What to Charge For Your Video Work | Tomorrow's Filmmakers

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[@samuelanderson9416]

I should get into the tree cutting business instead

[@Drrezzin]

Yeah, that's a bit more realistic, then video work! There's way too many guys out there who under-charge and clients don't care about quality...it's all about price today and who has the cheapest one!

[@NoraGermain]

No. We need trees! lol

[@IMKEVPACK]

LOOOL IKKRRRR

[@AlexPizarro]

How about them TREES 🌲🌲🌲🌲

[@thegallery219]

Sam Anderson 😂🤣😂😭

[@jeffgordondirector]

This is a great video for beginners..seriously great stuff here...but how come nobody ever adds in the cost of the CREATIVE, or the WRITING..the IDEAS...especially for spots or ads! I've been doing this stuff for over 20 years...and in the last few years, most middle and lower end clients think ideas are free. Ideas are not free. The idea IS EVERYTHING!

[@mohdvideos1]

EXACTLY BROTHER 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@Digital_Act1vist]

that would go into the "experience" category

[@herodot86]

I determine the preproduction everytime. Pricing is Preproduction --> Production --> Post production

[@ribe3434]

Clients rarely say they have a budget.

[@AllThingsFilm1]

Yea, they usually want to weasel a quote out of you instead of telling you how much money they have.

[@_rhapsodist]

true story

[@chosenideahandle]

Speak for yourself. I've found it to be one of the first things they say with the word "small" in front of "budget" (right after "we want something amazing"). What that budget actually is only comes out after my first quote, and then we start eliminating what they can't afford.

[@jakepollen6839]

Exactly it’s the rule of price negotiation

[@krystiannaja8675]

(typical conversation I use with 90% success).. (after the discovery process). client: i dont have a budget, just need to know how much will it cost? me: do we need to close the streets, rent a chopper, hire top models, actors (use your imagination - has to be related to their ideas for video, but think hollywood) client: no, no... no way, its small project, we dont have that kind of money me: so whats your budget? client: (says the budget).

[@CodyPyper]

I’ve seen a lot of videos on how to price yourself, and this is by far the best one. Thanks for this content!

[@Brian-ud6uj]

For once, a well thought out, honest, straight-forward video covering this topic. I've been doing this for about a decade and you are so right. Thanks for taking the time to do this & keep up the great work!

[@josephsmilepaul3542]

Seriously. He so enunciated everything. I can't wait to have people like this on my Podcast. Just straight to point with so much information.

[@Vijaypall_96]

I did that. When I asked for the budget and they're the price was amazing. My first big client and I was shocked they paid that much. I was so happy dancing on the way out of the meeting. Proving to myself it can be done. Just need to keep it sustainable.

[@vividcolourfilms1276]

On the budget point, I have been a marketing director for 20 years, most clients will not give you their budget as they assume you will just use all of it when you can do the job cheaper. Also, a good sales practice is to create the value of your service before you even talk costs. For a videographer that is starting out and working on smaller projects, most your clients will not know exactly what they want and they gear you use will make no sense to them.

[@KwantumKitty]

Great point.

[@The-digitalrevolution]

Great jump off point for something most, often struggle with. I would also add to not forget to add a fee (without mentioning) to your budget for overhead and income. Take the cost of your day and editing time and add in 20-40% additional for actual profit for your business. That money goes toward things like insurance, business fees, marketing, transportation, etc. and actual PROFIT.

[@theadventurebiker]

Not sure how or why this video showed up in my KZbin recommended but it is exactly what I needed. I am somewhat new in the business and did a series of videos for a client earlier this year and had no idea how (or what) to actually charge them. I knew all along that I greatly undercharged them (I think they know this too), but I didn't have much of a clue as to what I should've actually charged. Thank you so much for this - it is truly helpful and insightful. next time around, I'll be better prepared etc. Cheers

[@ScottWitte]

Overall great guide with one BIG caveat: "You are still making $58 per hour." Well... only if every hour is spent filming and editing. In the real world, there has to be time spent marketing, meeting with clients and prospective clients, testing, education, doing the back office part of running a business and so more. If half of your hours are billable you are doing really, really well. How staff and agents affect the picture is another topic. You should absolutely ask about the budget upfront. My personal experience is that mostly those with a good background or experience contracting videos will have any idea that relates to reality. And many of those will be reluctant to give a budget fearing they might pay more than they have to. (This could be a regional thing.) One technique that helps is to ask for a range, maybe from the least they expect to pay to the most they possibly could. And one last note: If the client is more than a mom and pop business, pricing too low in an effort to get the job could be what causes you to lose it. "If he is charging that little, he can't be any good!"

[@ProdigiousMediaGroup]

I love the way you put that, Scott. Great input!

