Steering Your Marine Video Project: Part 2 – Preparing for Production

In the second part of our series, we take a deeper look at the pre-production process. This is often considered THE crucial phase of any film project. This is the time when all practical aspects of the production are addressed, like shooting schedule, budget and locations.

Before we dive in, have a look at our latest showreel:

At this point, we move from a brief to a script or storyboard, the creative blueprint for our production.

Here’s a guide to navigating this phase..

Selecting a Production Company: Finding the right team to bring your vision to life is your initial milestone. Look for a company with a strong track record in producing marine content, paying close attention to their portfolio and feedback from previous clients. A detailed discussion about your project’s objectives and expectations can help gauge whether their approach aligns with your needs. This step is about establishing a partnership built on understanding and mutual respect.

Collaboratively Crafting the Story: Once you’ve teamed up with a production company, the next task is to revisit your project brief (see last episode) and giving the production team feedback while they develop into a more refined document, like a script and/or storyboard. More often than not, elements of the original brief will be discarded in favor of clarity or better ideas. Make sure all stakeholders on the client side are comfortable with that.

Budgeting Accurately: Discussing and agreeing on a budget early in the pre-production process is critical. A transparent conversation about costs ensures that both parties have realistic expectations about what can be achieved.Your production company should provide a detailed cost breakdown, allowing you to see how your budget will be allocated across the project. Discussing how unforeseen expenses will be handled at this stage can help avoid surprises later on. Also check out which assets you can bring to the production. Larger yachts, for example, often have a tender that can perfectly serve as a camera boat, so the production does not have to rent one.

Approving the Timeline: The production timeline is a roadmap that guides your project from pre-production through to delivery. Review and agree on a timeline that outlines key milestones, including script and storyboard approvals. Ensuring there’s adequate time built in for reviews and adjustments is key to keeping the project on track. In the marine industry, we experience specific challenges when it comes to shooting with ships or boats. Sometimes shoots are scheduling into very narrow time windows. Between the end of the yard period and the next scheduled sailing, for example.? Try to find some extra days in the schedule, to buffer for any delays or bad weather.

Script and Storyboard Sign-off: The script and storyboard are where your video starts to take shape. They translate your brief into a narrative and visual plan, laying out how your message will be conveyed. Your approval is crucial; it ensures that the project aligns with your vision before moving into production. Providing timely feedback at this stage can help avoid costly changes later.

Location and Casting Decisions: The choice of locations and potentially casting talent are significant considerations in any video project. While your production team will propose options, your approval ensures these selections complement your brand and message.

Open Line of Communication: Establishing clear communication channels with your production team is essential. Decide on regular check-in points and who your main point of contact will be. Being available to answer questions or make decisions quickly helps keep the project on track.

The pre-production stage is all about laying a solid foundation for your marine video project. Your active participation in key decisions, from choosing the right production company to finalizing the script, sets the stage for a successful production. These early choices are pivotal in shaping the project, ensuring the final video effectively conveys your message and engages your audience.

Look out for the next post, where we’ll guide you through the production phase, offering insights into ensuring a successful and efficient shoot. And as always, consider scheduling a call with me if you are looking for help with your video project.

Thank you very much for your interest,

Gerrit Haaland

Creative Director

NAUTIC.FILM

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