In short
- A sample may be company work, one person's work or another team's work.
- Ask who filmed it, who edited it and whether they will be on your event.
- Check crew size and conditions match, not only the style.
- Get the answer in writing in the quote.
A sample film shows what someone made, not necessarily who will make your video. Before you rely on it, ask who filmed it, who edited it and whether they are the people assigned to your event.
Who might have made the sample?
There are three common cases, and each is fine if it is clear.
| Case | What it means | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Company work | Made by the supplier’s regular team | Which crew members, and will they be on my event? |
| Individual credit | Made by one filmmaker, perhaps before joining or while freelancing | Is this person on my event, and was the work done for this company? |
| Another team’s work | Made by a different crew the supplier credits | Will this crew film my event, or is it only showing a style? |
None of these is a problem on its own. The problem is when the sample suggests one team and a different team arrives.
Why does it matter for event filming?
Event filming depends on people. Where the camera operator stands, how well they listen to the programme and how they handle sound shape the result. Two crews with the same equipment can produce different videos.
A sample also reflects conditions. A film made by four camera operators in a large hall will look different from a film made by one operator in a small room. Match the crew size and setting, not only the style.
What should I ask?
Ask these directly, and note the answers:
- Who filmed this sample, and who edited it?
- How many people were on the crew, and what did each do?
- Is this the same crew who would film my event?
- If not, who would, and can I see their work?
- Was this made for this company, or before they joined?
If the answer is vague, that is also information. Ask for another sample made by the crew who will actually attend, so you judge the right people’s work.
If you have a favourite sample, ask the supplier to show you how the same approach would apply to your event type and venue. Our guide on how to assess an event videographer portfolio covers the wider check.
What if another team made the sample?
The sample can still show good work. It should not stand in for the team that films yours, and the plan should say who that is before the day.
Whoever you hire, ask:
- Who made the sample and what else have they filmed?
- Who is responsible for the finished video?
- Who reviews the work before you receive it?
The guide on questions about subcontracted filming and editing goes deeper into accountability.
What if the person I liked is not available?
Ask about the process. A good supplier will explain who would substitute, how the plan changes and whether you can see that person’s work. Our guide to backup crew and unavailable operators covers the contingency, and who will film and edit your event covers named responsibilities.
Put it in writing
Ask for the answer in the quote. It should say whether a named crew is assigned, whether anyone else is involved, and what the substitution process is if the plan changes. This does not need to be long. A line or two is enough to avoid misunderstanding.
You can collect all of this in the questions to ask your videographer tool, and keep notes in the portfolio review worksheet.
To hear how we would plan your event, read about our event videography service or send us your date and venue.
Tell us your date and venue, and we confirm the crew for your event before you book.
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