How Much Does it Cost to Make a Commercial Ad? (Video Pricing)
- 3 Main Video Ads
- Secondary Video Ad
- 8x 15s Shorts for Social Media
- Onsite & Remote Director
- Motion Graphics Animation
- Dedicated Editing Team
- Weekly Strategy Meetings
- Aerial Drone Footage
- Professional Voiceover
- Custom Soundtrack
- Brand & Storyboarding
- Creative Director
- Talent Casting
- Production Assistant Onsite
- Lighting Technician
- 2 Main Video Ads, with Camera Upgrade and Actors
- Secondary Video Ad
- 4x 15s Shorts for Social Media
- Onsite Director
- Dedicated Editing Team
- Sound Design & Color Grading
- Brand Strategy Session
- Voiceover Artist
- Studio Filming Option
- Lighting Setup & Management
- Script Supervisor Onsite
- Location Scouting & Management
Get In Touch – See the Portfolio – Increase sales with Award-Winning Brand Videos
We’ve receives over 780 million views, across 278+ video projects, contributing to $1B client sales in the last decade. Start Motion Media is currently used by over 100 of the top silicon valley and international brands for rapid, reliable marketing.
The Cost of Crafting a Commercial Video in 2024: Dollars, Dreams, and Dramatic Camerawork
Ah, 2024—the year when everything’s changing, so we are all wondering about the cost of producing a commercial video ad. Whether you’re a quaint San Francisco bakery hoping to capture the sweet magic of your sourdough or a New York tech giant unveiling the next “it” gadget, knowing how to budget your commercial video production is paramount. Here at Start Motion Media, we aim to help you unravel the mysteries of production costs, ensuring your vision is not only realized but also affordable.
Breaking Down the Components: What Influences the Cost for a TV ad?
| Service | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Pre-Production | $1,297 |
| Production | $5,597 |
| Post-Production | $2,297 |
| Talent and Crew | $297 per day |
| Location Costs | $1,997 |
| Total Estimate | $11,485 |
Breakdown of TV Video Production Costs
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Pre-Production ($1,297): This includes concept development, scriptwriting, and planning. Our team works closely with you to ensure the video captures your brand and message.
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Production ($5,597): Covering the filming process, including equipment and crew. This phase ensures that high-quality footage is captured according to your vision.
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Post-Production ($2,297): Editing, color grading, and sound mixing transform raw footage into a polished final product. This step enhances the video’s professionalism and appeal. At this stage, many brands also turn to royalty free music libraries to find affordable, high-quality tracks that elevate their ads without the complexity of licensing negotiations.
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Talent and Crew ($297 per day): Whether it’s actors, directors, or specialized crew members, our rate keeps costs manageable while securing professional talent.
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Location Costs ($1,997): Whether on-site or in a studio, this covers setup and filming location fees.
Affordable Video Production Costs?
| Service Level | $2,300 Basic Package | $4,500 Professional Package | $6,800 Premium Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video Length | Up to 30 seconds | Up to 60 seconds | Up to 90 seconds |
| Pre-Production | Script consultation and outline | Full script development and storyboard | Full script, storyboard, and shot list |
| Production Quality | Standard HD camera | High-definition 4K camera and basic lighting | 4K camera, advanced lighting, and audio setup |
| Filming Location | Single in-studio or on-location | In-studio or single on-location setup | Studio and multiple locations |
| Crew | 1 videographer and assistant | 1 videographer, assistant, and director | Full team: director, videographer, assistant |
| Talent | Option to add on | Basic talent support included | Professional talent options available |
| Editing | Basic cut and edit | Enhanced editing with transitions and text overlays | Full editing suite: transitions, effects, color correction |
| Audio | Basic audio setup | Professional audio mix | High-quality sound design and background music |
| Graphics & Titles | Simple opening title | Basic titles and text overlays | Custom motion graphics and branded titles |
| Revisions | 1 round of revisions | 2 rounds of revisions | Up to 3 rounds of revisions |
| Post-Production Timeline | 5-7 days | 7-10 days | 10-14 days |
| Additional Options | Option to add custom elements | Option for additional animations or effects | Option for detailed VFX or animated graphics |
| Delivery Format | Ready for social media | Optimized for web and social media | Multi-format delivery: social, web, high-resolution files |
Our pricing balances quality and affordability, delivering professional-grade commercial videos without breaking the bank. This structure is designed to meet industry standards while giving clients maximum value, making it easier to budget confidently for your next video project.
