Hiring a videographer? Need to know how and where to find the best candidates? Here is a comprehensive guide to finding the best videographers. Read on!
What is a freelance videographer? A freelance videographer creates video content for brands or individuals on a project-to-project basis. They work alone or with a team to record footage for anything ranging from short videos to long documentaries. Professional videographer services are essential if you want a video shot for an event.
Videos touch a personal element to anything and that is why companies and brands are getting professionals video shoots done to reach more people. This article will provide you with all the information you need to hire a videographer such as required skills, interview questions, qualifications, freelance videography rates, and job boards to find the best videographer.
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Hiring market for a videographer
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, videographers have a projected growth rate of 8% between 2018- 2028. Around 11,500 videography jobs will open up by 2028. It also predicts a growth of 18% from 2019 to 2029 in the employment of film and video operators and camera operators.
The reason behind this growth is the increase in internet-based platforms which would lead to a rise in demand for video content for these platforms. A videography project can either be handled by a team of professionals at a videographer agency or given to a videographer freelance project. The rates may vary accordingly.
Video marketing is an emerging trend with almost 81% of businesses and 90% of digital marketers using videos as a major marketing tool. It is observed that a common user spends an average of 100 minutes every day watching videos. Famous videographers are creating video content for brands to reach maximum people.
Videography is a very competitive field with opportunities coming up frequently. Videographers can work in several industries based on their expertise and skill set. Find a videographer on a freelance videographer website to hire on a project-to-project basis.
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Top 15 job titles that companies are hiring
A videographer wears many hats while performing their job. Videography offers different roles and opportunities in multiple industries based on your interest and expertise. We have listed down the top 15 job titles that companies are looking to hire in the market,
1. Senior Videographer
Senior Videographer is a mid-level videography job for people with around 2-5 years of experience in the field. They are expected to set the tone for junior team members and provide guidance. They hold the responsibility to mentor and train new members.
2. Video Production Specialist
The job role of a Video Production Specialist states that they are responsible for performing the full scope of production including tasks such as production, direction, videotaping, video edition, etc. They are expected to execute videos from idea to delivery stage.
3. Video Production assistant
Production Assistant is an entry-level job for people with less to no experience at all. The job of a Product Assistant varies from organizing set, script distribution to perform assigned administrative work. They must be able to multi-task and solve problems proactively. Besides they must possess knowledge of videography techniques and tools.
4. Event Videographer
An event videographer is required to record a live-action event on camera. They are hired by companies, brands, etc to capture special events that are used for either promotional sake or record purposes. Few Videographers also edit the footage to showcase the highlights of the event in a presentable manner.
5. Multimedia Specialist
A Multimedia Specialist helps organizations in creating multimedia packages that include sound, video, images, animation, etc. These packages can be used for education, entertainment, or information purposes. Multimedia Specialists are sought in several industries such as Retail, Telecommunication, Sales, etc.
6. Content Creator
A video content creator such as a Youtube videographer is responsible for creating videos that can be used on online platforms such as Youtube, Facebook, etc. These videos can be used for multiple purposes ranging from education to entertainment. A content creator is well versed in editing, directing, shooting, and distributing videos.
7. Video Editor
The job role entails editing and assembling raw footage into presentable finished products ready for the audience. They should be well familiar with editing software. They are required to manage camera footage, dialogue, sound, graphics, and special effects.
8. Deposition Videographer
A deposition videographer shoots and records videos for legal purposes. They are employed to record court cases, witness statements, record wills and testimonies, document deposition proceedings, and reconstruct incidents through videos to be used during court proceedings.
9. Wedding Videographer
A Wedding videographer specializes in capturing videos of weddings, receptions, and related events. This is typically done by an independent videographer who might be assisted by a team. The work is done on an event-to-event basis. Post-processing of video into a memorable film is also part of the job.
10. News Videographer
News Videographers are required to shoot compelling videos with sound and edit on non-linear equipment which can be broadcasted later on the internet. They are expected to perform multiple tasks and work under deadlines.
11. Video Camera Operators
A video camera operator is expected to capture and record videos of all aspects of a scene from film or television. A camera operator has a strong creative streak which is visible in their work. They need to be physically strong as the job requires them to physically control camera equipment.
12. Resort Videographer
A resort videographer is someone who specializes in shooting spectacular videos of resort and hotel properties for advertisement and branding purposes. These videos are broadcasted to the audiences after post-processing.
13. Creative Director
Creative Director is a high-level videography job where a person is responsible for guiding all projects under the creative department. This is a managerial role that involves responsibilities such as monitoring brand campaigns, revising presentations, shaping brand standards, etc.
14. Senior Producer
A senior producer is responsible for the management of creative digital projects in terms of budget, staffing, and talent, legal, logistics, etc. They are also required to manage the team under them and delegate duties.
