A primary rule of budgets and rates is to include all costs. Even if you are making a video for a fixed amount, include all costs and, if necessary, give a discount.

A good way to start figuring out costs is to determine regional prices for renting video equipment, including cameras; tripods; mics, and lights. Look for rental outlets in the "yellow pages".

Your should also find out the going prices per hour for digital video editing - with and without an editor.

One of the most difficult budget parameters is to figure out the time that will be required for making the video. One yard stick is to estimate one third each for planning, production and post production. Each component will probably take at least a week - but each production is different.

Be sure to include all planning meetings after the initial session with the client.

Include the wage cost of the coordinator and the youth volunteers - even if at minimum wage.

Other budget items include materials - tapes, labels, boxes - and the cost of travel and food at government rates.

Budget item chart