The Complete Guide to Pre-Production
What Happens Before the Cameras Roll 🎬🗂️
Behind every great video should be a rock-solid plan. Or what we should say is, behind all of our great videos are rock-solid plans (and they’re all great videos).
The plan? It’s called pre-production—and it’s the not-so-secret sauce that turns creative chaos into content that clicks. Whether you’re producing a 15-second social clip or a full-blown brand film, pre-production is the key for success. Here’s what happens before the cameras ever roll:
1. Clarifying Your Goals
It all starts with your "why."
What’s the purpose of this video?
Who’s the target audience?
Where will it be distributed?
Your goals shape every creative and technical decision. Without this clarity, you risk making a pretty video that doesn’t actually do anything.
2. Budgeting and Timeline
Two critical questions: How much can you spend, and when do you need it? A professional video production partner will work within your budget and timeline to plan a shoot that meets your goals—without compromising quality. This is where you map out everything from crew size to shoot dates to what kind of juice your gaffer will need to rig up lights the best (yes, that has been a real conversation before and it was Hi-C Fruit Punch).
3. Creative Development
Now comes the fun stuff. Based on your goals, the team starts shaping the concept, which may include:
Brainstorming ideas
Writing the script
Creating storyboards, mood boards, and lookbooks
Planning color palettes, design mockups, and punch ups
This is where your message starts to take on a voice, a vibe, and a vision.
4. Scripting and Shot List
The script is your video’s blueprint. It lays out:
Dialogue or narration
Scene-by-scene action
On-screen text or graphics
Once the script is approved, a shot list is created to plan every angle, camera movement, and sequence. Ours are fun and usually include picture/video references so you can see what the angle, movement, and/or framing will look like. We love a good reference!
5. Casting and Talent
If your video includes actors, voiceovers, or on-camera talent, now’s the time to lock them in. This might involve:
Auditions or talent selection
Booking voice artists
Scheduling rehearsals
The right talent can elevate your video and bring authenticity to your brand.
Just a reminder — AI voiceovers and animations never will never be able to take the place of a genuine performer.
6. Location Scouting and Permits
Whether it’s in a studio, office, or out in the wild, you’ll need the perfect setting. The production team will:
Scout and secure locations
Handle permits and insurance
Plan for lighting, sound, and logistics
No one wants surprises on shoot day—this step keeps everything on track and in writing.
7. Production Planning
This is where the crew creates a detailed schedule (call sheet) for the shoot day(s), including:
What’s being filmed and when
Crew call times
Equipment list
Contact info and backup plans
It’s all about making sure shoot day runs like a well-oiled machine.
Conclusion
Pre-production is where your video is truly made—it’s where ideas become action plans, and where strategy meets creativity. Skipping it? Not an option. If you want content that delivers real results, trust the process and partner with a team that knows how to bring your vision to life.
That team being Itchy Palm Pictures — the only video production company you’ll ever need.
