Apr 10, 2023 Filip Blaho Video 0 Comments

Video Pre Production

A Complete guide to video pre production

As with any marketing strategy, success in video marketing starts with solid planning and preparation.

That’s why I’m excited to share my latest blog post about video pre production with you. I’ll be sharing my insider tips and tricks for planning a successful video shoot, from setting your goals and defining your audience, to choosing the right equipment and scouting locations.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this blog post is packed with valuable insights that will help you take your video marketing to the next level.

So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to learn everything you need to know about video pre-production!

What Is A video Pre-Production

Before you can begin any kind of video production process, you must first plan out what you’re going to do. That’s where pre production steps in.

Pre production is all about getting everything ready before the cameras roll so that your shoot goes smoothly and you end up with a great final product.

It involves planning out all aspects of your project, such as scripting, budgeting, scheduling, location scouting, casting and crewing up.

“Video is the most effective way to convey any message”
Filip Blaho

Why Is video Pre-Production Important

Pre-production gives your video structure and direction. It’s the foundation upon which all the other elements of production are built. Pre-production gives video producers the time to plan out every aspect of their project, from shot composition and scriptwriting to casting and budgeting.

This leaves more time for experimentation on set and more freedom to explore creative possibilities in post-production.

Who Does What In Pre-Production?

Pre-production is a team effort that allows the output of highest quality.

The Producer: He is responsible for the overall production and budget. They will often hire the key members of the crew, such as the director and writer.

The Director: Director has creative control over the project. They are responsible for giving insight into how they want certain shots or scenes to be filmed.

The Writer: Writer develops and writes up treatments, scripts, outlines, and any other written material required for the project.

Cinematographer: The cinematographer is responsible for capturing the visuals of the video, including lighting, camera angles, and framing.

Production designer: The production designer is responsible for creating the look and feel of the video, including the sets, props, and costumes.

Casting director: The casting director is responsible for finding and hiring the actors and extras that will appear in the video.

When Does Pre-Production Start and end?

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when pre-production begins, as every project is different. But typically it starts with the script development, which includes idea generation, brainstorming, outlining and extensive research into the subject matter.

From there, you move on to casting, location scouting, budgeting, scheduling, securing crew members and more!

The end of pre-production comes when everything has been planned out and all the necessary preparations have been made.

It’s when the filmmaker is confident that they’re ready to shoot the movie.

Check The Story

It’s no secret that great stories are the foundation of a successful movie. Make sure that everything from the plot points to character arcs work together seamlessly before moving forward with pre-production. This helps you see if there are any gaps in the story, or if you need additional scenes to move it forward. Create detailed outlines and maps of each journey the characters take throughout the story. This ensures that the entire project is cohesive and ready for production!

Concept Development

The concept development phase of pre production involves deciding on key elements such as plot, characters, theme, and setting. This starts with the creation of an outline for the entire story.

The scriptwriter then has to fill in all the details and ensure that everything comes together in a cohesive way. After that, casting decisions are made and production design begins to set the tone of the film.

All these components must be carefully planned out before moving onto principal photography so that nothing is missing or overlooked during filming.

Pre-Visualization

Pre-visualization is a key step in the pre production process of any film.

It is the process of imagining how a scene or a sequence will look, feel and flow.

This is done by the director, cinematographer and other visual effects specialists.

Pre-visualization helps to create a roadmap for the filmmakers, so they know what needs to be captured on camera and how it should be arranged for maximum effect.

They are able to test out different shots, angles and lighting options that would otherwise be difficult or expensive to do in post-production.

Additionally, pre-visualization allows them to determine where resources need to be allocated and how much time each shot will take.

Scriptwriting

Scripts are integral to creating a great story. They provide structure and clarity while leaving room for creative expression.

Sript writing requires a thorough understanding of the concept at hand – what is it that needs to be communicated and why? A scriptwriter can then craft compelling dialogue and action sequences that will capture the audience’s attention from start to finish.

Secondly, knowing who your target audience is helps to guide the tone and style of writing; will you be aiming for a heartfelt drama or an action-packed adventure?

Thirdly, visuals need to be considered – how does each scene look on screen? Will there be close-up shots or wide angles?

Fourthly, music should also factor into the equation – what kind of soundtrack will evoke emotion in viewers and make them stay until the end credits roll?

The shooting script should include details like exact dialogue, camera angles, shot sizes, transitions, and any special effects that need to be included. It’s also important to note what equipment is needed for each shot and any other logistics that may be needed for production day.

Breaking Down The Script

When you break down a script, you’re essentially analyzing each scene and taking note of details that could affect production. This includes noting down potential locations, props needed, lines of dialogue, and any other elements that need to be considered.

Breaking down a script allows you to have a better understanding of what goes into making a film. Here are some key points to consider when breaking down a script:

Identifying scenes that require special effects or stunts
Establishing how long each scene will take to shoot
Taking note of any equipment or tools needed
Noting dialogue and character development points
Making sure all scenes are properly ordered

Creating a storyboard

A storyboard is a visual representation of a video or film’s storyline, consisting of a series of drawings or images that illustrate each scene, allowing filmmakers to plan out their vision and create the right atmosphere for their film.

