Cost Of Video Production In Malaysia
Cost of video production varies from agency to agency. What goes into the cost of video production and why do some agencies quote less while others quote high, these are some questions we have tried to answer in this article. Professional video production for your company does not have to be expensive. However, video production involves several factors, fees, and cost elements, which we have discussed in this article to help you understand the quotes you might receive when you reach out to agencies. We have listed the top 10 elements that influence the cost of video production in Malaysia.
"Just tell us how much does it cost to make a video?"
We get this question every day. The short answer (if you are looking for a quick fix) is “it depends”. Not very helpful, right? Especially when you have to make a budget and submit to your boss, who wants it like yesterday.
You frantically call up video production agencies but they come up with a bunch of questions thrown back at you – the answers to which you don’t have! So how do you go about it? How to find the real cost of video production in Malaysia?
Let’s face it, determining the cost of video production in Malaysia, or for that matter anywhere in the world is a complex matter because multiple factors go into it. Get one aspect wrong and your entire budget goes haywire.
As a video production agency, we too struggle with it at times, even though we have been at it for over a decade. So how do we do it? Here is our strategy for estimating the cost of video production in Malaysia which we use for every project. This might help you determine yours.
The 3 Stages that determine the final cost of video production
Video production involves three key stages. Pre-production is the planning phase, including scriptwriting, storyboarding, location scouting, and organizing the crew and equipment. Production is the actual filming phase, where the cast and crew capture all the footage. This stage involves directing, acting, lighting, and sound recording on set. Post-production is the final phase, focusing on editing, adding visual effects, sound design, and color correction to produce the final cut. Each stage is crucial for creating a polished, professional video. Check out this explainer video from us at Neon Videos
Play Video about 3 stages of video production that determines the final cost of video production
The 10 Key Factors that determine the cost of video production
There are 10 key factors that determine the cost of video production. Before developing the budget for a professional video one must consider all these factors. In fact these factors can be the basis of the brief which you can send to the agencies based on which they can quote.
#01. The Duration of the Final Video
#02. The Number of Days of Shoot
#03. Production Quality
#04. Actors, Models. Music
#05. Location Hiring Cost
#06. Animation, VFX & CG
#07. Subject Complexity
#08. Make-up, Art Direction
#09. Editing & Adaptations
#10. Travel & Stay for Production
Let us understand each of these factors in-depth and determine how it can effect the cost of video production.
Tell us about your video
When you require a professional video production agency, we are here to assist you. Whether you are planning to develop a corporate video, animated video, training video, or marketing video, we can meet your needs effectively. Reach out to us today!
email: info@neonvideos.com
+60 11 123140903
#01. The Duration of the Final Video
Generally, longer videos take more time and cost more to produce. However, this isn’t always the case. For instance, a straightforward 10-minute interview with your CEO, requiring only one day of shooting, might be less expensive than a more complex 5-minute corporate video. The latter could involve multiple locations, special effects, and extensive editing, driving up both time and costs.
The duration of the video also affects the script writing cost. If you need a script for your video production, you’ll need to employ a professional scriptwriter. Typical Rates: For an experienced scriptwriter to generate a video concept, and script ranges between RM1,200 and RM2,000 per script.
#02. The Number of Days of Shoot
The number of shooting days required for a project significantly adds to the cost of video production. More shooting days mean higher expenses for the crew, equipment rentals, location fees, and other logistical aspects. Each additional day on set increases the overall budget, making the duration of the shoot a critical factor in the total production cost.
#03. Production Quality
Production quality is heavily influenced by the equipment used, including cameras, lighting, and sound recording systems. High-quality 4k cinema DSLR cameras capture clearer, more detailed footage, while advanced lighting ensures scenes are well-lit and visually appealing. Superior sound recording systems capture crisp, clear audio, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Consequently, the output of the video depends significantly on the quality of these tools, as better equipment typically results in a more polished and professional final product.
One must also consider the Project Management Expenses for live shoot videos. Typical Hourly Rates: range between RM200 per hourto RM500 per hour.
#04. Actors, Models. Music
Sometimes, corporate videos require actors and models, especially when emotions need to be depicted. This adds to the cost of video production and must be considered based on the subject matter. Hiring professional talent involves additional expenses for casting, talent fees, and potentially more complex production logistics. These costs are crucial to consider to ensure the video effectively conveys its intended message while staying within budget.
