The Commercial Architect gives you two budget tracks instantly — a lean version and a premium version — with risk flags for the line items that blow up on set. No more spreadsheet archaeology at midnight.
You quote a number based on gut feeling. The client says yes. Then reality hits: overtime, permits you forgot about, that second camera op you didn't account for, the catering that somehow costs more than your gaffer.
The issue isn't math. It's that you're estimating from memory instead of from a system. This agent is that system.
Tell the agent what you're shooting — format, duration, crew size, location type — and it gives you two complete breakdowns side by side.
Minimum viable production. Skeleton crew, natural light where possible, single-day shoots. For when the client's budget is tight but the work still needs to look professional.
Full crew, proper lighting package, multi-day flexibility, backup equipment. For when you want to do it right and the budget allows it.
Line items that historically go over budget get flagged automatically. Overtime probability, weather contingency, permit delays, talent overtime — the stuff that kills your margin.
The agent knows about the costs you forget: insurance, hard drive shipping, color grading revisions, music licensing tiers, deliverable reformats. It asks you about them before you miss them.
"30-second skincare product commercial. One model, one location (studio), one day shoot. Needs to look premium but we're a startup. Give me both tracks."
| Line Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Director / DP (you) | $0 | Owner-operated |
| Studio rental (half day) | $600 | 4hr block |
| Lighting package | $350 | 2x Aputure 600d + modifiers |
| Model (half day) | $800 | Non-union, buyout |
| HMU artist | $500 | Half day rate |
| Product styling | $200 | DIY + foam core + acrylic |
| Post-production | $1,200 | Edit + grade + sound |
| Music license | $150 | Artlist annual plan |
| Contingency (8%) | $300 | |
| Total | $4,100 |
| Line Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Director | $2,000 | Day rate |
| DP + camera package | $2,500 | RED Komodo + primes |
| Studio rental (full day) | $1,200 | Cyc wall, 10hr block |
| Gaffer + grip | $1,400 | 2-person lighting team |
| Model (full day) | $1,500 | Agency talent, buyout |
| HMU artist | $900 | Full day |
| Product stylist | $600 | Professional |
| Post-production | $2,000 | Dedicated colorist + sound |
| Music license | $400 | Premium sync license |
| Contingency (10%) | $1,250 | |
| Total | $13,750 |
OVERTIME Model half-day bookings frequently run over. Budget 30 min buffer or negotiate full-day rate upfront.
HIDDEN COST Client will likely request vertical + square reformats for social. Add $300-500 for reframing if not in scope.
REVISION RISK Skincare brands average 3.2 revision rounds on color grading. Build 2 extra rounds into post budget.
Prompt generators. Call sheets. Location scouts. Script analysis. All included.
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