Making a video is like crafting the perfect sourdough—each element impacts the final taste (or in this case, cost). Here’s a glance at what can break or make your budget:
- Length of the Video: Think of this as the dough’s rising time. Short videos are budget-friendly, while longer ones need more “kneading,” i.e., editing and filming, which raises the cost.
- Production Quality: Opting for high-end cameras and a seasoned crew can take your budget to gourmet levels, akin to swapping regular flour for imported Italian wheat.
- Location of the Shoot: Whether you’re shooting amidst the bustling streets of Los Angeles or the tranquil Rockies, travel and permits will affect your budget. Local locations might keep costs from ballooning like a perfect loaf.
- Talent and Crew: The more Michelin-starred chefs in the kitchen, the higher the bill. Experienced professionals come at a premium, just like a well-aged wine.
- Post-Production: Here’s where the raw footage becomes the masterpiece, akin to a final bake. Editing, sound design, and color correction all require skill and, naturally, funds.
Budget Estimation: Navigating the Fiscal Waters
Estimating the budget for a commercial video can feel like deciphering ancient scripts, but fret not, it’s all about breaking down each phase:
- Pre-Production: This is your prep phase—storyboarding, scripting, and consultations. Costs range from $500 to $5,000 depending on complexity.
- Production: Equipment, crew, location, and talent form the main expense. It’s the thickest slice of the pie, costing $1,000 to $50,000.
- Post-Production: From editing to sound mixing, this is where the magic happens, priced between $500 to $15,000.
Table: Sample Budget Breakdown for a Commercial Video Production
| Category | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Pre-Production | $500 – $5,000 |
| Production | $1,000 – $50,000 |
| Post-Production | $500 – $15,000 |
| Talent and Crew | $100 – $1,500 per day |
| Location Costs | $200 – $10,000 |
| Total Estimate | $2,300 – $80,000+ |
Choosing Your Partner in Creative Crime: Production Companies
Finding the right production company is akin to picking the perfect wine for your dinner. Look at their portfolio, gauge their experience with similar projects, and consider client testimonials. Transparency in pricing is crucial—nobody wants to find out that the free-range chicken comes with a diamond-encrusted bill.
“You want a partner that doesn’t just take your vision but adds their own flair to create something extraordinary.” — Jessica Biel, noted Hollywood actress and producer.
Daily Grind: Typical Day Rates for Production Teams
Ever wondered how much your film crew is earning? Here’s a sneak peek into their day rates:
- Director: $1,000 – $3,000 per day
- Cinematographer: $800 – $2,000 per day
- Editor: $500 – $1,500 per day
- Sound Technician: $300 – $700 per day
Different Tracks for Different Companies: Various Ad Format Costs
Much like choosing between a cozy studio apartment and a sprawling penthouse, ad formats dictate costs:
- Social Media Ads: Quick and straightforward, these range from $300 to $10,000.
- TV Commercials: High production value is needed, with costs ranging from $10,000 to over $100,000.
- Corporate Videos: Typically $3,000 to $30,000, ideal for internal branding.
When Quality Counts: Basic vs. High-Quality Videos
A basic commercial video might only need minimal crew and equipment, costing $2,000 to $5,000. On the other hand, a high-quality production with professional actors and intricate sound design can exceed $20,000. It’s like comparing a sidewalk artist to Banksy.
Making It Pop: The Importance of Post-Production
Post-production is the cherry on top of your commercial sundae. It involves:
- Editing: Trimming the fat and piecing together the story.
- Sound Design: Adding audio elements to make the video engaging.
- Color Correction and Grading: Ensuring the visuals are crisp and vibrant.
- Visual Effects (VFX): Creating a wow factor for dynamic videos.
Trimming the Fat: Cost-Effective Video Production
Budget tight? Here’s how you can still get quality without the excessive cost:
- Limited Crew: A small, skilled team can deliver big results.
- Local Locations: Minimize travel and accommodation expenses by filming nearby.
