Chapter_5_The_Production_Process_-_Preproduction

Chapter 5: The Production Process - Preproduction

Overview of Production Process

  • Preproduction phase is crucial for setting the ground for a successful video production.

  • Key components of preproduction:

    • Scriptwriting

    • Storyboarding

    • All necessary production details

Scriptwriting

Topic 1: Importance of Planning

  • Planning is critical in serious production; the script is the foundation of that plan.

  • Functions of a script:

    • Clarifies ideas for the director.

    • Coordinates the production team.

    • Assists in resource assessment for the production.

Topic 2: Script Development

  • The script generally initiates productions like dramas.

  • Process involves:

    • Director reads the draft that includes character info, locations, and stage directions.

    • Visualization of scenes and assessment of treatment.

    • Anticipation of potential problems and modifications to enhance practicality.

    • Preparation of a camera treatment follows.

Topic 3: Outlining the Script

  • An outline can serve as a beginning point—setting topics and time allocations.

  • Develop script derived from this outline with camera treatment decisions for each segment.

Topic 4: Script Formats

Single-Column Format

  • Variations exist, but typically contains all video/audio in one column.

  • Introduction before each scene describes location and action; left-hand margin for reminders and cues.

  • Common in narrative film-style productions and single-camera setups.

  • Less effective in multicamera settings due to the dispersal of the production team.

Two-Column Format

  • Traditional television script format providing detailed shot-by-shot info.

  • Flexibility allows crew to add specific details as required.

  • Can produce rehearsal scripts (right column only) followed by camera scripts after planning and rehearsals.

Topic 5: Full Script Details

  • Fully scripted productions include:

    • Scenes and shots, with detailed sequence designation.

    • Entire dialog preparations, with various methods for talent to access dialog (teleprompters, cue cards).

    • Specification of camera equipment used for each shot.

    • Basic camera instructions for shot execution and switcher directives.

    • Contributions from additional sources such as videotapes and graphics.

Topic 6: Script Elements

Scene and Shot Information

  • Scenes: Identify continuous action sequences with numbers and locations.

  • Shots: Determine viewpoints and number them for easy reference.

Action Blocks and Dialogue

  • Action Blocks: Describe ongoing scene actions in present tense with character involvement.

  • Character Cues: Indicate who is speaking (uppercase format).

  • Dialogue: Covers spoken content with considerations for strains (Offscreen O.S. and Voice Over V.O. indications).

Topic 7: Ending and Formats of Scripts

  • To conclude a screenplay, use FADE OUT and THE END indications.

  • Shooting Script: Variable in detail to inform cast/crew about takes' duration and character involvement.

Storyboarding

Topic 1: The Process of Storyboarding

  • Producing sketches of each shot described in the script.

  • Initial rough sketches progressing to detailed storyboards with panels.

Topic 2: Final Production Storyboards

  • Include:

    • Estimated time for each scene.

    • Movement and transitions between scenes.

    • Camera angles and special effects descriptions.

    • Audio details, including narration and dialog.

Topic 3: Benefits of Storyboarding

  • Essential for:

    • Brainstorming and visualizing the finished production.

    • Effective resource allocation during filming.

    • Streamlining the editing process.

    • Ensuring team alignment throughout the filming process.

All Necessary Production Details

Topic 1: Budgeting

  • Producer’s role in calculating production costs, dividing the budget across various stages: preproduction, production, and postproduction.

Topic 2: Crew Assembly

  • Team comprises workers responsible for production facilitation; separate from performing roles.

  • Crew responsibilities include:

    • Casting the appropriate actors.

    • Location scouting for filming settings.

    • Designing or acquiring costumes for the actors.

Topic 3: Design and Scheduling

  • Set design involves creating physical environments for shooting.

  • Props are the necessary tools and objects featured in the production.

  • Scheduling encompasses coordinating all production aspects.

References

  • Video Production Handbook by Gerald Millerson and Jim Owens.

  • Additional materials provided.