How Long Does It Really Take to Make a Video? A Clear Breakdown
“How long will this take?” It’s one of the most common and important questions we hear at Skyrex Productions. As a Toronto video production company, we know you need to plan your campaigns, align with launch dates, and manage expectations. While a simple social media clip differs vastly from a broadcast-quality documentary, most professional marketing or corporate videos share a common production roadmap.
The straightforward answer is that a typical corporate video production or marketing video takes 4 to 8 weeks from kickoff to final delivery. Let’s break down what happens during that time and what can speed things up or slow them down.
The Three Core Phases of Video Production
Every professional video project moves through three key stages. Rushing or skipping parts of this video production process often leads to delays, higher costs, or a weaker final product.
- Pre-Production (Planning: ~1-2 Weeks)
This is the essential groundwork. It includes our initial consultation, strategy development, scriptwriting, storyboarding, casting, location scouting, and scheduling. Thorough planning here is crucial; it ensures the actual filming days run smoothly and efficiently. For complex projects, this phase can be longer. - Production (Filming: ~1-7 Days)
This is the shoot itself. The duration depends entirely on the scope: a single-interview testimonial might take one day, while a multi-location commercial video production could take a week. Our video production team coordinates all crew, talent, and equipment to capture everything per the plan. - Post-Production (Editing: ~2-4 Weeks)
This is often the longest phase. It includes editing the rough cut, adding motion graphics, color grading, sound design, and incorporating client feedback through several review rounds. This meticulous work transforms raw footage into a polished final video.
- Pre-Production (Planning: ~1-2 Weeks)
What Specific Timelines Can You Expect at Skyrex?
At our Toronto video production studio, timelines vary by project type to ensure quality:
- Corporate Videos: 3-5 weeks
- Commercials: 4-6 weeks
- Non-Profit & Impact Videos: 6-8 weeks (with expedited options)
- Documentary Production: 8-12 weeks
These timeframes reflect our commitment to a stress-free and collaborative process for every client.
What Factors Can Change the Timeline?
- Project Scope & Complexity: A simple, interview-based video will be faster than a scripted narrative with actors, multiple locations, and complex graphics.
- Client Feedback Speed: The review process is collaborative. Prompt feedback on scripts and edits keeps the project moving swiftly.
- Revisions: The number of revision rounds included in your package will affect the schedule.
- Urgent Needs: While standard timelines ensure quality, many video production services in Toronto, including ours, offer expedited options for tighter deadlines.
- The key to a predictable timeline is a clear plan from the start. By understanding the video production process, you can set realistic expectations and partner with your production company to create an amazing video on schedule.
By
Gokan Akyaz
Creative Director
