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The script No matter what size the production a great script is vital and really worth spending time getting right. Principally clients may want to show completed scripts to anyone with the power of veto - boss, legal affairs, but avoid having various people from the organisation make amendments themselves; your script (and video) can easily become an unfortunate patchwork. The script usually provides a skeleton around which the video footage can be shot. You may have a presenter to camera, actors to illustrate 'do's and don'ts' e.g. for a CRM video. All that may be required is a voice over to take viewers through the workings of a product, procedure, or proposition. Once the script is in place both the client and the production company can work together on how many locations, and therefore how much time, will be involved. Creative juices generally begin to flow as to how the shots could work with the script in the final edit. Client's shouldn't be afraid to talk to the production company to get suggestions. The shoot There are very many different ways for a producer to organize a production: in essence, what's needed is to get the right people and equipment to the right places at the right times, let them get on with their jobs, and see that they are adequately supplied, fed, and accommodated. Setting up and filming material to professional standards can be time-consuming and can be disruptive e.g. in an open-plan office. How much disruption can be tolerated should be spelt out to the producer at the outset. We feel it's always best for a decision maker to attend to ensure their happy with what's being shot. In our experience clients generally enjoy the experience and quickly come to terms with the procedures involved. The edit Once the filming is completed, we generally recommended our clients attend for the edit. By this time a good working relationship will have developed and, frankly, it's great fun bringing all the elements together. It may be that a 'paper edit' is required: for a client to use a VHS of the footage and note edit points e.g. of a conference or market research group. On the day only those selected pieces will be included within the edit. If the shoot was a corporate video, shot on one camera all the shots, and 'takes' will be known by both the producer, client and editor so work can commence immediately on the final edit. At this point it's vital all other relevant material is on hand to be included such as other pieces of film, logos, titles, graphics and perhaps a music bed. Don't forget: once the master has been completed it's relatively easy to make adjustments e.g. for a shorter version (to stream off a website). Permission may be obtained to re-edit (top and tail logos) for a third party e.g. as promotional material for the PR company of the client. |
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