Pre-Production Workflow in Detail

Pre-Production is one of the most difficult and time consuming aspects of video production. You start with a blank slate and anticipate the unknown. You must deal with budgets, schedules, equipment, power, licenses, releases and everything else imaginable.  This portion can make or break your project and must be taken into consideration to save you time and money. It can also tell you how much effort and time your project is worth.

Main points to consider:

Time: How much effort can go into elements based on your timeline

Budget: Will available funds and resources allow for vision to be executed?

Style: Are content elements appropriate for subject?

1.    Gather Information

a.    Overview

i.    Purpose – Why and what are you trying to do?

ii.  Target Audience – Who is this for and what effect do you want to achieve?  (Motivate, inform, entertain etc.)
iii. Describe  in a single statement  the essence of production

b.    Consider your time-line, budget, available resources and the appropriateness for outline.

i.    Summarize in a paragraph these elements as mission to project

ii.   Ask yourself if your target audience warrants the complexity of your particular vision.

2.    Choose Format

a.    Interview.

i.    formal interview (set – talk show style)

i.    informal interview (on location – news style)

b.    Documentary.

 i.    Formal with voiceover and archival footage

ii.    Informal (reality show style) - Participants play active role in telling of the story

iii.  Magazine – A host or hosts behind desk or newsroom in light entertaining fashion with packaged material.

iv.  Story Based - Using a script, actors, and recreations on location or in a studio (Most complex form)

v.   Talking Head. (Simplest format) Multi or single camera shoot with Q&A possible shot at different times.  Reaction shots can be added in to facilitate editing.

3.    Select Style

a.    Identify personality of program

b.    Subject may dictate flavor

4.    Add Appropriate Elements

a.    Pre existing footage – examine all before final plans and production

b.    Inspirational footage - implies positive characteristics to the viewer

c.    Demonstrations / Instruction

d.    Factoids – Pop-Ups, overlays or informational slides

5.    Consider Testimonials (Note: ALL on-camera talent must sign a model release.)

a.    Groups or individuals reinforcing your message

b.    Keep natural looking off camera unless a personal appeal dictates

c.    Utilize B-Roll (alternate shots) typically MOS (without sound)

d.    Audience / Class participation

e.    Acquire release form from all on-camera or vocal talent

f.     Expert testimony (Faculty, Scientists, other researchers etc.)

6.    Align and budget Resources

a.    Equipment – Create a checklist of all necessary equipment

b.    Power – Find connection locations and limitations

c.    Crew

d.    Supplies (cables, tape, bulbs, batteries, etc.)

7.    Schedule talent and locations and then reconfirm