How long does it take to record a video? Understand the correct calculation

Discover how to correctly calculate the recording time of a video, avoiding underestimations and delays. Learn which factors impact the process and plan your production efficiently.

Mulher apresentando em estúdio com teleprompter e equipamentos de filmagem visíveis ao fundo.

Many customers believe that recording a 10-minute video only takes 10 minutes. However, the reality of audiovisual production It's quite different. There are several factors involved, such as equipment assembly, presenter preparation, direction and re-recordings.

To avoid delays and ensure efficient planning, we will explain how to correctly calculate the time needed to record a video and which variables influence this calculation.

1. General rule for estimating recording time

A good practice is to multiply the estimated final time of the video by a factor between 3 and 6. The variation depends on factors such as:

  • Presenter Experience
  • Use of teleprompter (TP)
  • Content complexity
  • Number of rewrites
  • Assembly and technical adjustments

Practical example

If a client wants to record a video of 5 minutes, can take from 15 to 30 minutes to be recorded.

If the video is from 20 minutes, the time may vary from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the recording conditions.

2. Factors that impact recording time

Several factors can increase or decrease the time needed to record a video. Let's look at the main ones:

2.1 Assembly and preparation time

Before starting recording, the crew needs to set up lights, cameras, microphones, and test audio and scenery. This process can take from 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the project.

2.2 Presenter Experience

If the presenter is experienced and already familiar with recording, the process will flow quickly. However, for beginners, it may be necessary to repeat the recording several times.

  • Experienced Presenter: 1 minute of video can be recorded in 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Beginner Presenter: It can take 5-10 minutes for each final minute of video.

2.3 Use of teleprompter (TP)

Using TP can speed up recording, but requires some practice on the part of the presenter. If used well, it can reduce recording time by a factor of x3, while without TP it can reach x5 or x6.

2.4 Content complexity

Technical videos or videos with complex terms require more care to ensure the message is conveyed clearly. This may increase the number of re-recordings.

2.5 Multi-angle recording

If the video requires multiple angles or supporting cuts (B-roll), it will be necessary to record the same scene several times, increasing the total time.

2.6 Recording location

Recording in a studio is usually faster, as the environment is already prepared. In outdoor recordings, factors such as noise, light variations and movement can delay the process.

3. Example of recording time calculation

Let's calculate the time needed to record a 10 minute video, considering different factors:

Factor Estimated Time
Assembly time 30 minutes
Base time (10 min x 3) 30 minutes
Presenter Experience (Beginner) +20 minutes
Use of TP No TP (+10 min)
Reviews and adjustments 10 minutes
Estimated total time 1h 40 min

If the presenter is experienced and uses TP correctly, this time can be reduced to 50-60 minutes.

4. Tips for optimizing recording time

To make recording more efficient, follow these best practices:

4.1 Prepare a well-structured script

Having a clear script avoids unnecessary pauses and cuts, making recording more fluid.

4.2 Choose a presenter who is comfortable with the camera

If possible, do rehearsals before recording so that he feels more comfortable.

4.3 Use TP if necessary

TP can speed up recording, but it is important to train the presenter to use it naturally.

4.4 Test before recording

Testing lighting, audio and framing before recording avoids rework.

4.5 Set aside time for adjustments

It's better to review on the spot than to discover problems while editing the video.

Conclusion

Correctly estimating the recording time of a video avoids frustration and delays. The general rule is to multiply the final video time by a factor between 3 and 6, depending on factors such as presenter experience, content complexity and assembly time.

If you need help planning your recording efficiently, Silvertake Video offers complete solutions to ensure high-quality videos.

Get in touch for precise planning of your project.

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