DIY or Pro? 3 Videos Small Business Owners Should Shoot Themselves (And 3 They Shouldn't) (Copy)
Hey, Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge small business owners—if you’re trying to stand out online, video is your secret weapon. But not every video needs a big production budget (and not every video should be filmed on your phone either). High-quality, professionally produced content from an experienced production team can elevate your brand, add polish and scale, and help you deliver a clear, impactful message. On the flip side, self-shot content—especially for social media—can make your business feel more authentic and approachable, helping you build lasting relationships with your audience.
Here’s our quick guide to when to grab your smartphone… and when to call in the pros.
🎬 Shoot It Yourself:
1. Quick Social Updates
Got a flash sale? New product on the shelf? Customers love behind-the-scenes moments and casual updates. These don’t need to be slick—they just need to be authentic. Grab your phone, good lighting, and keep it under 60 seconds to maximize your reach on all the social media platforms. Bonus points if you tag your location (hello, Kitchener-Waterloo visibility!).
2. Personal Thank-Yous
Small businesses thrive on relationships. A short, sincere thank-you video to your customers—or even a quick shoutout to a new client—goes a long way. Keep it real, keep it human, and remember: done is better than perfect.
3. Day-in-the-Life Stories
Showcasing your process—whether you're baking bread, designing logos, or walking dogs—builds trust. These casual snippets show people the heart of your business in Waterloo Region and can turn browsers into loyal customers.
🎥 Hire a Pro For:
1. Your Website Video
This is your digital handshake. It needs to be polished, on-brand, and clearly communicate what you do—and why you’re the best in Southern Ontario. Professional lighting, audio, and editing make all the difference here. First impressions count.
2. Educational Content
It’s one thing for a potential customer to be interested in your product, it’s another thing for them to understand it. High-quality educational content can help them connect with your product, build trust in your brand, and give them a good reason to keep coming back to your website or social feeds. But only if it looks and sounds great.
3. Promo Campaigns & Ads
If you're running Facebook ads or a video campaign for your business in the KW area, this is no time for shaky cam. A pro can help script, film, and edit something that converts views into clicks—and clicks into customers.
Wrap it Up:
Knowing when to DIY and when to call in a video production team saves time, money, and stress. Whether you're in downtown Kitchener, Uptown Waterloo, or anywhere around Cambridge, we're here to help your business shine on screen.
Ready to level up your video content? Reach out—we'd love to chat about your next shoot.