How Much does an AI Video Cost?

Contents

I. What factors influence the final AI video cost?
II. How much does it cost to make an AI video the DIY way?
   1. DIY AI videos: platforms and pricing
      a. Calculating AI video creation costs with subscription platforms
      b. Calculating AI video creation costs with credit-based generators
      c. Calculating AI video generation costs with specialized tools
      d. The freemium model illusion and the hidden costs of AI video creation
   2. The cost of outsourcing AI video creation: freelancers vs. agencies
      a. AI videos vs. traditional production: the cost benefit
      b. What’s included in the AI video cost?
      c. How much does an AI video cost per minute?
III. How much does an AI video cost? A YOPRST case study
IV. On a final note

A professional-looking 30-second clip created by an AI video production company will cost you at least $1,000. If you create the video yourself, you can do it for as little as $25 in platform fees, but results may vary. As 2026 approaches, the choice between a hands-on, do-it-yourself (DIY) approach and outsourcing AI video creation to professionals becomes increasingly important. This guide provides a comprehensive answer, outlining the financial and operational realities of both options. More importantly, this analysis will look at how emerging AI-powered workflows compare to the high costs of traditional video production.

What factors influence the final AI video cost?

To accurately budget, it is critical to identify the primary cost drivers in AI for video production. The final price is inextricably linked to the computational resources needed. Key variables include video length and resolution, model complexity, avatar quality, commercial rights, and turnaround time. Each element influences the processing load, which has a direct impact on the overall cost of AI video generation. Furthermore, collaborating with a freelancer or video production company will raise your costs. Let’s examine how these specific components determine your final investment.

• Video length and resolution. The most important cost factors are the length, resolution and visual quality of your video. Longer videos naturally require more processing time and resources, and higher resolutions such as 1080p Full HD or 4K Ultra HD increase costs exponentially when compared to a standard 720p output. This is because rendering each frame with a higher pixel density requires a lot more computational power. A company must therefore carefully balance its desire for cinematic quality with budgetary and timeline constraints.
• Generation model and its complexity. The specific AI model used and the complexity of your creative prompts are major AI video cost determinants. State-of-the-art models like OpenAI’s Sora or Google’s Veo, which can create highly realistic and coherent scenes, are far more expensive to run than simpler, first-generation text-to-video tools. Furthermore, a simple “talking head” video based on a single prompt is significantly less expensive than a complex narrative with multiple characters, dynamic scene changes, and layered visual effects.
• Use of avatars and voiceovers. Incorporating digital avatars and synthesized voiceovers adds another layer of cost – especially when realism is the goal. Basic subscriptions may include standard avatars and generic voices, but choosing premium, ultra-realistic avatars with expressive facial animations or lifelike gestures increases expenses. The cost rises further when creating a custom digital twin of a real person or using advanced voice cloning to replicate a specific voice. These high-end features are valuable for branding and personalization.
• Commercial rights. Any business, organization, or creator intending to use AI-generated video for promotional or revenue-generating purposes must obtain the appropriate commercial license. The true entry point for professional use is not the free trial but rather the first paid plan that explicitly grants you a commercial license. This is an important distinction, as free or personal-tier plans frequently limit you to non-commercial projects only. Violating these terms may result in legal consequences and platform suspension.
• Turnaround time. The timeline for publishing your AI video, whether you create it yourself or outsource production to a company, can also have an impact on the final cost. Many AI platforms use a tiered system, in which paying subscribers have priority access to processing queues, resulting in faster video generation. Similarly, when outsourcing to an agency, requesting a rush job that requires the team to work overtime or reschedule other projects will almost certainly come with a premium fee attached to the total AI video cost.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

How much does it cost to make an AI video the DIY way?