[@seriousjoke99]

Well put! Couldn't agree more

[@TimGanderPhotographer]

...or she ;-)

[@mattbrodersen9567]

I can't believe I used to Charge $300 for a wedding video, with a 2 person crew + Editing!!! LOL.. Well said my friend, this needs to be told.

[@YoussefHallouly]

How much do you charge now?

[@shauncloud4724]

Every new person in our industry needs to view this so they can learn to charge what they're worth and not allow themselves to be taken advantage of. The reason it's so hard for new, talented people to come into our industry is because they don't understand the significant value that they bring and, therefore, they give their skills away for next to nothing. They don't stand a chance of being able to support themselves, support a family, or pursue a career in this business if they don't understand their own value and what it's truly worth. This video did a great job bringing some clarification to this. The one thing I would add is to factor in time for pre-production. If a client is depending on you to bring your ideas to the table and you're involved in doing creative thinking, coordinating production details, finding VO talent, ETC... those things add major value as well and your time for doing those things needs to be accounted for and billed accordingly.

[@JJohnson313]

This is probably the question I see asked the most and this is the first time I've heard an answer that I can actually use. Thank you for this.

[@VinnieChu]

Wow, finally a straightforward video on this topic of estimating your rates, with actual numbers and examples. Great content!

[@KevasWorld]

I've struggled for years figuring out what to charge and of all the videos I've seen yours was BY far the most helpful. Thanks so much 🙏

[@beMOTIONdESIGN]

Good stuff! You should also be prepared for when the client asks "What do I get for my money?" So, it's also important to know how you're going to answer that question because it will come. Be clear about any revisions or deliverables that the client may require.

[@EvilChicken25]

I can't thank you enough for this video! I am a very small-time videographer, and I'm always struggling with what to charge for what I see is entry-level skill. This was a very straight-forward video that perfectly put into perspective how to view what exactly it is I'm charging for. Thank you so much!

[@ivanmadethis]

All of a sudden I have this urge to send out quotes to clients :D I've come back to this video a couple of times now. It's how I've been pricing my projects for many years and it's worked out great for me so far. I'm glad to see other videographers out there who value their time and have transparent pricing models!

[@tim.dunlap]

Perfectly on point. I took some courses that I paid hundreds for and in some of the business sections this is exactly what they teach! Great info for those out there wondering.

[@sky173]

A lot of clients think that because you fly a drone for a living, that your pay is flying because it's 'so much fun' lol

[@ETeedProductions]

This really was helpful on pricing yourself! I actually now feel more confident that what Im charging clients is fair for where I'm at, but also could use this info to charge more depending on projects and as I move up

[@darb0836]

Biggest thing missing here is the client revisions. I have quoted very accurately many times and clients see the delivered project and start changing their minds on several things, sometimes completely changing the original idea. So I would also suggest adding revisions into the contract, and that's not just editing but also correspondence, because just the time to talk on the phone or email starts to pile up.

[@carsonnimmo2]

Absolutely. Great point on revisions. I have come to expect the client to ask for changes. It's important to tell the client your hourly rate for revisions before you start the project so they don't assume it's built in to your quote.

[@ronihernandez6049]

What about licensing ?

[@JiruubGaming]

I’ve seen a ton of videos on this topic and this is by far the best explanation I’ve seen! Good stuff!

[@joshzaring]

Wow, one of the most helpful videos in this subject ever. I’m definitely not charging enough.

[@josephsmilepaul3542]

Oh my, this is one of the richest explanations I have gotten on this matter. Thanks a bunch. GOD bless you (I love your T-Shirt).

[@mikemiville3009]

Man, I wish you would have put this out about 5 years ago. I basically charge the same way, but it took a lot of trial and error to get there. Great video!

[@deongedeon]

Justus thank you so much for the breakdown! Going to apply it soon, God bless.

[@kr5746]

God bless you guys for all these videos you make for the rest of us!!! Hence why your continued success! Stay safe 🙏

[@Karisu00]

I've been trying to understand this concept and the visuals help SO much. Thank you!

[@geverniveup]

Perfectly explained. I needed to hear this....been struggling with this stage of the business. Thanks a bunch dude

[@ross1ful]

Thank you for sharing this information! By far the best pricing video I’ve come across on KZbin! God Bless!!

[@RoderickMonroe]

I'm just starting out. I've been shooting photography for a few years and recently got into videography! I appreciate this video and I love that shirt!!

[@ChrisBstation]

Thank you for making this!

[@JD-ik4gw]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for actually making this easier than literally every other KZbinr.

[@emmanuelomotoyinbo1964]

I feel blessed by the way and manner you carried through this sessions. Am grateful

[@PeterV]

Dude! This has been the best easiest to consume breakdown of what I should charge! I've been trying to determine my worth for so long! This video really is gonna help me determine what to charge! You got a new sub for sure!

