The Three Stages of Video Production

If this is the first time you have hired a professional video production company, you probably don’t know what to expect. Whether it is a commercial, public service announcement, website video or digital media content, the three main steps are similar.

In basic terms, the video production process can be divided into three stages: pre-production, production, and post-production. Within each of these essential stages, we follow many steps when creating a high-quality, engaging video to wow the clients and their audience.

Pre-production

Proper preparation ensures success, and we are always focused on getting a solid plan in place before the production stage. Here are the main stages of pre-production.

Project Management: During this first stage, we consult with clients to discuss how the job will be managed, including timelines, budget, vision, goals, and possible issues. Your target audience or market and competition are identified during this step.

Creative and Concept Development: Next, we are brainstorming ideas, defining the message, and outlining what the video might look like. Style, tone, and possible locations are pinpointed, and we dive deeper into your target audience by studying details such as their market avatar.

Scriptwriting and Storyboarding: We write the words that will be spoken or shown on the video. Then illustrations are laid out in storyboard form and combined with the script.

Graphic Design and Development: Graphics add punch and interest to a video. It might be text, logos, or graphics which will support the message being conveyed.

Location Scouting: Often, the location is obvious such as your workplace and other times, we need to scout out locations to set the scene for the video. If set and stage design and construction are required, we will ensure a suitable location.

Casting: Choosing the right actors is important because viewers really connect with the people delivering the message. We might use professional actors or real people when casting.

Focus Group Testing: Like a test run, we check if we’ve nailed it the first time or need to tweak some areas by analyzing the valuable feedback, we get from focus group testing.

Production

The footage is recorded using hi-definition videotaping and audio recordings are done on location and/or in a studio.

Post-production

This is where the magic happens. The footage is taken and edited together with the audio and music to produce the finished product. We can help with distribution, media buying and media tracking if needed.

Video requirements do vary hugely from project to project, so some clients might need more or less of these steps. For example, not every video features actors. Early on, we set out the customized process, so clients know what to expect. At that time, a quote or invoice is issued too.

The only surprise clients have is how impressive the finished result is. Exceeding expectations is one of our superpowers, along with pitching creative ideas that get top results.

For more details on our video services call or contact RaffertyWeiss. We can’t wait to hear from you.