Questions and Answers About Music Video Production

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

ABOUT MY MUSIC VIDEO PRODUCTION

 

Q. How much does a Music Video cost to produce?
A. It really depends on what style of production that is required. Larger record labels spend on average between $60,000 and $150,000 for an average Music Video production. The more glitz and fx the larger the budget. Artists like Daughtry or Mariah Carey will spend 10 times that.

Q. What if I am an Indy Artist and don't even have $10,000!!
A. Our work with small to medium budgets is unmatched in the industry. We love to produce music videos, yet not many indy artists have that kind of cash out of pocket. We utilize alternative formats to produce music videos that look like they cost $70,000 but actually cost under $5,000. With the digital age and the use of powerful Macs we can shoot DV/ HD and make your video look just like it was shot in film. For artists self funding their video we usually can produce a low budget music video for around $2,000.

Q. How will an $5,000 music video compare to a $150,000 video?
A. Obviously we don’t claim to make a small budget music video look like a huge budget project. However we use these limitations to our advantage such as using Black and White film fx or Bleach Bypass, going with the documentary look and adding some animated fx. Our goal is to assist your music in getting you a record deal. Once you sign with a label you can then jump up in budget. Hopefully, we can be there to work on your second music video as well.

Q. How is production organized?
A. We have a crew of world-class producers that have been in the film/television production business for years. They make the process simple. It all starts with one song, then a treatment and concept for the video. Once that is complete locations are looked at, shoots are scheduled and off we go.

Q. How long does it take to produce a music video?
A. Once the concept is nailed down and locations set as to where we will shoot, the actual shooting will take place in 2 (two) long 12-14 hour days. Usually a weekend is the best time for everyone. After shooting is complete and dailies are screened, editing takes place. That process is on average 2 weeks. So we like to say count on 3/4 weeks.

Q. How do we pay for the video?
A. We use the one-third rule. One third upon agreement, one-third at the completion of photography and the last third when the finished tape is handed back to you.

Q. What if we have changes that we want to make?
A. We make sure that all details are spelled out before shooting begins. Once the concept is agreed upon, everyone involved has an idea as to what the video will look like. We will provide the artist or group with a DVD copy of what the project is looking like at different stages in post production. At that time that all input would be considered. Once the project is edited only under extreme circumstances would we re-edit. And re-shooting would carry additional charges.

Q. What can I do with the video after it’s done?
A. We have worked with many groups that have included the video in their press kit. With today’s technology a press kit could include your CD and a DVD and /or streaming video on your site.. We can provide both for you as part of the production deal. Multiple copies however would have additional costs.

Q. Why would I spend so much on a music video?
A. We believe its no secret that the record labels want to spend as little as possible on new independent artists. A Music Video in a press kit shows that you are serious about your music. We don’t think that a music video shot by a cable access station qualifies, but a music video shot in professional format or DV definitely creates a sense of professionalism. A label looks at it as one less thing they have to pay for in releasing your music. In the real world the bottom line is money!!! If a record label can spend less money on marketing your music you become an attractive sell to them. That along with the simple fact that you are immediately ready for national and international television exposure on networks like MTV.

Q. Do you ever sponsor or offer production deals?
A. We do offer groups that we think have a chance for a record deal a sponsored production deal minus fixed costs. We usually do this at a time when we are in production with one of our motion picture projects, since the crew and gear are already working. This deal is not for every group however. What we do ask is a first right or refusal for the groups first music video once signed to a label. The fixed costs range from $3,000-$15,000 usually, not including travel and accommodations.

Thank You.