10 Questions to Ask Your Videographer in Chicago Before Hiring

Choosing the right videographer can make or break your corporate video project. A skilled professional doesn't just capture footage—they bring your brand's story to life, connect with your audience, and deliver content that drives real results.

But with so many videographers in Chicago offering different styles, services, and price points, how do you know which one is the right fit? The answer lies in asking the right questions upfront.

Whether you're planning a corporate training video, a brand story, or a product launch, understanding what to look for in a videographer is essential. This guide walks you through the top 10 questions to ask your Chicago videographer before you hire. These questions will help you assess their experience, creative approach, technical capabilities, and professionalism—so you can confidently move forward with the partner who best understands your vision.

1. What is your experience in corporate video production?

Experience matters, especially when it comes to corporate video production. Unlike event videography or wedding films, corporate projects require a deep understanding of business goals, brand messaging, and audience engagement.

Start by asking how long the videographer has been working in the corporate space. Have they produced videos for companies in your industry? Do they understand the nuances of B2B versus B2C storytelling? A videographer with a strong background in Chicago corporate video will know how to balance creativity with professionalism, ensuring your content feels polished and on-brand.

Don't hesitate to ask for specifics. How many corporate projects have they completed in the past year? What types of businesses have they worked with? Their answers will give you insight into whether they're a good match for your needs.

2. Can you share your portfolio or case studies?

A portfolio is one of the most telling indicators of a videographer's skill and style. Request to see previous work that's similar to what you're envisioning. If you're creating a corporate explainer video, for example, ask to see samples of other explainer videos they've produced.

Pay attention to production quality, pacing, and storytelling. Does the work feel modern and engaging? Is the audio clear? Are the visuals sharp and well-composed? These details matter.

Case studies can be even more valuable than a portfolio alone. They offer context about the client's goals, the videographer's creative process, and the results achieved. A Chicago business video that increased web traffic by 40% or boosted conversions tells you more than a beautiful reel ever could.

If a videographer can't provide relevant samples or case studies, that's a red flag. You want someone who can demonstrate they've done this kind of work successfully before.

3. What is your storytelling style, and how does it align with our brand?

Every videographer has a distinct storytelling style. Some lean into cinematic drama, while others favor clean, minimalist visuals. Some excel at emotional narratives, while others specialize in data-driven, informative content.

Understanding their approach is critical. Ask them to describe how they tell stories. Do they focus on interviews and testimonials? Do they prefer voiceover and B-roll? How do they handle pacing and tone?

Then, compare that style to your brand's voice. If your company values authenticity and transparency, a documentary-style approach might resonate. If you're in a fast-paced tech industry, you may want something more dynamic and visually driven.

A great videographer won't just impose their style on your project—they'll adapt to fit your brand's identity. Look for someone who asks thoughtful questions about your values, audience, and goals. That's a sign they're invested in creating something uniquely yours.

4. What gear and equipment do you use?

While equipment alone doesn't make a great videographer, it does impact the quality of your final product. Professional-grade cameras, lighting, and audio gear can elevate your video from amateur to polished.

Ask what kind of cameras they shoot with. Are they using high-resolution 4K or 6K cameras? What lenses do they prefer? Do they have stabilization equipment like gimbals or drones for dynamic shots?

Audio is just as important as visuals. Poor sound quality can ruin an otherwise strong video. Find out whether they use lavalier mics, boom mics, or both. Do they have backup equipment in case something fails?

If you're working with one of the film studios in Chicago, they may have access to even more advanced setups, including lighting rigs, green screens, and sound stages. Understanding what tools are available ensures your project has the technical foundation it needs to succeed.

5. What is your process for pre-production, filming, and post-production?

A clear, organized workflow is the backbone of any successful video production Chicago project. Ask the videographer to walk you through their entire process from start to finish.

Pre-production should include discovery calls, concept development, scriptwriting (if applicable), location scouting, and scheduling. A strong pre-production phase ensures everyone is aligned before cameras start rolling.

Filming is where the magic happens, but it also requires coordination. How many crew members will be on set? How long will the shoot take? What happens if something goes wrong?

Post-production is where raw footage becomes a finished product. Ask about their editing process, revision rounds, color grading, sound design, and delivery formats. How many revisions are included? What's the turnaround time?

A videographer who can clearly explain each phase shows they're organized, professional, and prepared to handle your project efficiently.

6. Do you offer scriptwriting and storyboarding services?

Not every project starts with a fully developed script. Sometimes, you know what you want to say but aren't sure how to say it. That's where scriptwriting and storyboarding come in.

Ask if the videographer offers these services as part of their package. A good script ensures your message is clear, concise, and compelling. Storyboarding helps visualize how each scene will look before filming begins, saving time and reducing miscommunication.

If they don't offer these services in-house, find out whether they can recommend trusted partners or collaborate with your internal team. Corporate storytelling requires careful planning, and having support in the creative development stage can make all the difference.

7. Can you provide client testimonials or references?

Word-of-mouth is powerful, especially in the world of video production. Ask for testimonials or references from past clients. What did they appreciate most about working with this videographer? Were there any challenges, and how were they resolved?

If possible, reach out to a few references directly. Ask about communication, professionalism, and the overall experience. Did the videographer meet deadlines? Were they easy to work with? Did the final product meet expectations?

Positive feedback from other Chicago businesses is a strong indicator that you're making the right choice. On the flip side, vague testimonials or a reluctance to share references should raise concerns.

8. What are your rates, and what's included in the package?

Budget is always a consideration, but it's important to understand what you're paying for. Video production pricing can vary widely depending on the scope, crew size, equipment, and post-production needs.

Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs. Does the quote include pre-production planning? How many shoot days are covered? Are revisions included, and if so, how many? What about music licensing, voiceover, or motion graphics?

Some videographers offer tiered packages, while others provide custom quotes based on your specific needs. Make sure you're comparing apples to apples when evaluating different options.

Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Quality video production is an investment that can deliver long-term value through increased brand awareness, customer engagement, and conversions.

9. What is the timeline for completing the project?

Time is often just as important as budget. Whether you're launching a new product or preparing for a conference, deadlines matter.

Ask the videographer how long each phase will take. How much lead time do they need for pre-production? How many days will filming require? What's the typical turnaround for editing and revisions?

Be upfront about your deadlines, and make sure they can realistically meet them. Rushed projects often compromise on quality, so it's better to plan ahead and allow for a reasonable timeline.

If you're working under tight constraints, some videographers may offer expedited services for an additional fee. Just make sure the final product won't suffer as a result.

10. Do you have insurance and the necessary permits for filming in Chicago?

This question might seem mundane, but it's essential. Professional videographers should carry liability insurance to protect both themselves and their clients in case of accidents or damage during a shoot.

If your project involves filming in public spaces, parks, or iconic Chicago locations, you may need permits. Ask whether the videographer is familiar with local regulations and can handle the permitting process on your behalf.

Filming in certain areas without proper authorization can result in fines or having your shoot shut down. A knowledgeable videographer will anticipate these issues and plan accordingly, ensuring your project stays on track and within legal bounds.

Make the Right Hire for Your Next Video Project

Hiring a videographer in Chicago is a significant decision, but asking the right questions makes the process much easier. By understanding their experience, creative style, technical capabilities, and professionalism, you can confidently choose a partner who aligns with your brand and goals.

Take the time to vet candidates thoroughly. Review portfolios, check references, and have honest conversations about budget, timeline, and expectations. The right videographer will bring your vision to life and deliver a final product that engages your audience and drives results.

Ready to move forward? Start reaching out to videographers today, armed with these 10 essential questions. Your next great corporate video is just a conversation away.