How much does a 2 minute video cost?
So, how much does a video cost?
This is a question we get asked at least once a week. Okay, maybe it’s not always about a 2 minute video, but thinking that the price of a video is based purely on its length, seems to be a common mistake that those new to working with video think.
So, we felt it’s time we explain why that’s not the case. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits all for video. Every client and every project is different and we usually have to ask more questions before being able to price a video project.
Pricing a project is usually a bit more complex than simply having a per-minute price, or even a day rate! So, we thought we’d clear this up and put together a list of factors that influence how much a video costs.
How is the price of a video worked out?
The price of a video can vary a lot depending on the complexity of the job and on the creative concept – for example, a 1-minute promotional video filmed in multiple locations and using models or actors, that requires multiple crew members and a lot of kit would come in at a higher cost. On the other hand, a 3-minute long talking-head testimonial video can be relatively simple to create. So…length is not the deciding factor!
Research and creative development.
The amount of time involved in researching, coming up with ideas, and storyboarding has an impact on costs. For example, some of our clients have in-house marketing teams who provide us with very detailed briefs and scripts and/or filming schedules. If this is the case, our role is to work with them to further develop their ideas and to bring their vision and plan to life. On the other side of the spectrum, we also work with clients who prefer us to come up with content ideas for them and sometimes to develop and propose multiple ideas. This can take days or weeks of background researching, finding stories, contributors, locations, and models.
How much pre-production work is needed?
Do we need to coordinate models, locations and a complex team? Are there any permissions that need to be obtained for locations? If so, we will need to factor in the time spent doing this work.
What type of equipment is needed for the project?
Like with anything else, there are many tools for the job and camera equipment can vary massively… We may need to ask a few questions to find out what would be the best equipment to help us bring your vision to life and achieve your goals
How many people are needed for this project?
That is, how many crew members are needed to bring the vision to life. This could include extra videographers, so that we can capture multiple angles, a drone pilot to capture stunning aerial shots, camera assistants to help with the setting up and down of kit on set or sound recordists to capture the best quality sound. No matter what’s required for the job, we can source the best crew, but this is something that needs to be factored into the budget.
How much post-production work is needed?
Some types of video involve more complex post-production than others. Going back to our first example, a talking head testimonial video needs minimal editing. On the other hand, a dynamic promotional video would take longer to edit. Elements such as sound design, graphics and animation can also add to the price as it adds on to the time it takes to create the video. For example, for this project we worked on with BBCo Headwear, we worked with a sound designer to add custom sound effects to the video to really bring the vision to life.
As you can see, pricing a video comes down to much more than just its length. Hopefully you’re now tooled up with the knowledge you need when commissioning your next video project.
Have you got an idea in mind for a video you’d like to create? Get in touch today to bring it to life.