- Simplified Scripts: Shorter, focused messages cut down production time.
- Reuse Assets: Integrating existing footage can save both time and money.
Costs by the Hour: Video Production in 2024
When paying by the hour, here’s what to expect:
- Basic Production: $50 – $150 per hour
- Advanced Production: $200 – $500 per hour
The Big Apple Effect: Location Costs
Producing in bustling cities like New York or Los Angeles can skyrocket costs due to the high demand for creative services. On the flip side, smaller towns may offer a more wallet-friendly option, much like discovering a quaint B&B off the beaten path.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the average cost for a commercial video in 2024? The average ranges from $3,000 to over $50,000, influenced by production quality and scale.
- How can I reduce my commercial video production costs? Simplify your script, use local locations, limit crew size, and negotiate with vendors.
- What’s included in post-production for a commercial video? Editing, color grading, sound design, and any necessary visual effects.
- Are there affordable options for producing a video ad? Yes, online platforms and freelancers offer budget-friendly alternatives.
- Why is choosing the right production company important? The right company aligns with your brand and budget, bringing expertise and creative insight to the table.
In the grand tapestry of commercial video production, costs are the threads that hold everything together. Whether you’re aiming for a brief, impactful message or a sprawling cinematic experience, understanding and planning your budget ensures that your vision is not just a fleeting dream but a reality. Remember, here at Start Motion Media, we’re ready to guide you through this creative journey, ensuring your production is as smooth as a San Diego sunset.
The cost of US commercial video production reduced dramatically in 2024, as a result of new efficiencies and faster technologies for video editing. While a traditional commercial ad costs between $5,000 and $10,000 per advertisement, the top directors will now work at a rate of $75-$100 per hour.
Using the tool above you can discover the affordable Start Motion Media cost of commercial video production, per minute or campaign. We are the world’s best affordable video ads production studio.
Let Start Motion Media build your video marketing content ecosystem, and let’s partner to film a commercial video advertisement on a cost-effective, fixed-unit production cost video ad, for more constant video engagement and ROAS in your future.
As we discuss on the phone, the Start Motion Media TV ad books the studio for rapid 4-6 weeks for production, planning, ideation, and customer service for up to 2 months. The typical cost is sure to increase if you add actors and locations, while certain start up promotions and more budget-basic tracks do exist.
Our Standard 3 Person Crew (With 4k camera Rig, Audio, Stabilizers, and Lights):
-Technical Director, Managing Producer
-DP Cinematographer w/ Equipment
-Assistant Director / Assistant Camera Personnel
As we describe on the phone, during our customer on-boarding call, many people are also requesting:
-2nd Camera DP w/ Equipment and Drone ($800 Staff for B Cam, +$600 Drone)
-3rd Camera Still Photographer with Live Image Stream Capability ($800 Staff + Equip)
-Extra Editing (3-4 Days) for the “reel/story/long-form overview” alternate piece ($75 per hour Editing Fee).
A) –Basic Production without drone, without a 2nd Camera, (Option A, Budget), therefore limiting the extra onset staff to 1 additional member (a total of 2 staff).
B) –Standard Production with all items noted above, and a 2nd Camera – 3 Person staff.
C) –Premium Production with 2 more Staff (for a total of 5 production company staff onset, which includes a Managing Producer to be there (Client Liaison), and the Lighting Professional with Truck and Cables (Called a Gaffer, they are the electrician and lighting artist of the video world).
Video Cost Estimator – Use our Budget Calculator Above, or contact the following administrator for custom RFP’s:
content@startmotionmedia.com
Michael Zeligs, MST
Marketing Director, Managing Producer | Start Motion Media
to learn more about our creative video production packages.
Estimating the cost of commercial video production can be a tricky business, especially when trying to keep the budget within a specific range. Depending on the complexity of the project, the costs of video production can vary greatly. However, with a focus on how many days of shooting, a cap of two actors, and minimizing location costs, it is possible to estimate the cost of a commercial video production that lands in the range of $2300 to $100,000. Others charge hourly and don’t require ongoing commitments. Those “Ongoing Content Agencies” charge, on average, $50 to $600 per hour.
How Much Does a Commercial Video Production Cost in 2024?
