pre-pro THE IMPORTANCE OF PRE-PROD.

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Like when writing a thesis segmenting it with Introduction, Development and Conclusion, film and documentary makers will organize their project in a similar way.
Pre-production is the introduction to your project. By many aspects the most important part of your film, preparing everything in advance. It is like dressing a business plan, not only budgeting your ideas but planning all that the production will need from the revision and correction of the script to the choice of actors or archives to use if necessary. This is the time to think about who you are making this film or documentary for, in short, who is your audience. It is important, you do not want to do what has been already done, some research is necessary. The answer to this question will help you organize better.
This is the time to select the locations and ask local government authorization to shoot, Costumes and make-up if your film is from another period of time, it is the time to select your team, the narrator just in case Morgan Freeman is unavailable.
The decision of the gears to use, the time needed for each sequence and very importantly, a plan B just in case A is no longer possible. Then come the screenplay and shooting schedule
Not mentioning paperwork and agreements to sign. Do not forget your logline, the description in a sentence of what your film is about.
A well-defined pre-production will allow your production to flow nicely.
The pre-production is also the time to think about the kind of music you will need. If you are shooting a feature and want original music, it is indicated to choose the company or composers in advance and share the ideas, the plot, the need for a love theme and other considerations so the composers have most elements allowing the music ideas to flow.
If you are shooting a documentary and feel it is not necessary to have an original score, you may want to give yourself time to choose the adequate tracks from a library. You may even choose a combination, what MUSIC PARTNER calls Music Design. It is the use of existing tracks that could be edited to fit the story line with addition of new tracks if necessary.
Music has become so important in most project, having a partner understanding your needs and being reactive to your demands is essential.
 
I absolutely agree to these points. In addition, I would love to share few information here regarding the importance of pre-production, that I have learned while working in CCP | DXB, a video production company situated at Dubai.

Pre-production is a crucial phase in creating any project, whether a film, television show, video game, podcast, or any other form of media production. This phase occurs before the actual shooting or implementation of the project and involves planning, organization, and preparation. The importance of pre-production can be highlighted in several key areas:
  • Project Clarity and Vision: The creators define the project's goals, objectives, and overall vision during pre-production. This phase helps establish a clear direction for the project and ensures everyone involved is on the same page.
  • Budgeting and Resource Allocation: Planning in pre-production includes creating a budget and allocating resources effectively. This helps prevent overspending, optimize resource use, and avoid unexpected financial challenges during production.
  • Scheduling and Time Management: Pre-production involves creating a detailed production schedule. This schedule outlines timelines for each project stage, helping to manage time effectively and avoid delays. A well-structured timeline also contributes to a smoother workflow during production.
  • Script Development and Storyboarding: For film and video projects, pre-production includes script development and storyboarding. This process allows creators to refine the narrative, plan scenes, and visualize the project's overall structure before filming begins.
  • Casting and Talent Selection: In projects involving actors or performers, pre-production includes casting. Selecting the right talent is crucial for the project's success, and pre-production allows for auditions, rehearsals, and the establishment of a cohesive team.
  • Location Scouting and Set Design: For visual projects, pre-production involves scouting and securing locations. This ensures that the chosen settings align with the project's requirements. Set design is also planned during this phase to create appropriate and visually appealing environments.
  • Technical Planning: Pre-production allows for technical planning, including decisions about equipment, technology, and production techniques. This ensures the project meets technical standards and allows for a smooth production process.
  • Risk Management: Identifying potential challenges and risks is a key aspect of pre-production. By anticipating issues in advance, the production team can effectively develop strategies to mitigate risks and handle unforeseen circumstances.
  • Legal and Permits: Securing necessary permits, permissions, and rights is often a pre-production task. This ensures the project complies with legal requirements and avoids potential legal issues during or after production.
  • Team Building: Pre-production is an opportunity to assemble and organize the project team. Clear communication channels, roles, and responsibilities are established, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment.
Pre-production lays the foundation for a successful and well-executed project. It sets the stage for smooth production, reduces uncertainties, and increases the likelihood of achieving the project's goals within the allocated resources.
 
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