Film production notes

Development - The process of finding a story. Ideas for films come alot of different places for example they can range from novels, real life events, toys or even other films.Once you've got an idea you'll need to write a pitch which you take to a film producer in an attempt to get some funding for your film. Even at this very early stage you need a very clear idea of who you're aiming you film at.

Pre-production - Once you've got funding you establish your budget and can begin to get a film crew together, you can storyboard the script. You also need break the script down into individual scenes and identify all the locations, props, cast members, costumes, special effects and visual effects needed.

Production - This is simply the process of making the film. Provided pre-production stage went well the making of the film should be straight forward. 'Film' is very expensive and difficult to store so an increasing number of film makers are using digital cameras to save money.

Post-production - During this stage you take all the 'film' you've shot and give it to a film editor. They will then begin putting it together. Special effects will be added, a soundtrack will be added, any missing dialogue will be re-recorded and added resulting in a 'rough cut'. This will be shown to the director and a test audience who will offer feedback. Often this causes scenes to be filmed and added or removed.