The 3 phases of a video production

Everything in life begins with an idea, especially in the world of creativity. However, to turn an idea into something concrete, planning and execution are of immense importance. When we admire something for its creativity or emotional impact, we often don't think about the concrete planning, hard work, and targeted implementation behind it. We might say, "The picture, the video, or the book is just beautiful," without realizing the meticulous planning and hard work that went into it. Most of the time, we can't even describe why we like it or why it touches us. The reason why we like it, is because people have created a concrete plan from an idea and implemented it in a targeted manner. This process involves three phases, which is what this blog post is about. Without these three phases, every creative project is doomed to fail. At the same time, it also becomes clear how much work is behind a successful project, whether it's a 30-second ad that runs over Christmas and touches us so much that we just want to run home afterwards to hug our loved ones. Or a 15-second video that reminds us to make early provision for later stages in life.

This blog post focuses on three crucial phases that every creative project goes through: pre-production, production, and post-production. Without these three phases, any creative project is destined to fail. Let's take a detailed look at each phase, the resources involved, and why they are crucial for the success of a video.

1. Pre-Production: Laying the Foundation

The starting point for every video is pre-production. Here, the idea begins to take shape. This phase is the most creative as additional ideas can emerge, and initial concepts can be discarded. The goal of this phase is to clarify the vision, plan resources, and develop a comprehensive strategy. It's also the phase where the client is actively involved, understanding their ideas and wishes to move into the production and implementation phase together. But what exactly happens during pre-production? Here are some essential elements:

1. Script, shot lists, mood boards, and concept development: Defining and establishing the goal, style, and message.
2. Budgeting and resource planning: Determining the required resources, personnel, and financial allocation.
3. Location selection and permits: Choosing shooting locations and ensuring necessary permits.
4. Casting and roles: Selecting actors or determining if the client will provide personnel for on-screen roles.
5. Purpose of the final video: Does the client need a single video or a series, including short social media clips?

These are just a few examples of what goes into pre-production. However, it becomes clear how crucial pre-production is for a smooth production process. The fact that good preparation and planning make sense financially and can save the client a lot is an additional and not to be underestimated effect, which we will explore later.

2. Production: Bringing the Vision to Life

The production phase is the action phase, where everything previously created and worked on is now implemented to bring the vision to life. It involves filming, directing, and creating the foundation for the masterpiece. This is also the phase where most resources are deployed. The entire team comes together to implement the plan, from the director and cameraman to the set assistant. Everyone brings their expertise, playing a crucial role. What are important key aspects of production? Let's take a look:

1. Set management and staging: Organizing shoots and directing the crew.
2. Quality of recordings: Clear, clean, and professional image and sound recordings are top priorities.
3. Teamwork and communication: Collaboration of all involved for a harmonious working environment.
4. Adjustments and flexibility: Being prepared for unexpected challenges and being able to respond quickly, creatively, and flexibly.

A successful production is also the result of precise planning and professional implementation.

3. Post-Production: The Finishing Touch

It is said that a film or video is created three times: first as an idea and vision, then during production when filming and directing take place, and finally in post-production. Through creative editing, one can faithfully realize the original vision or create something entirely new and creative.

Thus, post-production is the creative culmination of every project, where raw material is transformed into a finished product. Editing, cutting, effects, and animations are added. What are the steps involved in post-production?

1. Video editing and montage: Assembling raw material and bringing the final story to life.
2. Sound design and music: Sound and music play a crucial role in a video. Music licenses need to be acquired, and audio recordings made during production need to be seamlessly incorporated.
3. Color correction and visual effects: This step focuses on the video's style, as determined in pre-production. Color correction and grading are essential to create the final look.
4. Quality control and adjustments: Initial versions are shared with the client for feedback. Does the final product meet the client's expectations? Are adjustments needed?

Post-production is key to ensuring the video reaches its full potential, and the client receives exactly what they envisioned.

Now, the question arises: does video production need to be so well thought out and planned? And what value does the client or the customer gain from it, as they simply want a video?

Why Structured Video Production Offers Enormous Customer Value:

A quick and straightforward answer to the question is: yes, video production must be planned and thought out in detail. The longer answer is that this approach creates invaluable value for the client, including:

1. Efficiency and Cost Savings: Thorough pre-production minimizes unexpected costs and delays. Without intensive planning, the risk of implementation increases, along with the costs of a video. Therefore, this step is in the best interest of the client.
2. Quality Assurance: Meticulous production and post-production ensure a professional end product.
3. Customer Satisfaction: Clear execution of the customer's idea leads to higher customer satisfaction. All three phases of production are crucial for this.

Sometimes, when new clients approach us, we hear something like this: "We only need a 15-second video. That's it!"

Whether you're creating a 15-second video or a 3-minute video, the process and work involved are always the same. If you want to do it professionally and in the highest quality.

Therefore, a structured 3-phase video production is essential for the success of a video production.