Videographers are artists, and like many artists, they’re not always the best businesspeople. However, if you want to make a living from your passion, understanding the business side of things is crucial. You can’t just upload your videos to YouTube and expect money to start rolling in.
The truth is, if you’re not making money from your skillset, it’s not the customers’ fault—it’s your responsibility. Video is now everywhere. Instagram, once dominated by photos, has pivoted heavily toward video, especially with Reels and Stories. If you want to make money from your passion, this post is for you.
Working with SMBs (Small and Mid-Sized Businesses)
There are numerous ways to make money as a videographer, but working with SMBs offers a great path to consistent income. Here are a few key takeaways from my experience:
1. First Impressions Matter
Most clients judge a book by its cover, and that includes how you present yourself. When approaching potential clients, especially SMBs, take the time to look professional. It doesn’t mean changing who you are, but presenting yourself in a way that builds trust.
Pro Tip: Research your client’s style and align your appearance to make the best impression.
2. Your Personality Is as Important as Your Work
When it comes to small businesses, they don’t just hire you for your skills—they hire you for the experience of working with you. Sure, your work needs to be solid, but what often brings clients back is the enjoyable experience they have working with you.
Pro Tip: Make your client feel like a star during the shoot, and they’ll come back for more.
3. The Job Isn’t Over After the Shoot
Once the video is done, help your clients get the most out of it. Many SMBs don’t know how to distribute content effectively. Offering additional services like social media management, content repurposing, or even ads can create more opportunities for you.
Pro Tip: Always offer short-form content creation after delivering long-form videos. This upsells the value and keeps the client engaged.
4. Getting New Clients
Finding clients can seem daunting, but here are three tried-and-true methods:
- Put Yourself Out There: Grow your local presence by posting beautiful local content and making connections with potential clients through Instagram.
- Walk-ins: Visit local businesses, offer them a free sample video, and create a relationship that could turn into paid work.
- Cold Emailing: If you live in a big city, cold emailing local businesses is a more advanced but effective strategy when done right.
As a videographer, learning to navigate the business side is essential. From maintaining a professional appearance to creating lasting relationships with clients, there’s much more to succeeding in this industry than just being great behind the camera.
