A common question we’re asked at Dependable Productions is: “How long will it take to make our video?”

It’s a fair one. Whether you’re launching a campaign, preparing for a major event, or developing internal communications, knowing how long the process will take helps you plan and manage expectations.

The answer? It depends. We’ve delivered polished, high-impact films in under 24 hours. Others have taken several months, especially where complex logistics or multi-stakeholder approvals are involved.

At Dependable Productions, we bring the same level of care, quality and clarity to every project—whether it’s a one-minute social edit or a series of campaign films. As an ISO 9001-certified company, our production process is designed to ensure consistency and confidence at every step.

Here’s a breakdown of a typical video timeline, based on our four-stage production process.

Pre-Production (1–3 weeks)

Planning, scripting and setting up for success

This is where everything starts. Whether you arrive with a detailed brief or a broad challenge to solve, we’ll help develop a clear approach and plan.

During pre-production, we:

• Define the audience, objectives and tone
• Shape the creative concept and structure
• Develop scripts, storyboards or visual treatments
• Secure contributors, locations and permissions
• Manage scheduling, logistics and crew

If the film requires actors, models or voiceover artists, we’ll also handle casting. And if multiple stakeholders are involved, we’ll help align everyone early on, saving time later. Pre-production sets the pace for everything that follows, so this stage is never rushed.

Production (1–5 days)

This is the filming phase—often the most visible, but usually the shortest.

Depending on your project, production could include:

• Interviews and cutaways
• On-location filming or site visits
• Studio-based shoots or green screen
• Drone footage or specialist tracking shots
• Filming with presenters, contributors or cast

We film across sectors—from healthcare to higher education, energy to the arts—and in a huge range of environments. Our team is experienced, adaptable and focused on making everyone feel comfortable on camera. We plan shoots in detail so that every frame counts

Post-Production (1–3 weeks)

This is where your video really comes to life. In post-production, we:

• Review and select the best footage
• Edit to the right pace and narrative
• Add colour grading, music and sound design
• Include graphics, subtitles or animations
• Ensure everything is accurate, on-brand and accessible

Where motion graphics or 3D animation are involved, this phase may take a little longer—but we’ll always set a clear timeline and build in space for feedback. Our clients typically approve drafts with only minor tweaks, thanks to detailed pre-planning.

Delivery (1–3 days)

Once your video is approved, we’ll deliver it in the formats you need—whether for social, web, events, internal use or broadcast.

We’ll also advise on:

• Subtitles and accessibility
• Platform specs (e.g. LinkedIn vs YouTube)
• Cutdowns, teaser edits or alternate versions

We’re used to delivering for tight deadlines, complex media plans and broadcast compliance. We’ll make sure your content is ready to go, on time and on spec.

Total Timeframe: What to Expect

Type of Video	Typical Timeline
Social media edit / event recap	1–10 days
Campaign or explainer video	3–6 weeks
Multi-video or multi-location projects	6–12 weeks
Fast-turnaround (event or reactive)	24–72 hours

Need something faster? Our BBC background means we’re used to working under pressure. We’ve delivered finished films with music, motion graphics and subtitles in under a day—when the brief calls for it.

Why Dependable Productions?

• ISO 9001-certified production process for clear, consistent quality
• Experienced team with BBC backgrounds in news, live events and editorial
• Agile approach, tailored to each brief, sector and audience
• Trusted by clients across education, health, government, energy and more
• Creative and calm under pressure, even when timelines are tight

Whether you’re planning months ahead or need something by the end of the week, our team is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible

Thinking About Commissioning a Video?

We’d be happy to chat through your goals and help you understand what’s possible—and how long it might take.

From quick campaign turnarounds to detailed strategic projects, you can rely on Dependable to deliver. Get in touch, and let’s build something that works for your timeline, your audience and your brand.