What We Need to Understand Before Planning a Video Shoot
The strategy starts before shoot day. In Married To Production EP3, Jessica and I discuss the discovery conversation that comes before the production plan. We need to understand what a client wants to achieve before deciding what to capture.
Ask what the video needs to change in understanding
"We need a video" is a starting point, but it leaves important decisions open. Who is the viewer? What do they know already? What needs to be clearer afterward? Where will they encounter the finished piece?
A one-off explanation and a library of future content can lead to different plans. Discuss that distinction early so the production is designed for the actual use.
Identify the practical facts
The conversation also needs the people, location, available time and constraints. If a room is important to the story, determine whether it is usable. If someone must be on camera, include their availability in the plan.
An early location discussion or scout can reveal issues that a general description misses. The appropriate preparation depends on the job, so avoid assuming that one checklist fits every production.
Make the next decision clear
At the end of a discovery conversation, summarize what has been established and what still needs an answer. The result should support the next planning step, rather than create a long list of ideas with no owner.
For a useful first meeting, bring a short description of the audience, the message and the places the content will be used. Add any real examples that help explain the need. That gives us a better basis for discussing the production than starting with a preferred camera or a number of shoot hours. The clip explains our planning perspective, not a guarantee that every project follows an identical process.
Talk through your next video
If you are planning a business video, start with what your audience needs to understand. Explore SwoleNerd Productions.
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