Got a Corporate Film Shoot Coming Up? Here’s How to Prepare Like a Pro
- Pearce Productions
- 20 minutes ago
- 5 min read
We get it. The idea of standing in front of a camera while trying to nail your brand message can feel… well, a little daunting. Whether you're filming a CEO message, an office walkthrough, or a product spotlight, knowing how to prepare for a corporate video shoot can make the difference between a slick, engaging production and something that feels more last-minute Zoom call than cinematic masterpiece.
Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do to get ready, without the stress.
Why Preparation Matters
Ever watched a corporate video that felt flat, forced, or just… off? Nine times out of ten, that comes down to poor planning.
The truth is, even the most visually stunning production can't rescue a muddled message, awkward delivery, or chaotic filming schedule. Preparation saves time, reduces costs, and ensures you get the most value from your investment.
First Things First: Define Your Goals
Before any camera starts rolling, ask yourself:
What is the purpose of this video?
Who is the target audience?
What do you want viewers to feel, think, or do after watching?
Example: A recruitment video should feel upbeat, people-focused, and culture-driven. A case study video for investors, on the other hand, should be more data-driven and strategic.
Top Tip: Avoid trying to say everything in one video. Focus on a single, clear objective, and save the rest for future content (which we’d be happy to help you with).
Script or No Script?
Spoiler: You need a script - or at least bullet points.
Even if you're aiming for a natural, off-the-cuff tone, having a script keeps messaging tight and avoids those awkward mid-sentence rambles.
Checklist:
Draft a clear, concise script or talking points
Use plain English, skip the jargon
Practice reading aloud for tone and flow
Time it (1-2 minutes of finished video = approx. 250-300 spoken words)
Want help crafting scripts? Check out our corporate video production services.
Or… Just Be Interviewed
If the thought of memorising lines or delivering a pitch to camera fills you with dread, you’re not alone. For a more human feel, and to take the pressure off, an interview format might be the perfect solution.
In this setup, we simply have a relaxed conversation with you off-camera, prompting natural answers that feel more like storytelling than presenting. It’s how we help clients get their message across without sounding rehearsed.
Ideal for:
Nervous speakers or first-timers
Founder stories, case studies, or client testimonials
Bringing out a more emotional, human angle
Bonus: With the right editing, we shape these responses into a compelling narrative that feels polished yet natural.
For more tips on easing those nerves, have a read of our blog: Conquering Camera Jitters.
Dress the Part (But Keep It Real)
Your appearance says a lot about your brand. But that doesn’t mean full suit-and-tie if your company vibe is relaxed and modern.
On-camera wardrobe tips:
Avoid busy patterns and stripes, they can cause flickering on camera
Stick to brand colours if possible, to give the feel a cohesive feel
Bright colours can also look fantastic on camera and help the subject stand out against neutral office backgrounds
If you wear glasses, consider switching to contact lenses for the shoot—glare and reflections from lenses can be tricky to manage
Bring a backup outfit (spills happen)
No shiny, blingy jewellery or noisy accessories - do we need to explain why?
Example: For a tech startup shoot, we often suggest clean, smart-casual looks; think navy polos, crisp shirts, or block-colour blouses. For financial firms, we may lean more formal.
Your appearance says a lot about your brand. But that doesn’t mean full suit-and-tie if your company vibe is relaxed and modern.
Prep the People Involved
Nothing derails a shoot like camera-shy team members or unclear expectations.
Key prep tasks:
Brief everyone involved on what the shoot involves and what’s expected
Schedule time slots if multiple people are being filmed
Rehearse, but don’t over-rehearse (you want confidence, not a robotic delivery)
Offer tips to help them feel relaxed; hydration, good night’s sleep, maybe a light breakfast (we’re not monsters)
Encourage people to avoid last-minute grooming; haircuts or shaves the day before can leave red marks or irritation on camera
Set the Scene
The environment matters; backgrounds, lighting, noise levels. Don’t leave this to chance.
What to consider:
Find a clean, quiet space with natural light (or allow us to light it properly)
Declutter the background, but keep some personality (awards, branding, plants)
Turn off phones, air conditioning units, or anything noisy
Silence notifications on all devices; smart watches, desktop apps, and phones included
The environment matters; backgrounds, lighting, and noise levels. Don’t leave this to chance.
Example: We film a lot of interviews in office spaces and breakout areas. With a few tweaks (rearranging furniture, adding soft background lighting, repositioning wall art and the occasional houseplant), we transform a basic space into a warm, branded set.
Tech Prep: Don’t DIY This Bit
While smartphones can shoot great footage, corporate video demands a level of polish that only professional equipment and expertise can deliver.
See our blog DIY or Hire a Pro if you're still debating this...
Pearce Productions offers:
Broadcast-quality cameras and lighting
Direction and coaching on-site
Drone filming for exterior and property shots
Post-production editing and sound design
Filming in the UK? While we primarily work in London and across the South East, Pearce Productions is equipped to film anywhere in the world. Our Surrey video production team will handle all the technical details, so you can focus on your message.
Timing Is Everything
Don’t underestimate how long filming takes. Even short videos involve retakes, adjustments, and resets.
Plan for:
Setup time (lighting, sound, equipment)
Breaks between takes
Time for reviewing footage if needed
Top Tip: If your video includes outdoor scenes, factor in weather forecasts. Rain waits for no brand.
Bonus Tips for a Seamless Shoot Day
A smooth shoot day isn’t just about big lights and fancy cameras, it’s about anticipating the little things that can make or break the experience.
Make sure everyone stays energised with snacks and water, and always designate someone on-site to act as the crew liaison.
Print off scripts or notes for last-minute checks, and be sure to get permissions sorted if you're filming in a public or private space.
Turn off AC units and close windows to avoid sound issues (and yes, it might get a little warm under the lights).
Said warm rooms causing shiny faces on camera? Bring some makeup powder, yes, even the gents.
Keep water close to avoid dry mouth, and fully charge any laptops or devices being used as props.
Need help with locations? We can assist with site scouting and permits, especially around London and the South East.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s tempting to think you can just show up and wing it, but that almost never works unless you’re a seasoned speaker. Preparation is everything. Don’t try to cram too much into one shoot day either; it’s better to capture a few high-quality takes than to rush through a packed schedule.
One of the biggest deal-breakers? Poor audio. Bad sound can ruin even the most visually stunning footage. Always trust a professional to mic you up properly and manage sound levels throughout the shoot.
How Pearce Productions Makes It Easy
We don’t just show up with a camera, we partner with you from concept to completion.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Expert pre-production planning
Script and storyboarding support
Professional kit, lighting, and sound
On-site direction and interview coaching
Aerial filming using licensed drone operators
Seamless post-production edits, graphics, and music
Need something fast? Ask about our express turnaround packages.
Ready to Nail Your Next Corporate Video?
The difference between a good video and a great one? Preparation and professionalism. At Pearce Productions, we make sure you're never left guessing.
From first meeting to final edit, we’re here to help you deliver video content that’s sharp, on-brand, and genuinely impactful.
Comments