The Essential Habits of a Successful Video Producer
In this podcast episode, I explored a list of the qualities that I believe define a successful video producer. These are the traits I strive for in my own work as a video production business owner and the qualities I observe in those who are operating at the highest level. By reflecting on these, you can evaluate whether they resonate with you, whether they are traits you already embody, or whether they are areas you’d like to develop further.
Here are the top 10 habits that contribute to success in the video production industry:
1. The Ability to Drive Your Own Leads
The single most important skill that determines whether your business will succeed is the ability to generate your own leads. The best video production companies have a system in place to identify their ideal clients, reach them with the right messaging, and convert them into paying customers.
In contrast, many videographers passively wait for referrals or rely on luck. While there are services and coaches who promise to deliver leads, relying on external sources is expensive and unsustainable. Instead, mastering the skill of lead generation empowers you to control your own destiny. In my coaching, I teach customized frameworks that help video producers consistently attract high-quality leads.
2. Mastering Small, Consistent Actions
Success in video production—or any business—often comes down to consistently performing small actions over time. Unlike immediate-feedback activities (like launching an ad campaign), many of the most impactful habits yield results only after months or even years.
For example, accumulating Google reviews may not seem significant in the short term, but over time, a strong collection of testimonials builds credibility and influences prospects. The key is to develop the discipline to execute these small but powerful actions daily, even without immediate gratification.
3. Cultivating a Service Mentality
A service mentality is about prioritizing your clients’ needs and creating a business that revolves around delivering value. This mindset impacts everything—from the way you communicate, how quickly you follow up, to the effort you put into exceeding client expectations.
Some business owners worry about being taken advantage of or focus too much on their own needs. However, the most successful video producers understand that by prioritizing service and delivering outstanding results, they actually create a more profitable and sustainable business in the long run.
4. Developing Humble Confidence
True confidence doesn’t come from arrogance but from a quiet, steady assurance in your abilities. Many successful video producers project this type of confidence—calm, reliable, and professional.
Clients, especially in the B2B space, are not looking for flashy bravado. Instead, they seek dependable professionals who deliver excellent results without overpromising. Cultivating quiet confidence allows you to stand out in a crowded industry.
5. Investing in the Right Gear
While creativity and storytelling are essential, having the right equipment makes a significant difference in video quality. Many videographers either overspend on gear they don’t need or fail to invest in crucial equipment, such as quality lighting and prime lenses.
Striking the right balance ensures your work looks professional and inspires confidence in both you and your clients. Professional tools enhance your craft and help you command higher rates.
6. Committing to Lifelong Learning
The video industry evolves rapidly, and staying stagnant can lead to irrelevance. Many experienced professionals stop learning once they reach a comfortable level of competence. However, those who continuously refine their skills, stay updated with trends, and invest in their education are the ones who thrive.
Beyond filmmaking techniques, lifelong learning should extend to business areas like marketing, sales, and operations. Regularly evaluating and improving your work ensures you stay ahead of the competition.
7. Embracing a Sales Mindset
Regardless of how talented you are as a filmmaker, your primary job as a business owner is to sell video production services. Many creatives resist this idea, but sales are the lifeblood of any business. Daily prospecting, following up on leads, and refining your sales process are non-negotiable if you want to build a sustainable production company.
Shifting your mindset to embrace sales as an essential and valuable skill rather than a necessary evil can dramatically improve your success.
8. Adopting an Abundance Mindset
Operating from a mindset of abundance—believing that there are plenty of opportunities and resources available—leads to long-term success. Early in my career, I had a scarcity mindset, fearing that sharing knowledge or connections would lead to missed opportunities.
However, over time, I realized that the more I shared, helped others, and approached business with generosity, the more success I attracted. This mindset not only fosters better relationships but also encourages more opportunities and growth.
9. Investing in Yourself
Your most valuable asset is yourself. Whether it’s through reading, courses, mentorship, or personal development, continuous self-improvement compounds over time. Every investment in your skills, mindset, and knowledge directly impacts your business’s growth and longevity.
The most successful video producers actively seek knowledge, refine their processes, and learn from those who have already achieved what they aspire to.
10. Operating with a Commercial Mindset
Running a successful video production business requires balancing creativity with commercial strategy. Many creatives resist the business side, focusing solely on their craft. However, understanding pricing, profitability, client retention, and operational efficiency is just as crucial as storytelling and cinematography.
Approaching your business with a commercial mindset ensures that you not only produce great work but also build a thriving, profitable company that supports your long-term goals.
Reflection and Next Steps
These first ten habits lay the foundation for success in video production. As you reflect on them, consider which ones you already practice and which areas you’d like to improve.
In next week’s episode, I’ll cover the remaining ten habits that can take your business to the next level. In the meantime, think about the following:
Which of these habits resonate with you the most?
Are there any that challenge your current way of working?
What small action can you take today to develop one of these habits further?
If you’re looking for more guidance in growing your video production business, I offer coaching designed to help you attract, win, and retain ideal clients. My approach is built on real-world experience, and I provide frameworks to help you build a sustainable, profitable business. If you’d like to learn more, visit ryanspanger.com/coaching.