And why “it depends” isn’t a cop-out — it’s a starting point.
If you’re here, chances are you’re a producer, marketing lead, or comms director trying to figure out how much it’ll cost to create a 60-second explainer video for your next campaign.
Let’s cut through the vague answers and break it down.
The Honest Answer: It Depends
But not in the vague “you’ll never know” kind of way. It depends on what kind of video you need, what you’re starting with, and how much creative development is required.
What Goes Into the Cost?
1. Creative Development
This is where the story takes shape.
- Do you have a script, or are we building one from scratch?
- Are we visualizing abstract concepts or showcasing a product?
- Will there be narration, characters, or just a voiceover?
Impact: More up-front thinking means more hours — but also a better video and a smoother ride later.
2. Design & Animation Style
Not all explainer videos are created equal.
- A minimal 2D motion piece is different from a fully illustrated, character-based narrative.
- 3D or cinematic motion requires more time and precision.
- Need custom assets? Illustration? Character rigging? That’s added effort—but added depth, too.
Impact: The richer the style, the more craftsmanship required.
3. Voiceover, Music & Sound Design
A great VO can carry a video. Music sets the emotional tone. Sound design brings everything to life.
- You might already have a VO artist, or I can bring one in.
- We can license music or compose something original.
- Sound design varies based on whether it’s product-based, character-driven, or abstract.
Impact: VO + audio work can be lean or premium — but they always elevate the final piece.
4. Revisions & Platform Formats
Need it in 16x9, 9x16, and 1x1? Are there multiple stakeholders with feedback rounds? These factors affect production time. But the goal is always the same: get it right and make it work everywhere.
So… What’s the Range?
Let’s put it this way: I’ve produced 60-second videos that ranged from a few late nights and a shoestring budget… to multi-week creative builds involving custom characters, layered animation, voiceover, music, and a full suite of social cutdowns.
In other words, the investment varies based on:
- How much creative development is needed
- The animation style and technical complexity
- Audio production (VO, music, sound design)
- Number of formats and deliverables required
For some clients, the video is the core campaign asset. Others just need a fast, clean explainer that lands the message. I can flex either way — and I’ll always walk you through what it takes to get there.
Most importantly, we’ll build something that fits your goals, timeline, and audience — not a one-size-fits-all template.
My Approach: Value Over Volume
I don’t sell off-the-shelf videos. I craft experiences that communicate, clarify, and connect. Whether you’re a national nonprofit, a startup with a complex product, or an association looking to engage members — we’ll build something that moves people.
Sometimes you bring the vision, and I bring the structure. Other times, we start from scratch and uncover the message together. Either way, the goal is the same: clear, creative, and on point.
TL;DR
- There’s no one-size-fits-all pricing — because no two stories are the same
- The more custom the creative, the more time and craft involved
- You’ll always know what you’re paying for — and why
- A good explainer video doesn’t just inform — it persuades, simplifies, and sticks