How much does a documentary cost to make?

Financial planning is a key aspect of documentary filmmaking. Ensuring you have the budget to complete your documentary to a sufficient standard to meet your project goals is essential. Costs can vary considerably depending on the scope of the project, its location, and required resources.

How much does it cost to film a documentary and what factors contribute to the overall price?

What is the average cost of making a documentary?

The average cost of making a documentary in the UK can vary significantly depending on a range of factors, such as production quality, the size of the crew, the equipment needed, and the post-production process.

As a rough rule of thumb, documentary budgets may fall into the following ranges:

- Low-budget documentaries: £8,000 to £40,000
- Mid-range documentaries: £40,000 to £160,000
- High-end documentaries: £160,000 to £800,000 or more.

Low-budget documentaries will often rely on smaller crews, cost-efficient equipment, and limited post-production enhancements. Mid-range budgets may have large crews and more sophisticated equipment. High-end documentaries are typically made for large broadcasters or streaming services such as Netflix and have considerably larger budgets. They will typically have large crews, highly sophisticated equipment and significant post-production work. They may also include extensive travel.

What is the usual budget for a documentary?

When considering how much does a documentary cost to make a number of factors will need to be considered. The budget for a documentary in the UK will usually be made up of a number of key components.

These include:

Pre-production

This includes research, scriptwriting, securing locations, and obtaining necessary permits.

Production

This phase involves filming and capturing all of the required footage. Major expenses at this stage include camera and lighting equipment, crew salaries, travel, accommodation and catering.

Post-production

This stage of the process involves editing, sound design, colour correction, and adding graphics and titles. The costs can vary depending on the length and complexity of the documentary.

Distribution & marketing

If you’ve made an outstanding documentary you will want it to be seen as widely as possible. This requires marketing and distribution, promotional materials, distribution platform costs, and possible festival entry fees.

How much does it cost to make a documentary in the UK?

The cost of making a documentary in the UK will typically be made up of a number of expenses such as:

Permits and insurance

Permits may be required to film in particular areas, potentially ranging from £100 to £500. Comprehensive coverage can range from £1,000 to £5,000.

Crew

Salaries for crew members in the UK can be a significant part of the budget. A director might charge £300 to £500 per day, and other crew members such as sound technicians and production assistants £150 to £300 per day.

Equipment

Renting high-quality equipment will be a significant element of the overall cost of creating a documentary film in the UK. Camera packages might range from £500 to £1,500 per day, while lighting and sound equipment may be another £200 to £600 per day.

Travel and accommodation

Unless you’re filming your documentary in your immediate neighbourhood, it’s also likely you’ll have to budget for travel and accommodation. This can vary considerably depending on the locations you are using and the number of people in your party.

Making a documentary: Cost factors to consider

When considering how much does it cost to make a documentary, it’s important to remember that there are a number of factors that will determine the overall price.

It’s important to be realistic about your budget, and what can and cannot be done with the finances you have available. Careful budgeting and resource management are essential to ensure the successful completion of your project within your particular financial constraints. This understanding will help you plan and execute your documentary effectively.

Cost-effective documentary production Manchester

Whatever your budget, a good idea, creativity, and intelligent production can produce highly compelling and effective documentary films.

If you have a great concept for a documentary but need professional production help to turn your vision into reality, then Eight Engines can help.

Our award-winning documentary production team (insert link to Documentary service page) can give your ideas the best platform from which to shine.

If you’ve got a great idea for a documentary we’d love to hear all about it.

Contact us today to start turning your ideas into reality.

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