Considering filming your concert? It's a great way to share the live experience with a wider audience. But before you dive in, there are a few things to consider that will affect the price tag. This will help you get accurate quotes from video production companies.
Cameras and Crew: How Many Angles Do You Need?
The more cameras you use, the more dynamic your video will be. A single camera can capture the basics, but multiple cameras let you show the crowd's energy, close-ups of the musicians, and different angles of the performance. Of course, with more cameras comes the need for more camera operators, which increases the cost. Not sure how many cameras are enough? Sharing a few reference videos will give the producer a good idea of what you are looking for, and will adjust the equipment accordingly.
Sound Matters: Venue Audio or Pro Crew?
Crystal clear sound is key for a great concert video. Some venues have excellent audio recording and mixing already set up. If that's the case, you can save money by using their system. However, if the venue doesn’t offer sound recording, or doesn’t use a professional multi-track system, hiring a separate sound engineer or company is a wise investment.
Number of Instruments: A Big Band Needs Big Equipment
A solo performer with an acoustic guitar will need less equipment and personnel than a full orchestra. The more instruments there are, the more cameras and audio inputs you'll need, driving up the cost.
Live-Cutting: Polish it Up Now or Later?
Live-cutting means having a director call the shots during the concert, switching between cameras to create a more polished video. It adds cost (director, extra equipment) but can save money in post-production compared to editing many separate camera angles later. In addition, having a director ensures that the special moments are captured properly, and facilitates collaboration between the camera operators, so you’re not left with 4 shots of the singer and no drums!
Post-Production: From Simple Edits to Special Effects
What will you do with the final video? Is it just for your archives, or are you planning a big online premiere with fancy edits and special effects? The more complex the post-production work, the more it will cost.
Bonus: Permits and Rights
Sometimes, filming at a venue or using copyrighted music requires permits or licenses. Make sure you understand these requirements – they can affect your budget and timeline.
By thinking about these factors beforehand, you'll be able to get quotes that accurately reflect your needs, whether you're creating a simple archive or a full-blown online concert experience.