Production Process
The Production Process is the stages required to complete a media product. The Production Process follows from the original idea to the finished product. This Process can be applied to media projects such as film and audio projects. All production depends on the medium and situation of the project.
Stage One
Stage One is Pre-Production and this is where all the planning for the project takes place. It is in summary all the work that has to be completed before filming begins. This could include meeting with clients, research, location planning, storyboards etc.
Pre-Production in Feature Films
In feature films pre-production is more specific and only begins when financing, casting, major staffing and the screenplay have been met which certifies that the film can go ahead.. Feature film pre-production includes prop and wardrobe preparation, set construction, script finalising and read through, location scouting etc.
3/4ths Rule
It is important to find the collect balance of pre-production and production. The 3/4ths rule breaks down the amount of time you spend in pre-production to production. For example if you plan to shoot for 3 days you should do 9 days of pre-production so you are properly organized and prepared to shoot. This makes sure you waste no time and avoids any confusion when you are shooting.
Stage Two
Stage Two is production and is the part of the process that the filming takes place. It is very important to complete stage one before this so stage two can be carried through successfully. Stage two is where the strength of your pre-production is put to the test. The overall goal of stage two is to get everything filmed but there is the opportunity for 'pick up' shots to be filmed later.
Stage Three
Stage three is post-production which is the final stage of the production process. This is when all the shots from shooting are edited together. It usually begins with a 'rough cut' which is when the film starts to resemble final product then it is refined to make the 'fine cut'. Then sound effects, graphics, titles and music are added. Finally colour and exposure correction is done to the film. At this stage it will be clear whether there is a need for any re-shoots. Post-production can be very time consuming but is rewarding when completed.
Health and Safety
In studios and sets there are so many risks and potential hazards such as lights, water, cranes, animals, pyrotechnics etc. The chance of injury can be high is the film crew are unaware of these hazards. If these risks are not properly assessed and managed it puts a lot at risk such as loosing lots of money from damage or causing injury or death to staff, cast members or crew.
Health and Safety is taken very seriously in the creative industry so it is important and your obligation to protect yourself and others in the workplace. Some of the key things to check are that cables are either taped to floor or there are mats on top so no one tips of them an falls. Also when filing on busy places and streets ensure you have a runner or someone who can keep an eye on you and keep you safe. When filming don't put yourself in danger and don't risk things to get a good shot. Overall make sure you complete a full risk assessment of your shoot before it happens.
Risk Assessments
Risk Assessments are assessing risks and checking safety measures. Risk Assessments should be completed for every shoot you go on and they are very important. Risks are assessed as low, medium and high depending on chance of them happening and severity. If you have thought about the risks and the safety measure to put in place to avoid them then chances of accident will be minimalised.
Storyboards
Mood Boards
A storyboard is a sequence of drawing usually with some direction or dialogue that represents the shots planned for shooting. Storyboards are a great way to visualise how the end scene product will look.
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Storyboards are great to use as it benefits the filming process as you are clear on what needs to be shot with what camera shot/movement and for how long. A successful storyboard is important for a smooth production process.
Mood Boards are a collection of images, text etc that help to generate ideas and get a general feel for the project you will be making. It is very visual and is effective as it defines a coherent design.
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Mood Boards are great as they can inspire creativity and help ideas come through such as colour schemes. By finding a range of images and putting together you get a clear idea of the aesthetic you are aiming for.
