The Three Phases Of Video Production

When it comes to producing a video, many think there are a million things to do to create a commercial, music video or film. And yes there is but if you simplify, in reality there are only three phases to putting a video together: pre-production, production and post-production. Here Kpictures breaks down each phase and explains why each is crucial to video production.

Pre-Production

The first step in the process of creating a video is the most important step because this is where everything is discussed and planned out. Without a good pre-production you wont have a successful production. During this phase, it's essential to cross every t and dot every i, clients are usually dealing with a deadline so being able to work under pressure and having the ability to figure things out on the fly is crucial. The producers working together have the same goal and they work as a collective unit. No egos, just making sure whatever has to be done, is done. If a producer thinks a job is too small for them or doesn’t seem to be eager to take on tasks, bye bye. Can’t have dead weight so it’s better to find out who’s the real deal early. However, no matter how you plan there will always be curve balls and a good producer with specific experience can make sure the ball keeps rolling. Producers are the teams captains but they lead by example.

In this phase certain production heads join the team, such as the AD, Cinematographer, MUA, Art Department, Editor, Casting Director, etc. and they all articulate what they need and prepare themselves for the shoot staying in constant contact with the producers. Many meetings are held to discuss the project so everyone is on the same page.

These are just some of the things pre-production includes:

• Video strategy/goals

• Budget/scope

• Creating a timeline

• Script writing

• Hiring crew/talent

• Acquiring equipment needed

• Location Scouting

• Wardrobe

• Post-production logistics

• Creating a shot list or storyboard

• Meeting SAG requirements

• Obtain permits

• Insurance is in place

• Deal Memos are signed

• Table read

• Rehearse

Production

This is where the magic happens and all that meticulous planning comes to action. The production stage is when the video is actually made. During this phase, working off a detailed shot-list, all of the scenes and segments will officially be shot. Ever see ants work in perfect unison? Well it’s very much like a well run production team. Each department is focused on what they need to do but everyone is working together. Each shot is checked by DIT and those shots are then stored on external hard drives for post-production. Staying on schedule is extremely important and that is more easily obtained if there is a solid pre-production and a good AD. There are no surprises in terms of a client not knowing what is going on because everything was discussed and planed during pre-production There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to production so experience and a good fun attitude is important.

Post-Production

Finally, post-production is the final phase of video production. This is when the post-production team dives into organizing the shots and then laying down the assemeble edit. Even if a client is far away it’s easy to share the dailies and rough cuts. Collectively, graphics, music, sound effects, visual effects, color correction, audio fixes, and sound design pull together the final piece. Every production will have different timelines for the post-production phase completely depending on the scope of the project and this is discussed in per-production. Elements like marketing, distribution, festivals, etc. are things that are pursued depending on the nature of the project. All that planning, the late nights, the hard work has come to fruition and thankfully the project had experienced cast and crew to make it so.

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Hopefully the above gave you some insight. While every production company and video project are different, there are some key elements that will help your video project go as smoothly as possible. Whether you are working with an internal video team or a video production company, make sure that you have an established video production process that helps account for all the different variables of your project. If you are looking for a team with a lot of experience be sure to contact us today.