Videographers usually send a quote after a discovery call or brief, before any shoot dates are held. Clients often compare several quotes, so they look at the number of shoot days, the deliverables, the editing scope, and what is and is not included. A clear quote helps you stand apart from a lower price that leaves out key items.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Say exactly what the client gets, for example one 2-minute video, three 30-second cuts, and vertical versions. Vague deliverables lead to requests for extra edits at no charge.
Defines the time you are booked and prevents a 4-hour shoot from stretching to 8 without extra pay.
Lists operators, second shooters, lighting, audio, drone, and any rentals so the client understands what is covered and what is optional.
Sets the limit on included edits and the rate for extra rounds, which keeps editing time from growing unchecked.
Covers script or talking points, location access, talent releases, permits, and feedback deadlines. Late client input is a main cause of schedule slips.
States how the video may be used, who owns the final files, and whether licensed assets and raw footage are included.
Gives a turnaround date after final approval, the deposit needed to hold the date, and what happens if the shoot is postponed.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate or commercial shoot (one operator, base kit) | per day (8-10 hrs) | $800-2,500 |
| Half-day shoot | per half day (up to 4 hrs) | $450-1,300 |
| Video editing and post-production | per hour | $50-125 |
| Event coverage (conference, party, performance) | per hour | $100-250 |
| Wedding film package (6-8 hrs coverage, highlight film) | flat fee | $2,000-5,500 |
| Second shooter or camera assistant | per day | $250-700 |
| Drone footage (licensed pilot) | per day or add-on | $300-900 |
| Short promo or social video (30-90 seconds, shot and edited) | flat fee | $750-3,500 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Offer two or three options, such as a single-camera shoot with one edit, a two-camera shoot with extra cuts, and a premium package with drone and social versions. Clients tend to pick a middle option and it shows where your extras add cost.
Estimate shoot days, then edit hours at roughly 3-8 hours of editing per finished minute depending on complexity, and add pass-through costs. This keeps flat fees tied to real time and not guesswork.
If the client has not finalized a script or location, include a contingency or state that scope changes will be billed at your hourly rate. This protects you when the brief shifts.
Gear rentals, crew availability, and your calendar all change. A validity window of 14 to 30 days encourages decisions and prevents old prices from being used months later.
For defined projects with clear deliverables, a flat fee is easier for clients to approve and rewards your efficiency. For projects where the scope is uncertain, such as ongoing event work or open-ended editing, an hourly estimate with a cap or range is safer.
Simple quotes are normally free. For large productions that need scouting, treatments, storyboards, or detailed budgets, many videographers charge a planning or pre-production fee, which can be credited toward the project if the client books.
Include a line that changes to scope, such as additional shoot hours, locations, or deliverables, will be quoted separately or billed at your standard rates. When a change comes up, send a short written change order before doing the extra work.
Yes. Most videographers require a deposit of 25-50% to confirm the date and cover prep costs. Put the amount and the due date on the quote, and state that the date is not held until the deposit and signed agreement are received.
Use the Videographer invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Videographer invoice template