mimicHow retainer pricing works
A retainer trades a lower per-video price for guaranteed monthly work. You get predictable income and a batch-filming rhythm; the brand gets a steady flow of videos and a better rate.
The discount should be paid for by the time you save: one brief, one shoot day, one round of feedback for several videos.
- 1
Start from your single-video rate
What a one-off video costs a new brand.
- 2
Set your discount tiers
For example a bigger discount at 8 videos than at 4. Your numbers, your call.
- 3
Choose videos per month and term
Longer commitments can earn the better tier.
- 4
Decide on usage
Fold it in as a % of the monthly fee, or price it separately.
Worked example
A $150 rate, 10% off from 4 videos, 4 videos a month for 3 months.
Per video: $150 × 0.90 = $135
Monthly: 4 × $135 = $540
Contract: $540 × 3 = $1,620; the brand saves $180 vs single videos.
Questions
What is a UGC retainer?
A monthly agreement for a set number of videos at a set price, usually for several months. The brand books your time in advance.
How much should I discount a retainer?
Enough to make the commitment attractive, not so much that the time you save doesn't cover it. Work out your hourly rate on a batch shoot before you choose.
Should usage be included?
Spell it out either way. Many retainers include organic use and price paid usage per month on top.
What if the brand wants to cancel early?
Put a notice period in the contract (for example 30 days) and say what happens to unused videos.