Get a Quote: Video Post-Production Intake

Please remove this client intake form insights section before publishing.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Client Intake Form, explaining why each section is important and how it helps streamline the workflow for both the business and the client:

1. Project Overview (Understanding the Client’s Vision)

Key Insights:

• Primary Purpose of Video → Helps tailor the editing style (e.g., a social media ad requires fast cuts, while a documentary needs a slower narrative pace).
• Target Audience → Influences tone, pacing, and content (e.g., B2B videos are more formal, while Gen Z-focused content may be trendier).
• Style & Tone → Ensures alignment with brand identity (e.g., cinematic for luxury brands, energetic for fitness content).
• Brand Guidelines → Critical for consistency (prevents last-minute changes due to mismatched colors/fonts).
• Reference Videos → Provides direct visual examples of what the client likes (reduces guesswork).

Why It Matters:
Miscommunication in the early stages leads to wasted revisions. This section ensures the editor understands the core intent of the video upfront.

2. Services Needed (Customizing the Workflow)

Key Insights:

• Basic vs. Advanced Editing → Helps estimate time/costs (e.g., simple trimming vs. complex color grading).
• Audio Services → Clients often underestimate audio needs (e.g., poor-quality recordings need cleanup).
• VFX & Enhancements → Flags high-skill tasks (e.g., object removal can be time-consuming).
• Final Delivery Formats → Avoids issues like cropped Instagram videos or incorrect aspect ratios.

Why It Matters:
Clients may not know technical terms—this checklist educates them on options while ensuring nothing is overlooked.

3. Timeline & Deliverables (Setting Clear Expectations)

Key Insights:

• Deadlines → Identifies rush jobs (may require extra fees).
• Revisions → Prevents "unlimited revision" requests (sets boundaries).
• File Formats → Ensures compatibility (e.g., ProRes for broadcast, MP4 for web).
• Raw Footage Return → Some clients assume they automatically get raw files—clarify upfront.

Why It Matters:
Prevents scope creep and ensures the project stays on schedule.

4. Additional Requirements (Avoiding Surprises)

Key Insights:

• Assets Provided → Reveals if the client expects the editor to source stock footage/music (adds to cost).
• Software Preferences → Rare but critical (e.g., if a client needs project files for in-house teams).
• Special Requests → Catches unique needs (e.g., "Make our CEO look taller").

Why It Matters:
Unstated assumptions (e.g., "You’ll add subtitles, right?") derail projects. This section forces clarity.

5. Budget & Payment (Financial Alignment)

Key Insights:

• Budget Disclosure → Filters out unrealistic expectations (e.g., Hollywood effects on a $200.00 budget).
• Payment Terms → Reduces payment disputes (50/50 splits are industry standard).

Why It Matters:
Money conversations are awkward but necessary—this section makes them structured and professional.

Critical Benefits of This Form:

1. Reduces Back-and-Forth → Clients often forget details—this form captures everything in one go.
2. Sets Professional Boundaries → Clear revision limits, deadlines, and fees prevent disputes.
3. Educates Clients → Many don’t know what "color grading" or "sound mixing" means—this guides them.
4. Streamlines Quoting → Editors can accurately price based on selected services.

Pro Tip:
For high-end clients, attach a creative brief supplement with mood boards or script templates to refine vision further.