15. Sports Videographer
As a sports videographer one attends all types of games to shoot videos of athletes and games to be used for broadcasting purposes on different channels later. They are required to compose and frame each shot and capture the game highlights.
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Qualifications to look for in videographers
How to be a freelance videographer? To become a pro videographer a higher education degree is not mandatory. A Bachelor’s degree in the field of cinematography, filmmaking, etc would be acceptable. If a candidate possesses a certification in videography courses then it is a plus point.
The most important thing is to be acquainted with videography tools, techniques, and terminologies. See if the videographer for hire has done any additional courses in videography or has experience in the field through internships.
Additional skills will make the candidate more reliable and perfect for the job. The top college in the U.S that grant a bachelor’s degree in videography and related fields are,
- Florida State University
- DePaul University
- Lynn University
- New York University
- Northern Michigan University
- University of Houston
- Central Washington University
- Biola University
- Academy of Art University
- Art Institute of Atlanta
Each of them offers an undergraduate program in the field of videography. The undergraduate or bachelor’s degree programs are for four years. Three of these universities, Academy of Art University, Florida State University, and New York University offer master’s programs for those looking to pursue higher studies. The yearly tuition fees vary between 5656 USD to 53308 USD annually.
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Skills to look for in a videographer
How to be a good videographer? Possession of multiple skills makes a candidate desirable for the job. Hiring videographer professionals with the following technical and non-technical skills are recommended. Recruiters looking for videographers near me, or cheap videographers near me should focus on the following skills to shortlist candidates.
1. Editing skills
Videographers for hire should demonstrate multiple skills amongst which good editing skills are desirable.
2. Video Production
A videographer is responsible for the shooting, directing, editing, and producing a video hence video production skills are advantageous.
3. Photography
Photography skills along with pro videography skills are a good combination to look for before hiring freelance videographers.
4. Adobe Creative Suite
A candidate with Adobe creative suite experience would help shoot and produce professional videos.
5. Graphic designing
Graphic designing skills are handy during video editing to add animation and sound.
6. Honesty and Integrity
These are the basic qualities professional videographers should possess. Honesty and Integrity help create a bond with the customers.
7. Creative Eye
A videographer should be creative when it comes to making videos to make exceptional end products.
8. Communication skills
While filming videography projects, a good line of communication is essential to work with clients and team members.
9. Adaptive
Adaptivity is the greatest asset in videography as not everything will go as per plan.
10. Originality
Every videographer has something unique to add when it comes to shooting a video. The originality should be reflected in the final product.
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Certifications to look for in a videographer
There are several full-time online or in-person certifications that you should look for while hiring a videographer. Here is the list of top videography certification programs for your reference.
- Videography and Photography certification is an on-campus course provided by Midlands Technical College. The duration of the course is 57 hours costing $799. This certification establishes the candidate’s knowledge in videography and related fields.
- Video Production Certificate Program by Boulder Digital Arts in Boulder, Colorado. This in-person certificate program helps a candidate in learning theory as well as hand-on techniques required to shoot a professional quality video. It is a one-week certificate program costing $1249 for members and $1299 for non-members.
- Digital Video Certificate Program by Motion Media Arts Centre. The certification has an average of 355 hours of in-person training costing between $4000-$5000 depending on your electives.
- Certificate in Film and Video Production by the University of Washington. It is a three-course certificate program where a candidate receives hands-on experience in creating visual stories. It is designed for aspiring filmmakers and video production specialists.
- Videography certification courses by Udemy. Several certifications with budget prices are available on Udemy to help a candidate learn skills and techniques sitting at home.
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Rate per hour of a videographer
According to the Bureau of Labour Services, film and video editors earn a median salary of $58,210 annually. Videographer hourly rates in the United States are around 33.36 USD. Videographers are not given any health or vacation benefits as they mostly work on an event-to-event basis.
However, companies hiring a videographer for full-time positions give such benefits to their employees. The hourly professional videographer rates vary with the number of years of experience, educational qualification, additional certifications, job location, skillset, etc.
For example, at an entry-level, the freelance videographer rates are 30 USD per hour. Whereas, at a mid-level experience, the hourly freelance cameraman rates are almost 34 USD. The freelance videographer prices at senior positions are almost USD 40 per hour.
Videographer service in the UK is available at approx USD 54.77 per hour. In European countries like Spain and Germany, a freelance cameraman charges an hourly rate of USD 26.75 on average. In India and other Asian countries, the labor costs are comparatively lower. Local videographers are available at a much lesser cost.
You can find freelance videographers at a cost as low as USD 10.28 per hour. Singapore despite being an Asian country has rates similar to the U.S and the U.K. To find videographers in your area, search for video photographers near me on online job portals or find videographers near me via offline ads in magazines or newspapers.
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Top 10 job boards to find the best videographer
How to find a videographer? Where to find a videographer? These are the most pertinent questions asked by recruiters. To look for the best videographers it is important to know the right places to post your job requirements.
