Producing moving image.
WHAT THE WORK DIVIDES INTO
- Development: script, financing, planning
- Pre-production: scheduling, casting, locations, crew
- Production: the shoot
- Post-production: editing, sound, colour, effects
Distribution and delivery
WHY PRE-PRODUCTION DETERMINES COST
Problems solved before the shoot cost a fraction of problems solved during it.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE ANY SHOOT
Locations secured with permission Crew and equipment confirmed Schedule that is achievable Every permit required Insurance
WHY LOCATION PERMISSION MATTERS
Shooting without it produces shutdowns and it invalidates delivery.
WHAT PERMITS MAY BE REQUIRED
Filming permissions from authorities Location owner consent Road and public space permissions
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT PEOPLE APPEARING
Release forms, signed, from everyone identifiable.
WHY
Without them, footage cannot be used.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT MUSIC AND MATERIAL USED
That everything is cleared or licensed.
WHY
Uncleared material prevents distribution entirely.
WHAT TO BUDGET
Every element, with contingency.
WHY CONTINGENCY
Shoots overrun, and overruns are expensive by the hour.
WHAT DRIVES COST OVERRUN
Weather Equipment failure Location problems Talent availability Insufficient planning
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT CREW
Terms, rates and hours, agreed in writing.
WHY HOURS
Long shoot days are normal and they must be agreed and paid.
WHAT SAFETY REQUIRES
Assessment of any hazardous activity Qualified people for stunts, effects, heights, water and electrical work First aid on set Someone responsible for safety
WHY
Film sets injure and kill people, and the causes are known and preventable.
WHAT TO RECORD
Every agreement, release and permit.
