HOW MUCH DOES ALL OF THIS COST?
“HOW MUCH DO YOU CHARGE?” has to be the MOST frequent of the FAQs
So, we created a simple pricing structure… as simple as can be for the complex world of marketing assets, creative needs and budgets. Our whole reason for existing is to be artists who also love tech and commerce, understand the business world, and make lives better by design.
Our prices, outlined below, align with our most frequent service requests and budgets.
Our “Add-Ons” can be added to any tier - such as models or influencers, sourcing and building props, and all the cool and infinitely creative things we can make happen. Your project and your needs are unique - so is your budget!
We want to be the honest carpenter when it comes to pricing. You know you’re going to pay more for quality work, and some design decisions require more labor and materials than others. Our clients can expect a transparent, upfront, easygoing, hard working, and thorough workflow from start to finish.
In addition to the a-la-carte creative services listed below, such as photography and videography costs, we offer packages and monthly services.
We love working with your existing team! It is important to us that we are collaborative with any size of team we are introduced to - whether it is just you, or a whole crew. Sometimes this means we are only handling one aspect of the work, and other times we are building a brand’s identity from the ground up and then creating and managing content, marketing, and social media through launch and ongoing.
You may know exactly what you are looking for, or you may want us to figure some of that our for you. The flexibily Smiley Face Media offers to our clients, is never wishy-washy - it is consice. Contact us to begin the discovery and proposal process! We will organize custom tiers to choose from, based around your needs and budget range.
How much does VIDEOGRAPHY cost?
Commercials, mini-docs, music videos, social media videos, explainers and informational series, product videos, brand videos, lifestyle videos, animated videos, food videos, cocktail videos… all the videos! Funny! Serious. Website backgrounds. Hook-on-hook-on-hook social media reels. Emotional appeals that WILL make them cry.
Under $5,000 - While many video production teams won’t touch anything under $5,000, we recognize the need for these price points in our local market. We love our community! So while we can’t offer the same service as an ad for a national brand, we can offer something within your budget that is worth your dollars and our time.
$5,000+ We are producing something awesome for your business or event! This could be something energetic and exciting, like a wedding or local ad, or something more logistical like an interview, an explainer video or educational content.
$10,000+ We are talking about a serious video. Full production, but without a few of the bells and whistles and expected deliverables that the higher price points allow for.
For $25,000+ Network commercials, high-end creative, major project pitches, longer-form videos.
for $100,000+ National and international commercials, series, or documentaries where our “Add-Ons” are part of the budget and bidding process.
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Time: Up to 4 hours of on-set time.
Location: One specific, pre-determined location (local public or private nature space, business or home, or at one of Smiley Face Studio’s Indiana locations)
Video Length & Complexity: Short video comprised of several clips, or a small assortment of clips for your own use. It all depends on what YOU need to accomplish your mission!
Tech and Gear: All videos are shot on professional handheld and cinema cameras and lenses, and rendered using professional editing programs.
Audio and Music: Additional expenses apply for audio editing and synching, as well as music sourcing and licensing.
Video Renders: All videos and clips will be delivered color-corrected, ready for your use.
Usage: Personal usage rights, commercial use with credit to Smiley Face Media. Additional commercial usage expenses may apply.
Cast, Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe and Additional Props provided by the client (you!)
Perfect For:
Simple, short reels and social ads
Small events coverage (usually as an add-on to photography - please view our other tiers to see what tier your event video fits into)
Drone clips
Local businesses who may just want a variety of clips to put together themselves for various uses
Family Video (typically added on to a family photoshoot or engagement shoot for a behind the scenes reel).
Headshots
Small Business Website Background Clips
Single E-Commerce Product
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Time: Roughly 1-8 hours of filming time. Additional time for setup may be required. Shorter shoots don’t necessarily mean a less complex project!
Location: 1-3 specific, pre-determined locations (local public or private nature space, business or home, or at one of Smiley Face Studio’s Indiana locations)
Video Length & Complexity: Simple, short video comprised of several clips, or a small assortment of clips for your own use.
Tech and Gear: All videos are shot on professional handheld and cinema cameras and lenses, and rendered using professional editing programs.
Audio and Music: Standard audio editing and synching. Additional expenses may apply for larger audio editing and synching workloads, as well as for music sourcing and licensing.
Video Renders: All videos and clips will be delivered color-corrected, ready for your use.
