Why We Charge What We Do for Video Production and How We Know It’s Worth It
“Why does professional video cost so much when I have a camera in my pocket?” The reality is that creating a compelling, high-impact video takes much more than just hitting record. It requires expertise, storytelling, and strategic execution.
Our Pricing: What Goes Into the Cost?
Our video production rates for our documentary films range from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on the scope of work. A fully produced brand documentary with extensive pre-production, multiple shoot days, and advanced post-production leans toward the higher end, while shorter, streamlined videos fall on the lower end.
To put things into perspective, a Netflix documentary crew can cost upwards of $50,000 to $200,000 per episode, and that’s before marketing and distribution costs. While we provide a more accessible alternative, we still bring in high-quality cinematography, expert storytelling, and a polished, professional final product that delivers real ROI.
The Real Work Behind Video Production
What Does a Director of Photography Actually Do?
A Director of Photography (DP) is the mastermind behind the visual composition of a video. They don’t just point a camera and hit record, they shape the lighting, angles, and camera movements that bring emotion and impact to a scene. Without a skilled DP, even the best concept can fall flat, lacking the polish and depth that high-quality visuals provide.
What Does a Director Actually Do?
A Director is responsible for the overall vision and execution of the video. They guide the talent, control the pacing, and ensure that every shot serves the larger story. They translate abstract ideas into a compelling narrative, which is the key difference between an amateur video and a high-converting marketing asset.
What’s Actually Involved in Editing and Storytelling?
Post-production is where the magic happens, but also where most people underestimate the effort involved. Editing is more than just cutting clips together. It’s about:
Structuring a story that speaks to an audience.
Color grading to bring the visuals to life and honor brand consistency.
Sound design to immerse the viewer.
Motion graphics & effects that elevate production value.
A professional editor doesn’t just cut clips, they craft an experience that resonates with the audience and compels them to take action.
Big Problems Require Big Solutions
As we’ve been listening to Chris Do, one of his major philosophies can be summed up with “don’t put a minor effort into a major goal.” Big problems require big solutions. Don’t try to apply cheap answers to expensive questions. This philosophy is especially true in video production. A company’s visual storytelling has the power to influence customers, shape brand perception, and drive revenue; but only if done right. Cutting corners on video often leads to forgettable content that fails to engage or convert. Many companies hesitate to invest in high-quality video production because of the upfront cost, but what they fail to see is the long-term impact:
A great video doesn’t just “look nice”. It drives revenue.
A well-crafted brand story makes you memorable and trustworthy.
Strategic video content serves as a magnet, pulling in ideal customers.
Marketing Is an Investment
Alex Hormozi, in his book $100M Leads, emphasizes the power of marketing as a business growth engine. He states, “The best businesses don’t just generate leads, they attract them.” Just like a well-placed ad or a high-converting sales funnel, video marketing isn't just about looking good; it’s about strategically pulling in the right audience and converting them into paying customers. He explains how high-quality content acts as a “magnet” that attracts and nurtures potential customers. If you’re not investing in marketing, you’re leaving money on the table. Every dollar spent on strategic video production has the potential to earn back exponentially more when done correctly.
Why DIY Videos Often Fail
Sure, everyone has a camera in their pocket, but does that mean every company should create their own videos? It’s a common misconception that DIY videos can achieve the same impact as professional production, but there’s a big difference between simply capturing footage and crafting a compelling, high-quality story that engages and converts. Here’s why most DIY marketing videos don’t work:
They lack storytelling structure, making them forgettable.
They fail to hold attention, leading to lost potential customers.
They don’t align with the brand’s messaging, causing confusion.
They lack quality production, making the company seem unprofessional.
Why Wyld Story?
At Wyld Story, we don’t just create videos; we craft strategic, high-impact stories that elevate brands and drive results. We understand that video isn’t just an artistic pursuit; it’s a business tool that, when done right, generates real ROI.
If you’re ready to stop applying cheap answers to expensive questions, let's connect. Whether you're looking for a consultation or want to see how high-quality video can transform your brand, Wyld Story is here to help.