Creating a commercial video in 2024 requires considering various cost elements that can greatly affect the final price. Whether you’re a small business aiming to produce a one-minute ad or a larger company planning a full-scale video production, understanding these costs can help you make the best choices. Below, we’ll dive into each aspect of video production cost, from the average rates to ways you can save on budget while still getting a high-quality result.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Video Production for Ads
Several factors play a critical role in determining the cost of commercial video production. Here are the primary components that will impact your budget:
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Length of the Video: Shorter videos tend to be more affordable, while extended videos, especially those over five minutes, can increase costs significantly due to the extra filming and editing required.
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Production Quality: High-end equipment, specialized lighting, and advanced editing software will naturally add to the cost, as will hiring experienced professionals.
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Location of the Shoot: Filming in specific locations or using multiple locations increases the budget due to travel, accommodation, and permitting expenses.
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Talent and Crew: The scale of your production team (director, cinematographer, editor, actors) directly affects the budget, as skilled professionals typically command higher day rates.
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Post-Production Requirements: Editing, sound design, color correction, and adding visual effects are crucial steps and can add substantial costs, especially for complex video ads.
How to Estimate the Budget for a Commercial Video
Creating a budget estimate for a commercial video involves breaking down each step of the production process. Here’s a straightforward guide to help:
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Pre-Production: This includes the planning phase, scriptwriting, and any initial consultations. Pre-production can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the project.
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Production: Calculate the costs of equipment, crew, location fees, and talent. This phase is often the most expensive part of video production.
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Post-Production: This phase covers editing, sound mixing, and color grading. Depending on the detail and quality desired, post-production costs can vary widely.
Table: Sample Budget Breakdown for a Commercial Video Production
| Category | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Pre-Production | $500 – $5,000 |
| Production | $1,000 – $50,000 |
| Post-Production | $500 – $15,000 |
| Talent and Crew | $100 – $1,500 per day |
| Location Costs | $200 – $10,000 |
| Total Estimate | $2,300 – $80,000+ |
Choosing the Right Production Company for Commercial Videos
When selecting a production company, consider factors like their portfolio, experience with similar projects, client testimonials, and costs. Requesting a sample reel can give you a better idea of their style and quality. Look for companies that are transparent about pricing and provide a detailed breakdown of their services. This will ensure that you’re not paying for unnecessary extras.
Typical Day Rates for Video Production Teams
Day rates for production teams vary based on expertise, location, and project scope. Here are some standard rates for key team members:
- Director: $1,000 – $3,000 per day
- Cinematographer: $800 – $2,000 per day
- Editor: $500 – $1,500 per day
- Sound Technician: $300 – $700 per day
Hiring seasoned professionals may come at a premium, but it can make a significant difference in the final quality of the video.
Production Costs for Different Types of Video Ads
Different ad formats require distinct resources and expertise, impacting the budget. Here’s a brief look at cost variances:
- Social Media Ads: These are usually short and straightforward, costing between $1,000 – $10,000.
- TV Commercials: High-production TV ads, especially those for larger audiences, can range from $10,000 to over $100,000.
- Corporate Videos: For internal purposes or brand stories, these typically cost around $3,000 – $30,000.
Comparing Basic and High-Quality Commercial Videos
A basic commercial video might involve minimal crew, simple editing, and standard resolution, costing around $2,000 to $5,000. High-quality videos, which include advanced visuals, intricate sound design, and professional actors, can exceed $20,000.
Post-Production Services in Commercial Video Projects
Post-production involves transforming raw footage into a polished final product. It includes:
- Editing: Cutting and arranging footage, adding transitions, and adjusting pacing.
- Sound Design: Ensuring high-quality audio and adding sound effects if needed.
- Color Correction and Grading: Adjusting colors to enhance visuals and maintain consistency.
- Visual Effects (VFX): For more dynamic videos, adding computer-generated effects can be crucial.
Getting a Detailed Cost Estimate for Commercial Video Production
To get a precise cost estimate, consult with multiple video production companies. Ask for a comprehensive proposal that includes pre-production, production, and post-production phases. Additionally, discussing your goals and budget upfront will help you avoid any surprise costs.