Usage: Personal usage rights, commercial use with credit to Smiley Face Media. Additional commercial usage expenses may apply.
Cast, Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe and Additional Props provided by the client (you!). Smiley Face Media will coordinate and consult on these matters to ensure a thoroughly prepared production.
Perfect For:
Simple, short reels and social ads
Small or private event videos (please view our other tiers to see what tier your event video fits into)
Drone clips or short drone video (edited)
Small businesses who may just want a variety of clips to put together themselves for various uses
Family Video (typically added on to a family photoshoot or engagement shoot).
Headshots (teams; often booked as photo and video)
Small Business Website Background Video
Single E-Commerce Product Lifestyle
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Custom set design, multiple spread out locations, script-writing, high-end graphics, VFX, multiple audio interviews… each project is unique!
NOTE ABOUT EVENTS & WEDDINGS: Large, or multi-day wedding shoots (such as also shooting the rehearsal dinner the night before and the party the night of) requires an initial conversation so that we get your pricing right!
Time: Roughly 1-8 hours of filming time.
Location: 1-4 specific, pre-determined locations (travel expenses may apply)
Tech and Gear: All videos are shot on professional handheld and cinema cameras and lenses, and rendered using professional editing programs.
Audio and Music: Audio editing and synching. Additional expenses may apply for larger audio editing and synching workloads, as well as for custom music composition.
Video Renders: All videos and clips will be delivered color-corrected, ready for your use.
Usage: Personal usage rights, commercial use with credit to Smiley Face Media. Additional commercial usage expenses may apply.
Cast, Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe and Additional Props provided by the client (you!). Smiley Face Media will coordinate and consult on these matters to ensure a thoroughly prepared production.
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You’re the kind of client that knows a $10,000 video is a deal!
Regional commercials that blow your competition out of the water, lifestyle shoots for brands and startups, seasonal product release videos, multi-day projects and processes, professional website content packages as well as big weddings, VIP events, and if you already know your project isn’t gonna fit in those lower tiers.
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This isn’t your first rodeo, or the first time you’ll be published in highly visible or important capacities. We know what you expect from commercial and editorial projects that WILL be viewed through a critical lens, by a large audience.
At this tier we are going hard on the strategy. Eat, leaving absolutely no crumbs. Days on days of pre-production before any cameras are touched.
Realistic limitations, particularly in terms of video length, still apply. We’re not making a full 60 minute documentary for $15,000… but we will make really freaking awesome stuff together!
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You don’t have time for anything other than boss mode. You want your commercial to beat out the best… like, winning Webbies. Or maybe you need your 7+ figure project to be funded, and supported. Perhaps you are launching your 18th CPG brand and need to launch with a bang and a blast.
Tell a story? We’re not just telling tales, we’re dropping jaws and wiping tears while giving your board the zoomies. Let’s GO!
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Models: we have great relationships with agencies, as well as freelance models, around the country. They do not all cost the same!
Talent Casting: We can book awesome talent that is perfect for your brand, working with you as much or as little as you want through the process!
Hair and Make-Up: Prices vary by needs and artist
Locations: Location expenses, such as location rent and reservation fees and film permits may apply.
Travel: travel expenses, such as flights and hotels, may be worked into the price as part of a travel budget, booked by the client, or booked by Smiley Face and reimbursed by the client.
Set and Prop Design: We can build fully custom sets; full scale and miniature for products. As simple or elaborate as your heart desires. There is no limit on the creativity here!
CONSIDERATIONS FOR FINDING YOUR VIDEO BUDGET:
What types of videos do you need? (If you’re not sure, we will help you figure this out)
How long is the video(s)?
How soon do you need the video(s) done?
Is this a one-off or are you looking for ongoing content and material?
What will be required in terms of sets, settings, and locations?
If people are in the video, who? Do you want us to cast them? Do they need hair and makeup? Are they top models who charge as much as the video itself to be featured in it?
What are the audio needs? Voiceovers, On-site recording, Sound effects, Stock music, licensing a popular tune, adding the audio through social, or going all-in with custom composition?
How many cuts of the video? (I.E.: you need a one-minute video with a 30-second cut and 3 x 15-second cuts)
How much does PHOTOGRAPHY cost?
Digital ads, printed ads and handouts, swag, website imagery, social media posts and stories, slideshows, digital and print albums, PR placements, slideshow videos, decks and presentations, signs and banners, trade show setups and events, labels and packaging… imagery defines your brand.
