1. Lock the track
- Send the final mixed track as a high-quality file (WAV), not a link to a stream.
- Include the tempo (BPM), the lyrics and the length of the version you will release. If there is a radio edit, decide which one the video follows.
- Don't change the arrangement after the shoot. A video cut to one version won't fit another.
2. Agree on one idea
- Collect references: two or three videos whose look or energy you like, and say what you like about each.
- Choose a direction: performance, story, dance, or a mix. One clear idea done well beats five half-done ones.
- The director turns this into a treatment and a shot list. Approve it before anything is booked.
3. Choose live sound or playback
Playback uses your released mix and lets you film anywhere. Live sound records the real performance. It is the biggest decision for the shoot day, so make it early. Read Live sound or playback? for the full comparison.
4. Rehearse for the camera
- Know every word and breath at tempo. On playback shoots, sing out loud; mouthing looks fake on camera.
- If there is choreography, rehearse it before the shoot day, with the dancers if there are any.
- For live sound, rehearse as a band in the arrangement you will play, start to finish.
5. Wardrobe and look
- Bring two or three looks, steamed and ready, plus spares.
- Avoid very fine stripes and tight patterns: they shimmer on camera.
- Skip large brand logos unless you have permission to show them.
- Plan hair and makeup time into the call sheet, and keep touch-ups on set.
6. Locations and permission
- Get written permission for every private location: who agreed, for which date and hours.
- Public places can need a permit from the town. Ask early; some take time.
- Have a backup for anything outdoors. A studio day is never rained out.
7. The shoot day
- Arrive on time and camera-ready, or at the hair and makeup call time.
- Eat, drink water and pace your energy. Performance takes repeat many times.
- Keep your guest list small. A crowded set slows everything down.
8. After the shoot
- Expect an edit, your notes, and a final version with color and finishing.
- Ask for vertical cuts for Reels, TikTok and Shorts from the start, so they are framed on the day.
- Plan the release: the thumbnail, the premiere date, and the posts that point people to it.
How we work with artists
We write the treatment with you, plan choreography and camera together, and shoot in our studio in Totowa, NJ, or on location, then deliver the finished video plus vertical cuts. See our music videos.
Questions we hear
How long does a music video shoot take?
A performance video is often filmed in one day. Story-driven videos with several locations, actors or dancers can take two or more. The treatment and shot list decide it.
How far ahead should I book a music video?
Start a few weeks before you want to shoot, so there is time for the treatment, casting, locations and rehearsal. Release dates work backwards from there.
What should I wear in my music video?
Two or three looks that fit the idea, without very fine stripes, tight patterns or large brand logos. Bring them steamed, with spares.
Do I need dancers or actors?
Only if the idea needs them. Performance-only videos can be powerful on their own. If the video needs dancers or actors, casting is part of pre-production.