02
INVESTMENT
Why does professional video production cost what it does?
The question of cost often arises when considering professional video production. To understand the investment, it’s important to explore the three key stages: Pre-Production, Production, and Post-Production.
1. Pre-Production: The Blueprint of Your Video
Pre-production is where your video begins to take shape. It’s the planning stage where we collaborate with you to refine your vision into a workable concept. This phase involves brainstorming ideas, writing a detailed script, and sometimes, creating a storyboard to visualize each scene.
​
The script, often referred to as "The Story," is essential as it lays out the narrative, dialogues, and actions that will drive the video. It usually goes through several revisions to ensure it aligns perfectly with your goals.
​
Next, we scout locations that fit the script’s requirements and organise the talent—whether they are actors, presenters, or voice-over artists. This is also when we assemble our production crew, which could include specialists like drone pilots, camera operators, and sound engineers. Every aspect is meticulously scheduled to ensure that all elements—locations, talent, and crew—are available and coordinated. Depending on the project’s complexity, this stage can span anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
2. Production: Turning Ideas Into Reality
The production phase is where the script comes to life. It’s the most visible part of the process. Depending on the ‘set’ (indoor or outdoor), we carefully arrange lighting, position cameras, and rehearse scenes to ensure every shot is perfect.
On larger productions it involves a team of professionals, including directors, cinematographers, and sound technicians, all working to the same script – literally. This is where the professional cameras, lighting, and audio gear play their part.
​
Costs during this phase can include equipment rentals, helicopters, location fees, crew salaries, and daily operational expenses. The length of the production phase varies depending on the project’s scale, the weather and locations.
3. Post-Production: Crafting the Final Narrative
Post-production begins when the raw footage is transformed into a polished final product. This process involves editing, adding special effects, like graphics or animation and sound design.
​
Editors work to cut and arrange the footage ensuring a seamless flow that tells your story. This often involves multiple draft versions being produced for you to approve or alter. Sound engineers play a critical role here as well, mixing and balancing dialogue, sound effects, and music to enhance the overall impact of the video.
​
Colour grading is another important step, where the visual tone of the video is adjusted to match the intended mood. Whether it's making colours pop or creating a specific atmosphere, this stage ensures the video is visually cohesive.
Additionally, elements like captions and graphics may be added to complete the production Post-production can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the project's complexity. The costs in this phase cover editing software, professional editors, sound designers, and sometimes additional licensing fees for music or special effects.
Understanding the Investment
Each of these stages—pre-production, production, and post-production—requires a combination of time, expertise and resources to create a high-quality video. The investment reflects the detailed craftsmanship and professional skills involved in bringing your vision to life.
By partnering with professionals, you ensure that your video not only meets your expectations but also effectively communicates your message and resonates with your audience.
​
Like everything, the more bells and whistles you want the greater the cost.
Contact
FYI Media is always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
027 455 6339