Planning a video shoot budget can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re new to the process. Various aspects need to be understood, like the brand video production cost, equipment needs, talent charges, and post-production expenses. Whether it’s a corporate film or digital ad, knowing how to plan a video shoot budget helps you anticipate surprises and ensures you get the best return on investment.
In this guide, we’ll break down the video production budget process, explain how costs are calculated, and give you a clear structure to estimate expenditure on your next campaign. From ad shoot budget planning to understanding the video production cost breakdown, this blog will be your complete brand video planning guide.
If you’re looking for transparent pricing or need help with execution, our team can assist with everything from concept to delivery.
What Determines the Cost of Making a Brand Video?
Before planning your budget, it’s important to understand which expenses influence the cost of making a brand video. Every project is unique, and several factors directly impact the final expenses.
Key Cost Factors:
- Script and creative concept
- Location fees (especially the brand video shoot cost in Mumbai)
- Camera and equipment requirements
- Director, DOP, and technical crew
- Actors, models
- Set design and props
- Make-up and styling
- Post-production (editing, sound, color grading, VFX)
- Licensing: music, stock footage, or graphics
Knowing what drives the video production cost breakdown helps brands make smarter and more informed decisions while staying aligned with creative goals.
Why Budget Planning Matters for Video Content Creation
Budgeting a project thoroughly is important because it helps maximize the intended creative impact.
Proper ad shoot budget planning ensures:
- Stronger creative focus
- Efficient production workflow
- Ability to anticipate problems
- Clear expectations between brand and agency
- Better use of resources and talent
With the rise of digital platforms, brands produce more content than ever. Strategic budgeting for marketing videos helps ensure each piece of content delivers the needed results.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Plan a Video Shoot Budget
1. Start With Your Objective
Every video must have a clear purpose.
Are you making:
- A brand awareness film?
- A performance-driven ad?
- A launch video?
- A corporate explainer?
- A testimonial or case study?
Your objective decides the video content creation budget and the level of production required.
2. Choose the Right Video Format
Different formats come with different costs.
For instance:
- TV commercials = high production cost
- Digital ads = mid-range
- Corporate videos = moderate
- Social media videos = flexible and scalable
This decision impacts both the professional ad video cost and the timeline.
3. Allocate Budget by Production Stages
Pre-Production
Includes scriptwriting, storyboards, planning, casting, locations, rehearsals, and permissions.
Approximate share: 20% of the total budget
Production
Includes shoot day costs: equipment, crew, actors, sets, travel, logistics.
Approximate share: 50% of the total budget
Post-Production
Includes editing, color correction, VFX, animation, and sound design.
Approximate share: 30% of the total budget
Understanding this structure helps you create a realistic video production budget from Day 1.
4. Consider Location Costs (Especially in Mumbai)
If your shoot is happening in Mumbai, you must account for:
- Location rentals
- Permissions
- Parking and logistics
- Casting availability
- Travel and crew charges
The brand video shoot cost in Mumbai is competitive because the city has every type of location, from studios to beaches, offices, high rises, slums, and architectural spaces, but costs vary widely based on demand.
To understand the demands of production in Mumbai better, also read 5 Reasons Mumbai Is the Hub for Film and Ad Production
5. Estimate Cast & Crew Charges
A professional production requires:
- Director
- Director of Photography (DOP)
- Production manager
- Assistant directors
- Light and camera technicians
- Makeup, hair, costume stylists
- Sound and art team
You also need:
- Actors or models
- Voiceover artists
- Choreographers (if required)
These form a significant portion of the ad film production cost.
6. Understand Equipment Costs
Camera packages and their prices differ drastically:
- Mirrorless setup (budget-friendly)
- Cinema cameras like RED / ARRI (mid to high range)
- High-end lenses, lighting gear, and sound gear
Choosing equipment wisely helps optimize your video shoot cost estimation without compromising creativity and quality.
7. Plan for Post-Production
Post-production is where the story gets told. So, it greatly impacts the final product.
Budget for:
- Editing
- Color grading
- Background score
- Motion graphics
- VFX (if needed)
A strong post-production pipeline can elevate even a modestly priced shoot.
Want to know more about the post process, here you go: How a Top Video Editing Service Agency Creates Ads That Drive Real Results
8. Add a 10–15% Contingency Buffer
Every smart commercial video budget guide includes a contingency because shoots often involve last-minute changes: location shifts, weather issues, or brand feedback.
Realistic Budget Ranges for Video Production
Here are general industry ranges for understanding brand video production cost or corporate video production pricing:
- Basic social media films: ₹40,000 – ₹1,50,000
- Corporate brand videos: ₹1,00,000 – ₹4,00,000
- High-quality digital ads: ₹2,00,000 – ₹10,00,000
- Premium ad films: ₹10,00,000+
These are estimates, so they could change according to the different requirements of different projects.
For brands seeking polished storytelling, the ad film production in Mumbai’s ecosystem offers flexible packages across all budget sizes.
Conclusion
Budgeting for a brand video or ad film doesn’t have to be complicated. When you understand your objectives, break down production components, and allocate funds wisely, you can create impactful content within the right budget. With clarity on brand video production cost, ad shoot budget planning, and all cost-driving elements, you’re ready to execute a successful video project.
Looking for transparent pricing and high-quality video production? Contact us at Third Eye Blind Productions today for a customized quote.
FAQs
How much does a brand video cost in Mumbai?
The brand video shoot cost in Mumbai depends on the script, locations, equipment, cast, and post-production. A concrete number does not exist.
What affects the ad film production cost the most?
The major factors include equipment, crew size, actors, location fees, and post-production elements like editing and VFX.
How do I plan an ad shoot budget?
Start with the objective, choose a format, break down costs into pre-production, production, and post-production, then add a 10–15% contingency.
What is the cost breakdown for a typical video production?
Expect 20% for pre-production, 50% for shooting, and 30% for post-production.
Do you provide corporate video production pricing?
Yes, we offer flexible and transparent corporate film packages based on your brand’s needs and creative goals.
Can I get a custom quote for my ad film?
Absolutely. Share your script or idea, and we’ll provide a detailed video production budget tailored to your requirements.
