Finding Incredible Audio Visual Equipment

Do you want to make a video with a local video production company and are at the point where you are ready to sign a contract? If so, it's important to have proper expectations about what you're paying for when it comes to the post-production process. Here are some questions to ask so that you know you have the right answer.

How Is The Price Determined For The Post-Production Process?

You may be wondering how the final price for the post-production process was arrived at, especially since there are so many variables that you may run into. The video production company typically estimates the post-production process based on how long similar jobs have taken in the past for the different elements that need to be done. Your script is then evaluated to determine how involved the post-production process will be, and you are allocated a set amount of hours for each of those aspects.

For example, you may have five days of editorial, which is when the editor is doing the bulk of the work of putting the spot together. That time would include revisions as well. You may also have an allocation for motion graphics, which are billed at a different rate, with the amount of motion graphics determining the hours. A 30-second commercial that requires a few name keys and end-tag animations will cost much less than creating a spot that is entirely in 2D or 3D animation.

There is also a budget for other items once the picture is set, such as color correction, audio mixing, and final delivery of the video. Finally, delivery would include creating final files, DVD or Blu-ray discs, delivering a commercial to TV stations, and archiving the final videos project files in case there is a revision down the road.

What Can Cause The Post-Production Process To Go Over Budget?

There are several reasons why a video can go over budget during the post-production process. The main one is excessive revisions. If you keep making endless revisions to a video and go over your allotted hours, you'll need to reach an agreement for an overage to continue working on the video. The producer should keep you updated on how many hours are left for each part of the process, and let you know as you are approaching your limit. 

Another category is things that were budgeted for cheaper costs earlier in the process, which you have now changed. You may have budgeted for a cheap royalty-free music track, but now want a custom track because you can't find what you are looking for. Other factors can include changing the delivery method, which requires additional work from the post-production facility. 

Reach out to a company like The Slingshot Guys to find out more.