Writing the script is not exactly planning. However, the resulting script forms the basis for all decisions that have to be made to prep up production. Having no script will prevent you from costing the program, designing its look, determining the crew and equipment needed, listing the locations or sets, budgeting the production or setting a schedule. Only a true script can provide the means to plan as opposed to an outline no matter how long it is. Non-fiction programs typically use a two-column (audio and video) formatted script to include complete narration and essential audio as well as the visuals.

Contrary to popular belief that special effects belong in post production, the most convincing effects are fully planned in pre-production so that every detail can be seamlessly integrated by implementing the plan. That is why it is important to develop these special effects before you start scouting for locations and budgeting props. Compositing and computer graphics can only do so much without the right foundation.

Budgeting and scheduling come together. Whereas scheduling brings the right cast members, crews and equipment to the right location at the designated time, budgeting is equally crucial no matter if the people are paid by the hour, day or simply donating their time. Good planning allows for considerable savings as being able to shoot all scenes that require the use of a prop that costs $200 a day back-to-back so that it can be returned as soon as possible.

A contingency plan should always exist. This is about being able to shoot something else if certain problems are encountered such as inclement weather or absence of an actor. Good production planners budget the show on an itemized scale. Very few people have the luxury of having unlimited funds and even if you do have such funds, it isn’t wise at all to be spending it on unnecessary things.

Through experience, you will find out soon enough that not everything happens exactly the way we want it to. That is why it is very important to pay attention to other details that might lead to some unwanted effects on the finished product and the budget. Mistakes mean lose of money. Always check your subject’s background, foreground, balance, tension and consistency. The color composition is a major part of many motion pictures and it is a bad idea to neglect to put it to good and maximum use.