What Happens During Pre-Production in Film

During pre-production a lot of planning and early strategy for a film production takes place. If you’re not sure what happens during pre-production in filmmaking or movies, the process can seem awkward or long and unnecessary. However, the steps you take in pre-production to plan and execute a strategy for your video project can make a lasting difference in the success of your film. We’re showing you how pre-production works and what to expect.

There are several steps in pre-production that can take place several months before the actual shoot takes place. Follow along to learn about each of the pre-production steps and what to expect:

Script Lock

The first step in pre-production is to lock the script. This is the time when final ideas are put into the script and the project is prepared for next steps. After the script is locked and any scenes are revised, removed, edited or otherwise tweaked, the shooting script can be relayed to the director for next steps.

Storyboarding & Shots

The next step is to take the script and break it down into a shot list. The shot list will be used to create a storyboard. The storyboard is an outline of visuals that show how each scene will look, the camera angles, important notes and lighting details are included here. This gives an early glimpse into what the film will look like.

Hire a Camera Crew

The next step in pre-production is to hire a camera crew. The hiring of a camera crew can be a lengthy and painstaking process if you are not familiar with filmmaking and video production.

However, a professional film company like Beverly Boy Productions can take the headache out of hiring. Call us today at 888-462-7808 for help with all of the stages of pre-production, production and post-production.

Location

The next step is to scout a location for the shoot. The location must be available when you need it, it must be accessible by the film crew, and it must be free from interruptions both physical and audible.

A professional location scout or a production company that includes a location scout will be able to research and find the best location for your shoot.

Budget

Once a location is determined a budget can be created. This will be the working budget for the remaining of the production and post-production process. The budget will outline the costs and available funds for each stage of production.

The budget is especially helpful in keeping financial backers involved and in ensuring the various elements of production don’t spiral out of control.

Gear and Equipment

One a budget has been defined there is an understanding of what funds are available for appropriate gear or equipment necessary to shoot the film.

Will several cameras be used? Will there be extensive lighting or audio equipment? How about props? A great production company can negotiate great deals on props and other necessary equipment to make your film production more affordable.

Permitting and Insurance

Depending on where you will shoot, different permits and insurance regulations will be in effect. The production company or location manager will have more details to help clear the red tape and ensure the production can continue to progress on schedule.

At this time, location agreements, property release forms, and necessary insurance for the location or rented equipment are taken care of.

Casting and Scheduling

The next step is to cast the talent for the film and determine availability. It is important that your talent is available when you need and that you can schedule everyone to be in the right place at the right time. A professional is best for this because small problems with schedule can result in very costly changes to budget line items during production.

Rehearsal

Finally, rehearsals can take place in preparation for the final production. The more time you and crew and talent have to rehearse the better. Get started with rehearsal and you’ll be on your way to a successful shoot in no time.