[@arielbadeo5562]

Thank you so much for making this video ! I appreciate it

[@PardeMalas]

Amazing video, I’ve watched a ton of videos on the topic and that is by far the best one!

[@cfschulz]

love your hints! thx 4 sharing these with us

[@JeremySmithOfNewScotland]

Thanks for your honesty and thorough overview, this was very helpful.

[@robertharker]

Don't forget the paperwork. A written quote listing number of days filming and hours editing along with the equipment you will be providing. Most importantly a written contract signed by the client with actual dollar amounts and payment terms. Without a contract you are out of luck if the client decides to stiff you.

[@waleraji9713]

Amen Brother! God Bless as well. Thanks for that breakdown.

[@itsmeericb]

Great video! This really helped me in getting my pricing together for video projects. I am definitely hurting myself by under pricing. Real estate videography can be a tricky animal because of the market from one town/state to another. I was filming luxury homes in one state then I moved to another and I can’t charge nearly the amount I used to charge for the market in my current location.

[@19NineteenProductions]

This is the best pricing breakdown I've seen so far. The hardest part for me is determining the hourly editing costs and time.

[@Provocateurofendtimes]

We charge hourly and 10 hr block time

[@Blackmagictim]

Love the last few videos you posted. I don’t have to keep repeating this to people who ask why I’m always working and they have a red package. 😀 i want my associates to win and be employed the more work they get the more spillage I get too when they are double booked and have to call me for a fill in. Strong networks with consistent people are the life blood of success. 👏

[@JingShenKuoshu]

Possibly one of the most educational videos for this subject on the internet. Amazing man

[@jaikavi5464]

Best, clearest video on KZbin for this topic!

[@BreezeproductionsNYC]

Thank You so much 4 the knowledge! God Bless!

[@LetsGoBJONES]

As a model, when I get direct messages from clients I also do this. As what the budget is. And have general half day, full day, and Hourly/OT rates. But if it's wrong a agency not much negotiation. Glad to know I am on the right path. Great video!

[@mmaneage86]

I've been looking for this type of info everywhere. Thanks for making this! Also like how you used real world examples.

[@sighlus]

One point you made, which to me is key, is to time yourself editing. Once I did that, I had a complete understanding of my average per project type. Of course you get a curve ball now and then, but the more you do the more you can expect those things to arise.

[@michaellynchfilm]

Amazing video! Incredibly insightful and helpful - thank you man 💪🏻❤️

[@NarutoUzamakys]

I am so blessed by your videos. I have this overwhelming ambition to have a huge presence in social media to share laughs with the world and lead people to the Lord.

[@27nashid]

Thank you very much. I really needed this information.

[@DrSidewayZ]

I can’t thank you enough for all these videos I’ve learned so much so far!

[@bendaniels8572]

Thank you so much man. I needed this. I’ve had a few people ask me to shoot films for things like paintball businesses and stuff. This was such valuable information

[@blertonsaraci]

Thanks for being so opened man. Absolutely mind opening. Respect.

[@demetriustaylor7791]

This information was truly a blessing for me. God bless you and your future endeavors!

[@OnebodyCC]

Amazing video!! One of the most useful I've ever seen. Thank you!! Great advice!

[@FreddyGMedia]

That's pretty much how I price my clients now. Definitely wish this video was available a couple years ago 🤣 but you live and learn! You gotta fail a few times and get a thousand "no's" first but as long as you don't give up and continue learning, you'll be amazed at how far you can go and the jobs you'll start getting! AWESOME video bro, I subscribed. Looking forward to checking out your other stuff 🤟🏼

[@bendelaughter]

6 hours to edit a wedding?!?!? I could not even imagine lol

[@JamesDBuzzard]

I my mentor here in chicago edits during dinner time... my mind was blown first time I saw it. He edits 175+ weddings a year. 💰

[@capturingfreedom]

@@JamesDBuzzard wtf!!!! 175 a year???? He is FAST!

[@brmoogma]

I edit with my feed on my laptop while i am filming...Ok at least thats what the clients want me to do :)

[@bendelaughter]

@@JamesDBuzzard I'm sorry, but if he is editing that all himself, I have a really hard time believing it's high quality work. Not because I can't do that, but because a wedding film done right, does take time. Even if you are an amazingly fast editor, that means you crank out a wedding film every other day and do nothing else with your life. Not trying to be negative, but I just don't see that working well. But I'm also over here looking for more than 5 weddings for next year, so there's that 😂

[@emperador3006]

It's a normal thing here in the Philippines. We shoot from the preparation, ceremony to reception. And after dinner, a 4-7 minute SDE (Same-Day Edit) video will be showed to everyone through a projector or a LED Wall screen. It's very exhausting esp. to the editor lol

[@GCHUSTLEHAWAII]

Straight up asking your client what is your budget usually triggers a negative response. I had a few clients respond back with "so you know how much you can get out of me".

