What video production really costs
If you’re a marketer or business owner in Sydney, there’s a good chance video is somewhere on your to-do list. Maybe you’ve been asked to get a quote, or maybe you’ve started researching video production Sydney Australia, only to get hit with a wide range of prices that don’t make much sense.
So what does it actually cost to make a video? And how can you plan your budget in a way that works for your team, your goals, and your boss?
Let’s break it down without the fluff.
What affects the cost of video production in Sydney?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, because not all videos are created equal. But there are some common factors that drive cost:
Video length and complexity – A 30-second social ad costs less than a 3-minute explainer with motion graphics and multiple shoot days.
Location and crew – Shooting in a Sydney CBD office with a small team costs less than a multi-location shoot with lighting, audio, and a full production crew.
Pre-production and planning – Scriptwriting, storyboarding, scheduling, casting, permits and logistics all take time. Good planning isn’t free, but it saves money later.
Post-production – Editing, animation, subtitles, music licensing, versioning for different platforms – it all adds up.
Average price ranges (based on real projects)
Here’s a rough guide based on typical projects we've seen across Sydney:
Basic social media content (1-2 short videos, filmed in one location): $3,000–$6,000
Explainer or brand video (1-2 shoot days, basic script, multiple edits): $6,000–$15,000
End-to-end campaign (strategy, scripting, shoot days, editing, rollout assets): $15,000–$30,000+
These aren’t hard limits, but they give you a starting point. If you’re seeing quotes much lower than this, double-check what’s actually included. If you’re seeing much higher, ask if you’re paying for extras you might not need.
Tips for budgeting smart
Start with the goal, not the format Rather than asking for a "video", figure out what you want the video to do. Are you explaining a new service? Introducing your team? Trying to convert leads? The more specific the goal, the easier it is to scope and budget the right type of content.
Be clear on where the video will live Something made for LinkedIn has different production needs than something for a TV ad or your website homepage. If you tell your video production service Sydney team where the content will show up, they can suggest the right level of polish.
Ask what’s included Some quotes include strategy, scripting, filming, and delivery. Others might be just for the shoot, with edits charged separately. Ask for a breakdown, and make sure it matches your expectations.
Reuse and repurpose One shoot can often be used to create multiple versions for different platforms. Talk to your team about what else you might need so you can plan ahead and get more value from each shoot.
So, what should you expect to pay?
If you want a clear, well-produced video that reflects your brand and helps your team hit its goals, you should expect to invest somewhere between $6,000 and $20,000 for most professional-grade work.
That doesn’t mean you have to spend that much, but if your video is important to your campaign or business story, it’s worth investing in a team that will get it right.
Sydney video production doesn’t have to be complicated or confusing. It just needs to be clear, realistic, and matched to what you actually need.
So if you’re weighing up costs, start with the why. And work with a video production team who helps you stay on track, on budget, and on message.
Because when it comes to video production Sydney Australia, the smartest budget is the one that gets you what you need, without wasting time, energy, or money.
If you prefer the guidance of a professional cameraman, reach out to CactusCan Sydney. As a film production company with a focus to creating the best video content in Sydney, let’s make the best content for your business.
CactusCan Media is a trusted name in Sydney’s video production scene, offering high-quality, results-driven content tailored to your business goals. As one of the top video production companies in Sydney, we help brands create compelling visual content—from corporate videos and brand stories to social media clips, explainer videos, case studies, event coverage, and photography. If you’re searching for expert video production services near you, our Sydney-based team is here to turn your ideas into powerful, shareable content.
About the Author
Sarah Watts
As our Marketing and Project Manager, Sarah is the driving force behind our successful projects and campaigns. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellence, Sarah orchestrates seamless collaborations that ensure our clients' vision becomes a reality.
Her innate understanding of marketing dynamics make her the go-to expert for developing effective strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Sarah is passionate about crafting compelling narratives and overseeing every project's journey from inception to fruition, resulting in remarkable success stories.
