From startups to established corporations, everyone wants to save money and get the best value for their explainer video. But how do you know what a good explainer video costs? How much should you budget for animation and scriptwriting services, actors or voiceover talent, and other elements needed to create an effective explanatory video? In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to accurately estimate an explainer video cost so you can confidently plan your production budget – and make sure your project stays within it. With our help, getting a handle on explainer video costs is easier than ever!
Explainer videos are the gold-standard of digital marketing. With their ability to captivate, inform and educate an audience, it’s no wonder they have become a go-to for businesses all over the world! But when it comes to understanding what these videos cost, many people feel like they’re navigating a maze without a map—it can be dauntingly expensive and overwhelming.
If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, don’t worry: we’re here to help. In this article, we will explore the costly world of explainer video production so that you never again feel like you are climbing Mount Everest with only a spoon!
We’ll take away any financial fear by breaking down each component of explainer video budgeting so that you gain insight into how much you need to invest in order to get an amazing product ready for your target market. So if you’re looking for freedom from financial confusion, read on – there’s something here for everyone who wants to understand the cost of explainer videos!
The Process Of Creating An Explainer Video
Creating an explainer video is a multi-step process that involves various stages from idea generation to post-production. The first stage is brainstorming, where the objectives, target audience and key message of the explainer video are defined. This stage sets the foundation for the entire project and helps ensure that the final product aligns with the goals of the organization.
Once the objectives are defined, the next stage is creating a mood board, which is a visual representation of the overall look and feel of the video. The mood board acts as a reference for the design and animation stages, helping to maintain consistency throughout the project. After the mood board, a storyboard is created, which outlines the scenes and actions of the video in a sequence of illustrations. The storyboard serves as a roadmap for the animation stage, helping to bring the story to life.
In the style frame stage, the visual design elements of the video are finalized, including the typography, color scheme, and overall style of the assets. The design of assets, such as illustrations and character design, is then created based on the approved style frame. Finally, the animation stage begins, where the illustrations and assets are animated to bring the storyboard to life. This stage requires attention to detail and the use of animation techniques to create an engaging and visually appealing explainer video. The process is completed with the final edit, sound design, and delivery of the video.
Ultimately, understanding the ins and outs of producing an explainer video will help ensure you get value for money while still achieving a great result! By taking into account key factors such as animation style, video length, turnaround time and number of revisions required – you’ll gain greater insight into what drives up the cost of creating one of these powerful pieces of content…
Factors That Determine The Cost Of An Explainer Video
When it comes to creating an explainer video, the cost can vary greatly depending on what you’re looking for. To illustrate this point, consider a recent project we worked on: we were asked to create an animated explainer video that was about two minutes in length. We estimated the total cost of production at around $9000 – which may seem high but when considering all the factors involved like script writing, storyboarding, voiceover recording and animation costs, it makes sense.
So how do these factors determine the overall price of an explainer video? Video production companies will typically offer a range of packages with different features and prices based on complexity and quality of service they provide. For example, whiteboard videos tend to be more affordable than fully-animated ones given their simpler design requirements; similarly, longer videos will usually incur higher costs due to increased time spent in pre-production and post-production stages. Additionally, services like custom illustration or sound effects will add extra charges to your bill as well.
Ultimately then, understanding the budget for your project is essential if you want to get the most bang for your buck – so make sure to check out potential providers’ portfolios and ask them questions about pricing before making any decisions!
Quality Of The Explainer Video
Are you getting ready to invest in quality explainer videos? You’re not alone. Nearly 73% of marketers say that video has a direct impact on their business.
Your budget will depend on the style and quality of your explainer video. There are various types of explainer videos, ranging from character animation to motion graphics or whiteboard animation. Each type comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to pick one that works best for your needs. It’s also beneficial to find experienced video experts or a reliable video production agency who can help you create an effective explainer video within your desired budget.
When creating high-quality explainer videos, factors like scripting, storyboarding, animations, voice overs and background music come into play. All these elements must be taken into consideration when deciding how much money to spend on the project. Video marketing is becoming more competitive by the day, so investing in great content can make all the difference between success and failure.
By thoroughly understanding what kind of video style fits best for your brand as well as considering other factors such as animation complexity and time required for production – you’ll have no problem making sure that your explainer video meets both quality standards and budgetary constraints!
Animation Complexity
Animation complexity is the driving factor in understanding how much an explainer video will cost. When it comes to animation production costs, there are two main options: traditional animation and modern digital-based techniques. Imagining a complex world of colour, movement, and sound being created from scratch by hand can be exciting but costly at the same time.
