What Should I Ask Clients Before a Shoot?

Every project starts with a conversation—but not every conversation gets to the core of what’s needed. When clients say things like “Just something simple,” or “You know, cinematic vibes,” it’s easy to fill in the blanks with your own assumptions.

But clarity is everything. Not just for workflow—but for trust, creativity, and outcome. Here’s what we ask before every shoot at Fragrant Film (and why you probably should, too):

1. What’s the goal of this video—really?

This goes deeper than “brand awareness” or “to promote our product.”

Ask:

• What’s the core message?

• Who’s the audience?

• What do you want people to feel, do, or understand after watching it?

When a client gets clear on the goal, creative decisions get easier. If the message is fuzzy, the video will be too.

2. Where will this live?

A 60-second spot for Instagram Reels is very different from a 3-minute sizzle for a live conference.

Knowing the platform (or platforms) affects:

• Aspect ratio

• Runtime

• Captions/subtitles

• Sound design (silent autoplay?)

• Pacing and style

You can repurpose content later—but you have to plan for that upfront.

3. What references or inspiration do you have?

It’s one thing for a client to say “cinematic.” It’s another for them to mean a Nike ad when you’re picturing Terrence Malick.

Have them send:

• Example videos they like (and don’t like)

• Notes on tone, energy, and vibe

• Any brand guidelines or visual constraints

Clarifying inspiration avoids missed expectations later.

4. What’s your budget and timeline?

Don’t avoid this. Budget isn’t just a number—it defines the playground you’re creating in.

Ask:

• What’s the all-in budget, including pre and post?

• What’s the launch or delivery deadline?

• Are there any key dates (events, campaigns) it needs to hit?

The earlier you know what you’re working with, the better you can shape your crew, gear, and edit flow.

5. Who has final approval—and how many rounds are we doing?

Creative direction by committee kills momentum.

Ask:

• Who’s the final decision-maker?

• How many revisions are included?

• How will feedback be given—and when?

This sets boundaries early so no one’s frustrated mid-project. Respect goes both ways.

6. What’s already in place—and what’s still needed?

Ask what’s been secured and what’s not:

• Location(s)

• Talent or staff availability

• Scripts or outlines

• Music licensing

• Wardrobe or props

This tells you how much producing you need to build into your role—or if they need help connecting the dots.

7. How involved do you want to be in the process?

Some clients want to be on set all day. Others want to hand off the vision and get updates as needed. Both are valid, but you need to know early.

This also helps determine your rhythm of communication and approvals—so no one’s left in the dark or micromanaging.

Final Thought

Asking the right questions upfront doesn’t just avoid confusion—it builds trust. And trust is what gives you freedom to create.

At Fragrant Film, we don’t just hit record. We translate vision into impact—and that starts before we even unpack a camera.

The better the brief, the better the film.
Ask early. Listen well. Create with confidence.