{"id":133319,"date":"2020-06-22T09:21:01","date_gmt":"2020-06-22T14:21:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/?p=133319"},"modified":"2020-06-22T09:40:38","modified_gmt":"2020-06-22T14:40:38","slug":"importance-of-pre-production-and-scheduling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/importance-of-pre-production-and-scheduling\/","title":{"rendered":"Producing Tips: The Importance of Pre-Production and Scheduling"},"content":{"rendered":"

The true power of filmmaking will unveil itself to those who put in the pre-production work. Let’s dive into the benefits of planning and scheduling.<\/h2>\n

One of the biggest mistakes in both indie filmmaking and corporate video production (especially for those just starting out) is for one person, or a small group of creatives, to believe that they can handle everything on the run.<\/p>\n

Sure, you have the latest cameras, great equipment, and you understand how to shoot a shot, set up lights, record sound, and put together your footage beautifully in the edit. But, eventually we all discover the same truth: If you don’t spend the time needed in pre-production, all the gear and knowledge in the world can’t save you from production problems.<\/p>\n

As any film or video producer learns with experience, many production setbacks can be mitigated, if not avoided entirely, with solid planning and mindful pre-production. From thoughtful scripting, smart scouting, and in-depth shot planning and scheduling, a good producer can be the key player in putting together a successful project. Check out these producing and planning tips, tricks, best practices, and resources to put your shoots on the best course possible.<\/p>\n

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The 3\/4ths Rule<\/h3>\n
\"Producing<\/a>

Manage your pre-production schedule by following the 3\/4ths Rule. Image via FrameStockFootages<\/a>.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

My favorite rule that I\u2019ve picked up over the years is the \u201cRule of 3\/4ths.\u201d It basically breaks down \u2014 in an ideal film or video project \u2014 the amount of time you spend in pre-production compared to the amount of time you spend in actual production. It works for corporate talking head videos, important scenes in your next short film, and everything in between. (Post-production is its own beast, and it’s worth considering having your own post-production producer or supervisor, as well. Read more here<\/a>!)<\/p>\n

So, for example, using the 3\/4ths Rule, if you plan to shoot for three days<\/em>, you should have at least nine days<\/em> of pre-production. This includes everything from scripting to rehearsing to location scouting and camera testing \u2014 all before<\/em> you hit record.<\/p>\n

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The Script and Storyboards<\/h3>\n
\"Script<\/a>

A solid script and storyboard is the groundwork you’ll begin building on. Image via Mr.Whiskey<\/a>.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

The most important part of pre-production will always be your scripting and storyboarding. It provides the foundation that you\u2019ll spend the rest of your time trying to build upon. And, for many, this is by far the most fun part of pre-production, as you can be your most idealistic and free.<\/p>\n

However, scripting is more than just coming up with clever dialogue. Once you have your rough ideas down, it\u2019s actually a careful exercise in editing, revising, compromising, and trimming your ideas down into something you can realistically accomplish. Here are some good resources to help with structuring, formatting, and rewriting:<\/p>\n