Video Production Planning the right way

How to plan your next video production ?

Video Production planning can be one of those things that a lot of businesses shy away from doing. Because at times it can be costly not only on internal resources but also costly on time put aside, especially if production quality is of utmost importance. Today we will go through 7 steps that business owners or filmmakers can use to make sure that your next video production planning, or as they call it Preproduction goes as smoothly as it possibly can. Because let’s face it nothing goes to plan especially when making a video or film production.  Like any video production the more planning and preparation you do the better off you will be, right down to the very last detail.

1. Clearly Defined Objectives

If this one is not on point, and this goes for all the crew and team then you will be struggling right throughout the whole filming process. I want to underscore the clearly part.  As the captain of your video you need to realise that just because you have an understanding what the production objectives are doesn’t necessarily mean that translates to everyone being on the same page. Write down in a perfect world what the aim of the video would be, what would the ultimate goal be whether thats a short film, a commercial, or testimonial video. What is the purpose?

You can start by clearly outlining the purpose and goals of your video. Determine what the message is that you want to convey. Focus in on the target audience and defining what that desired outcome might be. Whether it’s promoting a product, telling a story, or educating viewers, having well-defined objectives will guide all aspects of your production.

2. Create a well developed script

This part applies just as much as to any video production planning as it does a feature film. Get the script right first. It doesn’t have to be perfect but this will at least give your team members a blueprint for how this video shoot may play out. It sets the stage for your to break down, even if your video is another testimonial highlight what your business can do, still write down ideas for how this best be presented. In the case of corporate video production, plan out the questions you would like to ask that would be promote a great response for your audience.

The great thing about having a solid script is that it highlights different elements involved in the production including dialogue, visuals, and audio components that are needed. It also means that everyone that is involved in the production, including actors, crew, editors, and VFX artists are on the same page, which means a smoother production.

3. A defined production planning run sheet

If your script is the blueprint then your production planning run sheet is your map. Having a run sheet means that each component of your script gets the right amount of attention. It takes everything that is creative and allots in a time directed fashion each aspect to a time slot. It means all members of your crew have an understanding what segments of the script will be covered, not only where. but when through the day.

For camera crew, lighting specialists, art department crew and cast as well as extras this information is incredibly helpful and at times non-negotiable. Ensure that all members of your crew know what is happening, where it is happening, when it happening and for how long. Film and video production is crew focussed medium, and this means the more information that gets to your crew the better. You simply cannot try and do everything, this will also lead to burn out. Back your team and they will back you.

4. Assemble a stellar crew

Work with a team that inspires you. Make sure that you surround yourself with a skilled and reliable team of professionals. Depending on the scale of the production, this may include a director, cinematographer, sound crew, lighting crew, actors, extras and more. Choose professionals with relevant experience and expertise to ensure a high-quality result for your next film production.

5. Test your equipment and gear and create a list

The amount of times i have seen on a production where the batteries aren’t charged or worse they have been left behind or the SD or flash cards have been left behind is phenomenal. You must ensure that the gear as been thoroughly tested, checked and crossed off to make sure that everyone in the team has exactly what they need. No one every said that they regret taking extra equipment as backups to a filming location.

No one ever says they have taken too many batteries as spares or too many extra flash cards. You can thank me later. Print extra copies of the script and use clipboards or folders to store crucial information. Each day before the shoot make sure you test the gear and also have a checklist for what to take to each location. If the gear has been thoroughly tested and accounted for it will make life easier.

6. Permits, contracts and Talent release forms

Just do it. Make sure that you have appropriate clearances from local council, private owners and equipment hire. If your video production involves shooting at various locations, scout them out advance and have the appropriate location based clearances. Each location should be additionally checked to see if any permits or permissions to film in certain areas are required and make sure that you obtain them well ahead of time to avoid last-minute problems. No-one wants a production to be halted due to not having the right measures in places.

7. Thoroughly accounted for Budget

Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to budgeting. Make sure that you have contingency plans in place if something breaks down, doesn’t work as expected or is not available. Each and every part of gear hiring, filming equipment, art department requirement, or talent requirement cost should be accounted for.

It’s best to allocate extra budget to a range of areas and keep that money aside, more so than what is needed as unexpected costs can and do arise. Set a realistic budget for your video production. This includes expenses for crew, locations, and never forget post-production. These costs are sometimes a lot more than you’d expect.

It’s essential to be prepared for unexpected costs that may arise during the process and by having a contingency plan in place to handle any unforeseen circumstances, such as weather changes or actor availability issues you will be well prepared.