While we always recommend capturing both photos and videos during each shoot, there are situations where you may only want or need images. Either way, we use the same pricing models listed here to develop custom quotes based on your needs and wants.
Please check our Add-Ons section for more information about models, actors, hair and make-up artists, location scouting and travel, wardrobe, custom costume design, set building and design, product and prop styling, and other aspects that may alter the true cost. We always aim to maximize your budget whether you are investing $500 or $50,000+ into your shoot! Starting from the bottom, we will never forget the value of a dollar - through years of experience, we know how to leverage increased artistry and outcome for higher budgets and big expectations.
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Time: Roughly 20 minutes to one hour of shooting time (up to 4 hours on set)
Location: One specific, pre-determined location (local public or private nature space, business or home, or at one of Smiley Face Studio’s Indiana locations)
Images: Varies by shoot type: generally 40-50+ professionally edited, high-resolution digital, downloadable files for family, lifestyle, and events. E-commerce for a single product (all angles, white background and backgroundless versions).
Gallery: An online gallery for viewing, sharing and ordering prints, and pin protected for downloads as high-resolution and web-size files.
Usage: Personal printing rights, commercial use with credit to Smiley Face Media.
Cast, Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe and Additional Props provided by the client (you!)
Perfect For:
Family Photos (up to 6 people)
Local Events Coverage (typically for future advertising purposes)
Headshots
Small Business Website & Social Media Content Basics
Single E-Commerce Product
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Time: Roughly 1-4 hours of shooting time.
Location: 1-3 specific, pre-determined location (local public or private nature space, business or home, or at one of Smiley Face Studio’s Indiana locations)
Images: Varies by shoot type: minimum 15-50+ images from each location, editorial level editing, high-resolution digital, downloadable files for family, lifestyle, and events. This is more than the mini-session format; it’s a full creative experience. E-commerce pricing varies and requires consultation.
Gallery: An online gallery for viewing, sharing and ordering prints, and pin protected for downloads as high-resolution and web-size files.
Usage: Personal printing rights, commercial use with credit to Smiley Face Media.
Cast, Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe and Additional Props provided by the client (you!) Smiley Face Media will provide support and consultation.
Perfect For:
Family Photos (up to 10 people)
Local Events Coverage, same as the Mini-tier except longer time shooting, more takes, and more edits delivered. While this tier does not ensure full participant coverage, vendor will have more thorough coverage and a wider variety of shots overall (macro, wide angle, more people, etc)
Headshots
Small Business Website & Social Media Content Basics
Single E-Commerce Product with Lifestyle (please see Add-Ons to see if those apply to your product photography needs!)
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At this tier, set and studio design becomes an option - you may want a more elaborate setup and a shorter shoot with more post-production for your new product, or you may need a larger amount and variety of images for something like a small to medium sized wedding.
NOTE ABOUT WEDDINGS: Large weddings, location weddings, wedding videos, and multi-day wedding shoots (such as, also shooting the rehearsal dinner the night before and the party the night after) require an initial conversation so that we get your pricing right!
Time: 1-6 hours of time on set (time on set does not apply to studio shoots without models). Premium pre-production and consultation ensures a top-tier, catered experience from start to finish.
Location: 1-6 specific, pre-determined locations (local public or private nature space, business or home, or at one of Smiley Face Studio’s Indiana locations).
Images: Varies by shoot type: 15-50+ with editorial level editing, high-resolution digital, downloadable files for family, lifestyle, and events. This is more than the mini-session format; it’s a full creative experience. E-commerce at this price point varies and requires consultation.
Gallery: An online gallery for viewing, sharing and ordering prints, and pin protected for downloads as high-resolution and web-size files.
Usage: Personal printing rights, commercial use with credit to Smiley Face Media.
Cast, Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe and Additional Props provided by the client or in collaboration with Smiley Face Media. We will provide support and consultation through this part of the creative process.
Perfect For:
Family Photos, Small-Med Weddings and Parties
Local, Regional, or State Events: Full Coverage (with limitations - please see Add-Ons to see if additional expenses, such as travel, apply)
Headshots (Small Businesses and Groups)
Business Website & Social Media Content Basics
E-Commerce Product and/or Product Lifestyle (please see Add-Ons to see if those apply to your product photography needs!)