[@oneeyedphotographer]

Explain why you need to know.

[@ObliviousInferno]

You just need to know how to navigate it. I need to know your budget, because as a company we can scale our production to the budget. I can make a commercial for $2500, but I can also make a commercial for $25000, but the end product and what is involved to make each one are vastly different. I'd also explain the difference of what each product would look like, and the value each would have.

[@chosenideahandle]

If they can't tell you their budget and they start dancing with combative remarks like that, you might want to move onto another possible client. You want to work for/with clients that intend to find common ground on stuff, including their budget. If you're not worried about building a long term relationship with a client (weddings for example) then maybe that's different. I agree with Dylan and OneEyedPhotographer on providing some explanation with the question. I hear you though, and I'm not one to want to make anyone uncomfortable myself. I absolutely hate the money part of the business (I'm primarily a 3D animator that does some video and photography, and it's the same thing quoting that work).

[@LumecriStudio]

Not being willing to give a budget is the same as going to a car mall and saying, “I need a car. How much will that cost me?” It’s fair to ask what the budget is or at least the needs... do you want a Honda Civic or a Range Rover? You want to sell them what they’re expecting. Or you want to find out if you’re a good match. It’s no good if they’re off on either end of the spectrum: too low and not worth your time; or their budget is $100k and you’ve never done anything over $5k... you know you’re in over your head.

[@RayLenses]

Best video on KZbin about this topic, thank you!

[@redotfilms]

MAN ... This was EXTREMELY helpful. Thank you so much!.

[@KirstenQuist]

THANK YOU! This is an amazing video!!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Great video. Thanks, was just looking for an answer

[@teejaaytv]

Thank you SO MUCH for this! So much good information!

[@ethanhall208]

Okay. I- I can work with that. 😂 Great video Justus

[@RosemaryAbang]

This is fantastic. Simple and straight to the point. Best video I have watched on this topic!

[@leesops710]

Thank you just what I was looking for Great job.

[@CarlosGarcia-yz4ym]

One of the most useful videos I’ve seen in a long time. Thank you.

[@movalleyproductions9843]

Thanks for sharing this highly valuable info! God bless.

[@Aggyoko]

Excellent video. This is the most concise video on this topic that I've ever watched. Thanks.

[@Texasphotoguy]

Absolutely the most informative video I have seen on this topic. Thank you so much, and I will be checking out your programs.

[@sanjaylambey15]

Thanks a million! This really whole my eyes

[@bakoenanakin9400]

I NEEDED THIS!

[@ZimbaFilms]

Amazing information!!! Thank you so much!

[@bsetter]

Thanks for this video! So helpful.

[@DoYouKnowVlog]

WoW! Awesome insights justise! Love it!

[@bernarddecorail6112]

Hey Justus ! Thanks for all the info, I've been a corportae videographer for a year in the same company and I'm trying to set up my own freelance business so your insight was fantastic, very clear :) Love from France !

[@dianatoday1518]

THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!

[@martintazky]

Thank you, this is fantastic break down

[@rigalmedia]

Justus... thanks for making this video. I have been struggling with pricing for my video work. So again THANKS A MILLION!!

[@CrivRex]

The BEST KZbin video that explains videography pricing! Thank you!!! Straight to the point and all the info I needed. Wow. 🎉

[@lenabluetv]

Very detailed, easy to understand, with your examples included. Thank you very much.

[@AnnaKincaid]

This was super helpful for me! Thank you so much!

[@shagone1]

Excellent INFO..... Ty and so glad I found your channel !!!!

[@majorflairproductions5996]

Great video! I’ve been trying to price my work. Really helped!

[@scottekindi]

Thanks man! Very clear👍🏼

[@rstp2001]

Fantastic! Thanks for sharing this info!!!

[@jeanluccarbonel5655]

The most underrated video tutorial I’ve ever seen, you should get more more views guys. Thanks a lot I’m learning a lot with your videos.

[@ncrosshproductions6859]

Excellent info! Thank you!

[@bigzay9634]

mind blown, youre the man!

[@Jknold955]

You video was so helpful! You got right to information I wanted to hear. It’s a good watch! Thank you

[@inyangeffiong]

Good video with insights one can actually adapt to cover their specific situation. Thanks

[@motionblues]

Best video I've seen on how to price your work, it's just amazing, thanks!

[@iamjkiing114]

Really informative and to the point. God Bless you guys! Good stuff..

[@bryanbedrijfopfilm8933]

Just started filmmaking, great tips! 🤘🏻

[@MrHawker50]

Makes good business sense. Seen so many creative entrepreneurs fail because they do not break down their chargeable content.

[@CoffeeScribe]

Love this!!!