5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Production House

It is no secret that partnering up with a good production company can elevate your visual presence to a new level (or three). But let’s be honest — finding the right production company can feel daunting. A quick google search could result in more than a dozen just in your district alone, there might be one a few steps away from your company. Every website promises stunning visuals, creative ideas, and a smooth process. But how do you actually know which one is right for you?

At FA Production, we’ve been on the other side of that conversation many times. Over the years, we’ve learned that the best partnerships start not with a great pitch, but with the right questions.

Here are five questions we believe every client should ask before hiring a production house.

1 - What kind of video do you specialize in?

This is the first, and perhaps the most important question. Some companies excel at TV commercials, others focus on documentary storytelling, corporate videos, or short digital content.

Understanding a production house's specialty helps you assess whether their creative approach aligns with your needs. A team that thrives on fast-paced product videos may not bring the same nuance to a social impact story—and vice versa.

At its core, filmmaking requires focus. Be cautious of teams that claim to do everything equally well.

2 - Are you comfortable with developing creative concepts?

Not every production company offers creative development, and that’s fine. Some simply execute based on a ready-made brief. Others (like us at FA) thrive when we can be part of the ideation stage: fixing narratives, finding visual & emotional hooks, and helping you clarify your message before the camera rolls.

This question is not a deal-breaker, it’s more like a plus, a cherry on top - a big juicy one.

3 - Have you worked on this kind of video before? Can we see some samples?

Experience matters, but relevant experience matters even more. Seeing samples from similar projects gives you an idea of tone, visual style, and production value. It also tells you how well the team adapts to different environments — from factories to mountain villages, from luxury brands to grassroots NGOs.

Past work is the best predictor of future quality. That said, if a production house hasn't tackled your exact type of project but brings genuine enthusiasm and a compelling concept, look for evidence of quality in their other work. Sometimes taking a chance on the right team pays off.

4 - Can you tell us your general workflow and process?

Every production house says they’re organized. But a good one can actually walk you through their process: from pre-production (planning, scripting, scheduling), to production (filming logistics, communication), to post-production (editing, color grading, review rounds). 

A clear workflow signals professionalism and adaptability - two things you'll want when timelines shift or challenges arise.

Bonus tip: ask who your main contact person will be. A strong project manager or director can make the entire collaboration stress-free.

5 - And one more unorthodox question: If you could describe your production house in one word, what would it be?

This one might sound simple, but it reveals a lot. The answer tells you how the team sees themselves — not just their service, but their identity.

If they say “creative,” “reliable,” or “bold,” follow up by asking why. Their response will give you a glimpse into their culture, values, and how they’ll treat your project.

Filmmaking is a people business. You’re not just hiring skilled workers, you’re building trust. The word they choose and the way they communicate it might give you their vibe, and sometimes you will just know if this is the right fit for your product.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right production partner doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right questions, you’ll quickly see who genuinely understands your goals, and who’s just trying to win the contract.

At FA Production, we believe that great films come from clarity, empathy, and honest collaboration. Whether you’re creating a brand film or a social impact story, we’d love to help you bring it to life - thoughtfully, creatively, and true to your vision.