Frequently Asked Questions

We hope these help you plan your video project. Let us know what else you’re interested in finding out.

How much does it cost to make a video?

Each project we produce is a custom production with costs determined by the time and resources needed to ensure it’s a success. Key factors are the:

length and number of videos
amount of creative time to develop a concept, content outline, script, production plan, and review existing material
amount of coordination time for planning, scheduling, and logistics
number of filming days, locations, and travel required
filming complexity and crew size
use of a teleprompter
use of a narrator
use of graphics and animation
use of stock footage
editing and post-production time

That said, we realize you’re looking for a number. A 10-minute phone call will give us enough info so we can give you a price range.

How long should a video be?

Shorter is better, but it depends on how motivated your audience is, the setting in which they see the video, and what you’re trying to get them to feel or learn. A few examples:

Social media videos (with subtitles and muted audio) should be :30 – :45. It’s hard to keep viewers engaged longer than that with no sound track to pace the video.
Web videos sent to a qualified and interested audience can run 3-5 minutes, no problem. Viewers like a good, well-told story.
Videos produced for events can also run 3-5 minutes. Audiences expect to see a video and they’re a great way to open a presentation.
Educational and training videos can be 10+ minutes, as the audience is there to learn.

How long does it take to make a video?

6-8 weeks is a typical. That includes a couple of weeks up front to plan/coordinate and a few days to review each stage of the edit. Scheduling difficulties and additional client review time can extend this schedule.

However, sometimes clients don’t have 6-8 weeks. It’s no problem for us to condense the schedule. We’re happy to work with you to meet your deadline, whatever it is.

How do you make a video?

There are three main stages. We keep in close contact with you for all of them.

Preproduction

We listen and learn about your goals, audience, and use of the video.
We come up with an approach, content outline and production plan.
Scriptwriting (if needed)
Scheduling and planning for filming

Production

Filming
Graphic design
Stock footage research (if needed)

Post-production

Interview transcription / footage review
Rough cut editing
Client review
Fine cut editing
Client review
Additional changes
Client approval
Final post-production – color grading, audio post-production, captioning
Delivery

What types of videos does GVI make?

We produce promotional, marketing, fundraising, advocacy, awards, motivational, educational, training, recruiting and sales videos. Take look at our portfolio for examples.

What do I have to do?

We understand that your time is limited, and you have other priorities and responsibilities beyond the video you’ve hired us to produce. That’s why we work independently, take care of all the details, and make it easy for you to review our progress along the way.

We’ll look for you to be involved in determining content, approving our concept, connecting us with those appearing in the video, and reviewing the edits. That’s it. Of course, you are free to be much more involved if you like.

Do I need to write a script?

Not at all. There are many instances in which we tell the story through interview comments, so there is no written script before filming takes place. When there’s a narrator or on-camera talent, GVI will write the script.

Client presenters often choose to write their own remarks and that works for us as well.

How do I keep the cost down?

A few common tactics:

Efficient scheduling of interviews and b-roll opportunities. If your organization has an event coming up before the video, try to film the interviews in a side room at the event and eliminate travel and set-up expenses.
Schedule full days of filming, which are much more economical than half-days.
Have a deadline! It helps everyone make timely decisions.

What types of clients does GVI work for?

Major trade associations, non-profits, corporations, cultural institutions, law firms and government agencies hire GVI.

Can GVI use footage that others have filmed?

Of course. We often work with client-filmed material.

Can GVI film footage for others to use?

Yes! We can provide camera crews and conduct interview for you to post-produce elsewhere. We’ll fit into your production plans in whatever way fits best for you.