Katechon ArcThe worked example
One 60-second episode at 720p, made of 6 shots of 10 seconds each, with 5 reference images (say three characters and two locations) and one storyboard frame per shot. Images use Seedream 5.0 Lite at 13 credits each: 11 images × 13 = 143 credits.
| Video model | Six 10 s clips | Images | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seedance 2.0 Mini | 564 | 143 | 707 |
| Seedance 2.0 Fast | 1,356 | 143 | 1,499 |
| Seedance 2.0 | 4,506 | 143 | 4,649 |
Video dominates the total. Moving the same episode from Seedance 2.0 to Seedance 2.0 Fast cuts its video credits by about 70%, and Seedance 2.0 Mini by about 87%. A common pattern is to draft on a cheaper model and re-render the final takes on Seedance 2.0.
What the example leaves out
- Retakes. Budget for regenerating some shots; how many depends on how demanding you are.
- Script writing, the creative assistant and voice, which use credits by length.
- Optional reference-image charges on video generation.
- References are made once per series. From episode two onwards the reference cost mostly disappears.
Choosing a plan
Divide your monthly credit need by the plan allowances: Starter 1,800, Pro 10,000, Ultra 27,000, Organization 42,000 credits a month. If you are between plans, a top-up from $15 for 2,000 credits covers the gap, and top-up credits never expire.
Check before you generate
The studio shows an estimate for your exact model, resolution and duration before each generation, and refuses a request that needs more credits than you can spend. Rates on this page come from the same rate card; see the models table and pricing. To price a whole series on any model, use the AI video cost calculator or read what an AI short drama costs.