The do-it-yourself route provides unrivaled creative control and can be extremely cost-effective, making it a popular choice among hands-on users. This path is ideal for marketing managers, small business owners, and content creators who are comfortable with technology and willing to devote their own time to learning the intricacies of AI prompting and video editing. The trade-off is clear: you exchange a lower monetary cost for a higher investment of your personal time and effort. The DIY landscape is diverse, with various tools available; we covered some of them in our guide to using AI in video production:

• Text-to-video / image-to-video generative models. Tools like Runway, Pika, Kling AI, and Sora allow you to generate entirely new video content from simple text prompts or static images, unlocking opportunities for truly unique and imaginative visual storytelling. Because of their immense computational requirements and advanced capabilities, these tools are best suited for creative professionals, advertising agencies, and film studios that require bespoke visual assets and have the budget to support such intensive generation tasks.
• AI-assisted editors and upscalers. This category of software does not generate video from scratch but instead uses powerful AI algorithms to enhance and improve your existing footage. Leading tools like Topaz Video AI specialize in post-production tasks such as upscaling videos to higher resolutions (e.g., from 1080p to 4K), reducing noise, stabilizing shaky footage, and even interpolating frames to create ultra-smooth slow-motion effects. These platforms typically operate on a one-time perpetual license fee, which makes them an ideal choice for professional video editing.
• AI avatar platforms. Optimized specifically for the corporate, educational, and marketing sectors, AI avatar platforms allow you to create professional videos without ever needing a camera or a human presenter. Synthesia, for example, allows you to write a script, select a realistic digital avatar, and create a polished presentation in minutes. Such platforms are extremely useful for creating training modules, internal communications, and product explainers at a fraction of the cost and time of a traditional video shoot, providing massive efficiency gains to businesses of all sizes.
• All-in-one AI video suites. These versatile platforms serve as a comprehensive video production toolkit, bundling multiple AI functionalities into a single, user-friendly interface. Solutions like Fliki, InVideo, and Kapwing typically combine text-to-video generation with vast libraries of licensed stock media, automatic voice synthesis, and intuitive editing tools. They are designed to be a complete ecosystem for social media managers and content marketers, empowering them to produce a high volume of engaging video content quickly and efficiently.

^{Source: topaz.ai}

DIY AI videos: platforms and pricing

For those who prefer a hands-on approach to content creation, there is a vast and rapidly evolving ecosystem of powerful AI video tools available. This path enables you to translate your vision directly into video, giving you complete creative control. To successfully navigate this landscape, you must first understand the two primary pricing models available: the predictable, all-inclusive monthly costs of software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms and the flexible, pay-as-you-go nature of credit-based generative systems. By taking the DIY route, you’ll be able to drastically reduce AI video generation costs.

In terms of AI video cost, DIY platforms are generally more accessible than traditional production methods, especially for individual creators, small teams, startups, and educators, and marketers. Prices typically start as low as $20-50 per month for entry-level plans that support short videos and basic features. More advanced tiers that include higher-resolution output, branded exports, multilingual voiceovers, and avatar customization can range from $80 to $300+ monthly. This cost model makes it feasible to experiment with scalable AI-generated video content without breaking the bank.

DIY AI video generation also offers significant speed and scale advantages for modern teams and solo creators. Most platforms allow you to generate multiple videos in a matter of minutes using templates, scripts, AI voice synthesis, and pre-built avatars or character models. This efficiency helps content marketers, educators, and entrepreneurs streamline workflows and reduce dependency on costly editing or post-production services. While output quality varies depending on the tool, the value proposition is clear: maximum speed, flexibility, and affordability with minimal overhead.

Calculating AI video creation costs with subscription platforms

Subscription-based platforms have emerged as the backbone of the creator economy, providing a consistent, predictable monthly or annual fee in exchange for access to a comprehensive set of integrated features. They are an excellent choice for marketers managing a content calendar, SMBs producing regular promotional materials, and dedicated content creators who rely on a consistent workflow and a robust, all-in-one toolkit to meet their regular video production schedule. Here’s how much AI video generation can cost based on the recurring fees of popular tools presently available on the market.

Entry-level AI video subscriptions typically range from $15 to $50 per month and are geared toward short-form content, including social media clips and internal communications. These plans often include watermarked exports, a limited selection of avatars or voice options, and basic video length caps. For more advanced needs, such as longer video durations, commercial licensing, or brand asset integration, expect to pay $100-$300 monthly depending on the platform. For example, tools like Synthesia, Pictory, and Elai.io offer tiered pricing based on output resolution, usage volume, and editing features.

