Week 8- Tips for pre production pt.5

5. Bring it all Together

Are your first four steps necessary or even crucial to the success of your production? No. Just as there are writers who tell of a moment of inspiration that led to an all-nighter and a complete script or novel alongside the morning hot tea, there are occasional unique creative go-for-moments in video. No outline, research or planning. The occasion, however, is rare and nearly always not perfect. While perfection is a goal, not a destination, you know what I mean.


What will get you closer to a satisfying outcome from your opening moment of inspiration is planning your shoot. A few simple note cards with shot ideas and concepts listed might be enough for you, just make sure your batteries are charged. Taking a little extra time to prepare rather than impulsively attacking your project will keep you inspired and prevent that horrible moment when you realize you need to abandon the production or start over.

Look at advance preparation using the five steps above as what you have to do before you can have some fun. Doing so will make what you want to do not only fun but satisfying and successful. The more you plan first, the more flexible you can be when the good stuff starts making your production a joy rather than a job.