Understanding the Cost of Video Production

Did you know that the average cost of a basic commercial video production are around $2,500 and can be over $50,00? However, the pricing typically depends on several factors, from the length of the video to location, graphics required, and how many cameras are used.

Because it is subjective, you can rarely find a videographer who has standard pricing for their video services. It is more common for videographers to discuss the project with the clients than offer a direct quote.

If you are wondering how your videographer calculates the cost of the video production, read on as we discuss what's important, based on our experience in the Canadian video production industry:

Factors That Contribute to Video Production Costs

As already mentioned above, there are specific considerations made before an agency or videographer can tell you how much your project is going to cost. Here are some of the factors that come into play:

1. Time Considerations

The final length of the video can directly affect the overall cost to produce the video, since a longer video usually requires more time to shoot, edit, and produce. However, a 30-second pre-roll ad can cost more than a 30-minute corporate training video.
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Many video production agencies base their price on the video’s runtime. In contrast, others set an hourly rate from the moment that they start the preparations, all through the shooting and up to the final editing.

2. Location

The location of the shoot may also contribute to the price. Often, videographers have a specific mileage radius in mind. If your site is beyond that, you should expect to pay extra for the travel fee!
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While some locations are free to use, others can vary in price from $200 to over $1500 per day.
Permits may also be required if you are shooting in a public or private location. Need help finding a location for your next shoot? Here's our list of the top filming locations in Calgary.
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3. Services Included

Videography is actually made up of several elements that require different services. For many, it comes as part of the package. Still, a part of the total cost is allotted to each of these aspects:

• Pre-Production
• Music
• Voiceover
• Editing
• Graphics
• Equipment

These are just some of the standard services that are included in a commercial video production package. Of course, depending on the need of the client, there may be more add-ons that come at an extra cost.

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How You Can Save on Video Production

The cost of video production is not always cheap, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do something to save some without compromising your video’s quality. Here are some tips that you can follow:

• Repurpose your video as much as possible to maximize your cost/investment (website, internal presentations, social media).
• Train the on-screen talent beforehand to minimize retakes. When they know their cues and lines by heart, shooting will be completed faster.
• Consider creating a shorter video by cutting out any unnecessary shots/scenes from your video.
• Have a pre-production meeting planned out. This is because you want to make sure that everyone involved in the production is on the same page. They must know the schedule by heart so that no time will be wasted (which often happens when someone’s late).
• Opt for a package instead. Keep in mind that there are videographers who offer services individually and also charge as such. For instance, you don’t have to get their uploading services because you can do that yourself. However, if yours is a lengthy project and you are also taking care of other things for your brand, you might want to consider getting a package because that may actually save your time and money.
• Try and do a local shoot. Sure, it’s nice to film in a gorgeous location, but if you’re on a budget, it’s best to scout an area locally so that you won’t have to pay extra for travel fees.

Conclusion

At this point, you now know that commercial video production can be costly, especially depending on what you need for your video. A lot is involved in the production of a video, and you are paying for the use of high-end cameras and equipment and also for people’s time and talent. Of course, if you want the final video to be worth every dollar, make sure that you work with a reputable production company!

Mustard Productions is a full-service video agency in Calgary, Alberta, that can provide your business with engaging video content that you can use to boost your brand, attract customers, and more. Contact us today to learn more about our services!