Filmmaking: Piecing together the puzzle

Filmmaking is a task that requires many people to come together and function as a team. In a film production there are several different departments that make up the entire team. Each aspect of production is broken down into departments such as art and camera. These departments then focus on the tasks that are specific to their specialty. Through the use of departments, all required tasks are covered and when all the departments work together as a unit the magic happens. Teamwork and planning are two key components that are required for any production team to be successful in the world of filmmaking.

Without money no production would be able to go on. Money that is going to be spent throughout the production must be carefully budgeted. There are so many aspects of a production that can be costly, having a budget will be indispensable so funds can be allotted properly and everything can be covered. Some important things to include in any budget are talent and crew costs, equipments rentals, art department needs, and permits. As money is dispensed to each department, known as petty cash, it is important for department heads to also keep a budget and keep receipts so production can understand how the money is being spent.

Planning for the film takes place in what is called pre production. During this phase of production everything is completely planned out for a to z. Each department plans out exactly what they need and how they will accomplish what they need to do when production begins. Having a solid plan and schedule is something that is essential to the success of the production. Having a plan a, b, and c is something that will make production less stressful. For example, if it rains and you cannot shoot outside, there is no need to panic. Thanks to your plan b production will not have to stop because you thought out a backup plan so production can continue.

The execution of the film is called principle photography. During this phase the film is actually shot. How smooth and efficient the shoot will go is all based upon how well thought out and planned it is. Without proper planning your production can truly crumble when they reach this stage. Again in this stage each department executes their own tasks so the story can be told and captured on film for audiences to enjoy.

Filmmaking is by far a team effort. Through collaborating and properly planning the industry saying that things should be done “faster, cheaper, and better” can actually be something that can be accomplished.