FAQ
How much does a video cost?
While we offer some standard video and budget formats, all productions have unique requirements. Variables include:
- Are we shooting on location or in our studio?
- Types of lighting needed
- Are motion graphics or special props required?
- What size crew do we need?
An approximate guideline for Breakfree Productions videos:
- Profile/testimonial videos: $2 500 – $7 500
- Marketing videos: $5 000 – $20 000
- Training and review guides: $15 000 – $30 000 per finished hour
Like most things, you get what you pay for. A good analogy can be drawn between luxury and economy cars. Most people don’t need a luxury car – and small economy cars won’t meet the needs of some customers – but it’s easy to see which type of car you’re driving.
We would be happy to provide an estimate based on your unique requirements.
Could our CEO/spokesperson present our video or do we need professional talent?
Breakfree Productions would be happy to coach your company’s CEO or spokesperson through the process. But keep in mind that while there are many similarities between presenting on video and doing so at a live event, there are some key differences. The main one is that a video audience is less forgiving. Our director will work closely with you to ensure that you present well and achieve the desired tone.
Using professional talent is generally the easiest path to a polished final product. Professional actors have the experience to easily modify their delivery at the director’s request and can typically nail a line in a few takes. The result is a professional-looking piece that requires less time and money, both on set and in post production.
Both methods can produce excellent results and we would be happy to recommend the best option for your video.
High Definition or Standard Definition?
Video quality is constantly improving. With proper lighting Standard Definition can yield amazing results, but most of the industry has made the shift to High Definition.
Be aware that many HD formats exist that are not True HD. True HD means 1080p.
HD production costs are slightly higher for several reasons:
- Higher equipment costs.
- Longer editing/rendering times due to larger file sizes.
- Storage and back-up costs. While most SD video is shot on tape, which becomes the back-up, HD is typically stored on hard-drive and must be backed up.
Breakfree Productions has switched to an entirely HD workflow. We feel the increased picture quality speaks for itself, especially when combined with professional lighting and camerawork.
What Camera do you use?
Since every production requires a unique look and feel, Breakfree Productions shoots with several different cameras:
Panasonic HVX 200 – Offers affordable High Definition workflow with a cinematic look.
Canon 5D MarkII SLR HD – Gives amazing depth of field and is extremely useful for making small spaces look larger and for bringing focus to specific elements in the frame.
RED cam - Perfect for productions that will be screened at a cinema theater; or for shooting footage that requires colour enhancements, Computer Graphics, or phenomenal detail.
Please inquire about any specific requests – each production is unique and Breakfree is committed to always achieving the desired look.
What editing software do you use?
Our Mac-based workflow is the industry standard. It’s tried, tested, and proven to be stable and reliable. For editing software we use:
- Final Cut Studio Pro
- Adobe After Effects
- 3D motion graphics
Why do we need a Director?
Many independent camera operators offering corporate video services attempt to play all the production roles. Generally focussing on the camera, camera settings, framing, and workflow, they tend to capture events as they unfold and then sort out the details during post production.
Breakfree Productions always works with a director because we believe that the subtleties surrounding a presentation make the difference between a run-of-the-mill video and a polished, high-quality product. There is a reason that the industry places a high value on directors – they use their understanding of the story to influence the tone, style, content, and creative direction of the project in a way that brings out the very best in the presenter and captures the content in its best light.
Why do we need a Producer?
Producers manage a project by looking after the details and coordinating the logistics to ensure a fluid, stress-free production process. In any production, there are many details which could potentially be overlooked. Remember the old saying about hindsight always being 20/20? Our producer ensures that we never have to test that.
Can we shoot our own videos?
With digital workflow making shooting and editing video increasingly easy and affordable, you may be tempted to produce your own content. Perhaps you’ve added a video blog or training module to your website. Maybe a friend or staff member has a camera and editing experience.
In some cases, it is feasible to capture some of your own footage, and in these situations we would be happy to coach you through the areas of camera options, lighting considerations, audio, workflow, and even adding motion graphics and titles.
But before you start rolling tape, there are a few questions to consider:
Do they have a deep understanding of your brand and possess the skills to effectively communicate your message to your target audience? Will the finished product portray your company in a professional light?
Since producing a corporate video involves coordinating many complex and interconnected disciplines and elements, D.I.Y. projects simply can’t compare with a professionally produced product.
With Breakfree Productions, you have a team of professionals who not only specialize in corporate video production, but are also experienced in the fields of business, marketing, and communication.