Every form of video production has 3 phases. The tasks within each phase may very slightly depending what type of video project it is but they all have 3 distinct parts. Those parts are, Pre-Production, Production and Post Production. Each phase also offers an opportunity for student assessment.
PRE-PRODUCTION:
This is the phase of production that often gets glossed over and yet it is the most important part. Here are some ideas for activities during pre-production.
1a. Brainstorming – Write out your top 3 ideas, then a persuasive paragraph on why their first choice is a good idea.. or…
1b. Pitch Sheet – Describe the project idea, who is in their crew, shot list, production schedule etc.
2. Script Outline – A description of the video’s 3 parts, beginning, middle and end.
3. Script – So many students think there is not anything to write about for their video. Even a silent film has a script.
4. Storyboard – If you have time, a storyboard can help further plan your shots and the flow of their project. There are many templates available on line, just choose one you like.
5. Shot list – Exactly like it sounds. A specific list of shots they need to get, including b-roll, establishing shots, close-ups, over-the-shoulder, etc.
6. Production Schedule – Plan out the production week. If you are interviewing someone, they must check with them first. If they need our studio, they must sign up…etc.
PRODUCTION:
Once the activities in the Pre-production phase are complete, this is what happens in production.
1. Location Scout / Tech Rehearsal – Students rarely get anything shot the first day with a camera. This is one day to scout out their location and rehearse with the camera.
2. Video Tape – One week is plenty of time to get all the footage they need.
POST PRODUCTION:
Finally, where it all comes together. This is where the magic happens and doesn’t have to happen in this order. Computer graphics, and music can be worked on before the video is even transferred to the computer. If you are waiting for the video, start on their graphics, music and sound-effects.
1. Screen and Log – Watch yourr shots back, make notes and get a paper cut of the shots they want to use. We often feel too rushed to do this step correctly but, I always watch all your video before editing so you can find out right away if you are missing something.
2. Capture or Import Footage – The process of getting your video files on to your editor. This phase includes organizing a folder on the computer, labeling the shots correctly and setting up the preferences of the project in your editing software correctly.
3. Rough Cut – rough out the shots before adding transitions, music, sound-effects or video effects. Make sure the flow is right before spending time on all the fancy effects.
4. Fine Cut – add transitions, trim shots down to the desired frame, and add video effects.
5. Computer Graphics – Create and add the required slate, titles, credits, info screens, etc.
6. Music – Create and add original music or search music from your music library or royalty free sources to fit the mood of the piece.
7. Audio Sweetening – Last step – add music, sound effects where appropriate and balance out the audio levels from every shot. Note: Music videos obviously require the music first so students can edit to the beat.