Some factors that can affect the complexity and, consequently, the price of an explainer video are:
- The choice of animation style, such as 2D, 3D, whiteboard, or motion graphics
- The level of detail required in characters, objects, and backgrounds
- The amount of movement, interactions, and transitions between scenes
Customizing each aspect of an explainer video may seem like a great idea, but depending on the level of detail needed it can quickly add up and become expensive. That said, knowing when custom-made content is necessary versus opting for a template-based approach can help set realistic expectations for budgeting and timelines.
Custom-Made Or Template-Based
The choice between custom-made assets and template-based assets can significantly influence the cost of your explainer video. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, which ultimately affect the overall quality, uniqueness, and budget of your project.
Custom-Made Assets:
- Offer a higher degree of originality and creative freedom, allowing you to create a unique visual experience tailored to your brand and message.
- Require more time, effort, and resources, as designers and animators need to create everything from scratch.
- Result in a higher cost, due to the need for specialized skills and additional man-hours to develop exclusive assets.
- Can elevate the perceived value of your explainer video, potentially leading to a better return on investment.
Template-Based Assets:
- Provide a cost-effective and time-saving solution by utilizing pre-designed elements and stock assets.
- Limit creative freedom and customization options, as the available assets are shared among multiple projects and clients.
- May lead to a lower overall cost, as the design and animation team can work with readily available resources.
- Can still be effective in communicating your message, but may not offer the same level of uniqueness and brand cohesion as custom-made assets.
When deciding between custom-made and template-based assets, it’s crucial to consider your project’s specific needs, budget constraints, and desired outcomes. If uniqueness and strong brand identity are top priorities, investing in custom-made assets may be worth the extra cost. On the other hand, if your primary goal is to deliver a clear message with a limited budget, template-based assets can offer a viable solution without breaking the bank. The key is to strike a balance between cost and quality that aligns with your objectives and target audience’s expectations.
How The Animation Style Affects Price
The animation style you choose will have a major impact on the ultimate cost of your video. Whether it’s custom-made or template-based, understanding how different styles affect price can help you make informed decisions about which way to go.
The animation production process involves more than just creating a style – though that’s certainly a critical aspect. It includes time spent planning, scriptwriting, storyboarding and character design as well as unique animations for each scene. Depending on these elements, the cost of producing a 60-second video can range from basic 2D animation to luxurious 3D animation with detailed characters and backgrounds.
When choosing between various approaches such as whiteboard or motion graphics, it’s essential to consider what type of product would best suit your particular needs and budget. For example, if rapid delivery is key then high-end 3D character animation may not be suitable; simpler designs like flat vector illustrations are far quicker to create but still look professional when combined with other elements like sound effects and voiceover narration. No matter what kind of style you select, knowing how much effort goes into making it will help you understand why certain types tend to come at higher prices.
Making an educated decision based on your own requirements doesn’t need to break the bank – there are plenty of options available depending on the complexity of your desired end product and how long you’re willing to wait for completion.
Turnaround Time
Time is of the essence when it comes to explainer videos. As the saying goes, time is money. To ensure you get the quality video you need at a reasonable cost and within your timeline, understanding the turnaround time for an animation project is essential.
A wide range of factors affects how long a project will take – from storyboarding to sound design, hundreds of hours are often invested in making sure each frame looks perfect. A faster turnaround can be achieved by reducing complexity or opting for a simplistic style to save on rendering times but this could compromise on quality.
When creating an explainer video, there are many options available that fit different budgets and timelines. It’s important to look beyond just the production costs – understand what goes into designing, animating and producing a high-quality video before deciding which route best suits your needs. TIP: Research providers with experience in creating successful projects so you don’t have any surprises along the way!
Limited Vs Unlimited Revisions
The number of revisions allowed during the production process of an explainer video can also affect its overall cost. Choosing between limited and unlimited revisions involves weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option, as well as considering the potential impact on your project’s timeline, budget, and quality.
Limited Revisions:
- Typically come with a lower cost, as the production team allocates fewer resources and time to the revision process.
- Encourage clients to carefully review and provide feedback at each stage of production, ensuring efficient use of revision rounds.
- Can help keep the project on track and meet deadlines, as there are a fixed number of revisions before finalizing the video.
- May require additional fees if you exceed the allowed number of revisions, potentially increasing the overall cost.
Unlimited Revisions:
- Offer more flexibility and control over the final product, as you can request changes until you are completely satisfied.
- Can result in a higher cost, due to the extended time and resources dedicated to the revision process.
- May cause delays in project completion, as there is no set limit on the number of changes that can be made.
- Can be advantageous for projects with complex or evolving requirements, ensuring the final video meets all expectations.