Ways to Lower the Budget for a High-Quality Video
There are various strategies to produce a high-quality video while keeping costs down:
- Use a Limited Crew: Opting for a smaller but experienced team can cut down on expenses.
- Choose a Local Location: Filming locally reduces travel and accommodation costs.
- Simplify the Script: Streamlining your message and keeping the video brief can reduce production time.
- Reuse Existing Assets: If you have footage or graphics from previous projects, incorporating them can reduce the workload.
Typical Hourly Rates for Video Production in 2024
Hourly rates for video production services vary widely, but here’s a general guide:
- Basic Production: $50 – $150 per hour
- Advanced Production: $200 – $500 per hour
Location Impact on Video Production Costs
Producing a video in metropolitan areas or places with high demand for creative services (like Los Angeles or New York) tends to increase costs. Meanwhile, smaller cities may offer more budget-friendly options.
Top Cost Drivers in Commercial Video Production
Factors that quickly increase video production costs include:
- High-End Equipment: Cameras, drones, and special lighting setups
- Multiple Locations: Especially if travel is required
- Complex Post-Production: Adding VFX, 3D graphics, and detailed sound design
The Role of Post-Production in Commercial Video Creation
Post-production is crucial in achieving a professional, polished look. Quality editing can make even simple footage engaging, while professional sound design ensures that audio matches the video’s quality.
Affordable Options for Commercial Video Ads
If budget is a priority, consider using an online video production platform that allows you to create ads using templates or simple animations. Another option is working with freelancers who can handle smaller-scale productions at lower costs than a full production company.
What Services Are Included in Commercial Video Production?
Typically, production companies offer:
- Concept Development: Creating ideas and storyboards
- Scripting and Planning: Writing the script and scheduling the shoot
- Filming and Directing: Shooting the video with professional equipment
- Post-Production: Editing, sound, and color grading
Finding the Best Production Company for Your Budget
To find the right company, research those that specialize in your industry, read client reviews, and view samples of their previous work. Finding a team with a style that aligns with your brand will help you achieve the best results.
Budgeting Tips Before Starting a Commercial Video Project
Understanding your priorities is essential. Decide which aspects of the production are most important for achieving your goals and allocate funds accordingly. Keeping a contingency of 10-20% is also wise in case of unforeseen expenses.
Cost Expectations for a One-Minute Commercial Video Ad
A one-minute ad typically costs between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on production quality and post-production needs.
Steps to Save on Commercial Video Production Costs
- Keep the Video Short: Focus on delivering your message in a concise way.
- Use In-House Talent: If possible, use your team for parts of the production.
- Limit Revisions: Each editing revision adds time and expense, so try to keep changes minimal.
- Negotiate with Vendors: For larger projects, production companies may offer discounts if you negotiate.
FAQs
1. What is the average cost for a commercial video in 2024? The average cost for a commercial video in 2024 ranges from $3,000 to over $50,000, depending on quality, location, and production scale.
2. How can I reduce my commercial video production costs? You can lower costs by simplifying the script, choosing local locations, limiting crew size, and negotiating with vendors.
3. What’s included in post-production for a commercial video? Post-production includes editing, color grading, sound design, and adding any visual effects needed for the final video.
4. Are there affordable options for producing a video ad? Yes, online platforms and freelance video professionals offer affordable options, especially for short social media ads.
5. Why is choosing the right production company important? The right company brings expertise and creative insight, ensuring your video aligns with your brand while fitting your budget.
The first step in estimating the cost of a commercial video production is to determine the number of days of shooting. The number of shooting days is a key factor in estimating the cost of the project, as it will directly impact the cost of equipment rental and crew costs.
Video production costs will rely on the sort of video that you simply need, the location, crew, equipment, talent, quantity of pre-production, editing, sound, post-production, and more. the most effective approach to estimate your budget or to get an correct quote from a production company is to write down a video production transient. able to rent a production company or freelancer? it’ll additionally assist you verify the most effective thanks to act production for your budget. you’ll be able to submit your brief to many production firms and compare rates. otherwise you can come back up with an calculable budget vary and post the brief on Storyhunter, lease production companies come to you.
