Production Essentials

I'm often ask "how do you go about making a video or DVD", in this instance a corporate shoot. So to make things easier I've collated a few 'production essentials' :

The Brief
In a few paragraphs outline what you are promoting, and why you need to advertise. This is known as the 'brief'.

The Quote
Your next step is to seek out production companies who will 'quote' on your brief. In turn they should respond with an artistic treatment and tender a quote for their visualisation of your brief.

A producer and / or writer is normally assigned to the project , they will require access to other personnel in the company for their input. It is essential that locations be scouted for the suitability of filming. Assistance in access to such areas will obviously save time prior to and during any shoot.

A script is presented based upon your brief. The script should be thoroughly read and if need be checked for 'technicalities', as once the script is finalised it may prove costly to make further changes.

A final budget or the working budget will evolve from the final script when approved. This should also include a production schedule that needs to be agreed upon by both the production company and client. As some budgets tend to be stretched, additional expenditure should be agreed by the production house and the client in advance.

The Shoot
During filming it may be essential for 'quiet' periods when for example interviews are being shot. Be prepared for delays if shooting outside, things like aircraft noise, weather and simple unforseen circumstances can delay the production schedule. It is essential a representative be present for each scene or 'set up' to give the 'ok' that the shot or scene represents the product correctly thus avoiding expensive re-shoots.

Post Production
Once the shoot is complete a copy of all that was shot should be available to you, the client. This is normally a VHS or a DVD with a 'timecode' reference superimposed over the footage as a reference should you query any of the shots.

Editing is the next stage and a rough cut or 'offline' version will generally be screened to you prior to the 'final' cut, this being the 'online' edit at the highest quality. Once this is complete, depending on the complexity of the audio, a sound mix is made with the addition of music, effects and commentary.

Let the promotion begin!