What are the 3 main stages of video production?
In today's digital landscape, video reigns supreme. But crafting a compelling video that resonates with your audience and builds trust isn't easy.
Curious about what goes into making a standout video? Whether you're a startup, a Fortune 500, or somewhere in between, understanding the 3 main stages of video production can arm you with the knowledge to make informed decisions. So, let's dig in.
What are the 3 main stages of video production?
Pre-production (planning)
Production (the video shoot)
Post-production (editing)
Let’s talk a more in-depth look at each stage.
Pre-Production: The Planning Stage Expanded
If video production was a building, pre-production would be its foundation. Solid groundwork here ensures a sturdy structure later on. One of the most critical steps in this stage is concept planning, and it starts with aligning visions.
Concept Planning
The first order of business is getting the video producer and customer on the same page. The video pros need to understand the objectives and what the customer is looking to achieve with the video.
And it’s important to keep in mind, when I write about “video producer” and “customer,” that can be a production company and the person who hired them, or a company’s internal production team and the stakeholder, client, or customer within the company.
Typically, by the time we as a healthcare video production company reach this stage, we've already met the customer and discussed the initial proposal. So, this isn't a lengthy meeting. It usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour and can happen in person or over a phone call.
The aim here is to nail down the foundational aspects of the video. We discuss:
The approach: What's the tone and style we're aiming for? Who’s the audience?
The subject matter: What's the core message or information that absolutely needs to be included? Are there any specific shots or raw video that must appear in the final cut? Do we have an idea of what the story is going to be?
On-camera interviews: How many will there be? Interviews often serve as the story’s backbone, providing the human element that makes videos relatable.
Selection of interviewees: Who are the best people to carry your message? Once we identify them, we move to the next step—planning how to contact them and coordinate their participation.
Concept planning is not just ticking off a checklist. It’s a dynamic, collaborative process. It's about identifying the essential elements that will make the video not just good, but outstanding. It's where the seeds are planted for a compelling story, one that aligns perfectly with the customer's goals and vision.
It’s not just another meeting. It’s an important one. One that will lay the groundwork for everything that follows.
Once the foundational elements are agreed upon, it's time to get into the nitty-gritty details. This is where the video team starts assembling the tools and plans needed for the production phase. Specific tasks include:
Creating Necessary Shot Lists: A shot list is a visual roadmap. It outlines each shot you plan to capture, often right down to the camera angle. This list is developed based on what was decided in the concept meeting. It helps the crew understand what needs to be filmed and ensures you don’t miss any critical shots.
Preparing Interview Questions: Interviews can be the heart of your video. We take what we've learned in the concept meeting and draft questions that will guide the conversation. These questions aim to evoke responses that are in line with the message and objectives of the video.
Preparing Equipment: This might seem straightforward, but equipment prep is far more than just packing a bag. It involves checking and testing every piece of equipment we'll use, from the camera and lenses to lights, media cards, and tripods. A single malfunctioning piece can cost time and money, so thorough checks are crucial.
Getting these elements right sets the stage for a smoother production process. Doing them ensures that the shoot goes off without a hitch and that the post-production team has top-notch material to work with. The have a solid foundation to work from.
The Production Phase: Action Unfolds
The production phase is where the rubber meets the road. It's showtime, and all eyes are on us—literally. We're on-site, cameras are rolling, and everything we do is in full view. This is where the meticulous planning from the pre-production stage pays off.
Flexibility Is Key
The variables in the production stage can be many, which is why we often say "it depends." Before getting to this point, we've hammered out how many shoot days are required, whether it's all happening at one location, or if we'll need to hop between multiple sites. Sometimes it's a one-and-done scenario where everything aligns perfectly; other times, we have to juggle locations, interview subjects, and timelines.
What Happens During the Shoot
During the shoot, our videographer is like a Swiss Army knife—multi-functional and always prepared. They capture all the must-have shots on the shot list, but they're also constantly on the lookout for any spontaneous moments or additional footage that can elevate the final product. Interviews with key people are conducted, aligning with the questions prepared during the pre-production stage.
Resources and Team Members
While a single videographer might suffice for most of our projects, there are instances where additional team members are brought in. This can range from a second videographer to specialized roles like sound technicians, online streaming coordinators, teleprompter operators, and even hair and makeup artists. Each added professional increases the production value but also the cost. So, we're transparent with you upfront about these potential variables during the proposal stage.
In summary, the production phase is a dynamic, action-packed part of the video-making process. It’s where your story starts to take shape in a tangible way. While what you see on shoot day is the tip of the iceberg, it's a critical part that lays the groundwork for the magic that happens in post-production.
Post-Production: The Hidden Artistry
Post-production is the stage that might seem like a mystery to many. It's where we disappear into our creative cave and what emerges is your finished video. This phase is a significant time investment, and it's the other "it depends" moment in video production.
Time Commitment
The time we spend in post-production can vary widely. It all hinges on how much raw footage we have and how intricate the story is that we're crafting. You could be looking at anywhere from two to five days for most projects. It's not just a quick cut and paste job; it's an art form that requires careful consideration and skill.
Logging and Review
The first task is logging the raw video and transcribing sound bites from interviews. It's basically like mining for gold. We sift through all the material to find those golden moments that'll make your story shine.
The Script Takes Shape
Next comes script creation. All those sound bites and clips are arranged into a cohesive narrative. This is storytelling at its finest—deciding what to include, what to cut, and how to string it all together for maximum impact.
Editing and Finetuning
After we hash out the script with you and get the green light, it's time to bring it to life. The video is edited according to the approved script. This stage also involves creating relevant graphics, adding music, and any special effects that elevate the narrative. A preview video is then shared with you for any tweaks or approval.
The Final Wrap
Once we've got your thumbs up, it's time for the final wrap. Digital files of the finished product are created and sent over to you, ready for you to share with the world.
So there you have it. The post-production stage is where your video transforms from a rough diamond to a polished gem. It's an intricate, labor-intensive process, but it's also where the magic happens. And the end result? A compelling video that not only looks stunning but resonates with its audience.
Closing Thoughts
So, what's in the DNA of a great video production company? It's a blend of technical skill, creative vision, strategic planning, and a dash of magic. From the initial concept to the moment you hit 'publish,' a lot happens behind the scenes. The end game? A compelling, impactful video that doesn’t just meet the eye—it captures minds and hearts. In a world that craves rich, authentic, and trust-building content, investing in a top-notch video production process isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. Choose wisely, invest in quality, and you're all set to make waves.