And if your script modifications, your video production prices will probably change as well. If you have got the resources, you ought to write the script in-house, probably with recommendation from your production company. If you have got to scout a motion-picture photography location, you’ll even have to budget in time and travel expenses for the scout.
You can avoid this by hiring a crew that’s native to the realm you wish to film and who already apprehend wherever they’ll shoot. The additional intense your pre-production is, the more it’ll value you. Production crew rates rely on their region, market, gear, and experience. If you wish more specialised crew and equipment, equivalent to for 360° video production, you could have to be compelled to pay more. Full-Service Video Production: $1,500-$300,000 (flat rate) A drone operator’s commonplace day rates will vary from $500-$1,400. Hiring talent, such as actors or hosts, can value you additional and you ought to embrace this in your budget. However, unless you’re doing a giant industrial production for TV, you most likely won’t need to rent talent. Day rates are so high as a result of they often include pre-production work also as gear costs. Since most videographers charge by the day, your video production costs can go up with additional shooting days. victimization the higher than rates, you’ll expect a 1 day shoot to value around $3,000 to $8,000 for a two-person crew. you’ll be able to pay the maximum amount cash flying out a production crew to shoot on location as on the assembly itself.
The best thanks to avoid these prices is to rent native production crews or freelancers who won’t have to be compelled to travel. Besides, even though you hire a production company that isn’t local, they’ll find yourself subcontracting the estimate to local freelancers to lower their own values. This typically may be a a part of their day rate, and it helps them defend their high-priced equipment. It additionally helps cowl the first cost of buying equipment. On an even bigger production, a crew might have to rent cameras, lighting, grips, mics, or different film gear. Most production firms can pass these rental prices directly onto you as expenses. a lot of of the work that goes into manufacturing a high-quality video is finished in post-production, so budget well for this. Motion graphics, or titles, will be separate video production costs as well. rent a Production Company or Freelancer rent a Production Company or Freelancer If your team can handle some areas of production in-house, equivalent to script, location scouting, or editing, then you’ll be able to lower your video production costs.
You can economize by hiring a contract crew (a couple shooters and sound techs) rather than a full-service production company.
List of Production Companies, for comparison:
London, United Kingdom
“The Casual Films team was great to work with.”
Make Great Video
Walnut, CA
[Image: Lemonlight]
High-Quality & Affordable Videos for Your Business
[Image: BX Films]
Video Production from Concept through Completion
Walnut Creek, CA
Videos that Drive Results
“They offer quality outcomes, great customer service, and excellent creativity.”
Director of Marketing & Communications, Vehicle Products Co
[Video: The DVI Group]
Business Video Reimagined
[Image: Bottle Rocket Media]
Video Content Agency
[Image: 5:00 Films & Media]
5:00 Films & Media
Mission-Driven Video Production
“We’re glad we got the chance to work with them on this project; they simply knew what they were doing.”
How much should I pay for a commercial video?
What is a reasonable commercial video cost?
We believe a high quality commercial video would start at cost around $7000, and go up to around $10,000 for a full length film day, with added locations and actors, which alone can sometimes cost about $1500 – some companies prefer to have their production staffed with models, other times founders are ok starring in it themselves or staffing it with normal people instead of actors.
Most companies that offer a comparable service are planing to sell you staff and services you don’t need. That’s why many companies cost $15,000 and above for a single commercial vide.
What to include in a commercial video? Here’s what our friends at video brewery recommend:
commercial is all about community. In most cases, people are funding you as much as they’re funding your project. They want to see you, hear your passion, and get excited with you. Viewers also want to make sure you seem competent and trustworthy. When you’re on camera, bring all the energy you can muster, have fun, and smile often.
- Tell viewers who you are.
- Tell viewers the story behind your project.
- Come out and ask for people’s support, explaining why you need it and what you’ll do with their money.
- Talk about how awesome your rewards are, using any images you can.
- Explain that if you don’t reach your goal, you’ll get nothing, and everyone will be sad.
And when you add in the cost of rented locations, or hiring models and talent, that is why a Commercial Video cost can get to over $10k. (Our locations and talent are much more affordable, please do reach out to find out about the Talent+Locations package and how it can fit with the above commercial video services.)