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You’re the kind of client that knows a $2,500 shoot is a deal! Lifestyle Shoots for startups, seasonal product releases, multi-day projects and processes, professional website content packages as well as full-day weddings, VIP events, and if you already know your project isn’t gonna fit in those lower tiers.
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This isn’t your first rodeo, or the first time you’ll be published. Same here - we know what you expect from commercial and editorial projects that WILL be in top-tier pages and publications.
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Full imagery packages, including product studio and lifestyle photography, elaborately planned and curated sets and settings, and absolutely no expense spared. Creative partnership commence!
Consultation required
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Models: we have great relationships with agencies, as well as freelance models, around the country. They do not all cost the same!
Talent Casting: We can book awesome talent that is perfect for your brand, working with you as much or as little as you want through the process!
Hair and Make-Up: Prices vary by needs and artist
Locations: Location expenses, such as location rent and reservation fees and film permits may apply.
Travel: travel expenses, such as flights and hotels, may be worked into the price as part of a travel budget, booked by the client, or booked by Smiley Face and reimbursed by the client.
Set and Prop Design: We can build fully custom sets; full scale and miniature for products. As simple or elaborate as your heart desires. There is no limit on the creativity here!
CONSIDERATIONS FOR FINDING YOUR PHOTO BUDGET:
Is this a one-hour event that needs coverage, studio product imagery, or a full set of lifestyle images for your CPG product?
Do you want ongoing photography/ content, or is this a one-off?
How many images do you need?
How many unique setups do you need?
Props? Models? Bottles?
How much time and materials will be going into pre-production?
How much does SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT + CONTENT cost?
We offer social media services starting at $1,500/ month
Content creation, social media management, ads manager and all things Meta. Social media management is more than just planning posts and writing blurbs to go along with them. It is strategy with specific goals in mind.
If you have an in-house team, we offer a-la-carte solutions (like premium reels and ads) that help you reach your goals!
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Frequency: Up to three posts per week, shared between FB and IG.
Content: Mini-shoots up to once per quarter, although content may be provided by the client, and shoots may be combined into larger annual or semi-annual shoots.
Includes data-driven copywriting, planning, curation, and posting as well as monthly consultations and check-ins.
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Frequency: Every other day posts, shared between FB and IG.
Includes data-driven copywriting, planning, curation, and posting as well as monthly consultations (generally about two hours total each month)
Creative: Includes custom graphics
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Two reels in addition to everything listed above. These are filmed during the photography shoots
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Item description
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Tailored-to-you plan, with weekly short videos, daily posts and stories across multiple platforms.
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Marketing Budget: Your ad-spend is a separate line item from content creation and social management, and will likely vary month to month. We offer marketing services and ad-spend strategies to accompany our social media services!
Add-Ons for photo and video:
Models: we have great relationships with agencies, as well as freelance models, around the country. They do not all cost the same!
Talent Casting: We can book awesome talent that is perfect for your brand, working with you as much or as little as you want through the process!
Hair and Make-Up: Prices vary by needs and artist
Locations: Location expenses, such as location rent and reservation fees and film permits may apply.
Travel: travel expenses, such as flights and hotels, may be worked into the price as part of a travel budget, booked by the client, or booked by Smiley Face and reimbursed by the client.
Set and Prop Design: We can build fully custom sets; full scale and miniature for products. As simple or elaborate as your heart desires. There is no limit on the creativity here!
AD SPEND:
We charge 20% of your ad spend to manage all of your ads and analytics. The content can either be commissioned through us, or provided to us.
CONSIDERATIONS:
Do you want videos, photos, and graphics?
How many posts per week? Story posts as well?
What social platforms are best for you? Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter (X), Pinterest… all of the above?
Would you like to increase your engagement through targeted interactions?
Do you want social media content, social media management, or both?
Will we be handling Ads and boosts? What budget do you have for social media ads?
MAXIMIZE YOUR BUDGET with month-to-month retainers and
We offer bundles and monthly content services - combining services saves you time, money, and a whole lot of nonsense
Monthly retainers are our favorite. They yield consistency and cohesiveness while allowing us to offer high-quality content at a much lower rate than a la carte.
We love one-offs as well; however, combining services also allows us to consistently build upon your brand, and branding. These plans open the door for immediate action as technology advances and content needs change.
There’s enough waste in the world; the last thing we want to waste is time.