When comparing AI video creation costs, it’s also important to factor in your publishing frequency, content goals, and long-term scalability needs. Subscription models become increasingly cost-effective when producing content at volume. A $200/month plan may seem steep at first glance, but if you’re generating 20–30 videos a month for internal training, onboarding, or client-facing campaigns, your effective AI video cost per minute drops significantly. This makes subscription-based tools ideal for growing businesses or marketing agencies with recurring content demands.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

• Synthesia. Synthesia, the undisputed global leader in AI avatar videos, offers a sophisticated platform designed primarily for creating polished educational and corporate communication videos. Its superpower stems from its ability to eliminate the need for cameras, actors, and studios, significantly reducing production time and cost. The platform’s pricing options, which include a Starter pack at $29/month ($18/month annually) for 10 minutes of video and a Creator plan at $89/month ($64/month annually) for 30 minutes, make professional-grade video affordable.
• Fliki. The platform has established itself as a formidable and user-friendly competitor in the “all-in-one” category, providing what many regard as the best value for money on the market. It excels at converting text from sources such as blog posts or scripts into engaging videos with high-quality AI voiceovers. Its subscription plans include a Standard tier costing around $14/month (paid annually) for 180 minutes of video and a Premium tier costing $44/month for 600 minutes. Fliki also boasts robust multi-language support and a vast media library.
• InVideo. InVideo is a purpose-built tool for creating dynamic commercials and compelling marketing videos. Its strategic advantage is a deep, native integration with the premium iStock media library, granting users access to millions of commercially licensed, high-quality assets. The platform offers a Plus plan at $28/month, a Max plan at $50/month, and a Generative plan at $100/month. With features and templates optimized for specific ad platforms like TikTok and Instagram, it dramatically streamlines the creative workflow for performance marketing campaigns.
• Lumen5. Lumen5 concentrates on addressing a crucial issue in content marketing: maximizing the worth of written content. The platform helps transform articles, whitepapers, and scripts into attractive, shareable video materials that capture audience attention. It uses AI to analyze your text and automatically suggest relevant visuals and animations. With its Basic ($19/month), Starter ($59/month), and Professional ($149/month) plans, it empowers marketing teams to repurpose their existing content library while optimizing the AI video generation cost.
• Lumen5. Lumen5 concentrates on addressing a crucial issue in content marketing: maximizing the worth of written content. The platform helps transform articles, whitepapers, and scripts into attractive, shareable video materials that capture audience attention. It uses AI to analyze your text and automatically suggest relevant visuals and animations. With its Basic ($19/month), Starter ($59/month), and Professional ($149/month) plans, it empowers marketing teams to repurpose their existing content library while optimizing the AI video generation cost.
• Pictory. Pictory has carved out a niche by specializing in the conversion of long-form audio and video content – such as webinars, podcasts, and Zoom meetings – into engaging video clips perfectly suited for social media. Its AI automatically transcribes your content and identifies the most compelling highlights. The platform’s competitive pricing, with a Starter plan starting at $19/month for 200 minutes and a Professional plan at $39/month for 600 minutes, makes it an essential tool for marketers looking to drive traffic to their primary long-form content.

Calculating AI video creation costs with credit-based generators

Credit-based AI video platforms typically cater to users who prioritize control over output volume and budget. These systems are especially appealing for professionals working on irregular projects – such as promotional campaigns, concept teasers, or research visualizations – where each video has distinct requirements. Instead of committing to a fixed monthly fee, users can scale up or down based on actual usage, making the AI video cost highly transparent and customizable. This makes credit-based generators ideal for creatives, freelancers, and agencies juggling multiple client needs.

AI video cost per minute can vary depending on platform architecture, resolution, and complexity. For example, generating a 1080p video with motion, voice synthesis, and detailed characters may cost 5-10 credits per second, while simpler slideshows or text-to-video transitions may use as little as 1 credit per second. Pricing for credit bundles typically starts at $10-30 for small packs and can reach several hundred dollars for high-volume use. Understanding how credits are consumed per feature – such as background generation, avatar lip sync, or transitions – is essential for accurate budgeting.

Another key benefit of credit-based platforms is access to cutting-edge models, flexible controls, advanced rendering options, and experimental features. Because this pricing model accounts for computational load, platforms are more likely to offer high-fidelity video options, real-time rendering, or multi-character scenes without limiting users to fixed time caps. This allows companies exploring advanced use cases – like interactive explainers, animated pitch decks, or cinematic-style AI sequences – to push creative boundaries while keeping AI video generation cost predictable, transparent, and under control.

