A Complete Guide to Planning a Commercial Video Shoot: Budget, Timeline & What Businesses Should Expect
In today’s world, video is no longer optional - it’s one of the most powerful marketing tools a business can invest in. Whether you’re launching a new product, refreshing your brand, or creating social media content, a professionally produced commercial video can increase engagement, boost sales, and elevate your brand’s identity.
But if you’ve never planned a commercial video shoot before, the process can feel overwhelming. How much does it cost? How long does it take? What preparation is needed?
This guide breaks down everything businesses should know before producing a commercial video; from budgeting, planning, and timelines to what happens on shoot day
1. Define Your Goal and Message
Before cameras start rolling, clarify the purpose of your video:
Brand awareness
Product launch
Website hero video
Training or internal communications
Social media ads
A strong video has a focused message and audience. Knowing your goal early helps shape the script, visuals, and style and prevents budget waste later.
2. Build the Creative Concept
This is where your vision becomes a plan. A production team will help you develop:
Script or talking points
Storyboard or shot list
Visual style (clean, modern, cinematic, interview-based, etc.)
Location ideas: office, studio, outdoors, client site
Talent: staff or hired actors/models
A well-developed concept ensures the final video looks professional and aligns with your brand.
3. Understand the Budget
Commercial video pricing varies depending on:
✅ Length of the video
✅ Number of filming locations
✅ Crew size
✅ Equipment (lighting, audio, drones, stabilisers)
✅ Editing & graphics
✅ Actors or voiceovers
Typical ranges businesses should expect:
Small business promo / social content: £800 – £2,500+
Corporate branding or product video: £3,000 – £10,000+
Large campaigns or multi-day shoots: £10,000+
A good production company will be transparent about costs and help you maximise value within budget.
4. Pre-Production: The Most Important Stage
This stage sets the foundation for a smooth shoot. It includes:
Final script / questions / shot list
Location scouting
Scheduling
Casting talent
Gathering props or branding materials
The more prepared everyone is, the more efficient shoot day becomes.
5. What Happens on Shoot Day
A standard commercial shoot may include:
Setting up lighting, audio, and backgrounds
Coaching speakers or interview subjects
Capturing multiple takes for safety
Filming close-ups, wide shots, product footage, and B-roll
It’s normal for video production to take several hours, even if the final edit is only 30–90 seconds. Quality comes from detail.
6. The Editing Process
After filming, the post-production stage brings everything together:
✅ Cutting and arranging footage
✅ Colour grading
✅ Music and sound design
✅ Logo animation or motion graphics
✅ Subtitles (especially important for social media)
Most businesses receive a first draft to review and request revisions.
7. Delivery & Formats
A professional production team will deliver your video in the formats you need for:
Websites
YouTube & Vimeo
Social media ads
LinkedIn and Instagram reels
Email marketing
Some businesses also request short vertical versions for TikTok, Meta, or YouTube Shorts.
How to Get the Best Results
Be clear on your goal and audience
Provide brand guidelines, logo, and tone
Choose a team that understands marketing, not just filming
Trust the professionals — they know how to make you look great on camera
Final Thoughts
A commercial video is an investment that can transform how customers see your business. With the right planning, a clear message, and a professional production team, you’ll walk away with a polished, high-impact video you can use across multiple platforms.