Typical Hourly Rates: Actors and models often charge between RM200 and RM2000 per hour, depending on demand, experience, and social media followers.
#05. Location Hiring Cost
If the video needs to be shot at specific locations like cafes, swimming pools, apartments, or hotels, these places often need to be rented. Some locations, such as cafes, may not be available during working hours, necessitating bookings during non-working hours. This adds to the logistical complexity and cost of video production, as location fees and scheduling considerations must be factored into the planning and budget.
#06. Animation, VFX & CG
If your video project incorporates special effects like animations, motion graphics, or title overlays (also known as lower thirds, captions, or Chyrons), the cost of video production will increase. We strongly advise including a call to action in marketing videos designed to promote a product or service.
Typical Rates: Basic VFX costs between RM300 and RM1000 per hour. Special effects, on the other hand, might easily cost between RM400 and RM1500 per hour. The cost of high-quality 3D animation is determined by the animator’s expertise and the project’s complexity.
#07. Subject Complexity
Subject complexity significantly contributes to the cost of video production. If a video subject is complex and requires a director to oversee the action and emotional aspects, the director’s fees must be included. A skilled director ensures that the video’s narrative and emotional tone are effectively conveyed, which is crucial for complex subjects. This added expertise enhances the quality of the final product but also increases the overall production costs.
One must also consider the music costs. There are certain websites that provide Stock music (royalty-free) and are mostly used for corporate videos. Typical Rates: For a 2 to 3-minute track, royalty-free music for video starts at RM750.
#08. Make-up, Art Direction
Makeup is important and must be considered even for corporate videos. Professional makeup ensures that on-camera talent looks their best, enhancing the overall appearance and quality of the video. Proper makeup can address issues like shine, uneven skin tones, and other imperfections that might be highlighted by the camera and lighting. Therefore, budgeting for a makeup artist is a key aspect of ensuring a polished and professional final product.
Typical Rates: In the city, key staff such as the makeup, costume, and art directors, charge between RM200 and RM600 per hour.
#09. Editing & Adaptations
Editing for short versions and adaptations for different social media and online platforms, such as vertical video, square formats, and HD formats, will add to the cost. Additionally, including subtitles, translations, or voice dubbing in multiple languages further increases production expenses. These elements are crucial for maximizing reach and engagement across diverse audiences and platforms, but they require extra time and resources during the post-production phase. Typical charges range between RM 500 to RM 2,500 per adaptation.
#10. Travel & Stay for Production
Travel and stay costs for the production unit also add to the overall video production expenses. When shooting at distant locations, the budget must account for transportation, accommodation, and meals for the cast and crew. These logistical costs can be substantial, especially for extended shoots or remote locations, and must be carefully planned and included in the project budget to ensure smooth and efficient production.
Bottom line, how much does it cost to make a video?
Here are some statistics that you might use as a starting point for budgeting. A properly produced 2 to 3-minute corporate video normally costs between RM8,000 and RM30,000. The typical cost of video production is usually approximately RM4,000 to RM20,000 for each finished minute, according to most production companies, and we believe that this is a fair starting point to consider when budgeting.
When working with a production company, be transparent with your budget. Our finest video production projects begin when our clients say, “Here’s my budget, these are my aims, what can you do for me?”
The production business will have to guess at a budget if you don’t start with one. Working with a video production business that provides you single pricing for a video or series of videos without explaining what goes into that price point should be avoided.
How we calculate the cost of video production
Transparent Pricing for Corporate Videos
We have a transparent video production policy, which means we calculate every single cost transparently and develop a comprehensive budget for your video production. This approach ensures that all aspects of the cost, including equipment, location rentals, talent fees, travel, accommodations, VFX, animation, editing, and more, are considered and clearly communicated. Our commitment to transparency allows you to understand and plan for every expense involved, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process.
Play Video about our budget process
Tell us about your video
When you require a professional video production agency, we are here to assist you. Whether you are planning to develop a corporate video, animated video, training video, or marketing video, we can meet your needs effectively. Reach out to us today!
email: info@neonvideos.com
+60 11 123140903