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Most business videos fail before the camera even rolls.
It’s not bad editing or poor lighting, it’s weak planning that kills them.
And the good news? You can fix that before it costs you time and money.
Want a smoother shoot, better performance on camera, and a final video that actually delivers results? It all starts with pre-production, the part most businesses rush or skip. I’ll walk you through everything you need to plan before you press record.
From writing a script and choosing locations to building a production team and setting your budget, this is your complete overview of the video pre-production process. And if you need the nitty-gritty details, I’ll point you to in-depth guides for each step too.
Let’s make sure your next video doesn’t just look good, but works hard for your business too.
For more information about video production, go here.
Every great video starts with a plan, and that’s where pre-production comes in. It’s the initial phase of the video production process where creative planning and logistical arrangements are made.
This is the stage before you touch a camera. It’s all about preparing the building blocks: the script, the storyboard, the schedule, the crew, the kit… and the budget. Without it, you’re just hoping for the best.
Pre-production sits right at the start of the video production process, long before lights, camera, action. Think of it like laying foundations before you build a house. If this bit’s rushed or skipped, the rest of the project wobbles.
Done properly, pre-production helps you:
Want the full breakdown? I’ve covered that here: What is Video Pre-Production?
If you’re skipping pre-production, you’re gambling with your budget.
This phase might not feel flashy, but it’s where the real magic begins. Effective pre-production lays the foundation for a smooth production phase and a successful final video. It’s how you stop costly reshoots, unclear direction, and that dreaded “we’ll fix it in post” attitude that drains your time, and your wallet.
When you plan ahead, you’re setting clear goals for your team. Everyone knows the story. Everyone knows the schedule. And no one’s turning up on shoot day asking, “What are we filming again?”
Here’s what strong pre-production gives you:
Cut corners in video pre production, and those mistakes show up later, usually when they’re most expensive to fix. I’ve put together a full guide to help you dodge the most common pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid in Video Production
Planning a video without a pre-production checklist? That’s like packing for a trip without knowing where you’re going. A comprehensive checklist ensures every step in the pre-production process is addressed.
Pre-production isn’t just one task, it’s a bunch of moving parts that need to come together. And when one piece is missing, the whole shoot can fall apart.
Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need to get in order:
These are just the basics. I’ve put together a full video pre-production checklist to help you cover everything from A to Z.
A great video starts with the right words.
The script is your blueprint. Without it, you’re just guessing, and that’s a quick way to lose your audience. A solid script keeps your message clear, your pacing tight, and your viewers engaged from start to finish.
But writing a script isn’t just about words on a page. It’s about knowing your goal. Are you informing? Selling? Inspiring? The tone, structure, and call to action all depend on that.
At a glance, a good script will:
If you want a deeper dive into structure, tone, and scripting formats, I’ve covered that in detail here: How to Write a Video Script.
And don’t miss this quick-read blog packed with practical tips: 8 Tips: How to Write a Video Script for Business & YouTube Podcast
Ever tried explaining a shot with words and got blank stares?
That’s where storyboarding saves the day. It turns your script into visuals before a single frame is filmed. Think of it as a comic strip version of your video, showing what each scene will look like, shot by shot.
Storyboards help you:
It doesn’t have to be fancy either. Even stick figures can do the job if they communicate your ideas. What matters is that everyone involved can see what’s coming.
If you want to learn how to build one step-by-step, check out: The Importance of Storyboarding
There’s nothing worse than people standing around on shoot day, waiting for answers.
A solid production schedule keeps everything moving. It tells your team where to be, when to be there, and what to expect. No guesswork. No chaos.
Your schedule should cover:
Planning this out early avoids overbooked days, lighting issues, or running out of time. It also gives your client (or your boss) confidence that everything is under control.
Want help building a plan that works? Check out: How to Create a Video Production Schedule
No one likes budget surprises. Especially halfway through a shoot.
Pre-production is where you take control of costs. It’s where you decide what’s essential, what’s flexible, and what can wait. Getting your budget right now means fewer headaches later, and a smoother, more focused production overall.
Here’s what to factor in:
Every penny you plan here saves time and money on the day. And no, you don’t need a massive budget to do it right, you just need a realistic one.
I’ve broken down this topic in more depth here: Budgeting for Pre-Production
You might also find this helpful: Cost to Produce a Video
The wrong face, or voice, can derail your message fast.
Casting isn’t just about picking someone who looks the part. It’s about finding talent that connects with your audience and represents your brand with the right tone, energy, and delivery.
You might need:
And don’t forget the details, availability, fees, contracts, rehearsal time. Casting should never be rushed. When you get it right, your message lands harder, and your video feels more authentic.
Want to know how to find the right people and what to watch out for? Here’s more: How to Cast Actors for Video Production
A great location does half the storytelling for you.
But finding the right place to film isn’t just about how it looks. It’s about noise levels, lighting, permissions, weather, parking, and power access. Miss one of these and your shoot could grind to a halt.
Here’s what to think about when scouting:
And always visit in person before shoot day. Photos rarely tell the full story.
If you want a deeper guide on how to choose and prep the perfect space, take a look: Finding the Right Filming Locations
Skipping the legal stuff might save time now, but it could cost you later.
Pre-production is the best time to get your paperwork in order. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential if you want to avoid fines, delays, or worse, having to bin your footage because you didn’t get permission.
Here’s what to sort:
It’s tempting to leave this to the last minute. Don’t. Legal issues can hold up your project or even shut it down completely.
Want to know what documents you need and when? Here’s where to start: Legal Permits & Contracts in Video Production
Winging it on shoot day? That’s a fast track to chaos.
