How much event video production costs for festivals, artists, marketing agencies, and brands

One of the most common questions asked by festivals, artists, marketing agencies, and brands is how much event video production costs. The truth is that event video pricing is not fixed. Every event is unique, and the cost depends on factors such as scale, location, equipment, crew size, and the type of video you want to create. Whether you are planning a large outdoor festival, a performance, a brand activation, or a corporate marketing event, understanding these factors helps you budget confidently and choose the right approach.

This guide explains the main elements that affect event video production costs and helps you make sense of what you can expect when planning your next project.

1. The cost depends on the scale and type of your event

Not all events require the same level of production. A small performance filmed with a compact crew will naturally cost less than a large multi day festival with multiple stages or a brand activation with multiple filming locations.

Your event type influences costs

• Festivals often require multiple camera operators, long shoot days, and complex sound capture

• Artist performances may range from simple single camera sets to multi camera cinematic recordings

• Marketing agencies often need interview setups, branded content, and behind the scenes coverage

• Brands may require product shots, customer engagement footage, and social media edits

Understanding the scope of your event helps the production company shape a realistic quote.

2. Pre production planning affects the overall cost

Pre production is the planning stage that ensures your event runs smoothly on the filming day. This stage is often overlooked, yet it directly influences cost and quality.

Pre production tasks may include

• Creative planning

• Storyboarding

• Scheduling

• Location research

• Shot lists

• Interviews with organisers or brand representatives

• Technical preparation

Although pre production adds to the investment, it prevents mistakes and ensures that the crew captures everything you need.

3. Filming time and crew size are major cost factors

The length of the shoot and the number of people required on set have a direct impact on cost.

Factors that influence filming cost

• Total filming days

• Number of camera operators

• Need for a director or producer

• Dedicated audio technician

• Need for drone operators

• Multiple locations during the event

Festivals often require larger crews due to multiple stages or activities happening at the same time. Artists may need a smaller but highly skilled team for performance recording. Agencies and brands often need both wide coverage and specific close up shots for storytelling.

4. Equipment and technical requirements influence pricing

Event environments are unpredictable. Lighting varies, sound can be loud, and movement can be fast. High quality equipment ensures that the final video looks and sounds professional.

Equipment that may affect cost

• Cinema quality cameras

• Low light capable lenses

• Stabilised rigs

• Multi channel audio recorders

• Lighting kits for interviews or backstage content

• Drone cameras

• Wireless systems for mobility

The more technically demanding the event, the more equipment is needed.

5. Audio quality is a critical cost element

Capturing clean sound at a festival or crowded marketing event requires specialised skills and equipment. If your video includes speeches, performances, or interviews, the production company will need to plan specifically for sound.

Audio influencing cost includes

• Lapel microphones

• Directional microphones

• Multiple audio sources

• Backup recording devices

• Live mixing for performances

Good audio often requires an additional sound technician, which increases the cost but significantly improves the final quality.

6. Editing is one of the largest parts of the total investment

Editing shapes the story, sets the pacing, and blends audio, visuals, and music into a compelling final product. The level of editing required varies widely between projects.

Editing tasks that influence cost

• Cutting and selecting the best footage

• Colour correction and colour grading

• Sound design and mixing

• Syncing music and live audio

• Motion graphics or titles

• Captions

• Multiple versions for different platforms

• Revisions and refinements

A simple highlight reel may require basic editing, while a cinematic festival recap or brand activation story will take significantly more time.

7. Multi format content packages increase cost but add long term value

Festivals, artists, marketing agencies, and brands often want more than one video from an event. A multi format package provides content suited to websites, social media, sponsors, and future promotions.

Common deliverables include

• Highlight reels

• Full performance edits

• Short vertical clips for social media

• Behind the scenes videos

• Interviews

• Sponsor clips

• Teasers for future events

While these add to the cost, they also create far more promotional opportunities.

8. Travel, locations, and logistics may affect cost

The logistics of reaching your event location and filming efficiently can increase the overall price.

Cost factors include

• Travel time for the crew

• Accommodation for multi day events

• Fees for filming in restricted areas

• Load in and load out time at venues

• Transportation of equipment

Large festivals or brand events in remote or multi site locations may require additional planning and travel compensation.

9. Typical investment ranges for event video production

Although every project is unique, there are general cost ranges that festivals, artists, agencies, and brands can expect.

Small scale events

These may involve one camera operator, simple audio capture, and a short edit.

Common examples

• Small performances

• Simple brand demonstrations

• Studio style events

Medium scale events

These often require multiple cameras, more advanced preparation, and a more detailed edit.

Common examples

• Artist live sets

• Brand activations

• Indoor marketing events

Large scale events

Large events require bigger crews, multiple filming locations, drone work, and extended editing time.

Common examples

• Multi day festivals

• Major launches

• High profile brand campaigns

To receive precise pricing, the production team needs to understand your event goals, schedule, and content requirements. You can explore your options on our page for event video production, which provides further insight into how a tailored quote is created.

10. How to get the best value from your event video investment

There are several ways to maximise your budget while still achieving a professional result.

Plan your content goals early

Clear expectations reduce filming time and prevent unnecessary edits.

Capture multiple videos in one shoot

A single event can generate a full library of content if planned correctly.

Use a team experienced in your industry

Festivals, artists, agencies, and brands need specialists who understand their creative needs.

Request assets in multiple formats

This ensures your content works across all platforms without additional filming.

Conclusion

Event video production costs vary based on the scale of your event, the style of video you want, the equipment required, and the level of editing involved. Festivals, artists, marketing agencies, and brands all have unique needs, so no single price fits every situation. By understanding these factors, you can plan more effectively and make a confident decision.

To explore a tailored quote that reflects your specific goals, visit our page on event video production and discover how professional support can elevate your next event.