Most companies ask the same first question about video: what is this going to cost? It is a fair question, and most production companies dodge it. Here are the numbers from our own pricing, what changes them, and how to get the most from whatever budget you have.
The short version: at Beowulf Media, testimonial videos typically run $3,500–$5,500, brand films $7,500–$12,000+, capital campaign films $10,000–$18,000+, event video coverage starts at $2,800 and team headshots start at $500 plus $120 per additional person.
What are typical video production prices in Dallas–Fort Worth?
| What it is | Typical investment | What drives it |
|---|---|---|
| Testimonial or customer story | $3,500–$5,500 | Number of interviews and locations |
| Brand film | $7,500–$12,000+ | Length, locations, crew and versions |
| Product or explainer video | $4,500–$8,000 | Number of products, locations and versions |
| Trade show film | $5,500–$9,500 | Versions and filming at the show |
| Fundraising film | From $4,500 | Number of stories, locations and versions |
| Capital campaign film | $10,000–$18,000+ | Story depth, number of voices and locations |
| Event video coverage | From $2,800 (most $3,500–$6,000) | Hours, crew size and deliverables |
| Team headshots | $500 + $120 per additional person | Headcount and number of locations |
Every project gets an all-in written quote after a short discovery call. No nickel-and-diming.
What affects the cost of a video?
Video production cost comes down to four things: the length of the film and how many versions you need, the number of locations and shoot days, the size of the crew, and extras like motion graphics or drone.
1. Length and versions
A 90-second film costs less than a three-minute film with six social cutdowns. The smart move is to plan every version before the shoot, so the crew captures what each one needs and nothing is paid for twice.
2. Locations and shoot days
One location in one day is the most efficient production there is. Every added location means moving and re-lighting, and every added day adds crew time.
3. Crew size
Most interview-led videos need a small, experienced crew. Multi-camera events, large sets or very tight schedules can need more hands.
4. Extras
Motion graphics, animation, outside talent, drone footage, permits and rush timelines all add cost. They are worth it when the story needs them, and easy to leave out when it doesn’t.
What should a video production quote include?
Whoever you hire, a professional video production quote should include:
- Planning before the shoot, not just a crew showing up
- Professional lighting and sound, not only a camera
- Editing, color correction, a sound mix and licensed music
- A clear number of revision rounds (ours is two)
If a quote is dramatically lower than the ranges above, check which of those are missing.
How can you get more from a video budget?
- Plan versions up front. One shoot can produce a hero film, a short social version and photos.
- Combine photo and video. The same crew on the same day keeps the look consistent and saves a second production.
- Keep it to one location when you can. Bring the people to the best-looking spot rather than chasing them across town.
- Think in a series. Filming three customer stories in one production run costs less per story than three separate shoots.
How to start
The fastest way to an exact number is a 20-minute call about what the video needs to do, who it is for and where it will live. Start here, or see all of our starting prices.