By: Kris Schiller
Video is a tried-and-true way to advertise. It engages audiences, performs well and gets your message across like no other. The proof is in the numbers! But that ability to connect comes with a price, and every video producer’s least favorite question:
“Why is this estimate so expensive!?!?”
As the senior video producer at Trozzolo, I probably hear this question daily. And, as the mom of two kids, I am very sympathetic to this question. We are all feeling the weight of the economy and the constant pressure to do more with less, both at work and in our personal lives.
Your production budget seems high simply because there is A LOT that goes into video work. From hours on set to hours editing, to finding locations and talent, to dealing with wardrobe and props, to lights, camera, action … pulling off a successful, quality video shoot takes a lot of time, effort and money.
So, maybe the question when it comes to video production should be, “How do I get the most bang for my buck?”
Shoot More
Even though a two-day shoot is more expensive than a one-day shoot, it gives you a greater library of footage to use in creating additional edits. And it pays off in the long run – it is significantly less expensive to shoot everything all at once, rather than arranging a second shoot in the future and going through the whole process all over again.
Be Decisive
We don’t want to waste your time or your money. The more you can make quick, concrete decisions, the fewer hours we need to understand your vision. That goes for everything from pre- to postproduction. If there is something you want, a budget you have in mind or a shot you absolutely can’t live without, tell us.
Location, Location, Location
Finding the perfect spot for your shoot can take a location manager a lot of time, and location fees. If you want to save money, consider any relationships you can utilize. Does your organization have a connection at a location that may be willing to host a video crew? Does your own office have a great spot we could use? TCG has a small studio setup available for your interview needs, so consider that as an option as well.
Who Is in Front of the Camera?
Having professional talent is the key to a great production. With that being said, do you have the budget to provide background actors? Do you have access to a group of people interested in production or theater who might benefit from a day on set? This will bring down talent costs while still giving your video the polished, high production value feel you’re going for.
Give ‘Em Props
We have amazing production designers and prop masters in town. But when you have a smaller production, consider if there are props that your business has available, or is willing to purchase for the video. Custom prop items need to go through the pros, but simple, everyday items may be an Amazon click away. Be sure to bring plenty of options to set and work with our creative team to make sure everything matches the vision.
Don’t Skimp on Kids or Animals
Working with kids and animals can present unpredictable challenges. Although it costs more to cast a professional child actor or hire a trained animal and handler, it means fewer hours and less frustration when you’re trying to get the perfect shot. Time is money! And non-pro kids and pets can be a major time suck.
What’s the B-Roll?
Depending on the subject matter and purpose of your production, consider if you have material that could be used for b-roll, secondary footage that supports the main footage, in the edit. Is there a box of historical photos or VHS tapes that would help tell the story of your company’s legacy? Maybe architectural plans that could be used as a fun graphic element? With some stylistic editing, those old company event Polaroids could end up being the highlight of your video.
Know What You Need
With the rise of social media came a rise in deliverables for all the different social platforms. Are you able to get away with a :30 for both your TV and social video buy? Do you need a vertically aligned 1080×1920, or will the standard 1920×1080 suit your media buy? Is having a photographer on set essential? These deliverables add to the postproduction hours, so focus on making the best cuts that will actually get the viewership you want.
Avoid Extra Rounds of Edits
We know that you work in a complex organization with lots of thoughts. However, lots of back and forth during the edit process adds to the edit hours. If possible, try to get all decision-makers in a room together to review the rough cut at the same time. This will yield the best result, keeping the post schedule on time and on budget. We encourage in-person sessions in our edit suite, so you can review the footage and explore different options directly with the editor. Our top goal is to make sure you love your video, and that everyone’s opinions are heard.
We work with the best of the best and have professionals available to create even the most complex productions. The best videos aren’t always the most expensive, but the smartest. Coming up with a strategy to use your video production budget to its fullest is why I’m here.
So, let’s shoot!
