By: Melt van der Spuy
So, you’ve pinpointed your objectives, determined the video type, and identified where you’ll be sharing it. Great! Now how do you kickstart the process?
Here are three hands-on tips to ensure your pre-production DIY video journey is smooth sailing…
Pre-production Tips to Set Your Up For Success
1. Nail down your script
The term ‘script’ might sound intimidating, evoking images of complicated documents laden with cinematic jargon. But trust us – it’s simpler than you think. Drafting a script is merely about penning down a basic framework of what you plan to showcase. Investing time in detailing the script ensures you spend less time fumbling on the shoot day and during the editing phase. From the script, creating an edit progression to plan how the shoot should flow, will help you visualise the end result, using it as a sort of checklist.
But what about storyboards? Our advice – don’t overcomplicate it. Think elementary drawings demonstrating where your subject stands or how your scene unfolds, or just some simple reference images to help others understand the vision. And for those concerned about forgetting lines on the day, there’s a fix. Apps like ‘Parrot Teleprompter’ can transform your phone or tablet into a teleprompter, helping you to always stay on cue!
2. Get your talent ready
Be it you or someone else, it’s important to prep those who will star on-screen. Share essential notes on body postures or movements and make sure they’re aware of where their gaze should rest. And remember, when on camera, a little extra animation works wonders. It bridges the gap between your content and the audience. But, it’s a fine line – on a scale of Riaan Cruywagen to Leon Schuster, be a Trevor Noah. 😉
3. Select the perfect setting
Where you film is almost as important as what you film. The backdrop of your DIY video plays a significant role in its overall impact. An ideal environment ensures your message is both seen and heard without interference. Choose a setting that is visually appealing, devoid of noise, echo-free, and equipped with the essentials. Having everything you need in one place can minimise disruptions and foster a more efficient workflow.
In a nutshell, the golden rule remains: if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. This couldn’t be truer in the production industry. Off-the-cuff approaches? Those don’t really cut it. Proper groundwork will set your film day up for success, producing outcomes that might surprise you.
Got queries on video-making? Let’s have a virtual coffee and chat about taking your ideas from storyboard to screen. 😉