Video Production Budget Calculator 2025/26

A standard 2–3 minute corporate video in the UK (one half-day or full-day shoot, 2 days editing, basic graphics and music licence) typically costs £2,000–£6,000 from a freelance videographer, or £4,000–£12,000 from a production company. High-end corporate films with multiple shoot days, locations, actors and full post-production (colour grade, sound design, animation) cost £15,000–£50,000+. Agency productions for national brands typically start at £50,000.

Crew day rates are typically quoted for a 10-hour working day (sometimes 8 hours). Hours beyond the agreed day rate period attract overtime — usually at time-and-a-half or double time for 12+ hours. Crew are typically hired as self-employed freelancers (though IR35 checks are required for productions engaging workers through limited companies). All crew rates are quoted exclusive of any applicable VAT. Travel time and mileage are usually charged separately or included as a daily allowance.

A standard contingency for video production is 10% of the total budget. This covers unforeseen costs such as additional shoot days due to weather, equipment failure, talent delays, reshoots requested by the client and post-production overage. For complex productions (outdoor shoots, multiple locations, large cast), 15% contingency is more appropriate. Contingency should be included in the budget presented to the client — it is not a hidden margin but a genuine planning allowance.