What I’ve Learned Working With Ad Agencies as a Freelance Videographer

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work as a freelance videographer for advertising agencies from all over the world. While I’m based in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, many of the projects I’ve been hired for have come from agencies looking for reliable local production support—someone who understands how to deliver quality work efficiently, no matter the scope.

Working with agencies at different scales has taught me a lot about expectations, budgets, and how to stay successful as a freelancer.

Pay Rates Vary... A Lot

One of the first lessons I learned is that pay rates can vary dramatically from one ad agency to another. You might quote a full-day commercial production rate—say $1,800 for a day—and then get a call from an agency that only has $200 for four hours of work.

At that point, there’s a decision to make:Do you say no? Or do you adjust your services to match the budget?

There’s no single right answer. It comes down to your own goals, availability, and what makes sense for you at that moment in your career.

Adjusting Services Instead of Lowering Standards

What I’ve learned is that compromising on price doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality—but it often means adjusting how you work.

A full-day commercial rate might include:

• A three-point lighting setup

• Higher-end audio gear

• Camera rigs like gimbals or sliders

• A multi-camera setup

For a smaller budget—like a half-day or short-form project—that same job might instead be approached with:

• A single camera setup

• A wireless lavalier microphone kit

• Natural or available lighting

  
  

In some cases, that’s exactly what the client needs. Less gear often means faster setups, fewer crew requirements, and more efficient production days. When scoped correctly, a smaller package can still deliver strong results while justifying a lower rate.

Knowing When to Say No

Of course, not every project is worth taking. One of the most important skills you develop as a freelance videographer is knowing when a job doesn’t align with your time, energy, or long-term goals. Saying no is part of running a sustainable business.

The key is making those decisions intentionally, not out of pressure.

Quality Always Comes First

No matter the budget or gear package, one principle stays the same:You’re only successful as a freelancer if you deliver the highest possible quality under any circumstances.

Advertising agencies depend on consistency. Whether they’re hiring you for a small pickup shoot or a larger commercial production, they need to trust that the final product will meet professional standards. That reliability is what leads to repeat work and long-term relationships.

Supporting Ad Agencies in the Rio Grande Valley

Being based in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas has allowed me to support ad agencies looking for local video production without the cost of flying in a full crew. I understand the region, the logistics, and how to move efficiently while still producing polished, agency-ready results.

From lean, run-and-gun setups to more structured commercial shoots, flexibility and communication are just as important as technical skill.

Looking Ahead

Working with ad agencies from around the world has been both challenging and rewarding. Every project brings a new perspective and a new way to problem-solve. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with agencies seeking dependable freelance videography services in the Rio Grande Valley, always focused on delivering quality work, no matter the scale.