COREYSILVIA

Retainer vs. Per Event Costs: Maximizing Value for Drivers Across Karting and Racing Series

When it comes to videography and photography services, drivers and teams need consistent, high-quality content that reflects their branding, progress, and competitive spirit. As a driver moves up the ranks, from karting to IndyCar, having a reliable media partner is essential.

This page breaks down the two common service models—Per Event Costs and Retainer Costs—highlighting the benefits and trade-offs for drivers competing in series like USPKS, SKUSA, Indy NXT, IndyCar, and USF Pro 2000.

1. Per Event Costs

This is a straightforward option where you pay for videography services on a per-event basis. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs:

  • Full Day Rate (8+ hours): $1,000 per day
  • Half Day Rate (4 hours): $500 per day
  • Multi-day Event Discount: $2,500 for 3 days of shooting

The per-event model is best suited for clients with sporadic needs or smaller budgets. You only pay for the specific events you want to be covered, giving you flexibility in spending. However, over the course of a season, costs can accumulate quickly, especially if you need multi-day event coverage.

Example 1: Karting Driver in USPKS and SKUSA

A driver competing in both USPKS and SKUSA will participate in around 7-9 events across the year. Here’s a look at the potential cost of using the Per Event model:

  • Total Events (Including Both Series): 7-9
  • Average Cost per Event (Full Day Rate): $1,500 to $2,500
  • Total Seasonal Cost (7-9 Events): $10,500 - $22,500

Example 2: Indy NXT Driver

For a driver competing in Indy NXT, the 2024 schedule includes 14 races. A driver wanting full media coverage (practice, qualifying, race) would likely require 3 days of shooting per event.

  • Average Cost per Event (3-day coverage): $2,500
  • Total Seasonal Cost (14 Events): $35,000

2. Retainer Model

The Retainer Model offers drivers and teams long-term engagement and a consistent media presence throughout the racing season. Instead of paying for each individual event, a retainer agreement allows you to lock in media coverage for the year at a fixed monthly or yearly rate.

This option gives teams predictable costs and guarantees availability for all major events. It’s also an efficient way to build a comprehensive media strategy across the entire season.

Benefits of a Retainer:

  • Cost Predictability: A fixed amount makes budget planning easier.
  • Priority Scheduling: Retainer clients get top priority for key race days.
  • Consistency: A more unified media strategy throughout the season.

Example 3: Karting Driver in USPKS and SKUSA (Retainer Option)

A karting driver participating in both series, with an average of 1-2 events per month, would benefit from a retainer model to ensure coverage for both practice and race days.

  • Monthly Retainer: $3,500 per month, covering up to 2 events
  • Total Yearly Cost: $24,500 - $28,000

Example 4: Indy NXT Driver (Retainer Option)

An Indy NXT driver competing in 14 races would likely require consistent media throughout the season.

  • Monthly Retainer: $5,000 per month covering all events
  • Total Yearly Cost: $40,000

Example 5: IndyCar Driver (Per Event)

IndyCar has 17 races on its 2024 calendar. For a driver seeking specific event coverage (like the Indy 500), the per-event model may be suitable.

  • Cost per Event (3-day coverage): $2,500
  • Total Seasonal Cost (for 5 key events): $12,500

Example 6: IndyCar Driver (Retainer)

For a driver participating in all 17 events, the retainer model provides year-round coverage and reduced costs.

  • Monthly Retainer: $5,500 per month
  • Total Yearly Cost: $44,000

Choosing the Right Option

Choosing between Per Event and Retainer models depends on your specific needs, goals, and budget. The Per Event model offers flexibility and is best suited for drivers who need media coverage for key events. However, for drivers and teams looking to maximize their media presence across the entire season, a Retainer provides better value and guarantees consistency.

Why Choose a Retainer:

  • Commitment to Consistency: Every moment of the season is captured.
  • Financial Predictability: Retainers offer a fixed cost without unexpected expenses.
  • Long-Term Collaboration: A retainer allows for a more cohesive working relationship, enabling better storytelling.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to go with Per Event Costs for flexibility or a Retainer for year-round commitment, each option has its merits. I ensure that drivers at all levels can access professional videography and photography services that fit their goals and budget.

Contact Me: Ready to discuss which model works best for you? Contact me here for a custom quote tailored to your racing season.

Signature