Studios Vs Freelancers?
When it comes to budgeting for a video project, the age-old question of ‘studios vs freelancers?’ often rears its head. Much like Goldilocks’ search for the perfect porridge, finding the right fit can be tricky. With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the key points when considering which option is best for you:
• Studios and freelancers both offer different strengths and weaknesses that could make or break your explainer video.
• Consider how much control you want over the video production team as well as their respective hourly rate and cost range.
• What’s more, don’t forget to factor in any hidden costs such as base rates, royalties etc.
• It may also be worth looking into whether an animation studio or marketing agency would better suit your needs and budget – these are often good alternatives if they have experienced professionals on board with knowledge of creating explainer videos.
• Lastly, research all options thoroughly before making any decisions so that you get exactly what you’re paying for!
With so many factors playing a part in choosing between studios and freelancers, there are pros and cons to consider – but ultimately it’s up to you to decide who can deliver the highest quality results within your desired timeframe and budget constraints. Transitioning seamlessly from one step to another is crucial when searching for success; understanding exactly where each route will lead you helps keep everything on track towards achieving great results.
Animation Studios Vs Marketing Agencies
It may seem counterintuitive, but the least expensive way to get an explainer video doesn’t always mean going with the cheapest option! When it comes to animation studios and marketing agencies that offer explainer videos, you might be surprised at how much more value you can get. In fact, choosing either could actually save your project money in the long run.
When considering animation studios for explainer video production costs, they typically specialize in creating engaging animations – like motion graphics or 3D cartoon characters – which can cost more than other types of video content created by a marketing agency. However, the quality is usually quite good when working with professionals who know their craft well. Plus, many animators are willing to negotiate prices if you have a tight budget.
On the flip side, marketing agencies tend to focus on storytelling rather than specializing solely in animated visuals. They understand what works best for different audiences and often have access to cheaper resources such as stock footage libraries and music tracks. The downside here is that these agencies may not always have experience producing high-end animation videos – something worth keeping in mind before making any decisions about which type of provider you should use for your explainer video needs.
No matter which route you choose though, it’s important to do some research beforehand so that you’re aware of all options available and set realistic expectations when it comes to finding affordable production costs without sacrificing quality. By proactively exploring both animation studios and marketing agencies alike, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about where best to invest your time and money into getting the perfect explainer video made for your project.
Add-Ons And Extras
Now that we’ve discussed the differences between animation studios and marketing agencies, let’s look at add-ons and extras – what often add up to a significant portion of your explainer video budget.
The most common add-on is music. Music can really set the tone for your message and make an otherwise dull video come alive. It’s worth considering how much you’re willing to spend on this part of your project as it could be costly. That said, there are plenty of royalty-free options available if you want to keep costs down.
When planning out the cost of your project, don’t forget about voice-over talent too. Voiceover artists offer a unique take on your script that can help differentiate it from others in the same space. Whether you choose to go with professional or amateur talent will likely depend upon price but also quality, so do some research before committing either way.
No matter which route you decide to go down, ensure you plan for any additional expenses associated with creating an effective explainer video – such as production time spent on revisions or rewrites – and factor these into your overall budget calculations. This will give you a better idea of just how much value each step in the process brings back in return over investment – something we’ll discuss next!
Cost Vs Value – Return On Investment
The cost of creating an explainer video can be a major factor in deciding whether or not to make one. But how do you determine the true value? It’s important to understand that when it comes to explainer video pricing, there is more than meets the eye.
When considering the entire production process, from initial concept and storyboarding through designing and animating, having access to a team of professionals who specialize in producing videos will help ensure that your project turns out just right—all within a reasonable price range. You can think of this as getting what you pay for: quality assurance backed by experience and expertise.
But the cost isn’t always directly correlated with value—in other words, even if you have the budget for something bigger and better doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll give you the best return on investment (ROI). Instead, focus on finding a balance between quality and affordability; weigh up your options carefully before committing to anything so that you know exactly what’s included in the final product.
Are Explainer Videos Worth It?
Coincidentally, you may be asking yourself whether explainer videos are worth it. After all, they come with a price tag so why should you choose them to represent your business? Well, the truth is that when done right, explainer videos can have huge returns in terms of conversion rates and customer engagement – making them an incredibly valuable investment.
When selecting an experienced team for your project, there’s a wide variety of options available; from cost-effective packages to premium video references. This means that whatever your budget size or needs, you will be able to find something suitable for creating your finished product. The key here is working out what kind of quality you want to achieve and then finding the best fit within your budget range.
