How to set up a Websta profile as a videographer in New Zealand

What to put on your Websta profile page

Your profile page is where potential clients learn what you do and decide whether to contact you. It should show your name or business name, your location in New Zealand, and a photo of yourself or your work. Add a short description of what you offer - for example, wedding videography, corporate event filming, real estate video tours, or documentary work.

List your services as separate items. A videographer might offer wedding videography, event coverage, promotional videos, testimonial videos, or editing services. For each service, you can add a brief description so clients understand what they are booking. Include photos from your past work in the gallery section. New clients will use these to judge your style and quality, so pick your best examples.

Enable either online booking or quote requests depending on your workflow. If you want to discuss each job before agreeing to it, use quote requests - clients submit details of what they need, and you reply with your terms. If you offer standard packages with set dates available, you can use online booking. Websta payment processing means clients pay through the platform and the money goes to your own bank account via Stripe.

• Profile photo and gallery images from your work
• Business name and your location in New Zealand
• List of services you offer with descriptions
• Contact form or online booking or quote request option
• Brief bio explaining your videography style or experience

How clients in New Zealand find videographers

People looking for a videographer in New Zealand use the Websta marketplace by searching for the service and their location. They browse profiles of videographers in their area, look at portfolios, check contact options, and reach out to request a quote or booking. The marketplace has a small number of videographer profiles across the whole country, so standing out means having a clear service description and strong portfolio photos.

Some clients search within their city or region - Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or others - while others are willing to travel for larger projects. Your profile shows your registered location, so set it to the main town or city where you operate. If you travel for jobs, mention that in your service description so clients know you are available outside your base.

Choose your language and location

Publish your profile in English since that is the main language in New Zealand. Include your main location - the town or city where you are based. If you work across multiple regions or travel nationwide, you can mention this in your bio, but your profile location should be your home base so clients know where to find you. Use the town name that appears in Websta's location list for New Zealand.

Business registration and tax matters

Check with the New Zealand Inland Revenue Department (IRD) about registration requirements for your videography business. Most self-employed videographers must register for GST (Goods and Services Tax) once their income reaches certain thresholds. You will need an IRD number and a business tax file number to operate legally. Keep records of your income and expenses for tax purposes.

If you are operating as a sole trader, you are self-employed and responsible for your own insurance, tax payments, and business records. You can also operate as a limited company, but that is more complex. Check with your local business advisory service or the IRD website for the structure that suits your situation. Contract terms - what you will deliver, payment schedule, and cancellation policy - should be clear in writing before you start each job.

Insurance and client agreements

As a videographer, consider getting professional indemnity insurance and equipment insurance. This protects you if a client is unhappy with the work or if your equipment is damaged. Check with an insurance broker in New Zealand about what coverage is suitable for your type of videography work.

Always agree on terms with the client before filming. Clarify what deliverables they will receive - number of edited videos, length, format, revision rounds - and when they will receive them. Be clear about copyright: do you retain rights to use the footage for your portfolio, or do you hand over exclusive rights. Payment terms matter too: do you charge a deposit upfront, or the full fee before delivery. These details prevent misunderstandings later.

What to write in your first hour

Start with your name and location. Write one sentence about what type of videography you do - for example, 'Wedding videography and event coverage throughout Auckland and surrounding areas'. Add a short paragraph about your experience or style if you have it.

List three to five services you offer. For each one, write one or two sentences explaining what is included. Choose two or three of your best video examples or behind-the-scenes photos to add to your gallery. Set up either a quote request form or online booking based on how you like to work with clients. Write a simple note about how and when you respond to inquiries - for example, 'I reply to quotes within 24 hours' - so clients know what to expect.

Add your contact email or phone number. Websta provides a contact form, but some clients prefer to call or email directly. Make sure you are reachable through the method you list. Once your profile is live, you can refine it over time with more photos, client testimonials if you have them, and updates to your service list as you grow.

Growing your presence over time

After you launch, keep your profile up to date. Add new work samples to your gallery regularly so potential clients see your latest style and quality. If you expand your services - for example, adding drone footage or animation - update your service list. Respond quickly to inquiries and quote requests; clients often compare several videographers, so prompt replies make a difference.

Ask satisfied clients for permission to feature their videos or stills in your portfolio. These real examples are more powerful than descriptions. Over time, a strong portfolio on Websta can become a key part of how you attract work in your region.