To optimize spending, many users start by estimating the total video length, required quality level, and visual complexity of their project, then selecting a credit pack accordingly. Some platforms also allow you to preview low-res drafts or generate shorter clips at reduced credit rates, making it easier to iterate before fully committing to high-resolution outputs. In this sense, credit-based pricing not only gives you granular control over AI video cost but also encourages an efficient, test-and-refine workflow that reduces waste and enhances creative flexibility across different content types and formats.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

• Runway. Runway, a clear market leader and pioneer in the generative video space, provides a comprehensive suite of tools for artists and creative professionals. The platform offers three tiers: Standard at $12/month for 625 credits, Pro at $28/month for 2,250 credits, and Unlimited at $76/month (billed annually). A key benchmark for users is that 625 credits can produce approximately 52 seconds of video generated with the popular Gen-2 model. Beyond generation, Runway offers a plethora of “AI Magic Tools” for professional video editing.
• Pika. Pika has emerged as Runway’s main competitor, rapidly gaining a massive user base thanks to its user-friendly interface and highly engaging results. It offers a Standard plan at $10/month for 700 credits and a Pro plan at $35/month for 2,300 credits, positioning itself competitively. The cost of AI video generation for a single clip is highly variable, ranging from as few as 10 to over 80 credits depending on the complexity of the prompt and applied effects like camera motion. This variability makes precise cost calculation a challenge.
• Kling AI. This powerful tool, developed by the TikTok creators, has quickly gained popularity due to the exceptional quality and smoothness of the motion it generates. Kling offers two plans: a Standard plan for $6.99 per month for 660 credits and a Pro plan for $25.99 per month for 3,000 credits. The cost of a single 5-second clip can range from 20 to 100 credits, depending on the parameters and desired quality. Users prefer Kling because of its ability to produce more coherent and less “artifact-heavy” animations, making it an excellent choice for those who value visual fluidity in their generative work.
• PixVerse. PixVerse positions itself as a budget-friendly option among the credit-based generators, making it an ideal starting point for beginners or those looking to cut AI video costs. The platform has one of the best credit-to-cost ratios available, with a Standard plan costing only $8 per month for 1,200 credits and a Pro plan costing $24 per month for 6,000. While it may not have all the advanced features of its high-end competitors, its affordability and large credit pools make it perfect for experimentation and generating simple animated sequences.

Calculating AI video generation costs with specialized tools

Beyond the mainstream subscription and credit-based platforms, there is a distinct category of specialized tools that serve professionals, hinting at the market’s future direction. This segment includes unique AI software that does not fit the standard cloud-based SaaS model, as well as flagship generative models that are so computationally intensive that they require premium enterprise-level subscriptions. Such tools are intended for prosumers and large organizations with specific requirements, ranging from high-fidelity post-production to cinematic-quality video generation.

• Topaz Video AI. The platform offers a unique and powerful proposition for video professionals by focusing exclusively on post-production enhancement rather than generation from scratch. For a one-time fee of $299, users receive a perpetual license and a full year of updates, a model that strongly appeals to those who dislike recurring fees. The program uses sophisticated AI for tasks like frame interpolation to create smooth slow motion, dramatically increasing video resolution, and reducing noise and grain from older footage.
• Google Veo. Google Veo, a professional generative model, caters to the demanding needs of the film industry. The premium tiers of the Google Gemini subscription ecosystem allow users to tap into Veo’s powerful capabilities. The Gemini Advanced plan (approximately $20/month) provides limited access, whereas Gemini Ultra subscribers (approximately $250/month) have complete control over the model. This high price, combined with its limited availability as of mid-2025, distinguishes Veo as a premium solution for major advertising agencies and film studios.
• OpenAI’s Sora. Sora famously set the public benchmark for what AI video generation could achieve, and it remains one of the most powerful models available. It is accessible to a large audience via ChatGPT’s paid tiers, making it a popular choice for both enthusiasts and professionals. The ChatGPT Plus plan ($20/month) allows users to generate up to 50 priority videos per month at 720p resolution. For more intensive use, the ChatGPT Pro plan (approximately $200 per month) provides up to 500 videos at a higher 1080p resolution and access to a “relaxed” unlimited generation mode.

