How Much Is a Doodle Video?
Doodle videos have become an extremely popular way for businesses to create engaging and memorable video content. But how much does it actually cost to produce a high-quality doodle video? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about doodle video pricing, including the factors that impact costs and average price ranges from professional video production companies.
What is a Doodle Video?
Before we dive into pricing, let’s start with a quick overview of what exactly a doodle video is.
A doodle video (also sometimes called a whiteboard or sketch video) is a unique style of animated explainer video. The videos use simple hand-drawn visuals to illustrate concepts, products, services or ideas.
Unlike traditional animation techniques, doodle videos have an improvised, hand-crafted look to them. The sketchy artwork and fun transitions between scenes create an engaging, humanized viewing experience.
Doodle videos can vary greatly in terms of length, visual style and content. Some common characteristics include:
- Hand-drawn illustrations in an informal sketch style
- The illusion of illustrations being drawn in real-time
- Visual metaphors and characters to represent ideas
- Fun, bouncy transitions between scenes
- Addition of text blocks to reinforce key points
- Voiceover narration that brings the illustrations to life
The relaxed, conversational style of doodle videos make them versatile for many different applications. They are excellent for:
- Explainer videos
- Marketing product benefits/features
- Training videos
- Educational content
- Video greetings
- Video invitations
- Internal communication
- And much more!
Doodle videos are unique in their ability to simplify complex topics through simple visuals and analogies. Viewers are more likely to stay engaged and remember the content long after watching.
Now let’s look at exactly how these videos are made.
How to Make a Doodle Video
Creating a professional doodle style video requires coordination between various creative and production roles.
Here is an overview of the typical doodle video creation process:
1. Develop a Storyboard
The first step is to work with a scriptwriter to develop a storyboard. This involves:
- Identifying the key messages and topics to cover
- Choosing an overall visual direction
- Deciding on a logical sequence the information will flow
- Developing a full script
The storyboard will map out all of the illustrations needed, transitions, and where the voiceover script will fit in.
Having a well-planned storyboard prior to production saves time and prevents confusion down the road.
2. Record Voiceover Narration
Once the script is finalized, the next step is to record a voiceover track to narrate the video. This can be done remotely or in-studio with a professional voice actor.
The narration brings the storyboard fully to life, so finding the right voice and tone is crucial. Most doodle videos have an enthusiastic, conversational style to the narration.
3. Illustrate and Animate
With the voiceover complete, a digital artist gets to work creating all the custom illustrations, designs, characters and assets required for the video.
The illustrations must match the script and voiceover track precisely. Skilled illustration and animation is what makes the concept feel hand-crafted.
Animation techniques like bouncing lines, seamless transitions and text blocks appearing add to the playful and improvised look of doodle videos.
4. Add Music and Sound Design
Original background music that complements the upbeat visuals is then composed and added.
Custom sound effects like swooshes when drawings appear help to polish and heighten the viewing experience.
5. Editing and Final Touches
The final step is bringing all the elements together – illustrations, animations, voiceover, music and sound effects. This is done by a video editor to ensure seamless flow and pacing.
Last tweaks like color correction, titles, logos, and credits are added. Multiple reviews and revisions take place until the video meets the client’s vision.
The doodle video creation process requires close coordination between scriptwriters, voiceover artists, illustrators, animators, composers and video editors for success. Investing in experienced professionals ensures the best quality result.
Cost of a Doodle Video
Now let’s get into the details everyone wants to know – how much you can expect to actually pay for a professional doodle video.
The costs can vary substantially based on factors like:
Duration of the Video
- Less than 1 minute – $1,000 – $3,000
- 1 – 2 minutes – $3,000 – $7,000
- 2 – 3 minutes – $7,000 – $15,000
- 3 – 5 minutes – $15,000 – $25,000
- Over 5 minutes – Starting at $30,000+
In general, most professional doodle videos range between 1 – 3 minutes in length. Anything shorter than one minute will limit how much information can be conveyed.
Videos longer than 3 minutes risk losing viewers’ interest and having excessively high production costs.
