Do you ever come across quotations that not only are way above your expectations, you also don’t understand what you’re being charged for?

In this video we’re going to discuss some points that will stop you from getting ripped off next time you want to get a video made.

Having worked with marketing agencies for over 5 years, I’ve made a few good friends. I often get to see quotations from other video production companies, and it's sad to see how they add random charges to fool people who don’t have much knowledge about video production, just to get more money.

Here are 5 tips that’ll help get you the right cost:

1. You must know what goes into producing a film. There’s a saying: To get things done, You need to know how it’s done to some extent. Brush up on some basic information about pre, during and post-production and essential equipment like cameras, mics, lights and tripods.

2. Get your masterclass during production: Get involved in the production process to familiarise yourself with the basic activities involved. Do not put your nose into the process, only supervise and make notes. Be the fly on the wall.

3. Ask for references related to your project. Do not get lured by fake promises or guarantees given by anyone. Review previous work done by the team to prove their competency, and understand each aspect of the production by asking questions.

4. If you find anything fishy in the quotation, get clarity until you are satisfied. At the end of the day, you are buying their service, so you should know what comes with it.

5. Watch a reference film together and do a technical breakdown to understand the production. You’re analysing what you’re buying - don’t we all do that?

Do you think you could have negotiated a deal better? Tell me below the highest you’ve ever been quoted for a project and what was your reaction to that? I’m sure there are some interesting stories to share. Comment away!

Hoping you all can get the right value for your money.