Pre-Production

Before anything can happen, we have to have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish, how and where you want it done, and in what timeframe does it have to be completed. Will you use your own people, or will “talent” have to be selected? Do you have storyboards, or will we create them from your input and directions? Will we work from a script…and who will prepare it? Where will the filming take place? Are there any “difficult” shots (hanging over the edge of a 50-story building, for example), and have clearances been obtained for all filming locations?

We have a comprehensive Pre-Production Check List to get you started that helps us gather pertinent information so we don’t waste your time in endless meetings. Once we can reasonably anticipate the filming situations and logistics, we can provide more specific budget requirements (so there’ll be no surprises) and work with you to set a firm shooting schedule. Even with the best laid plans, as they say, things can change, so we remain flexible enough to get the shots you need to accomplish your goal, but without running roughshod over your budget.

One of the most important processes in video production is the creation of the storyboard and script. Experience dictates that the better prepared we are in pre-production, we better equipped we are to shoot and edit your video. Ideally, a storyboard makes it possible to visualize exactly how you expect the production to look. It can tell us about special camera angles, as well as what – if any – special equipment needed to accomplish this -- and it can give a real “feel” of how you want your “story” to be told. If, in the video, your CEO needs to be talking to an animated futuristic android, for example…the storyboard shows how this is to take place. If color is important in creating your desired “mood” for the feature, again the storyboard can introduce the concept and timing for the transition.

Video scripts can range from a very detailed, blow-by-blow, word for word document…or it can provide a general outline with specific instructions about on-camera actions, music, dialogue, mood subtleties or environmental nuances. The kind of script you work with is dictated by your goals; the kind of people who will appear on camera and their speaking style and skills; and how flexible you are in reaching the final message. Some people work best with only key thoughts to direct them…while others have to memorize the exact words they will say. We recognize that there are many different styles and methods for delivering a message…and we try to stay flexible enough to work through the method best for our clients. Formal scripts – even if they aren’t followed word for word – can certainly streamline a production, however.

Script writing and storyboard creation are two of our services for which we can provide a more detailed cost estimate once our discussions are underway. Alternatively, you have the option of creating these in-house or hiring from another source. Clients, of course, have final approval of all of these production “tools” that we create.