Branding packages start at $10,000
We take the time to write a custom proposal
THE MORE YOU LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR PROJECT, THE MORE ACCURATE OUR PROPOSAL WILL BE. IF YOU AREN’T HAPPY WITH WHAT WE PROPOSE, LET US KNOW - WE ARE MORE THAN HAPPY TO REVISE.
You are worth the time, every time.
Invest in Your Success: Get Your Money's Worth!
At Smiley Face Media, we believe that content should not only fit your budget but also deliver long-lasting impact. We understand the significance of standing the test of time. That's why we offer you a guarantee – our commitment to providing content that defines you and your brand, without cutting corners or compromising on quality.
Are you tired of wasting your hard-earned money on products or services that provide little value? We understand that getting your money's worth is essential. After all, your time is precious, and you deserve to see results for the investments you make.
Investing in You
When you invest in our content services, you're investing in your success.
We work closely with you to create compelling and engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Whether you need a captivating blog post, an attention-grabbing social media campaign, or a persuasive sales pitch, our team is here to deliver.
Quality Over Quantity
We strongly believe that quality should never be sacrificed for quantity.
While some may offer inexpensive options, remember the old saying: "You get what you pay for." Cut-rate content may save you a few dollars upfront, but it won't provide the longevity and impact that your brand needs to thrive.
Our content is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect blend of creativity and substance. Our experienced writers are masters of their craft, capable of crafting captivating narratives, persuasive arguments, and engaging storytelling that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Effective Results
content isn't just about words and visuals on a page; it's about achieving results.
We pride ourselves on understanding your brand's unique voice, values, and goals. Content for organic growth and content supported by an ads budget can achieve wildly different results - consider how much of your budget needs to go towards creative vs placements and Remember, your investment isn't just financial; it's an investment in your brand's future. By partnering with us, you're ensuring that you receive the best return on your investment and that your content stands out from the competition.
Don't Skimp, Thrive!
In a competitive marketplace, it's crucial to set yourself apart. Don't settle for mediocre content that fades into the background. Stand out and make your mark!
We're confident that our commitment to excellence, creativity, and outstanding results will exceed your expectations. Your success is our success, and we look forward to helping you take your brand to new heights!
In the ever-evolving world of visual media, original photos and videos hold immense value
These unique works of art capture moments, tell stories, and evoke emotions. However, determining the pricing for original photos and videos is a complex process that takes into consideration several factors. Here's an insight into how these precious creations are often priced.
1. Licensing Terms
The licensing terms play a crucial role in determining the price of original photos and videos. Licenses can vary widely, depending on factors such as usage rights, exclusivity, duration, and geographic reach. For instance, a photo or video intended for limited use on a personal blog would have a different price tag compared to one that will be used in a national advertising campaign.
2. Production Costs
The production costs associated with the creation of original photos and videos also impact their pricing. These costs include the equipment used, any required props or models, location fees, post-production expenses, and the time and skills invested by the photographer or videographer. The complexity and quality of the final output also influence the overall pricing.
3. Expertise and Reputation
The expertise and reputation of the photographer or videographer can significantly influence the pricing of their original work. Accomplished professionals with a proven track record and a strong portfolio command higher prices as their creations are perceived to hold greater artistic and commercial value. Their experience, skill set, and unique artistic vision are often reflected in the pricing of their original photos and videos.
4. Market Demand
Like any other product or service, market demand plays a role in the pricing of original photos and videos. If there is a high demand for a specific style or subject matter, prices tend to increase. Additionally, scarcity and exclusivity also impact the perceived value of these visual creations. Limited edition prints or exclusive rights to a particular original photo or video can drive up its price due to the higher demand and exclusivity factor.
5. Usage Type
The intended usage of the original photo or video plays a significant role in pricing. Commercial usage, such as in advertising campaigns or publications, usually attracts higher prices due to the potential for greater exposure and potential financial gain for the buyer. On the other hand, personal or non-commercial usage may have a lower price point.
6. Market Standards
Lastly, market standards and industry norms also play a part in determining the pricing of original photos and videos. These standards take into account factors like geographic location, prevailing rates, and the practices of other photographers and videographers in the industry. While there may be variations, adhering to these market standards helps maintain a sense of fairness and consistency in pricing.
In conclusion, pricing original photos and videos involves a careful consideration of various factors, including licensing terms, production costs, expertise and reputation, market demand, usage type, and market standards. By factoring in these variables, creators and buyers can arrive at a fair price that reflects the artistic value, production efforts, and market demand of these valuable visual assets.