How much does it cost to store digital video footage?

The cost of storing digital video footage depends on numerous factors, including the nature of the footage, the amount of data, storage duration, accessibility needs, the size of the budget, and the storage medium chosen. This article aims to provide a comprehensive cost analysis of two popular storage options: cloud storage and LTO tape.

Factors Affecting Storage Costs

Firstly, determine whether the footage is for professional use or private consumption. Professional footage often requires long-term archiving, whereas private footage may only need temporary storage. The total file count and the file size also play a significant role in the cost. Additionally, the duration for which the data needs to be stored, whether it's months, years, or even decades, influences the cost.

Next, consider the accessibility and usability of the storage medium. Accessibility can be a critical factor, especially for professional work where quick and easy access to files is essential. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the software used for accessing the stored media and ensure that it supports searchable metadata.

Storage Solutions: Cloud and LTO Tape

For professional use and long-term archiving, two primary storage media are available: cloud storage and LTO tape. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss in detail.

Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is an attractive option for those who value convenience and require frequent access to data. It eliminates the need for physical storage devices and continuous maintenance. Cloud storage providers like Google Cloud and Amazon S3 offer various pricing models, making it easy to store small to medium-sized datasets.

However, cloud storage comes with monthly costs, which can add up over time. These costs are variable and depend on the amount of data stored and the region in which the files are stored.

LTO Tape Storage

LTO tape storage is ideal for long-term archiving of large datasets. LTO (Linear Tape-Open) tapes offer high storage density with costs that are relatively low compared to cloud storage. The latest standards, LTO-8 and LTO-9, can store up to 18 TB per tape, making them suitable for extensive productions.

Cost Comparison

The initial investment for LTO tape storage includes the cost of an LTO drive, software, and media. While the LTO drive and software can be expensive (around $1500 - $2000 USD/EUR), the cost of the media is significantly lower, starting at around $10 per TB. This makes LTO tape a cost-effective solution for storing large amounts of data over extended periods.

In contrast, cloud storage has monthly costs that can rapidly add up, especially for large datasets. While cloud storage may seem initially cheaper for small datasets, the overall cost can become prohibitive for long-term storage needs.

Accessibility and Usability

Accessibility is a crucial factor, especially for professional use. The software used for accessing the stored media must support searchable metadata and offer visual browsing of proxy clips. Archiware’s P5 Archive is an example of such software, which offers customizable metadata and combined search capabilities.

Central Location vs Remote Access

For a central location like a company headquarters, LTO tape is the best choice for local installation. This ensures that all finalised projects are stored in one place, increasing productivity and offering options for monetization and reuse.

However, if people from different locations need to access the stored data, a cloud-based installation of the archive software and storage is the best solution. For instance, an EC2 installation of Archiware P5 Archive can provide remote access to files stored in the cloud.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the cost to store digital video footage depends on the current and future budget available, as well as the preference for monthly costs versus an initial investment. While cloud storage offers convenience and easy access, LTO tape storage provides a cost-effective solution for long-term archiving. By carefully evaluating these factors, one can make an informed decision on the most suitable storage medium for their needs.