brand video in the big apple. Next you need the same shoot type at your London, Singapore and Sydney office - you see the budget really starting to blow out by following this sourcing strategy.

At Vidsta, we have built a process identifying the top 1% of freelance cinematographers, videographers and photographers and this is how we get the same level of quality at a fraction of the cost. Usually local freelancers don't have the staff or overheads and genuinely love what they do - where those larger companies exorbitant pricing can boil down to keeping the big business running.

2. Choosing Freelancers Without the Right Expertise or Equipment

While freelancers can provide flexibility and cost savings, selecting those lacking proper skills and equipment can lead to really poor-quality videos. For instance, a freelancer without experience in event filming may miss essential nuances, undermining the project's credibility and effectiveness.

At Vidsta, we thoroughly and uncompromisingly vet freelancers before engaging. Review their portfolios for creativity and technical skills. Ensure they have access to high-end equipment like 4K cameras, professional audio and gimbals, which are vital for producing great work.

3. Relying on Cheap Options from Apps Like Upwork

Many brands gravitate toward the least expensive options on platforms like Upwork, thinking they can save money. However, cheaper choices often lead to unsatisfactory results. Research shows that projects using budget freelancers face a 60% higher chance of falling behind schedule and delivering subpar quality.

Instead of focusing only on cost, look for freelancers with glowing reviews and proven track records. Investing in experienced professionals will yield better outcomes and ultimately strengthen your brand’s reputation.

Here at Vidsta, our vetting process includes covering off on rates and pricing, ensuring we are finding high-quality professionals first and foremost.

4. Flying Main Location Videographers Around the World for International Video Production

Some brands make the costly mistake of sending their main videographer across continents, expecting consistency in the brand voice. This approach not only escalates expenses but can also delay project timelines. Plane tickets, accommodation, food, incidentals, car hire, all lead to a blown out production budget.

Utilising local talent helps streamline production and taps into their familiarity with regional customs and landscapes. For example, a local videographer will better understand how to capture culturally relevant landmarks or traditions, enhancing authenticity.

5. Failing to Provide Detailed Briefs

A vague brief can lead to miscommunication and disappointing results. When brands fail to outline their vision, key elements may be overlooked, resulting in videos that don’t align with their goals. According to industry standards, clear communication increases successful project outcomes by as much as 75%.

To avoid this pitfall, invest time in creating detailed briefs. Include desired outcomes, target demographics, specific styles, and essential messages. The more context you share, the greater the likelihood the production team will meet or exceed your expectations.

Here at Vidsta, creating a Detailed Brief for our client, shooters and editors is essential. This covers all of the key details that we'll need to look back during planning, shooting and editing. We keep it super simple with our forms and Dedicated Producers leading you through the right questions.

6. Using Various Freelancers with Different Equipment Getting Inconsistent Look & Feel

When brands hire different freelancers or video companies in multiple locations without coordinating their equipment, they risk inconsistencies in video quality. Disparities in camera settings and editing software can lead to jarring results. Research indicates that videos edited with inconsistent equipment only achieve a 40% viewer satisfaction rate.

To establish cohesion, standardize the equipment and editing processes used across teams. Investing in a single platform or agency can ensure a consistent visual style, strengthening your global brand identity.

7. Not Utilising Vidsta for International Video Production

We had to list this! Many brands struggle to source reliable video professionals and photographers, which can blow out budgets, delay projects and compromise quality. For instance, using a vetted platform like Vidsta gives access to a global network of skilled freelancers - and also one point of contact in your dedicated producer. It saves you time googling, vetting new companies, adding more suppliers to your software, briefing and re-explaining your vision over and over, booking flights/accommodation - we saw a huge need in the market nearly ten years ago and have been building a global network ever since.

Vidsta enhances production efficiency by connecting brands with qualified talent, ensuring professional output regardless of location. With Vidsta brands can significantly improve their video production quality and manage costs more effectively. We ensure when shooting in many cities for one brand that we're syncing up our creators on the same equipment for consistent skin tones and colours. We also brief our creators with camera settings and picture profiles that build on that consistency. Consistent content over time will make for a much more consistent brand presence for you online.

Final Thoughts

International video production can be intricate, particularly for brands aiming to achieve high-quality results across diverse markets. By avoiding these seven costly mistakes, such as hiring the wrong production companies and failing to share detailed briefs, brands can maximise their resources and create powerful content that resonates across the world.

To ensure seamless international video production, embrace local talent, provide thorough project outlines, and utilise Vidsta. Each project represents a chance to tell an impactful story, engage audiences, and build connections. Make the most of your video production strategy, and turn potential pitfalls into opportunities for success.