7 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Video Production | 84Media
Video content is one of the most powerful tools a brand can use, but getting it right takes more than just a camera and an idea. Whether you're filming in-house or working with a professional video production team in Manchester, avoiding a few key mistakes can make the difference between a polished, high-impact video and something that misses the mark.
Here are seven of the most common video production mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
1. Starting Without a Clear Objective
Before a single shot is filmed, it's crucial to know why the video is being made. Is it to drive sales? Build brand awareness? Educate? Too often, production starts without a clear goal, which leads to content that lacks focus and fails to deliver.
Tip: Define one main objective and keep it front and centre throughout the process.
2. Underestimating Pre-Production
Rushing into filming without proper planning is a fast track to blown budgets and wasted time. Scripts, storyboards, shot lists, and location planning aren’t optional they’re the foundation of a smooth shoot.
Tip: Treat pre-production as seriously as filming itself. Time spent planning will save hours (and money) later on.
3. Ignoring the Target Audience
A beautifully shot video means nothing if it doesn’t connect with the right people. Skipping audience research or trying to appeal to everyone usually results in vague, forgettable content.
Tip: Tailor the message, visuals, tone, and format to the audience you actually want to reach.
4. Poor Sound Quality
Viewers will tolerate the occasional shaky shot but bad audio? That’s a deal-breaker. Sound issues are one of the fastest ways to lose viewer trust and drop engagement.
Tip: Always use external microphones, monitor audio during shoots, and invest in sound mixing during post.
5. Trying to Do Too Much in One Video
Cramming too many ideas into one video often leaves viewers confused and overwhelmed. A clear, single message is far more effective than trying to cover everything in one go.
Tip: Focus each video on one strong message. Want to say more? Create a series.
6. Neglecting Post-Production Polish
Post-production isn’t just editing clips together it’s where the story really comes to life. Colour grading, sound design, motion graphics, subtitles... these small touches can elevate a video from amateur to professional.
Tip: Don’t treat post as an afterthought. Give it the time and resources it deserves.
7. No Distribution Plan
Even the best video won’t make an impact if no one sees it. Posting once on social media isn’t enough. A distribution strategy paid ads, organic content plans, email marketing, and repurposed clips is key to getting return on investment.
Tip: Plan your distribution before you film, so the content is built with the platform and audience in mind.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these mistakes is about more than just improving production quality it’s about respecting your audience’s time and your brand’s potential. Whether you're creating promotional content, product videos, or social campaigns, getting the details right is what separates average content from great content.
If you're planning a video production in Manchester, working with a professional team that knows the process inside and out can help you avoid costly missteps and bring your vision to life with clarity and creativity.