Video Style and Complexity
The visual style you choose can impact costs:
- Minimalist – Uses limited color palette, basic shapes and icons. Lower cost.
- Flat style – Uses trendy flat illustrations but still simple. Mid-range cost.
- Detailed illustration – Intricate illustrations, backgrounds and characters. Premium cost.
The number of scenes and transitions also adds to the production time and complexity. A video with 20+ different scenes and locations will take longer than one with just 5 key scenes.
Quality of Production Team
Hiring freelancers can provide savings compared to a professional animation studio. However, you risk getting inconsistent results.
Studios charge higher rates but have experienced teams that specialize in doodle videos. This expertise ensures your video looks polished and cohesive.
Territories and Labor Costs
Hiring a studio in regions like Eastern Europe or South Asia can save on labor costs versus North America. However, time zone challenges can hinder collaboration.
Rush Delivery Fees
For fast turnarounds under 2 weeks, studios typically charge rush fees for overtime and reprioritizing resources. Avoid rush fees by allowing 3-4 weeks.
To illustrate cost ranges further, here are sample all-inclusive production packages from professional animation studios:
Entry-Level Doodle Video Package
- 1.5 minute video
- Up to 2 revisions
- Basic animation and visuals
- 3-4 weeks delivery
Cost: $4,000 to $7,500
Mid-Range Doodle Video Package
- 2-3 minute video
- Up to 3 revisions
- Professionally designed characters, backgrounds, props
- 2-3 weeks delivery
Cost: $10,000 to $17,000
Premium Doodle Video Package
- 3-4 minute video
- Unlimited revisions
- Highly detailed visuals and animations
- 2 week rush delivery
Cost: $25,000 to $35,000
These ranges give you an idea of average investment required. With each package the production time, number of revisions allowed, quality and experience of the creative team is being factored in.
Conclusion
Creating an impactful doodle video requires choosing the right partner – an animation provider with expertise in the unique visual style, lively motion and engaging humor these videos are known for.
The costs can vary from $1,000 for a very short and simple video, up to $30,000+ for a complex and high-end production. Most professional-quality videos for small businesses range between $7,000 to $20,000.
The investment pays off in the long run, with doodle videos generating engagement, social shares, and providing memorable and enjoyable viewing experiences for your audience. A smart doodle video strategy will integrate seamlessly with your other marketing efforts and training programs.
By partnering with the right video production company and giving yourself adequate time for the full creative process, you’ll see how doodle videos can add personality and fun to your brand while still communicating key information clearly. In the crowded online space, having a memorable and shareable video sets you apart from competitors and positions your business for success.
Frequently Asked Questions about Doodle Videos
Q1: What is a doodle video?
A1: A doodle video is an animated video that uses hand-drawn images to convey a message.
Q2: How long does it take to make a doodle video?
A2: The time it takes to make a doodle video depends on the length and complexity of the video. It can take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks.
Q3: What is the average cost of a doodle video?
A3: The average cost of a doodle video is around $5,000 to $10,000, but it can vary depending on the length, complexity, and quality of the video.
Q4: Can I make a doodle video myself?
A4: Yes, you can make a doodle video yourself using online tools or software. However, it may take some time to learn how to use the tools effectively.
Q5: What are the benefits of using a doodle video in marketing?
A5: Doodle videos can help increase engagement, improve brand awareness, and convey complex information in an easy-to-understand way.
Q6: How do I write a script for a doodle video?
A6: To write a script for a doodle video, you should focus on a clear message, use simple language, and include a call to action.
Q7: What is the difference between a doodle video and an explainer video?
A7: A doodle video is a type of explainer video that uses hand-drawn images to convey a message.
Q8: How do I choose a doodle video company?
A8: To choose a doodle video company, you should consider their portfolio, experience, and customer reviews.
Q9: Can I use a doodle video for training purposes?
A9: Yes, doodle videos can be used for training purposes to convey complex information in an easy-to-understand way.
Q10: How do I optimize my doodle video for SEO?
A10: To optimize your doodle video for SEO, you should include relevant keywords in the title, description, and tags, and promote the video on social media and other platforms.
