How much social media video production costs for Somerset and Southwest brands

Across Somerset and the Southwest, demand for high quality social media video content has grown rapidly. Businesses in Taunton, Bath, Bristol, Exeter, Weston super Mare, and surrounding areas are producing more video than ever before. Social platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn all prioritise video, which means companies need consistent, professional content to stay visible and competitive.

One of the most common questions local brands ask is how much social media video production costs. The truth is that pricing varies depending on several factors, including the scale of the shoot, number of videos required, filming location, editing complexity, and the creative direction. This guide breaks down the key elements that influence the cost of social media video production for Somerset and Southwest businesses and explains how to budget effectively.

1. Why social media video production costs vary

Unlike traditional advertising, social media requires regular, ongoing content. This means production workflows must be adaptable and scalable. Costs vary depending on how much content you need and the style of video you want to create.

Common factors that influence cost

• Number of videos required

• Length and style of each video

• Number of filming days

• Size of the production crew

• Camera and lighting setup

• Editing time and complexity

• Motion graphics or animation requirements

• Music licensing

• Location fees within Somerset or the Southwest

Understanding these factors helps businesses plan budgets more accurately.

2. The scale of production makes a big difference

Social media video production can range from small one camera shoots to larger multi video campaigns. Somerset and Southwest brands can choose a production scale that fits their needs and goals.

Common production scales include

Small scale social content

• Quick product highlights

• Simple talking head videos

• Short pieces filmed in one location
  Ideal for businesses wanting fast and affordable content for Reels, TikTok, or shorts.

Medium scale production

• Multi shot scenes

• Several video formats filmed in one session

• More complex lighting and audio setups
  Great for local campaigns, promotional content, and evergreen brand videos.

Larger social video campaigns

• Multiple filming days

• A variety of locations across the Southwest

• Larger crew and multi camera setups
  Used for big brand campaigns and more cinematic social content.

Choosing the correct scale helps avoid overspending while still achieving the right impact.

3. Pre production is a key part of the cost

Before filming begins, planning is essential. Pre production ensures that filming runs smoothly and that every video aligns with your strategy.

Typical pre production tasks include

• Developing the creative concept

• Writing scripts or outlines

• Planning shot lists

• Location scouting in Somerset or Bristol

• Scheduling the shoot

• Preparing props and visual assets

• Organising any required permissions

Good pre production reduces mistakes, saves time during filming, and ensures the final video meets your goals.

4. Crew size and experience affect the budget

A professional shoot may require a range of crew members depending on the complexity of the project.

Potential crew roles include

• Director

• Producer

• Camera operator

• Assistant camera

• Audio technician

• Lighting technician

• Drone operator

• Hair and makeup artist

• Production assistant

Somerset and Southwest businesses do not always need a full crew. Many social media shoots work well with a smaller team. The right crew size ensures quality without unnecessary cost.

5. The type of equipment influences pricing

The equipment used on a shoot affects the final look of your videos. High quality cameras, stabilisers, lighting, and audio gear make a difference in visual and sound quality.

Equipment that may affect cost includes

• Cinema or mirrorless cameras

• Prime or zoom lenses

• Lighting kits for indoor and outdoor shoots

• Gimbal or stabiliser rigs

• Professional audio equipment

• Drones for aerial shots

• SFX or specialist rigs

Working with a production team that matches equipment to your goals helps keep costs under control.

6. Filming locations across Somerset and the Southwest

The region offers a huge variety of filming environments, from coastal scenery to historic buildings, creative studios, city streets, rural landscapes, and modern offices.

Location based costs may include

• Studio rental in Bristol or Taunton

• Travel expenses for crew

• Permit fees for specific filming locations

• Additional lighting for dark or challenging spaces

• Time spent moving between locations

Choosing fewer or local locations helps reduce logistical costs.

7. Editing and post production are major cost factors

Editing is where your social videos truly come to life. Post production often takes longer than the filming day because it includes organising footage, selecting the best moments, adding graphics, and creating multiple versions for different platforms.

Post production tasks often include

• Editing multiple versions for TikTok, Reels, and YouTube

• Creating short cutdowns for ads

• Adjusting colour grading

• Enhancing the audio mix

• Adding graphics or subtitles

• Producing vertical or square formats

• Reviewing and applying revision rounds

The more videos you need from a single shoot, the more editing time is required.

8. Graphics, captions, and animation can affect cost

Social media video often performs best when on screen text, titles, and motion graphics are included. These elements help communicate clearly without requiring sound.

Graphics may include

• Lower thirds

• Animated titles

• Logo stings

• On screen captions

• Explainer graphics

• Infographics

More advanced animation will increase the budget, but simple, branded graphics are usually very cost effective.

9. Music licensing and voiceovers

Music plays an important role in creating emotion and energy in your social media videos. Costs vary depending on the source of the music.

Options include

• Royalty free music

• Stock music from licensed libraries

• Professionally composed tracks

• Commercial music licensing

• Voiceover artists for explanation or storytelling

Most Somerset and Southwest businesses choose stock music for affordability and quality.

10. How to budget effectively for social media video production

Planning ahead helps Somerset and Southwest brands manage costs and make the most of their investment.

Budgeting tips include

• Define your goals before filming

• Group multiple videos into one shoot

• Film locally to reduce travel costs

• Keep locations simple

• Use a smaller crew where possible

• Choose video formats with long term value

• Plan monthly content to avoid repeated filming costs

A well planned content strategy is the biggest cost saver of all.

Conclusion

Social media video production is one of the most effective investments for Somerset and Southwest brands that want to grow online. Costs vary based on production scale, filming needs, editing time, and creative complexity. With the right planning and support from a professional video production team, businesses can create strong, consistent, and high performing content without overspending.

If you want transparent pricing and high quality social video content for your Somerset or Southwest business, our social media video production services are designed to support you at every stage.