Every successful video or photo project follows a clear process. Having a structured workflow not only keeps projects organized on my end, but it also ensures clients know exactly what to expect at every stage. Below is a breakdown of my full workflow—from the first conversation to final delivery.
Consultation
Every project starts with a consultation. This is one of the most important steps because it sets the foundation for everything that follows.
During this conversation, we take time to understand four things:
- what the client needs?
- what do I need to successfully complete the task?
- where will the content live?
- how do they prefer for it to be delivered?
Does the client need increased social media engagements, more foot traffic into the door, or both? Do you as a videographer have the right tools to take on this task? If so, know that later on you’re going to have to sit and write a list of what you need for this shoot in the pre production process. Does the client want the content to live on their website? Social Media platforms? Or is this a TV commercial ad? The last thing to consider is how does this client prefer the content to be delivered? Are we sharing it in the cloud with them or physically handing over a drive?
After your discussion give your client a ball park price if you have not yet came up with a final price. Communicate with them that you will evaluate their needs and come up with the final price for them as well as an invoice via email and/or SMS. Make sure your invoice has a due date, state this in your email as well. Once that has been taken care of, go ahead and start your pre production process.
Pre-Production
Pre-production is where preparation meets strategy. This stage ensures that shoot day runs smoothly and efficiently.
My pre-production process includes:
- Determining what gear and equipment will be needed
- Scouting or visualizing the shoot location
- Checking the weather forecast for shoot day (especially for outdoor shoots)
- Storyboarding for videography projects (when it’s not an event shoot)
This planning phase allows me to anticipate challenges, minimize delays, and make sure nothing important is overlooked before the camera even comes out.
Production
Shoot day is where preparation pays off. Before arriving on set, I make sure I’m physically and mentally ready.
My shoot-day routine includes:
- Eating beforehand to stay focused and energized
- Charging all batteries (do this the day before shooting), gathering equipment, and organizing memory cards
- Arriving early to set up equipment and prepare the space
While shooting, I’m actively:
- Directing the subject to get natural and confident performances
- Monitoring audio quality alongside video
- Staying aware of framing, lighting, exposure, and continuity
You want to make sure all of your shots are done to the best of your ability to prevent spending more time in post production.
As soon as the shoot is complete, I move straight into asset management and editing.
Post Production
Asset Management
- All footage and assets are immediately imported onto an external SSD
- This reduces the risk of data loss and keeps everything organized
- Raw footage and assets live on the external drive, while the editing software stays on my computer.
Editing Process
My editing workflow follows a structured order:
- Importing raw footage
- Build and cut the story (refer to storyboard if you have one)
- Insert titles, graphics, and transitions
- Add and edit audio/music and SFX
- Color correct all final footage
- Watch the full project from start to finish to ensure nothing is missing and everything is exactly how you want it
This step-by-step approach keeps the edit clean, intentional, and aligned with the original goals discussed during consultation.
Once the final project is complete, it’s time to deliver the content.
There are multiple delivery options depending on the project size and client preference:
- Cloud delivery (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, etc.)
- Physical hard drive delivery for larger projects
Delivery preferences are always discussed during the consultation phase to avoid confusion or delays at the end of the project.
This workflow allows me to stay consistent, organized, and focused on results—while giving clients a smooth, professional experience from start to finish. Clear communication, proper planning, and attention to detail at every stage ensure that the final content not only looks great but serves its intended purpose.
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