These freelance job boards feature profiles of top videographers and local videographer professionals along with their online portfolios. It is easy to browse through various candidates and make a choice based on your budget, event requirement, professional videography style, etc. Here are the top 10 job boards to find the best videographer for your next event,
- PeoplePerHour
- unremot.com
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Freelancer
- Zippia
- ProductionHub
- Behance
- VideoPixie
If you are a recruiter trying to find a photographer and videographer near me, the above websites will help you to find local videographer in your region.
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Top 10 companies hiring videographer and salaries offered
We have curated a list of top 10 companies looking for a videographer for different job roles,
- Arthrex, an orthopedic medical device company, is a leader in product development. The entry-level salary offered is $48,556 yearly.
- Tegna is a digital media and marketing services company. Entry-level videographer rates are around USD 40,657 yearly.
- Buckle is an American fashion retailer company selling clothing, footwear, and accessories. It offers an initial salary of USD 33,668 yearly.
- Vivint is an American company that specializes in providing smart home services in the U.S and Canada. The salary of an entry-level videographer is approximately $47k yearly.
- Wolverine World Wide is an American footwear manufacturer. An entry-level videographer can earn around $50k per annum.
- Nexgent is a small non-profits company that aims to provide education to everyone. It pays an entry-level photographer USD 46k annually.
- Stanley Steemer is a US-based cleaning company offering 34,176 USD yearly to entry-level videographers.
- Robert Half International is a global human resource consulting firm. It offers a salary of $26.50 hourly to video production specialists.
- Winnebago Mental Health Institute is a psychiatric hospital with a staff of 700 employees. An entry-level videographer is paid 45k USD annually.
- Lang College is a private research university in New York. Entry-level videography roles are paid 45,936 USD annually.
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Top 10 interview questions for a videographer
After your search for freelance videographers near me ends, you need to conduct interviews to recruit the best and most suitable candidate. Find videographers that fit your requirements by asking these interview questions.
1. What is your videography style?
Rationale: To understand a candidate’s videography style and see if it matches your expectations.
Sample answer: The candidate must explain their working style in detail along with previous work samples. Every videographer has a unique style and it must fulfill your requirements.
2. How much experience do you have and what is your expertise?
Rationale: To assess a candidate’s expertise and knowledge based on their number of years of experience in the field.
Sample answer: A candidate should tell the number of years of relevant experience in the field of videography and mention their area of expertise.
3. Tell me how do you organize, plan and prioritize your work?
Rationale: To understand a candidate’s work ethic and process.
Sample answer: Freelance videographers should be self-organizing and professional. They should be able to explain their planning process while shooting a video and how they organize the shoot and prioritize different tasks.
4. Give an example of when you thought outside of the box and how did it help your employer?
Rationale: Gives an insight into the candidate’s creative skills and thinking ability.
Sample answer: A videographer with a creative streak adds something unique to the product which makes it stand out amongst others. See if the candidate quotes examples of giving out-of-the-box ideas and making a difference to an otherwise normal video.
5. Share an experience of dealing with a difficult person and how did you manage?
Rationale: To see if the candidate can handle pressure and solve issues.
Sample answer: See how the candidate responded in a difficult situation and what was the outcome. A professional videographer is expected to be calm while handling all sorts of client situations.
6. How do you deal with someone who is not comfortable on camera?
Rationale: A videographer along with all the other responsibilities also showcase the ability to make people feel comfortable on camera.
Sample answer: A candidate should tell you what steps they take to make people feel themselves in front of the camera while shooting.
7. What do you not like about the video production process?
Rationale: This question will help you evaluate a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses.
Sample answer: The candidate should explain with reasons what is it about the video production process that they do not like.
8. What do you think are the most important qualities of a videographer
Rationale: Helps you understand what qualities a candidate thinks are essential in a videographer.
Sample answer: The candidate should be able to list out the qualities he thinks are most crucial in a videographer and give reasons to support their answers.
9. How do you learn new trends and improve your skills?
Rationale: To see if the candidate keeps themselves updated with the latest trends and technologies.
Sample answer: The candidate should be able to quote different sources like websites, blogs, magazines, etc. which they frequently visit to learn new things.
10. What makes a perfect visual story?
Rationale: To help you see a candidate’s videography perspective.
Sample answer: A candidate should touch different aspects of videography to elaborate on what appeals to them visually.
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How do I find a freelance videographer?
Out of all the ways to hire a freelance videographer some of the most trusted and tried ones are to ask for references from friends and family. You can also post on job boards and search for photographers and videographers near me.
What should I look for when hiring a videographer?
While hiring cameraman you should look for the following aspects,
- Their portfolio and past work
- Are they a good fit?
- Professionalism and past reviews
- Pricing and quality offered
- Services provided
- Look for their expertise and specialty
- Video turn around time
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