To summarize, the AI video market is clearly divided into two segments. One segment includes mass-market tools like Runway and Pika, which are designed for everyday content creation. The other comprises elite platforms such as Veo and Sora, which are best suited for high-fidelity, cinematic production. Such a division gives users a clear choice based on their video quality requirements and budget. However, there is a third path that completely avoids this segmentation: if you need a high-quality music video or commercial, you can partner with a professional freelancer or production studio.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

The freemium model illusion and the hidden costs of AI video creation

Before we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing AI video generation, there is one more issue to address. With most AI video generators offering free plans, many users believe they can create quality AI videos for free, eliminating the need for traditional video production. But there’s a catch. The freemium model aims to introduce users to the world of AI video creation and pique their interest. When attempting to use the content commercially, you encounter various obstacles such as watermarks, low-resolution exports, and the absence of commercial usage rights.

Another important topic is the so-called hidden AI video costs and extra fees. Some platforms charge credits not only for generating a video but also for previewing it, changing parameters, upscaling its quality, downloading the file, or exporting it in high resolution. This means that if you work on multiple versions of the same clip, your credits may deplete much faster than anticipated. That is why it is critical to carefully review the platform’s pricing terms and start with small-scale testing before moving on to larger and more expensive projects. It’s also a good idea to do some preliminary research on the AI video generator market.

It’s also worth noting that most credit-based platforms don’t provide a traditional, full-featured “free trial”. Instead, you either get a starter package with limited functionality and access, or you have to pay upfront for a certain number of credits. Some platforms, such as Runway or Pika, allow users to continue generating videos in “relaxed mode” even after they have run out of credits. While this is convenient, the generation speed and priority are significantly reduced, particularly during peak server load times. Going this route may jeopardize your project’s deadlines and increase the cost of AI videos.

Overall, credit-based generators can be a great option for experienced professionals and small studios that need precise AI video cost control and want to experiment with different approaches. However, for those producing a steady stream of content or working within a fixed format, the subscription-based SaaS model may prove to be a more predictable and cost-effective alternative. The credit model necessitates careful planning and application – but in the right hands, it provides maximum flexibility, creative freedom, and control over both the final product and the budget.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

The cost of outsourcing AI video creation: freelancers vs. agencies

For businesses that lack the time, resources, or internal expertise to master modern AI tools, outsourcing AI video production provides a quick, low-risk, and highly effective solution. Instead of navigating complex interfaces or experimenting with prompt engineering, companies can simply order a polished, ready-to-use video from a service provider. This method eliminates guesswork, minimizes production bottlenecks, and ensures that videos meet brand quality standards. As AI video generation becomes more sophisticated, both studios and individual freelancers are stepping up to meet the rising demand.

• Freelancers. Fiverr, Useme, and Freelancehunt have become go-to marketplaces for hiring AI video freelancers. Entry-level projects, such as talking head clips with stock avatars or basic narration, can start as low as $12-18. Short promotional teasers (15-30 seconds) typically fall in the $18-40 range, while longer or more customized videos – think branded explainers or animated product showcases – can cost anywhere from $40 to $100+. Freelancers usually price their work based on output, not tool usage. The approach works particularly well for one-off projects.
• Agencies. For more advanced and complex projects, working with a specialized agency ensures not only higher production value but also a more streamlined and collaborative process. YOPRST’s services cover a wide range of use cases – from short-form marketing content to longer-form branded videos. Pricing starts at around $110 for basic clips and can reach $10,000 or more for fully customized productions that blend AI and traditional filmmaking techniques. These higher-end solutions include visual storytelling, custom avatars, and layered editing.

AI videos vs. traditional production: the cost benefit

Why choose an AI video agency instead of a traditional film crew? The most compelling reason is the drastic cost reduction. AI video production can lower total expenses by 70-90%, thanks to the elimination of location shoots, talent hiring, and the need for extensive on-site logistics. With AI, you don’t need actors, lighting crews, or physical sets – instead, scenes can be created entirely in the cloud with a varying degree of realism. This makes it possible to produce high-quality content on a budget that would previously have covered only pre-production. For teams producing content regularly or at scale, the savings quickly compound.

