OpeningInt. journal, 18 October 2026
Planning a music video on a Nigerian budget
A great music video is not about the most expensive camera. It is about a clear idea, the right location and a plan that respects the money.
Scene 01Int. the note
Start with one idea
The videos people share have one clear idea: a place, a story, a look. Write it in one sentence before you talk about cars, dancers or drones.
Spend on light and location
Light and location do more for the picture than anything else. A beautiful room at the right hour beats a busy set with poor light.
In Abuja, permits for public places take time. Private compounds, rooftops and studios are often quicker and cheaper.
Plan the day around the sun
Golden hour lasts about forty minutes. Plan the hero shots for then, and the indoor scenes for the middle of the day.
Do not cut post-production
Editing and colour grading turn footage into a film. Keep at least a fifth of the budget for post, and plan vertical cuts for social from the start.
Scene 02Int. a sample shoot day
| Time | What happens |
|---|---|
| 7:00am | Crew call, kit in, lights up indoors |
| 9:00am | Artist in make-up and wardrobe |
| 10:00am | Indoor performance set ups |
| 1:00pm | Lunch, properly |
| 2:00pm | Story scenes in the shade |
| 5:15pm | Golden hour hero shots |
| 6:30pm | Night look with practical lights |
| 9:00pm | Wrap and double backup |
Scene 03Int. related
Next noteA wedding film checklist for couples
Your wedding happens once. Here is what to sort out early so the film is as good as the day.
Can Reelhouse help plan our shoot?
Yes. A planning call is free, and our producers can build the schedule with you.
Do you film outside Abuja?
Yes, anywhere in Nigeria and abroad, with travel quoted up front.
Final sceneYour project, Abuja and beyond
Got a story worth filming?
Tell us the idea, the date and the budget you have in mind. A producer replies within one working day with questions, not a sales pitch.