How to Prepare for a Brand Video Shoot: A Checklist for Business Owners

A great brand video starts long before the camera rolls. The businesses that get the most out of a shoot are the ones that show up prepared: they know what the video is for, who's on camera and what needs to happen on the day. Use this checklist to get ready.

Before you book

• Know the goal. More leads, more hires, a launch, a website refresh? The goal shapes everything else.
• Know the audience. Who should feel something when they watch it?
• Know where it will live. Your homepage, YouTube, ads, Instagram. Each needs a different length and shape.
• Pick three key messages. The three things you want people to remember.

Two weeks out

• Choose who will be on camera and confirm their availability.
• Pick the location and the backup location.
• Share a rough schedule with your team.
• Gather any products, signage or props that should appear.
• Prepare release forms for staff and customers who will be filmed.

The week of the shoot

• Clean and declutter every space you'll film. The camera notices everything.
• Plan wardrobe: solid colors, no fine stripes, no logos that aren't yours, and a second option.
• Write bullet points, not scripts, for anyone being interviewed.
• Let neighbors, staff and customers know filming is happening.

On the day

• Turn off loud HVAC, music and anything that hums, if you can.
• Keep phones on silent and notifications off.
• Have products, uniforms and signage ready and clean.
• Build in buffer time. Good footage takes a little longer than people expect.
• Assign one person on your team to answer questions and make decisions.

Being on camera

Talk to the interviewer, not the lens. Answer in full sentences so your answer makes sense on its own. It's fine to stop and start over, because nobody sees the mistakes. And relax: the edit is where it all comes together.

After the shoot

Agree on the review process and timeline, decide who gives feedback, and list every format you'll need, like the main film, short cutdowns, vertical reels and stills. That way nothing gets missed.

Plan your shoot with us

We walk every client through this before the shoot so the day runs smoothly. See our work, read about our video services, or start a project.

Frequently asked questions

What should I wear for a brand video?

Solid colors that fit your brand, nothing with fine stripes or busy patterns, and no logos other than your own. Bring a second option in case something doesn't work on camera.

Do I need to memorize a script?

No. Most people sound more natural talking from a few bullet points. The interviewer will ask questions and you answer in your own words.

How long does a brand video shoot take?

Most brand shoots take a half day to a full day, depending on how many people, locations and scenes are involved. Plan buffer time so nobody feels rushed.