A well-made brand video can explain what you do, show your personality and connect with people in a way that text alone rarely can. But good video starts long before anyone picks up a camera. Careful planning is the difference between a smooth production and an expensive headache.
Write a clear brief
Start by answering a few simple questions. What is the video for? Who is it for? Where will it be shown? What should viewers think, feel or do afterwards? Also note practical details such as budget, deadline and any must-have content. A clear brief keeps everyone focused.
Develop the idea and script
With the brief agreed, the creative team develops an idea and a script or outline. For some videos, such as interviews or documentaries, a detailed script is not possible, but a clear structure is still essential. A storyboard or shot list helps everyone picture the final result before filming begins.
Plan the production
Pre-production is where much of the real work happens. Typical tasks include:
- Choosing locations and checking access, noise and light
- Casting presenters, actors or contributors
- Booking crew and equipment
- Arranging the permissions you need, including consent and release forms
- Writing a detailed schedule for the shoot day
Shoot with the edit in mind
On the day, capture more than you think you need. Extra angles, close-ups and cutaway shots give the editor flexibility. Record clean sound, as poor audio is hard to fix later. Keep the brief close by and check that key messages are covered.
Edit, review and refine
Editing brings the story together with music, graphics and colour. Agree a clear review process with a limited number of feedback rounds. Look at the first cut as a whole before focusing on small details.
Plan distribution early
Think about where the video will live from the start. You may need shorter cut-downs, subtitles and versions in different shapes for different platforms.
With good planning, video production becomes an enjoyable, creative process. If you have a video in mind, the Northpeak team would love to hear about it.
