Bobby Marko explains how better preparation will lead to better on set execution.
Problems always occur in video and film production. It’s the nature of the work we do. There are always outside forces beyond our control and no matter what we do to prepare for them, we are always faced with a problem to solve that we didn’t count on or didn’t foresee. Knowing this, why would we not prepare ourselves as much as possible before entering production? I believe that if not 100%, 99% of the time how you effectively plan, execute and follow through your pre-production results in the success of your project.
Many times I scour the forums on Stage32, LinkedIn Filmmaking groups and Reddit and constantly see people asking questions, almost in a panic, about what to do because they are stuck in production not knowing how to proceed. And many of those times I can point back to the fact that they did not effectively plan, execute or carry out their pre-production. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I’m perfect and I have flawless productions. Of course not, like many of you, problems always arise on set and I’ve had to make some serious calls in the moment. As creatives, somehow we have this notion that we rise to the occasion when problems occur. But the truth is we simply default to the level of training we have allowed ourselves. I have learned over the years how important that training is. And in film and video production that training starts in the pre-production process.
Now please understand, I’m talking from a mechanics standpoint, not a creative one. Sure, in the moment you will always have creative inspiration that turns on that imagenary light bulb in your head when you need or want it. But most problems that arise (schedules, weather, talent, crew, gear, etc) are mechanics that can be sorted out in pre-production long before you step foot on location. And in some instances, solving these mechanical problems ahead of time frees your mind to dedicate more of your efforts towards the creative part of your production.
Therefore I want to layout some common problems that we face and discuss some ways effective planning methods in pre-production that can help solve those issues from coming up in your production.
