How To Become a Videographer: 4 Proven Steps

Are you ready for the wild ride of videography? As a videographer, you’ll constantly face new challenges, learn to implement trends and add necessary skills to your tool belt. If you’d like to sign up for a career that’s in high demand and offers a space to get your creative juices flowing, videography may be the path for you. In this article, we share what videographers do, and we add a few tips on how to start your career. In the end, we answer commonly asked questions regarding videography. Let’s start with a comprehensive breakdown of the role of a videographer.

What Does a Videographer Do?

Videographers take charge of recording, editing, and delivering a video that fits a client’s vision. Whether you want to capture a couple’s special day with a wedding video or document your worldwide adventures through recording your travels, there are countless types of videography you can try depending on what you’re passionate about. Get a glimpse of what’s possible, and check out these common projects you can create as a videographer:

• Documentaries
• Training videos
• TV shows
• Commercials
• Live event videos
• Sports event coverage
• Corporate promotions
• Movies
• And more

After you’ve decided on what route you’d like to take in videography, it’s time to get to work. A videographer’s primary job is to capture the moment and turn it into an engaging production. The list of tasks you have to do will vary depending on the types of projects you film. Generally, your duties as a videographer will be the following:

• Meet with clients or the creative team to plan an entire shoot
• Ensure you have the proper equipment needed to succeed
• Film videos on location or in a studio
• Work with other videographers to gain the footage needed
• Edit videos after recording
• Deliver the finished product to a client or employer

With skills such as creativity and time management paired with an in-depth familiarity with editing software and camera equipment, you’ll be able to start your career as a professional videographer. Be prepared to face challenges, struggle with competition, and work extremely hard to get to where you want. To make it easier on you, here are 4 steps you can follow to become a videographer who stands apart from the crowd:

How To Become a Videographer in 4 Simple Steps

ow we admit: there are a lot more than just four steps to become a videographer. However, if we were to share every single step it takes to become a videographer, we’re pretty sure you’d get overwhelmed very quickly. That’s why we’re starting with four simple categories you can focus on as you explore videography.

1: Pursue An Education in Film

While earning a degree isn’t necessarily the answer to becoming a videographer, it can teach you vital skills and develop the solid foundation you need for this role. Start by determining what type of media you’d like to create, and then check out the general education requirements employers wish to see within that industry. If you do decide to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, make sure to add a few of these courses to your schedule:

• Cinematography
• Sound Editing
• Digital Media
• Visual Design
• Video Editing
• Film Theory
• Media Ethics
• Screenwriting
• Media Law
• Computer Science
• Journalism
• Communication
• Photography

If you’d like to avoid the college route, there are endless resources online to learn the basics of videography. Websites such as Udemy or Skillshare provide short courses on video editing, how to use equipment, filmmaking techniques, and more. You can also consider attending online or in-person workshops to meet like-minded creatives and gain experience in videography. Online certifications are another cost-effective way to gain even deeper knowledge of the ins and outs of videography. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you prioritize learning how to use video equipment and editing software, and that you constantly familiarize yourself with video design elements.

2: Buy High-End Gear And Use It Frequently

This is one step you don’t want to skip. When we say “high-end,” we don’t mean you should break the bank and buy all the latest gear. Since you’re just starting, we recommend investing in a high-quality camera and waiting on the rest of the equipment. If your budget leaves room for more, then you can start looking into a microphone, tripod, lighting, and other gadgets. However, focus on the camera first before anything else. 

Best of Lens recently compiled a list of the perfect cameras for beginner videographers. While most of them are DSLR cameras used for photography, they’re also known for being great video cameras. Save the money and start by buying one high-quality camera. Use it frequently and take footage of everything you can—even if that means documenting your week at work. Over time, you’ll become an expert at working your equipment. That’s when it will be time to upgrade your camera and move on to bigger and better things. If you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll make it far. Create videos every day, learn to fail, and always keep moving forward.

3: Gain Experience

Let’s say you’ve learned all you can by yourself, but you feel like there’s more you need to know. It’s probably time to apply for an internship or apprentice program. Internships are short programs lasting from 1-3 months, while apprenticeships can be more long-term and can last up to three years. You’ll be able to gain extensive experience, industry connections, and even deeper knowledge of professional equipment used in filmmaking. 

4: Create a Portfolio and Apply for Jobs

The last step to becoming a videographer is to build a strong portfolio that you can show to potential employers. A demo reel is often included in videography portfolios, and it contains several samples of your work and style. As you create your portfolio, add videos that apply to the type of job you want. If you’d like to apply for an event videographer position, include edited event footage within your portfolio to really wow the employer. 

After perfecting your portfolio, take a risk and put yourself out there. Even if you feel like you could improve upon your videography skills, don’t wait any longer to start applying for jobs. It’s normal to never feel 100% ready to apply for that dream job you want. However, don’t let fear stop you from pursuing what you want. You can also spend extra free time as a freelance videographer on sites such as Fiverr or Upwork. Apply for jobs suited to what you’d like to learn, and work your way up to the ideal videographer position you want.

3 FAQs About Videography

Here are a couple of answers to common questions we hear regarding videography.

  1. How long does it take to become a videographer?

The amount of time it takes to become a videographer varies from person to person. Generally, it takes about a year or two to learn videography skills and begin applying for jobs. After you start working, it can take another 3-4 years to become an expert in your profession. The more time you spend learning and working in videography roles, the more likely you are to become a highly sought-after videographer. Once you’ve spent a few years working for an employer, you can venture into freelance videography and follow your own schedule.

  2. How much do videographers make?

The average base salary for a videographer in the US is $24,345, but many videographers work hourly and are paid about $23.84 per hour. Elements that impact a videographer’s salary include experience level, what industry they work in, and where they’re located.

  3. How do I find a videographer near me?

Finding a videographer near you is more than just a Google search away. You want to find a videographer who has experience and is specialized in what you’re looking for. It’s also important to find a videographer who fits within your budget and will be able to shoot at the location you desire. Asking friends, connecting with other creatives, and digging into a videographer’s portfolio are a few methods to find a professional videographer near you.

Hire a Videographer For Your Future Project

We’ll save you the time and energy it takes to find a videographer with 5-star reviews and years of experience. Avalanche Studios team films, edits, and delivers high-grade videos for corporations and individuals alike. Companies and organizations such as America’s First Credit Union, doTERRA, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have entrusted Avalanche Studios with large-scale video productions. In our 40 years of experience, we’ve filmed everything from worldwide events to CEO interviews. 

Whatever your budget and idea is, we’re ready to work with you. Request a quote from us to gain an entire team of videographers, editors, and directors to get your film project off the ground.