How to forecast and budget CGI production cost: A Practical Guide for Clients

CGI is magic — but not the kind that appears out of nowhere. Whether you’re launching a product, telling a story, or designing a campaign, CGI is often the sleekest, cleanest, and most flexible solution out there. But let’s be honest: pricing it out can feel like trying to guess what a house costs based on the color of the door.

This guide is here to help — not with vague ranges, but with a breakdown of what actually drives the cost, how to write a solid brief, and how to get the most from your budget without sacrificing quality.

Step One: Know What You’re Asking For

The more clearly you define your scope, the more accurately a studio can estimate the cost. Ask yourself:

• Are you after stills, animation, 360° views, or all of the above?

• How many deliverables do you need?

• Where will they be used — web, TV, social, or a massive LED wall at a trade show?

• Is this a one-off asset or part of a full campaign?

  
  

Pro tip: A 1-minute animation is not the same as a still image panning for 60 seconds — even if they both “last a minute.”

What Drives the Cost (a.k.a. Where the Money Goes)

Let’s break it down:

Modeling	Simple boxy shapes = faster. Complex organic forms (fabrics, glass, textures) = more time.
Texturing	Materials like chrome, skin, or velvet require custom shaders and finesse.
Lighting & Rendering	The more cinematic the lighting, the more time it takes. Fluid simulations or nature effects? Even more.
Animation	Moving things costs more — especially if particles, fluids, or characters get involved.
Revisions	Most studios include 1–3 rounds. After that, every change adds up.

How to Spend Smart (Not Small)

Prioritize	Start with core deliverables — like a hero animation or key stills. Cutdowns and alt versions can follow.
Ask for phases	Concept → Production → Delivery. This gives room to adjust.
Build in buffer	10–15% contingency saves everyone stress later.
Talk licensing	Do you want the final renders or the working files too? (The latter might cost extra.)

What to Include in Your Brief

A good quote starts with a good brief. Here’s what to include:

• What the project is and what you’re trying to achieve

• How many assets, and what kind

• Where they’ll live (Instagram, TV, giant screen at CES?)

• Any existing materials — CAD files, references, moodboards

• Deadlines

• A rough budget (don’t be shy — it helps guide creative choices)

  
  

Cost-Saving Tips (That Don’t Look Cheap)

Want to be budget-smart without sacrificing visual impact?

• Reuse models across campaigns — one great 3D asset can live a long life.

• Batch versions together — like multiple camera angles in the same scene.

• Use prebuilt environments — many studios (including us 👀) have amazing scenes ready to go.

• Consider retainers — longer-term partnerships often mean better pricing and smoother workflows.

Final Thoughts: Budgeting Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

CGI is a powerful tool, and the process doesn’t need to be mysterious. The best results come when clients and studios collaborate early, clarify goals, and build trust around budget.

Think of your budget as part of the creative process — not a limit, but a lens. And the right production partner won’t just make what you ask for. They’ll help you make the most of it.

Want to talk through a project with us? We’ll help you create amazing visuals — and make sure you know exactly what they cost

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FAQ: CGI Budgeting — Your Questions Answered

Why is CGI pricing so different from project to project?

Because no two projects are the same. A still image of a white box on a white background and a cinematic 3D world with animated characters are two very different beasts. Scope, complexity, resolution, deadlines — all of it impacts price.

I only need “something simple.” How much would it be?

“Simple” can mean different things. A clean aesthetic doesn’t always mean less work — sometimes it's even harder to make minimalism look perfect. Clean lighting, realistic materials, and subtle camera movement all require time, skill, and computing power. The price will depend on various factors.

Can I get an exact quote before sending a full brief?

We can give ballpark estimates, but for an accurate quote, we need at least some key details: what you need, how many assets, where they’ll be used, and your timeline. The clearer the brief, the more precise the price.

Do I own the 3D files after the project?

Not by default. Most quotes include final renders only. If you need working files (like source 3D models or editable scenes), let us know upfront — licensing terms and costs may change.

How many rounds of revisions are included?

Most studios (us included) offer 1–3 rounds of feedback in the initial quote. Major changes after production starts — like changing the lighting direction or camera path — can require additional time and budget.