They help to plan and organize the visual aspects of a project, including the camera angles, transitions, and overall flow of the story. This process serves as a guide during filming and helps ensure that all components of the shoot come together to create the desired effect.

Creating a storyboard is important for several reasons:

It helps to visualize the project: Storyboards allow the team to see the overall picture of the video project, and to make any necessary adjustments before filming begins.
It facilitates communication: Storyboards provide a visual aid for communicating the director’s vision to the rest of the production team, including the camera crew, set designers, and actors.
It saves time and money: Storyboards help to identify any potential issues or challenges early on in the process, which can save time and money in the long run.

To create a storyboard, follow these steps:

Start with a script: Before creating the storyboard, make sure you have a clear understanding of the story you want to tell. Write a script or treatment that outlines the scenes and dialogue.
Break the script into scenes: Divide the script into individual scenes, and decide how many storyboard panels you will need for each one.
Sketch out the panels: Draw a rough sketch of each panel, including any characters, props, or other elements that will be included in the shot.
Add notes and details: Write notes on each panel that indicate camera angles, movement, dialogue, and any other important details.
Refine the storyboard: Review the storyboard with the rest of the production team, and make any necessary changes based on feedback.
Finalize the storyboard: Once everyone is satisfied with the storyboard, finalize it by adding any necessary annotations or instructions, and distribute it to the rest of the production team.

Budgeting

It is essential to have an accurate understanding of how much money will be needed for the project before any production begins. Take all the required equipment and personnel and potential additional costs into account.

Having a detailed budget in place is often necessary when seeking out investors or crowdfunding opportunities.

Budget also allows filmmakers to plan their shooting schedule and more importantly, follow it.

Scheduling

This is the most important part of pre-production as it sets in motion a chain of events that will shape how your entire project turns out. Every detail needs to be accounted for, from actor availability to lighting changes to props/wardrobe needs.

The schedule should also include contingency plans in case something unexpected happens or if you need more time for a particular scene.

You may even want to add some extra days into the timeline just in case there are any delays or other issues that arise during filming.

Here’s what you need to do:

Schedule casting: You must book actors and actresses in advance so they’re available when needed.

Book equipment: Cameras, sound systems and lighting must all be booked in advance.

Create storyboards: A storyboard helps everyone understand the vision for particular scenes before filming begins.

Create shot lists: A shot list is an organized document which outlines each shot for every scene.

Casting talent

Casting is an integral part of movie pre-production. According to the Screen Actor’s Guild, over 200,000 members are employed each year in the film and television industry. With such a vast pool of talent, it is essential to ensure the right actors are chosen for each role in order to bring the story to life.

The casting process typically involves creating a breakdown of all roles needed to be filled, creating character descriptions and setting a timeline for auditions. Casting director should review potential actors who have been submitted by agents or who attended open castings and then call them back after narrowing down their list of choices.

Once final decisions are made, screen tests may be required before signing contracts with the selected cast members.

Hiring specialists

No job can be done without a good crew of technicians and specialists. A strong team of experienced and dedicated professionals is essential in order to make sure that the project runs smoothly and efficiently. It is important to find people who are reliable and have knowledge of their roles.

The hiring process should include an open call for applications, interviewing potential candidates, background checks, and references. Once all these steps have been completed, it’s important to take time to discuss expectations of everyone involved and come up with a contract that outlines their duties and payment terms.

Location Scouting

After selecting the ideal cast of actors and actresses to bring a script to life, the next step in the process is location scouting.

This involves finding the perfect place to shoot your video. Consider factors such as lighting, background noise, and other environmental elements that may have an impact on your production.

Consider your budget, permission from local authorities, insurance as well as practicalities like access to power sources, weather conditions and parking space.

Prepare Costume, Prop And Production Design

The search for the perfect cast and crew is over and now it’s time to dive into the details of costumes, props and production design.

First up, costumes! It’s essential to get the wardrobe just right in order to make your characters come alive on screen. Start by finding copies of any existing designs or create something totally new from scratch.

Then, you’ll need to start looking for props that will be used in your movie, such as furniture, weapons, etc.

Finally, if you want to add a bit of pizzazz and take your film to the next level, consider some visual effects. This could be anything from adding a bit of magical sparkle to making a character fly through the sky!

Equipment

After scouting and securing the perfect location for our movie, it was time to arrange for equipment. You needed lights, cameras and sound gear to make the production come alive.

If you cannot buy the equipment, renting it is a good alternative.

Rehearsals

A crucial step of the pre-production process is rehearsals. Rehearsals are key to creating an effective video, as they give a chance to plan out the scene and make sure all actors understand their roles.

It allows for seamless transitions between scenes
It helps actors become familiar with their lines and blocking
It ensures smooth camera movement between shots

Rehearsal also gives directors a chance to perfect the look and feel of their movie. From making sure lighting is just right, to making sure all props are in order.

Furthermore, having an opportunity to practice takes away the pressure from actors or technicians or anyone else involved in the shot.