Look, I’ve been in this game long enough to know that most video projects fail before the camera even starts rolling.
Yeah, you heard that right.
It’s not because of bad cameras or amateur actors… it’s because people skip the boring stuff. The planning. The prep work. **The pre-production.**
So let me break down what actually matters when you’re getting ready to create a video for your Melbourne business. No fluff, just the stuff that’ll save your bacon.
## **The Script (aka Your Video’s GPS)**
First things first – you need a script. And I’m not talking about some fancy Hollywood screenplay here.
Just write down:
– What you’re gonna say
– When you’re gonna say it
– Who’s saying it
Think of it like this… would you give a presentation to your biggest client without notes? Course not. Same deal here.
Your script doesn’t need to be Shakespeare. It just needs to make sense. Read it out loud. If it sounds weird when you say it, it’ll sound weird on camera. Trust me.
## **Storyboarding (Drawing Stick Figures is Fine)**
Okay, don’t panic when you hear “storyboard”.
You don’t need to be Picasso. Honestly, stick figures work just fine. What you’re doing is basically creating a comic book version of your video.
Why bother? Because it helps you spot problems before they become expensive problems. Like realizing you need a shot of your warehouse… but you’re filming at the office.
Each little sketch should show:
– **What’s in the shot**
– **Where the camera is**
– **What’s happening**
Seriously, 5 minutes with a pencil can save you hours of headaches later.
## **Location Scouting (Your Office Might Not Cut It)**
Here’s where people mess up big time.
They think “we’ll just film in the conference room”. Then on shoot day, they realize the air conditioner sounds like a jet engine and there’s a massive window reflecting everything.
Go check out your locations beforehand. Actually go there. Look for:
– **Weird noises** (AC, traffic, that guy who always takes loud phone calls)
– **Lighting issues** (too dark, too bright, weird shadows)
– **Space problems** (can you actually fit a camera crew in there?)
– **Power outlets** (you’d be surprised how often this becomes an issue)
Take photos. Take notes. Thank me later.
## **Casting and Talent (Your CEO Might Not Be Camera-Ready)**
Hard truth time: not everyone should be on camera.
Your CEO might be brilliant at closing deals but freeze up like a popsicle when the red light goes on. That’s okay!
Figure out:
– Who’s comfortable on camera (hint: it’s usually not who you think)
– Who knows the material inside out
– Who can take direction without getting offended
And please… do a quick camera test with people before the actual shoot day. Five minutes now saves an awkward conversation later.
## **The Shot List (Your Day-Of Battle Plan)**
A shot list is exactly what it sounds like – a list of every single shot you need.
Don’t just write “interview with Sarah”. Break it down:
– Wide shot of Sarah at desk
– Close-up of Sarah talking
– Over-the-shoulder shot of computer screen
– B-roll of Sarah working
Why? Because on shoot day, everyone’s stressed, time’s ticking, and you WILL forget something if it’s not written down.
## **Equipment and Crew Needs**
You don’t need Hollywood-level gear, but you do need to know what you need. (Yeah, read that again.)
Basics usually include:
– **Camera** (obviously)
– **Tripod** (shaky footage = amateur hour)
– **Lights** (phone flashlights don’t count)
– **Microphone** (built-in camera mics are garbage)
– **Backup batteries** (everything dies at the worst moment)
And crew? Even if it’s just you and a mate, figure out who’s doing what. Someone needs to run camera while someone else manages talent.
## **Timeline and Schedule**
Here’s the thing nobody tells you: everything takes three times longer than you think.
That “quick 5-minute interview”? Budget 30 minutes minimum. Need three different locations? That’s a full day, easy.
Build your schedule with buffer time. Lots of it. Because someone will be late, something will break, or you’ll need extra takes.
A rushed video looks rushed. Period.
## **The Bottom Line**
Look, I get it. Pre-production feels like homework. You just want to grab a camera and start filming.
But here’s what 20+ years in this business taught me: **the videos that actually work are the ones that were planned properly**.
You wouldn’t build a house without blueprints. You wouldn’t cater an event without knowing how many people are coming.
Video’s the same deal.
Do the boring stuff upfront. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
Now stop reading and start planning. That video’s not gonna pre-produce itself.
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*Got questions about getting your video project off the ground? The team at Pivotal Moments Media has been through this process hundreds of times with Melbourne businesses. They know what works and what doesn’t. Give them a shout – they’ll sort you out.*
