Pre-Production Checklist
Pre-Production is the 1st stage in most all projects. During this stage deliverables are determined and the project is mapped out accordingly.
Before the project is even officially agreed upon, many of these elements must be clearly understood. At Personal Press, we offer 2-hours of no-cost Pre-Production.
Basic Project Ideas
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What story does the video tell, and what value does it portray?
Ex: A CEO video introducing new hires to a company, which highlights the unique workplace culture.
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Who is the ideal audience for the project? What is the goal of the video?
Ex: A personal injury attorney wants to reach those whom were injured in car accidents. Through some personal messaging in a paid video ad, the goal is to book consultations with the firm.
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How many videos will be created? Where will they be used?
Ex: Just one rectangle (16:9) video that is uploaded to the website cover page, but additional vertical (9:16) versions for Instagram reels.
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What is the budget range you’re working within? By clarifying the budget, this maps out what is theoretically possible scope wise.
Ex: An under $5,000 budget for a website promo. This clarifies what hires the producer can afford.
If you’re unsure of your budget, a Producer will provide options to you based on other answers.
Shooting Criteria
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Will your team be providing any scripts, questions, or written ideas related to the project? Or, will these need to be written by the producer.
Ex: A 1-Minute Script about why to hire a company.
Ex: Questions to ask a Testimonial for a Q&A video.
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A-Roll refers to the storytelling leaders in the story, such as Interviews, Voiceovers, or text.
Ex: A company video includes 3 executives talking about the company.
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What sorts of footage will compliment the A-Roll and storytelling? What is the availability to record this?
Ex: A video on customer service that includes footage of employees working with clients or on the phone.
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Where will the videos be shot? Will it look nice? Will this location require insurance documentation? Will this choice affect the budget?
Ex: A video shot at your office at no cost, but requires insurance from our end.
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If your video includes an interview, what style?
-Reading from a teleprompter
-Q & A
-Off the Cuff
-Side Angle?
Ex: A testimonial has a conversation with a corporate worker about why they enjoy using a software. (Shot from the side)
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Consider the need for other hires such as Actors or Drone Pilots. In the case of actors, expect a lengthy casting process
Pre-Shoot Day
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Be mindful of keeping the location tidy and traffic free.
Ex: Have employees work from home on shoot day.
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Consider noise issues such as employees working, phones, or air conditioners.
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Is the shooting location your owned property? If not, it may require special considerations such as Insurance, Mandatory Location Walkthroughs, or unique load in requirements.
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Based on our discussion, we will provide a detailed schedule. However, please let us know any specific quirks such as a small timeframe for which a speaker can speak.
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On many shoots unique situations will arise with equipment.
1) Where will we stash all our equipment (so it is not in our way)
2) Where can we load in the equipment. (Ex. Loading Dock)