So when people are saying they can produce a video for your for $2k, you must ask – what of the above services are being left out? It basically means they are hiring camera people who are working for under market prices, which usually means they are offshore, or inexperienced. If you cant afford a video service, you might as well get a $5000 loan with no credit check.
Contact Us
Commercial Video Production Cost
[catlist id=219 numberposts=14]
$7500
Campaign Standard
$7000
Strategic Pro
$8000
Ongoing Relationship
Custom
| Get Started | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started |
| Phone and Email Pre-production | Phone and Email Pre-production | Production Planning | |
| Video Production Coaching | Video Production Coaching | Video Production Coaching | |
| Basic Script Planning | Script & Narrative Development | Script & Narrative Development | Professional Quality Videography |
| Standard Video Pre-Production | Visual Content Shotlist | Visual Content Shotlist | Visual Content Planning |
| Half-Day Video Production | Full-Day Video Production | Full-Day Video Production | On-Demand Video Production |
| 1 Video Edit & Revision | 1 Video Edit & Revision | 4 Video Edits w/ Revision | Unlimited Editing |
| Delivery of Final Video in 5 weeks | Additional 60sec Trailer + 1 Revision | Additional 60sec Trailer + 1 Revision | Strategic Marketing & PR |
| Campaign Strategy Coaching | Campaign Strategy Coaching | ||
| Campaign Launch Planning | Campaign Launch Planning | ||
| Strategic Fundraising Consulting | Unlimited Fundraising Consulting | ||
Not ready for Start Motion Media? Here’s other places to go to find good prices for videos.
1. Specialized Agencies for Small Business TV Ads
Some production agencies focus on helping small businesses create affordable TV ads:
- Simplifilm: Known for animated explainer videos, Simplifilm creates budget-friendly ads that still pack a punch.
- Promo.com: This platform offers templates and simple tools for creating professional ads. Promo’s video library and customization tools can be particularly cost-effective.
- Hibu: This agency provides local advertising solutions, including affordable TV spots for small and medium-sized businesses, often with a focus on branding and audience targeting.
2. Production Companies with Tiered Pricing
Several companies provide tiered pricing for various levels of service:
- Cineplex Media: With packages that suit different budgets, they work on ad production tailored to your market.
- Beverly Boy Productions: Known for working with startups and smaller businesses, Beverly Boy offers custom packages based on project needs, and they cover filming and editing within affordable rates.
- Cheap TV Spots: As the name suggests, this company focuses on producing affordable yet effective TV ads and is known for its no-frills approach that maximizes budget efficiency.
3. Freelance Production Options
For businesses on a tight budget, freelance marketplaces offer another cost-effective route:
- Upwork and Fiverr: These platforms feature freelance video producers who offer ad creation services at different price points, from scriptwriting to editing.
- Local Film Schools: Contacting film students or graduates can provide a way to get quality production at lower costs, as many students seek portfolio-building opportunities.
4. DIY and Online Ad Makers
Self-service ad creators allow you to produce simple TV spots with minimal costs:
- Canva: With their video templates and editing tools, you can make ads in-house for a fraction of the cost.
- Animoto: This platform allows you to easily create video ads with professional-looking templates and is suitable for quick, low-cost production.
- Renderforest: Another online video maker, Renderforest provides ad templates and editing tools for a low monthly subscription, making it budget-friendly for multiple ad creations.
Typical Cost Range for Budget TV Commercials
Low-budget TV ads can vary widely depending on the production quality and services included. Simple ads typically cost between $1,000 and $10,000, while more complex productions can reach up to $20,000. Lower-cost options often involve DIY templates or basic filming services without special effects or custom scripts.
Tips to Ensure Quality on a Budget
- Script Simplicity: Focus on a clear, concise message without over-complicating the visuals.
- Local TV Networks: Check with local networks for lower-cost ad slots, which can be more affordable than national spots.
- Stock Footage and Music: Using pre-made visuals and sound can save on production costs while maintaining quality.
Finding the right production partner or platform that balances budget with effectiveness will help your small business make the most of TV advertising, even on a limited budget.
“Working with Start Motion Media had enabled us to build a meaningful foundation with and succeed with our Indiegogo Crowdfunding. What they do is empowering, and the videos generate results. Highly recommended.”