/ Published on 2024/01/02

DEMYSTIFYING PRODUCTION COSTS

It's not all about the money.

When it comes to creating videos, the big question that pops up is, “What’s the price tag?” Let’s unravel this mystery and get down to brass tacks.

Credit: Are.na ✶✶

The Real Talk About Quality and Cost

With so much video content online, a lot of it frankly misses the mark on quality. Did you know people watched about 19 hours of online video every week in 2022? That’s a lot of screen time! So, is making videos worth it? Absolutely, but only if they’re exceptional.

Here’s a fun fact: 86% of businesses are using video for marketing, and 93% of marketers believe it’s vital for their strategy. The cherry on top? 84% of consumers might buy your product after seeing an extraordinary video about it.

But there’s a catch — churning out low-quality videos can actually tarnish your brand. Imagine this: you see a mediocre video, and suddenly, you think less of the brand. It’s worse than not having any video at all.

Investing Wisely in Video

Let’s set the record straight: You don’t need a mountain of videos; you need a few gems. Think about it. You spend a fair amount on an explainer video, but it’s relevant for years, boosting conversions and brand awareness. A video on your landing page could rocket your conversion rates by 80%. Now, that’s a return on investment worth talking about!

“So, What Does a Video Really Cost?”

The honest answer? It varies. A big-brand commercial might cost a small fortune, while a short documentary could be way more budget-friendly. The cost depends on the video type, location, crew, equipment quality, and talent involved. At Alter Set, we work with clients to balance these factors, ensuring value for money without compromising on quality.

The Real Talk About Quality and Cost

With so much video content online, a lot of it frankly misses the mark on quality. Did you know people watched about 19 hours of online video every week in 2022? That’s a lot of screen time! So, is making videos worth it? Absolutely, but only if they’re exceptional.

Here’s a fun fact: 86% of businesses are using video for marketing, and 93% of marketers believe it’s vital for their strategy. The cherry on top? 84% of consumers might buy your product after seeing an extraordinary video about it.

But there’s a catch — churning out low-quality videos can actually tarnish your brand. Imagine this: you see a mediocre video, and suddenly, you think less of the brand. It’s worse than not having any video at all.

Investing Wisely in Video

Let’s set the record straight: You don’t need a mountain of videos; you need a few gems. Think about it. You spend a fair amount on an explainer video, but it’s relevant for years, boosting conversions and brand awareness. A video on your landing page could rocket your conversion rates by 80%. Now, that’s a return on investment worth talking about!

“So, What Does a Video Really Cost?”

The honest answer? It varies. A big-brand commercial might cost a small fortune, while a short documentary could be way more budget-friendly. The cost depends on the video type, location, crew, equipment quality, and talent involved. At Alter Set, we work with clients to balance these factors, ensuring value for money without compromising on quality.

Credit: Are.na ✶✶

Breaking Down the Costs

Let’s tackle what shapes the cost of a video:

#1  —  Type of video  —  What’s your story? An animated explainer or a cinematic ad? Your choice sets the stage for the cost.

#2  —  Length matters, but not too much  —  Whether it’s one minute or five, the crew and equipment needs are similar. But don’t think longer always means pricier.

#3 — Equipment essentials — You’re paying not just for the gear but also for the expertise in using it effectively.

#4 — Time is money — Directors/DOP typically charge by the day. More shooting days? Higher costs.

#5 — Travel tales — Flying a crew out can add up quickly. Consider remote production options or hiring locally to cut down on these expenses.

#6— Pre-production — This is where the groundwork happens — scriptwriting, location scouting, and the like. At Alter Set, we often collaborate closely with our clients during pre-production, ensuring that every aspect of the groundwork aligns perfectly with your vision, potentially saving you costs in the long run.

#7  —  The crew  —  Their experience and the project’s scope play a big role in the cost. Don’t skimp here — the right crew can make or break your video.

#8  —  Actors or no actors? Big productions might need them, but for most videos, featuring real people from your team or customer base can add authenticity without the extra cost.

#9  —  Post-production  —  This is where your video comes to life. Editing, color grading, and maybe some snazzy motion graphics — budget well for this phase.

In the end, a great video is a balance of smart planning, wise spending, and a focus on quality. It’s about making every dollar count for a video that not only looks good but also tells your story effectively. Remember, an outstanding video is an investment in your brand’s future.

Breaking Down the Costs

Let’s tackle what shapes the cost of a video:

#1  —  Type of video  —  What’s your story? An animated explainer or a cinematic ad? Your choice sets the stage for the cost.

#2  —  Length matters, but not too much  —  Whether it’s one minute or five, the crew and equipment needs are similar. But don’t think longer always means pricier.

#3 — Equipment essentials — You’re paying not just for the gear but also for the expertise in using it effectively.

#4 — Time is money — Directors/DOP typically charge by the day. More shooting days? Higher costs.

#5 — Travel tales — Flying a crew out can add up quickly. Consider remote production options or hiring locally to cut down on these expenses.

#6— Pre-production — This is where the groundwork happens — scriptwriting, location scouting, and the like. At Alter Set, we often collaborate closely with our clients during pre-production, ensuring that every aspect of the groundwork aligns perfectly with your vision, potentially saving you costs in the long run.

#7  —  The crew  —  Their experience and the project’s scope play a big role in the cost. Don’t skimp here — the right crew can make or break your video.

#8  —  Actors or no actors? Big productions might need them, but for most videos, featuring real people from your team or customer base can add authenticity without the extra cost.

#9  —  Post-production  —  This is where your video comes to life. Editing, color grading, and maybe some snazzy motion graphics — budget well for this phase.

In the end, a great video is a balance of smart planning, wise spending, and a focus on quality. It’s about making every dollar count for a video that not only looks good but also tells your story effectively. Remember, an outstanding video is an investment in your brand’s future.

Let’s craft something amazing together.

Let’s craft something amazing together.