Pre-Production
The pre-production phase is where all planning, logistics, and creative alignment happen before filming begins. Skipping or rushing this step leads to budget overruns, scheduling conflicts, and avoidable mistakes during production. A well-structured pre-production process ensures that every shoot is efficient, cost-effective, and strategically aligned with marketing goals.
- Proper planning reduces production costs by up to 30%. (Source: Wistia)
- Teams that finalize scripts & shot lists before shooting save 50% more time in post-production. (Source: HubSpot)
- 80% of video production problems stem from inadequate pre-production. (Source: Think With Google)
A well-written script and clear storyboard provide the blueprint for a smooth production.
Keep it concise → Stick to the essential message while maintaining engagement.
Use natural, conversational language → Avoid robotic, over-scripted dialogue.
Incorporate a strong CTA (Call to Action) → Ensure viewers know the next step.
Break it into sections → Make transitions clear to guide editing later.
A storyboard visualizes each scene before shooting, reducing confusion on set and ensuring alignment between creative and technical teams.
Action Step: Create a basic storyboard, mapping out key shots, transitions, and visual sequences.
Choosing the right talent and filming locations impacts video quality, branding, and audience engagement.
- Match talent to audience expectations → Ensure relatability and credibility.
- Screen for on-camera presence → A good speaker isn’t always a good on-camera personality.
- Use professional voiceovers if needed → High-quality narration elevates video professionalism.
- Test lighting & acoustics beforehand → Natural light is great, but unpredictable.
- Secure permits if filming in public areas → Avoid last-minute legal issues.
- Have backup locations ready → Weather and other factors can derail a shoot.
Action Step: Finalize talent & location details at least two weeks before the shoot date.
A detailed shot list ensures that every scene is intentional and efficiently captured.
Shot Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
Establishing Shot | Sets the scene & context for viewers. |
Close-Up | Highlights emotions, reactions, or details. |
Mid-Shot | Shows subjects in a natural context. |
Over-the-Shoulder | Creates an immersive, conversational feel. |
B-Roll Footage | Adds visual interest & smooth transitions. |
Camera Equipment → Select the right lenses, resolution, and frame rate.
Lighting Setup → Ensure proper illumination for subject clarity and mood.
Sound & Audio Gear → Test external mics and reduce background noise.
Backup Storage & Power → Extra SD cards, batteries, and cloud backups are essential.
Action Step: Share & review the shot list and technical checklist with the production team before shoot day.
A production timeline avoids rushed filming, ensures crew coordination, and prevents budget overages.
Task | Timeline |
|---|---|
Finalize script & storyboard | 2-3 weeks before shoot |
Lock in locations & talent | 2 weeks before shoot |
Conduct technical tests & equipment prep | 1 week before shoot |
Confirm production schedule with all stakeholders | 3-5 days before shoot |
Perform final checklist & backups | 1 day before shoot |
Permit & Contract Finalization → Ensure all necessary permissions are secured.
Crew Assignments → Define roles for director, cinematographer, lighting, and sound.
Contingency Plan for Delays → Prepare alternative shooting schedules in case of unexpected issues.
Action Step: Hold a final pre-production meeting to confirm logistics, roles, and backups.
- Not Finalizing the Script Before Filming → Leads to improvisation and disorganized messaging.
- Ignoring Location & Lighting Factors → Poor environments ruin video quality.
- Skipping a Pre-Shoot Equipment Test → Technical failures can derail production.
- Lack of a Backup Plan → Unexpected cancellations or weather can halt production.
- Lock in the script and storyboard before anything else.
- Scout locations and test lighting/sound in advance.
- Do a full technical rehearsal before shoot day.
- Have contingency plans for weather, scheduling conflicts, and talent no-shows.
AI-Generated Shot Lists & Storyboards → Use AI tools to automate planning and optimize visual sequences.
Remote Pre-Production Reviews → Virtual table reads and concept approvals save time.
Cloud-Based Project Management → Keep all scripts, logistics, and scheduling in a shared document for real-time collaboration.
Multi-Purpose Filming Strategy → Capture content that can be repurposed for different platforms and campaigns.
- Pre-production is where 80% of video success is determined—never skip this step.
- A structured workflow ensures efficient, high-quality filming and minimizes production risks.
- Scheduling, logistics, and contingency planning prevent costly delays and reshoots.
- Every stakeholder should be aligned on scripts, shot lists, and locations before production begins.
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- Think With Google. Why Pre-Production Saves Time & Budget in Video Production. Retrieved from thinkwithgoogle.com
