If you’re in cinema business and want to shoot a documentary, the n your first task should be budgeting. Our Documentary Budget Template is designed to help filmmakers and producers navigate the financial intricacies of documentary production.
This template enables a structured approach to accounting for everything from pre-production costs to post-production and distribution expenses.
What are the main expense categories in documentary business?
You can find below some of the most common expense categories while shooting a documentary.
Pre-production Costs:
This group will cover the research expenses, story development, scriptwriting, location scouting and legal and clearance fees.
Production Expenses:
Here are the costs that occur during the shooting. This may include crew salaries, equipment rentals, location fees, travel, accommodation and also insurance.
Post-Production Expenses:
You’ve finished the production, but that’s not the end. Now you will also pay for editing and post-production staff, editing software, color grading, sound design and mixing, and also music licensing.
Marketing and Distribution:
As a producer, you should always consider the marketing and distribution costs. This will include festival submission fees, marketing materials, publicity, distribution, screening events and other promotion efforts.
Licensing and Other Costs:
In addition to above-mentioned costs, you’ll also have licensing fees for archival footage, stock footage, music, image, artwork or talent releases.
What will you find in this template?
- Comprehensive Cost Breakdown: Detailed categorization of expenses, including research, equipment rental, crew salaries, location fees, editing, and marketing.
- Production Phase Allocation: Separate sections for pre-production, production, and post-production ensure that costs are tracked according to each phase of the project.
- Dynamic Adjustments: As the project evolves, easily adjust your budget to accommodate changes such as additional shooting days or unexpected expenses.
- Visual Financial Summary: Utilize embedded charts and graphs for an at-a-glance view of budget allocation and financial forecasting.
- Collaboration-Ready Design: Share the template with your production team, financial advisors, or investors to maintain transparency and collaborative budgeting.
Key Features of Documentary Budget Template
- Printable
- Editable
- Ready-to-use
- Downloadable Excel file
- PDF version included
This Documentary Budget Template is a vital tool for ensuring that your film’s story doesn’t end with unmanaged costs. It provides a clear financial pathway from concept to screen, ensuring that your documentary can reach its audience effectively.
