Video Production Company: Combining Video and Photography
As a video production company, we understand that clients often want to make the most out of a production day. One of the most common requests we hear is whether we can capture a few still photos alongside filming. It makes sense—there are cameras on set, the lighting is ready, and everything is already in motion. While we are happy to offer both services, it is important to understand that combining video production and photography is not as simple as it may seem. Rather than discouraging clients from making this request, we aim to provide a clearer picture of what it involves. By knowing the considerations and additional requirements, you can better plan for a successful shoot that includes both services.
Video and Photography Require Different Equipment and Approaches
While cameras for video production and photography may look similar, they serve distinct purposes. Video production cameras are designed to capture motion, often prioritising smooth transitions, continuous autofocus, and high frame rates. Still photography, on the other hand, focuses on capturing single, high-resolution images that require a different set of settings, lenses, and often a unique lighting configuration.
Lighting is where the biggest differences become apparent. Video lighting is typically continuous and designed for dynamic scenes, while photography often uses strobes or flashes to freeze a moment. Switching between these two lighting setups during the same shoot can disrupt the flow of production and require time to reconfigure equipment.
This does not mean the two cannot coexist; rather, it means that planning is essential. A video production company offering both services will need to ensure that their equipment, team, and schedule can accommodate the unique demands of each medium.
The Expertise of Videographers and Photographers
It is important to recognise that videography and photography, while related, are distinct disciplines. Videographers focus on capturing movement, framing dynamic shots, and telling a story through motion. Photographers, by contrast, focus on timing, composition, and lighting to freeze a moment in time.
Although some professionals are skilled in both areas, each role demands focused attention to deliver high-quality results. When a video production company offers photography as an additional service, it often means bringing a dedicated photographer onto the set. This allows both the video and photography outputs to maintain their quality, without the distractions or compromises of multitasking.
For clients, this means that requesting multiple services can absolutely be done—but it involves additional resources to ensure the right expertise is in place.
How Photography Can Impact the Production Workflow
Adding photography to a video production day introduces new considerations for scheduling and coordination. Film sets operate on tight timelines, with every moment carefully planned to maximise efficiency. Adding still photography requires adjustments that may impact the flow of the day.
For example, a video shot might require one set of lighting, while a photograph of the same scene might need additional modifications. Similarly, the framing of a shot for video might differ from the composition needed for photography, requiring adjustments to equipment and the position of subjects. These changes, while manageable, take time.
A professional video production company will factor these adjustments into the schedule to ensure an uninterrupted workflow. However, it is important for clients to understand that combining services may extend the production day or require more preparation time.
Post-Production Workloads for Video and Photography
Delivering high-quality results for both video and photography involves significant post-production work. For video, this includes editing footage, sound design, colour grading, and creating any necessary effects. For photography, the post-production process involves retouching images, adjusting colours, and ensuring a cohesive visual style across all photos.
If the same creative team handles both video and photography, this adds to the overall workload. A professional video production company will plan for this and ensure that the final deliverables meet the highest standards. Clients should be aware, however, that the time and effort required for post-production will increase when multiple services are combined.
Budget Considerations
Requesting photography as an additional service during a video production shoot is absolutely achievable, but it does come with added costs. These costs stem from the distinct daily rate for photography, the use of additional equipment, and the extra time required both during the shoot and in post-production.
It is a common misconception that since cameras are already on set for video production, adding photography should not affect the budget. However, professional-grade results require dedicated resources for each medium. A video production company that offers both services will work with clients to outline these costs and ensure transparency.
This is not to discourage clients from combining services—it is simply to provide clarity so that expectations are aligned with the realities of production.
Setting Realistic Expectations
As a video production company, we find that the best results come from clear communication. When clients request both video and photography, it is helpful to have an open discussion about the goals of the project, the resources required, and how these services will be coordinated.
Combining video and photography can be an excellent way to maximise the value of a production day. It allows clients to receive a comprehensive package of deliverables that includes video content and still images. By planning ahead and understanding the considerations involved, clients can ensure a smooth process and high-quality results.
Conclusion
Adding photography to a video production day is not as simple as “just taking a few photos.” However, with proper planning, clear communication, and a realistic understanding of the resources required, it is entirely possible to combine these services effectively. As a professional video production company, we are here to help clients achieve their vision, whether that includes video, photography, or both. By keeping the nuances of each medium in mind, clients can make informed decisions that lead to a successful and productive shoot. Whether you are looking for video production, photography, or a combination of the two, we are ready to support your project and ensure the results exceed your expectations.
Why choose one when you can have both? Video and photography together in perfect sync—reach out to Sound Idea Digital and let’s start planning your shoot!
We are a full-service Web Development and Content Production Agency in Gauteng specialising in Video Production, Animation, eLearning Content Development, Learning Management Systems, and Content Production.
Contact us for a quote. | enquiries@soundidea.co.za | https://www.soundideavideoproduction.co.za| +27 82 491 5824 |