How to Produce an Image Video: Checklist for the Production Schedule

The production schedule differs from the script in that it is about listing the settings and scenes effectively and with intention. In this way, a frequent change of location can take place in the script. However, the shooting should be planned in such a way that all scenes at one location are filmed in one go.

But not only the location, also time of day or the daylight should be considered. This is especially true for nocturnal scenes. The lighting conditions cannot be more different depending on the time of day. Depending on when the scene should be filmed at a certain location, the sequence has to be observed and adjusted accordingly.

The production schedule determines the order of shooting scenes and provides a precise and realistic schedule (always include setup and dismantling!).

It also lists when and where props are being used.

Before the shoot

• Prepare briefing
• Inform all participants about the course of events on the day of shooting
• Create and bring along a telephone list of all attendees
• If necessary, prepare an emergency plan – research telephone numbers / contacts if someone drops out and cancels
• Plan B for bad weather when shooting outdoors
• Equipment check (Are the batteries charged?)
• Prepare interviews, if necessary
• Print script and schedule multiple times
• Order / organize catering

Legal matters

• Research and apply for filming information and permits
• Keeping an eye on trademark and copyright laws
• Prepare and print out declarations of consent in blank for: Minors, interview partners (without compensation or expense allowance), actors (with compensation or expense allowance), random persons who will be shown in the film
• If necessary, observe the safety regulations on location

On the day of shooting

• Check of the shooting set: tidy, clean or as it should be according to the description of scenery? (e.g. full trash can in the picture)
• Check: Are there already damages on site? Exclude liability!

On-site briefing

• All cell phones need to be turned off
• Discuss what, for example, may or may not be shared from the location via social networks
• Whoever leaves the set has to give a notice of departure
• Introducing everyone, especially those responsible
• Discuss content of the film production
• Go through shooting times and locations / plan / reservations (don’t forget about travel times)
• Indicate pauses or better schedule them, if possible

Equipment

• Camera: Batteries – packed and fully charged? Enough memory cards / data carriers? All necessary lenses packed? Time code / ISO / aperture / etc. set correctly? If necessary, control monitor packed? All necessary cables brought along?
• Tripod: Is everything okay with the tripod? (water level, plate for camera, legs)
• Recording: What kind of microphone is used? Badges, boom or hand microphone? Microphone check / sound sample made? Pay attention to ambient noise (close windows, turn off music, turn off technical equipment)
• Light: Are the lights in order? Are the tripods okay? Matching color foils packed? Extension cable packed? Spare bulbs packed? Is there an unfavorable shadow?
• Picture: White balance (Don’t forget about a white paper or other white flats!) Exposure (aperture, zebra indicator, gain) set correctly? Is the focus and sharpness control all right?
• Clothing & Styling: Do you need to provide any important costumes? Was the clothing of the persons in each scene determined and discussed, bought? Are there any spare clothes? If necessary, book stylist for the day of shooting
• Miscellaneous: Tape, scissors, smaller tools (depending on the shooting), barrier tape, distribution sockets; If water is involved: hair dryers, towels