Video Production Checklist Part 2: Production Day
You’ve drafted your script, created your storyboard, organized the necessary equipment and vendors from part 1 of this checklist, and now it’s finally here: production day. But your work is far from over. There are many items to keep track of during your video shoot. The following checklist can help you stay organized and ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
Equipment – The day before the shoot, check and confirm with vendor(s) that they have packed and are on schedule for everything you outlined during the pre-planning phase:
- Location and time of shoot
- Camera(s) – Number of cameras needed and type
- Lighting – If extra lighting is necessary, confirm the vendor is bringing it
- Stands/tripods/platforms/dollies – Confirm any camera support that will be needed
- Audio, including microphones and a/v jacks if available
Talent – Confirm all speakers/interview subjects are set and ready to go. If necessary, confirm anyone that is also participating in b-roll shots. If props such as documents or presentation tools are being used, make sure this is all coordinated, confirmed and ready to go on the day of the shoot. And, if using outside talent, be sure to have signed consent and release forms on file for your legal protection.
Staging – The morning of the shoot, make sure the following is set up and working properly so the shoot runs as efficiently as possible.
- Backdrop – Consider strategically positioning company logos, such as a lobby sign, and eliminate any potentially distracting items that could be seen during the shoot.
- Lighting – Make sure rooms are properly lit and any additional lighting needed is set up.
- Surrounding noise/potential audio issues – Record a video on your phone and listen back to identify any background noise that may interfere with the quality of your recording.
- Set up for single interview vs. panel vs. presentation – Set up chairs, tables and microphones as needed.
- Camera positioning – Consider where you want cameras set up, especially if you’re coordinating more than one camera for a shoot.
During the shoot – Even though you may have hired a crew for your shoot, you or someone on your team should be a designated director. This person can help ensure the following items are taken care of to ensure everything is captured correctly.
- Ensure audio checks are made. Levels for each person that is speaking should be tested, and microphones should be checked to make sure batteries are fully charged.
- Capture spelling of first and last names as well as titles. Recording this information for each person interviewed can help ensure it is accurate in post-production.
- Listen intently to interviews. Be sure to note errors, such as stumbling over words or not restating the question into the response and ask the subject to repeat if necessary. Also pay attention to strong soundbites for post-production – note the time stamp, if possible.
- Watch hair, make-up and styling. From a crooked tie to static hair, video cannot be retouched the same way photography can. Hire professional hair and make-up and keep a critical eye on appearances throughout the shoot.
- Oversee that b-roll is captured and keep an eye open for b-roll opportunities. You can never have too much b-roll!
- Confirm everything you need for post-production is captured. Reference the storyboards created in pre-production.
The day of your shoot can be extremely stressful, but if you’re able to utilize this list, you can help ensure all of your footage is captured correctly, setting you up for efficient post-production and an accurate end product for your expectations. Stay tuned for part three of this blog for a post-production checklist!
