Most business videos take three to six weeks from the first phone call to the final file. That video production timeline covers planning, scripting, a shoot day or two, editing and a round of revisions. Shorter projects like a social reel can move in about two weeks, while animation or multi-location shoots often run longer.
If you are planning a launch, trade show or ad campaign in St. Louis, St. Charles County or Wentzville, knowing these phases helps you work backward from your deadline instead of scrambling at the end.
Week one: discovery and planning
Every project starts with a conversation about the goal, the audience and where the video will live. A homepage brand video needs a different length and tone than a 15-second ad for Instagram.
By the end of this first week we usually have an agreed scope, a quote and a rough shoot date on the calendar. Fast decisions here save days later.
Weeks one to two: scripting and pre-production
This is where the video actually gets built. We write the script or interview questions, plan the shot list and lock down locations, talent and a schedule for the shoot day.
For a typical brand video, expect one or two rounds of script feedback. If you are using one of our actors for a spokesperson video, casting fits into this window too.
The shoot: one to two days
Most business videos are filmed in a single day. Bigger projects with several locations, a lot of interviews or product setups may need a second day.
The shoot itself goes quickly when pre-production is solid. A clear shot list keeps us on schedule and keeps your team from losing a whole workday to filming.
Weeks two to four: editing and revisions
After the shoot we sort footage, build the story, add music and graphics and color correct everything. A first cut for a two-to-three minute video usually lands within one to two weeks of filming.
From there you review the cut and send notes. Most projects wrap with one or two revision rounds, each taking a few business days to turn around. Then we export final versions sized for your website and social channels.
How timelines change by project type
Different videos move at different speeds. Here are rough ranges we see:
- Social reels and short ads: about one to two weeks
- Brand or company overview videos: about three to five weeks
- Event recap videos: often one to two weeks after the event
- 2D animation and explainers: about four to eight weeks, since illustration and motion take more time
- Medical and training series: varies with review and compliance steps inside the practice
If you need an event recap for a conference or trade show, tell us early so we can schedule editing right after the event. Animation videos benefit from the most lead time.
What slows projects down
In our experience, delays rarely happen on set. They tend to come from a few predictable places:
- Waiting several days for script or edit feedback
- Adding new stakeholders late in the process
- Changing the core message after filming
- Missing logos, brand fonts or product details
- Rescheduling the shoot because of weather or availability
The simplest fix is naming one decision-maker on your side who can approve the script and the edits.
How to plan around your deadline
Count back at least six weeks from the date you need the video live. That gives room for a reschedule or an extra revision without pressure.
If your deadline is tighter, say so on the first call. At MEM Films we can often compress a schedule when the scope is clear and feedback comes back quickly. You can browse all of our video services to see which type fits your timeline.
Ready to put a date on the calendar?
If you have a launch, event or campaign coming up, let us help you map out a realistic schedule. Contact Us or call (636) 385-8225 to talk through your project.
