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iPhone vs Professionals? When DIY Photo/Video Works and When You Need the Experts

  • Writer: Steven Aprill
    Steven Aprill
  • Jul 7
  • 3 min read

We’re no strangers to a good ol’ fashioned DIY project. Whether it's fixing up the garage or launching a product video for your business, there's pride in rolling up your sleeves and figuring it out yourself. But when it comes to corporate video production, there’s a time to DIY, and a time to call in the pros (hey, that’s us).


If you’ve been wondering when to grab your iPhone and when to bring in a professional video production company, this one’s for you -


The Case for DIY: When an Internal Photo/Video Works

There are times when DIY photos or videos just makes sense. Social media thrives on authenticity, and sometimes all you need is a quick update, a behind-the-scenes moment, or a founder-led “thank you” message. With the right lighting, a decent mic, and some natural charm, even a phone video can do the trick.


Here are a few examples of when DIY works:

  • Casual Instagram Reels or TikToks

  • Quick internal team updates

  • Office culture content (birthday shoutouts, pet parades, and Friday dance-offs)

  • Time-sensitive announcements


The key here is informal, genuine, and low-risk, being authentic goes a long way. Just remember, consistency and quality still matter. Your DIY content should still feel aligned with your brand, even if it’s filmed in your breakroom.


When It’s Time to Call the Pros

Now, let’s talk about when to call in a video production and comercial photography company like Shift Visuals -


1. First Impressions Matter

If the video is introducing your brand, product, or service to new clients or partners, it’s worth investing in high-quality, branded video production. Whether it’s for your website homepage or a trade show loop, this is your chance to wow.


Brand Values Communications Video for H.J. Martin and Son
Brand Values Communications Video for H.J. Martin and Son

2. Complex Messages Need Clear Storytelling

Explaining what your company does in a compelling, clear, and concise way is tough, especially now days when attention spans are thin. That’s where storytelling video production shines. We help translate jargon and features, make it feel authentic, and highlight benefits with real emotional connection.


3. You Need Consistency Across Platforms

If you’re creating a campaign with multiple deliverables (think YouTube pre-rolls, LinkedIn ads, and website banners) you need cohesive messaging and visuals. A video production or marketing agency ensures that everything looks and sounds like it’s from the same smart brand (yours).


4. Production Value Reflects Your Business

Low-quality video can suggest a low-quality product. If your brand is premium, your video should be too. From drone shots over your Green Bay manufacturing facility to crystal-clear audio from your CEO in Appleton, professional equipment and crew make the difference.


Don’t Forget: It’s Not Just Video

As a full-service creative studio, we also offer:

  • Professional photography, including corporate headshots, product photos, and portrait photography

  • Drone photography for real estate, agriculture, and industrial clients

  • Studio and on-location photo shoots for businesses across Wisconsin.


If you’re investing in visual content, getting a cohesive look across both video and photo makes your brand look buttoned-up and intentional. And in a crowded market, that matters.


So, Should You DIY or Go Pro?

Ask yourself:

  • Is this video meant to impress or just inform?

  • Will it represent your brand to a broad audience?

  • Do you have the time and skillset to do it well?


If the stakes are low, go ahead and film it yourself. But if this content will live on your homepage, in a pitch deck, or as part of a paid ad campaign, it’s time to work with a professional production team.


Let’s Tell Your Story

Whether you're launching a new product, refreshing your website, or telling the story of your team, Shift Visuals is here to help you make it look and feel like you. We specialize in branded video content, promotional video production, and corporate photography that reflects the heart of your business.


We're proud to serve brands all across Wisconsin, from Oshkosh to Sheboygan, Green Bay to Milwaukee, we’d love to help bring your next story to life.


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