Making a Video

Planning is Paramount

Know your audience, where they will watch and why they will watch.

If you are using a script make sure it is as good as it can be. The script must be written and re written several times and agreed before the camera comes out.  Ten rewrites are cheaper than one re-shoot.

Recce the locations for shots, sound and light.

Have all permits and clearances necessary on hand.

Have all the props, charged batteries, whatever special equipment that might be necessary, some lens cloths and plenty of gaffer tape! And don't forget your tape stock.

If you are working from a script and shot list make sure you know it  and work through it and work through it shot for shot.  This will help minimise missed shots.

Producing video is not a quick process - everything takes longer than you think so make sure you have plenty of time.  If you are working in the British winter months remember that there are only a few hours in the day where there is enough natural light and some days it is so dark there may not be enough at all!

Be sure everyone involved knows call times, dress code and parking regulations.

If using presenters or actors make sure they have the latest copy of the script.

If working with an interviewee who has not appeared on camera before, try to put them at ease and relax them before they go infront of the camera. It is not a good idea to allow novice interviewees autocues or to try and learn their script as it makes their performance "wooden."  It is far better to chat to them about anything to relax them and then lead the interview to the subject you wish to discuss.