Explainer videos offer far more than just visual appeal – their ability to quickly engage audiences and pass on complex messages make them one of the most effective forms of marketing today. So if you’re looking for maximum return over investment, investing in an explainer video could be just what you need!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Usually Take To Create An Explainer Video?
Creating an explainer video can be a daunting process. It requires careful planning and patience to get the perfect outcome for your project. But how long does it usually take?
The imagery of someone watching their hard work come to life as they move through each step in the production process brings joy and relief. The average time required to create an explainer video is 4-6 weeks, though this may vary depending on the complexity of the concept and ideas:
1) Researching and developing the storyboard;
2) Shooting or creating visuals;
3) Adding voiceover narration;
4) Choosing music/sound effects and editing everything together into one cohesive piece.
These steps all demand attention to detail, but when done right, you’ll have something that will bring value to your business while giving viewers a glimpse into what makes it unique. At times there may be unexpected roadblocks along the way – like budget issues or uncooperative weather – but with flexibility and creativity, these obstacles are surmountable. You just need to stay focused on your goal: making sure you deliver a high quality product that resonates with its audience.
Are There Any Additional Costs To Be Aware Of?
Let’s face it: creating an explainer video can be a costly endeavor. But, if you’re not careful, the costs could spiral even higher than expected! Yes, there are most certainly additional expenses to consider when budgeting for your project – and this is something that all smart video producers should bear in mind.
So what kind of extra costs might one encounter? Well, along with payments to any writers or voice actors involved in the production process, other items such as music licenses and stock footage may also need to be purchased. It’s important to get accurate estimates from vendors before signing off on any contracts so that you know exactly how much money will have to be allocated for each aspect of production.
But don’t worry! You don’t have to break the bank just yet; with some savvy pre-planning and clever budgeting techniques, you’ll be able to make sure your explainer video doesn’t blow out its budget. So take some time now to research those hidden fees associated with making videos – because at the end of the day, saving money never gets old!
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Freelancer Versus A Studio?
Have you ever wondered what the advantages of using a freelancer versus a studio are when it comes to creating explainer videos? It’s an important question, especially if you’re trying to keep your project on budget. To help understand this better, let’s take a look at both options and their pros and cons.
Hiring a professional studio for your explainer video can be beneficial in certain ways. Studios usually offer more resources than freelance professionals so they may have access to higher quality tools or even animators who specialize in certain styles that could make your project stand out from the rest. They also typically provide some degree of support during the production process, which can be incredibly helpful if there are any issues along the way. On top of all that, studios often have contracts with different platforms and media outlets that could potentially give you additional exposure after completion.
However, working with a freelancer has its own set of benefits as well. Freelancers tend to be more cost-effective since they don’t come with overhead costs like studios do – meaning you can get more bang for your buck! Plus, freelancers generally have fewer clients so they might be able to dedicate more time and energy into making sure your project is done right; giving them greater control over the end product. Working directly with someone also means you’ll likely build up rapport quicker than with large teams – allowing for faster feedback loops throughout the whole process.
So when considering the cost of explainer videos, think about how much freedom each option allows while keeping an eye on both long-term value and budget constraints – these details will ultimately determine which route is best suited for you!
How Often Should An Explainer Video Be Updated?
Deciding how often to update your explainer video can be a difficult decision. Weighing up the cost of creating an entirely new video against keeping the existing one is no easy task – especially if you’re on a tight budget. So, what are some factors that should influence this choice?
Firstly, consider whether any changes have been made in your business since the original video was created. If so, then it might be worth investing in an updated version. This could include changes like product launches, rebranding or even just updating services and features. Additionally, if there have been significant shifts within your industry overall, such as advancements in technology or procedures, then having an updated explainer video can help keep customers informed.
Finally, take note of when people engaged with the original video most frequently. If it’s still receiving high levels of engagement months after its release then maybe there’s less need for change – unless something has changed significantly enough to justify doing so! In other words: assess your situation carefully before committing to a fresh explainer video; don’t rush into buying one simply because you think it looks outdated.
Conclusion
Creating an explainer video can be a costly endeavour. Depending on the complexity of the project, budgets can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. While prices may seem high for such a short product, it’s important to remember that the cost reflects all the time and effort put into creating something truly amazing!
On top of paying for production costs, you should also consider how often your explainer video needs updating. After all, if you’re investing so much money in creating one, then you want it to remain relevant over time. The irony is that although initially expensive, regularly updating videos can actually save you money in the long run when compared with having to produce a brand-new video every few years.
Finally, don’t forget about discounts available for larger projects; these could help bring down overall expenses significantly. All things considered, while the cost of producing an explainer video might appear daunting at first glance – there are plenty of opportunities to make sure that everything stays within budget and still looks great!