A shot list is your filming to-do list. Detailing each shot by shot ensures that every aspect of the script is captured during the video shoot. It tells your crew what needs to be filmed, in what order, and how each shot should look. It saves time, keeps everyone focused, and stops those “oh no, we forgot that shot” moments.
Your shot list might include:
It’s not just for big productions either. Even small business videos run smoother with a basic shot list.
Want to create one that’s simple but effective? Start here: How to Create a Shot List
You don’t need a Hollywood setup, but you do need the right gear.
The best ideas can fall flat if the video looks or sounds amateur. That’s why planning your equipment in advance is so important. No surprises. No missing kit. No last-minute dashes to the hire shop.
Here’s what to consider:
And don’t forget batteries, cables, memory cards, and backups. Always have more than you think you’ll need.
For a practical guide on planning your gear list, check out: Video Production Equipment Checklist
Even the best script won’t film itself.
The size of your crew depends on your budget, goals, and video style. Sometimes, it’s just one or two people wearing multiple hats. Other times, you’ll need a full team to keep things moving smoothly.
Here are some key roles to consider:
If you’re working with an agency, many of these roles will be covered. But even then, knowing who does what helps you stay in control.
Looking to build the right crew for your next shoot? Here’s a useful guide: Hiring a Video Production Crew
Shoot day isn’t the time to wing it.
Rehearsals let you fix problems before they cost you. This step in the creative process allows for adjustments before the actual production stage. They give your team time to practise lines, test camera angles, check lighting, and spot anything that feels off. A short run-through can prevent hours of retakes.
Here’s what rehearsals help with:
Even if it’s just a quick walk-through, it’s worth it. Rehearsals reduce stress and boost quality — simple as that.
Want to learn when and how to run them? Here’s the guide: The Importance of Rehearsals in Video Production
Ever watched a video where the subject’s head was cut off, or the visuals looked squeezed? That’s usually an aspect ratio issue.
The aspect ratio is simply the shape of your video frame. Get it wrong, and your video can look out of place, cropped, or downright awkward on certain platforms.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Planning the right ratio in pre-production helps your camera team frame shots properly, and ensures nothing important gets cut off in editing.
Need help picking the right format for your platform? Read this: Understanding Video Aspect Ratios
If you’ve ever struggled to explain “the look you’re going for,” a mood board is your best friend.
Mood boards are visual references, a collection of colours, images, fonts, lighting styles, and textures that define the feel of your video. They help your team quickly understand your creative direction, without needing a thousand words.
They’re especially useful for:
You don’t need fancy design tools either. A simple PDF or online board works just fine.
Want to know how to pull one together quickly? Here’s how: Preparing a Mood Board for Video Production
You don’t want people showing up to the shoot with questions, or worse, assumptions.
That’s where pre-production meetings come in. These meetings pull your team, talent, and stakeholders together to go over the plan. It’s your chance to fix misunderstandings before they turn into costly mistakes on set.
Here’s what to cover:
Keep the meeting focused. Make sure everyone leaves knowing their role, and how the day will run.
Need help planning the agenda? Start here: How to Conduct Pre-Production Meetings
One script doesn’t fit all.
The way you write for a product demo is totally different to how you’d script a testimonial or a social media clip. Each style has its own rhythm, tone, and structure, and if you don’t match it, the message might fall flat.
Here’s a quick look:
When planning your script, think about the viewer, the platform, and what you want them to do next. That’ll shape how the script flows.
Need help tailoring your message to the right format? Check out: Scripting for Different Video Styles
Most production problems don’t happen on set, they start long before the camera rolls.
Pre-production is where small oversights snowball into big issues. A missed permit, a vague brief, or an unclear schedule can delay your shoot, frustrate your team, and blow your budget.
Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
The fix? Slow down. Double check. Use a checklist. And make sure everyone’s on the same page.
Want the full list (and how to dodge each one)? You’ll find it here: Pre-Production Mistakes to Avoid
Documentaries aren’t just point-and-shoot projects. They need structure, even if the story unfolds as you go.
Whether it’s a brand story, a charity piece, or a behind-the-scenes look, planning is everything. You’ll need to map out your message, key interviews, filming days, and the overall narrative arc before you start rolling.
Key things to plan:
A well-planned doc saves hours in the edit — and helps you tell a stronger, clearer story.
Need a full breakdown? Head here: How to Plan a Documentary
If you want your video to sell, the planning starts with one question: What’s the offer?
A commercial video has one job, to move people to take action. That means your message needs to be clear, the visuals need to support it, and every second has to count. You don’t get a second chance to grab attention.
Here’s what to lock down during pre-production:
Commercial videos are often short, but the planning behind them should be thorough.
For a step-by-step on how to prep with purpose, see: How to Plan a Commercial Video
Social videos move fast, and so should your planning.
These aren’t high-budget productions. They’re short, snappy, and designed to grab attention in a split second. But don’t confuse quick with careless. The best social content is still planned, scripted, and shot with purpose.
Here’s how to prep for social video success:
And don’t forget, consistency matters more than perfection. Social video is about showing up regularly with content that speaks to your audience.
Want to plan smarter for your next scroll-stopping clip? Here’s how: How to Plan a Social Media Video
Planning might not be the flashiest part of video production, but it’s the part that makes everything else work.
From scripts and shot lists to crew, kit, and locations, the success of your video hinges on the prep you do upfront. When you get your pre-production process right, you save time, stay on budget, and create videos that hit the mark, creatively and commercially.
Use this guide as your starting point. Then dive deeper into each stage using the linked articles throughout this page. Whether you’re planning a testimonial, explainer, commercial, or social media video, the right preparation puts you miles ahead before the camera even rolls.
And if you’re ready to turn that plan into a polished video, we’re here to help.