These benefits extend beyond just cost. AI tools also allow for rapid experimentation, instant versioning, and localization into multiple languages – all without reshooting. A single scene can be rendered in dozens of formats, voices, or languages with just a few tweaks to the input. This flexibility is especially valuable for companies working in fast-paced environments, such as eCommerce, SaaS, or media. Instead of spending weeks coordinating traditional production, you can ideate, iterate, and publish within days. For most use cases, the answer to “Is AI video production cheaper than hiring a crew?” is a clear and confident yes.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

What’s included in the AI video cost?

Outsourcing AI video creation isn’t just about getting a file delivered – it’s about receiving a comprehensive service that removes legal and technical headaches from your team’s shoulders. At YOPRST and other reputable agencies, project pricing typically includes everything from creative concepting to final polish. This ensures not only consistency but also a single point of accountability throughout the process, which is critical for brand-sensitive or time-bound campaigns. Even clients without a defined script or storyboard can rely on agency support to bring their vision to life.

At a minimum, clients can expect creative concept development, scriptwriting, voiceover generation, scene generation using high-end AI tools, professional editing, brand alignment, and sound design. A reputable agency will also ensure you receive full commercial usage rights for your final video, meaning you can distribute it across any platform without worrying about AI licensing or embedded limitations. This is especially relevant when premium avatars, voice models, or music are used. Most project fees include standard turnaround times; however, rush delivery options are available for campaigns with tighter deadlines.

How much does an AI video cost per minute?

AI video pricing varies widely depending on how the video is created – and who creates it. At the lowest end, DIY users working with tools like Pictory or Fliki can generate basic videos for as little as $1-3 per minute, depending on the subscription tier and tool efficiency. This level of affordability is ideal for users producing SMM videos, explainers, or internal content with minimal customization or visual effects. When working with freelancers, prices typically range from $50 to $100+ per minute for moderately customized content. These creators often use tools like Runway or Synthesia and offer editing, avatars, and branded assets.

Hiring an AI video agency offers the most comprehensive service but comes with a higher price tag. At YOPRST, for instance, fully produced videos can range from $100 to $2,000+ per minute, depending on video length, number of characters, stylistic needs, and hybrid elements like traditional footage or custom animation. The upside is premium quality, creative support, and full licensing included. It’s also worth noting that agencies typically have access to more advanced AI video generators, such as Veo and Sora, whereas freelancers and DIY content creators can’t afford the subscription fees.

^{Source: sora.chatgpt.com}

How much does an AI video cost? A YOPRST case study

To give you an example of how much a quality AI video can cost, let’s revisit one of the projects our studio has recently completed. Earlier this year, YOPRST undertook the production of a music video for an independent band. The project was a deeply emotional tribute to the band’s vocalist, who had tragically passed away. With only a couple of photographs and archive footage from the band’s rehearsals as our starting point, we created a nearly five-minute animated video that captured his spirit in a style inspired by the dreamlike paintings of Marc Chagall. A project of this complexity would fall in the $5,000-10,000 range.

• Stage 1: Concept and keyframe generation. The project began with an intensive conceptual phase: we had to design approximately 120 distinct scenes inspired by the song’s emotional arc and the Chagall-esque art style. Our initial tests with general models like GPT for prompt generation produced inconsistent results for the main character’s likeness. We therefore made the strategic decision to leverage OpenAI’s Sora and Midjourney to generate all the static keyframes. This process, which took about 40 hours, was crucial for creating a stable and visually cohesive foundation.
• Stage 2: Video generation with Runway. With the keyframes established, we moved to the animation stage, which was the most time-consuming part of the project and took approximately 230 hours. Our team used the Runway model, which excels at animating scenes from image prompts. For each short clip, we provided an input image (the start of the scene) and a target image (the end) to guide the AI’s motion generation. Achieving the precise, subtle movements required for the video’s poignant tone demanded immense patience and artistic direction.
• Stage 3: Final assembly, editing, and styling. The final stage involved the critical human touch of post-production, taking around 30 hours to complete. This phase involved assembling the hundreds of generated clips into a single, emotionally resonant narrative that flowed seamlessly with the music. We meticulously edited the sequence of scenes, adjusted the pacing of transitions to match the song’s rhythm, and applied a final layer of styling. Our work included color grading, adding film grain, and subtle light effects to deepen the nostalgic character of the visuals.