Complete Guide to Music Video Production

Introduction

A music video is more than just a visual accompaniment to a song - it's an opportunity to tell a story, connect with audiences, and create something truly memorable. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every stage of music video production, drawing on our experience of producing over 300 music videos for Australian artists.

Whether you're an independent artist planning your first video or a label looking to understand the production process, this guide will give you the knowledge you need to create outstanding visual content.

Pre-Production

Pre-production is arguably the most important phase of any music video. It's where you develop your concept, plan your resources, and set the foundation for a successful shoot. Skimp on pre-production, and you'll pay for it on set.

Concept Development

Every great music video starts with a strong concept. Here's how to develop yours:

1. Listen deeply to the song. What emotions does it evoke? What story does the lyrics tell? What visual metaphors could represent the song's themes?
2. Research and gather references. Watch music videos in similar genres. Create a mood board of visual styles, colour palettes, and techniques you admire.
3. Choose your format. Will it be performance-based, narrative-driven, conceptual/abstract, or a combination?
4. Write a treatment. Document your vision in a 1-2 page treatment that describes the video from start to finish.

Budgeting

Music video budgets can range from a few hundred dollars to hundreds of thousands. Here's a typical breakdown:

• Crew costs (30-40%): Director, DP, camera operators, gaffers, grips, production assistants
• Equipment (20-25%): Camera, lenses, lighting, grip equipment, audio playback
• Locations (10-15%): Location fees, permits, insurance
• Art department (10-15%): Props, wardrobe, set design
• Post-production (15-20%): Editing, colour grading, VFX, sound design
• Contingency (10%): Always include this for unexpected costs

Production

Production day is where all your planning comes together. A well-organised shoot runs smoothly and allows the creative team to focus on capturing great footage.

Equipment

The right equipment depends on your budget and creative vision, but here's a baseline for professional results:

• Camera: Cinema cameras (RED, ARRI, Sony Venice) for high-end, or modern mirrorless (Sony A7 series, Canon R5) for indie productions
• Lenses: A range of primes (24mm, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm) or quality zoom lenses
• Lighting: LED panels, HMI lights for daylight, tungsten for warmth
• Grip: Tripods, dollies, sliders, gimbals for movement
• Audio: Professional playback system for lip-sync accuracy

The Shoot

On the day, follow these principles:

1. Start with a briefing. Ensure everyone knows the day's schedule and safety procedures.
2. Light the wide shots first. These take the longest and set up the look for the scene.
3. Get coverage. Shoot more than you think you need - you'll thank yourself in the edit.
4. Keep energy high. Music videos often require artists to perform the same song many times. Keep the atmosphere positive.
5. Review as you go. Check footage throughout the day to ensure you're getting what you need.

"The magic happens when preparation meets opportunity. On a well-planned shoot, you have the freedom to capture those spontaneous moments that make a video special."

Post-Production

Post-production is where your footage becomes a finished music video. This phase includes:

• Editing: Cutting footage to the music, creating rhythm and flow
• Colour grading: Establishing the visual mood and ensuring consistency
• Visual effects: Adding any CG elements, compositing, motion graphics
• Sound design: Ensuring perfect sync, adding effects if needed
• Delivery: Exporting in all required formats for different platforms

Allow adequate time for post-production. A typical music video edit takes 2-4 weeks from rough cut to final delivery, depending on complexity.

Distribution

Once your video is complete, it's time to share it with the world:

• YouTube: Still the primary platform for music video discovery. Optimise your title, description, and tags.
• Vevo: For official releases from signed artists.
• Social media: Create cut-downs and teasers for Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
• Press: Send to music blogs and publications for premiere opportunities.
• TV: Submit to music video shows and channels like CMT.