Top Things To Know About Video Pre-Production
We know that making, producing and planning films, videos, and commercials can be a time-consuming task, but with the right planning and pre-production tips, you can make the entire process a whole lot simpler.
You know what they say: failing to plan is planning to fail, and the mindset we always recommend when it comes to filmmaking is that preparation is key.
Well-organised production usually yields great creative results while also ensuring a great atmosphere on set and a productive experience for those involved.
With this in mind, we have created a guide to pre-production for anyone looking to create a film – no matter the scale!
Why Is Video Pre-Production Important?
Video pre-production is an essential step because it establishes the foundation for your video. This enables you (the filmmaker) to get the script right, ensure your casting is correct, scout locations and plan your budget and schedule.
This means that everyone involved in the filming process is on the same page, and you can get the final product done with minimal amendments and an aligned vision.
How Can I Make Pre-Production Easier?
We’ve combined all our best pre-production video planning tips for you to make your life easier. These are our top five steps, which you must include in order to make your job simpler.
1. Know Your Script
You have to finish writing and editing your script, outline, or anything else you need in order to begin shooting in step one. Once it’s confirmed, it becomes a whole lot easier to figure out the shots you need and begin a list of everything you need during production.
In addition to just having your script down pat, you should also be storyboarding in the initial stages. This is vital for visualising the shots and knowing exactly what you need to be prepared to get your dream visuals.
Feedback cannot be overlooked. Get feedback from other valued members of your team on your script and your storyboarding, and remember to trust them! While it can be good to go with your gut, if every member of your team is providing you with similar feedback on your script, it might be time to consider a few amends.
2. Know Your Budget
This is when you have to work out how much money you will need to create your video. Breaking down your script into smaller sections helps, as you can visualise exactly what you need. You will then have to think about how you want to organise and use your budget according to who you will cast, your crew, the location, the props, and anything else you might need to get the project off the ground.
The simplest way to really break down how much everything is going to cost is to organise your budget into groups. This can include talent, equipment, location fees, and post-production fees. Once you know how much you’re going to be spending on each aspect of your production, it’s much easier to visualise your budget as a whole and see areas that may need more (or even less) funding!
Having a realistic budget is key, you need to be really honest with yourself and your team about how much you are willing to spend on the project to ensure you can get the best resources without blowing your budget out of the water.
3. Make Your Schedule
Organising your schedule in the video pre-production phase is vital for making your work far easier. A production schedule is based on your shooting days, so make sure you go over your script to see how many scenes you’ll need to shoot and how many days you’ll need to film.
There are a few different steps when it comes to creating a production schedule, and it really isn’t a process that should be overlooked. You need to ensure each scene is broken down alongside the actors, props or equipment you need for that shoot day. You should also ensure you have call times for your entire team and that you stick to them! Whilst it’s impossible to control every aspect of the shoot day, having clear call times so everyone knows when they’re expected – and where – can make all the difference when it comes to a smooth shoot.
4. Organise Your Crew
This could be one of the most difficult (but most critical) parts of your pre-production process. After organising your script, your budget and your schedule, you need to put everything in motion and get your crew organised. These are the people who are going to be putting everything you plan together, so it’s important to choose wisely.
If you’re creating branded videos, choose people that have a track record in creating compelling branded video content, or if you need live event coverage, look for a crew that specialises in that aspect.
Choosing the right crew can help make sure your pre-production plan runs smoothly and that your final video is exactly what you had in mind. You want a crew that allows for clear communication and open feedback. It’s vital to ensure you and your crew are all working together to achieve a common goal and that you’re all aligned on the overall vision for the project.
5. Create A Call Sheet
A call sheet is your bible for the day of filming. It tells your talents and crew everything they need to do on set and which day different scenes are scheduled for. Having a comprehensive call sheet makes sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to filming.
There are a few crucial elements you have to include in your call sheet if you want to guarantee smooth sailing. That includes the shoot location, the call times, a breakdown of the scene, the weather forecast, and your or other crew members’ contact information if there were any delays in talent getting to the shoot.
Still In Doubt? Call In The Experts
If you’re still feeling a bit confused about the pre-production process, or you’re looking for a company to take over your video from start to finish, contact our team today for bespoke advice.
Working with our expert team can ensure that you are following best practices and getting all the results you’ve been looking for.
