
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about video production in St. Louis
Hiring a video production company can feel overwhelming. At Hydraulic Pictures, we keep it simple. You’ll work directly with Bill Streeter, an experienced St. Louis filmmaker who has produced everything from nonprofit fundraising films to brand videos, documentaries, and event coverage.
This FAQ covers the questions we hear most often—about cost, timelines, creative direction, and how the process works—so you know exactly what to expect before we roll camera.
What types of video production do you offer?
We specialize in documentary-style storytelling, nonprofit video production, brand films, and event coverage. Most of our clients are nonprofits, foundations, and community-focused organizations—but we also work with businesses, startups, and agencies that want authentic, impactful content created in St. Louis.
How much does a video cost?
Every project is different. A typical short-form branded or nonprofit video ranges from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on scope, number of shoot days, crew size, and post-production needs. After a quick conversation, we can provide a ballpark estimate or a detailed proposal tailored to your goals.
How long does it take to produce a video?
Most projects take 3 to 6 weeks from kickoff to delivery. Timelines vary based on scheduling, complexity, and review rounds. If you’re on a tight deadline, let us know—we can often move faster.
Can you help us figure out what kind of video we need?
Absolutely. Many clients come with only a general idea. We guide you through concept development, define your audience, and build a strategy that fits your goals. Creative direction and pre-production planning are included in our process.
Do you provide scripting or creative direction?
Yes. We handle everything from concept to final cut—writing, casting, location scouting, and directing. If you already have a script or creative brief, we’ll bring it to life with professional execution.
What if our team is camera-shy?
You’re not alone. We’re skilled at helping real people feel comfortable on camera, even if it’s their first time. Our shoots are low-pressure and respectful—and if needed, we can use voiceover or off-camera interviews to capture your story naturally.
Where are you based?
We’re a St. Louis video production company, and most of our work is local. We’ve also worked on regional and national projects, and we’re open to travel when it makes sense for the project.
Can you film our event?
Yes. We provide event video production in St. Louis, including multi-camera coverage, highlight reels, and recap videos for galas, fundraisers, conferences, and public events. We work discreetly in live environments to capture key moments without disrupting the flow.
Do you offer editing-only services?
Yes. If you already have footage, we can provide post-production services—editing, color correction, audio, graphics, and story shaping. We’ve helped organizations turn raw material into polished, professional content.
Do you have a studio?
Yes. We have a St. Louis studio space available for interviews, product shoots, headshots, and other controlled-environment filming. It’s equipped with professional lighting, audio, and backdrops. Our studio can be booked as part of a project or rented by the day.
How do I get started?
Simple—contact us for a quick call. We’ll talk through your project, answer your questions, and create a custom proposal. No pressure, no hard sell—just a clear path to making your video real.
Ready to Tell Your Story?
Your story deserves a partner who is both reliable and visionary. Let’s make it happen.
Contact us:
3407 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63118
We are proudly located in the Cherokee Street Business District.