Pre-Production
Creative
I started off by trying to turn my ideas into a script, since we are creating a mockumentary we wanted some sort of documentary feel so to keep it authentic, we got our actors to improvise to make it more believable and keep that documentary feel. Therefor the script was very loose. However there are parts throughout that are scripted so for them parts I created a Hollywood style script.
After I created a shooting script for The 'unscripted' parts with a rough script for the cast to stick to so I could direct them to use it as a rough guideline and make stuff up as they go along. I included frames from my story board along with the rough script in the column next to it.
Overall when it comes to the actual day of shooting I know exactly what the shot looks like and what the characters say at the same time. This saves a lot of time when it comes to the actual production of the project as I can plan out my shots more accurately.
Now I had my script I then started started to compile a storyboard for my production. As we were making a documentary style short film, It made it hard to plan out all of my shots as a lot of my shots were either found footage or improvised, also for the interviews, we planned to use 2 cameras and cut between the two angles later when necessary so that was also a challenge.
Once I had all my storyboards done I then began to work out the final logistical elements before using my script and storyboards to film all my shots. This will save a lot of time as I know exactly what I have to film and when and where it will be in the final cut.
Since the other bits are all found footage I compiled an archive found footage I used:
Once I put together my locations and storyboards I started to create a lighting plan for my interior shoots as they would be the most tricky to light as we only have natural light to play around with!
Another thing which I set out to do was create a style sheet for each character so the people knew what to wear. For chuck I wasn't too bothered as he would be a shillohette anyway, but it was important for the farmers to look the part!
Since the intro scene was the only scene fully scripted, I also created an audio script to go with it so in post and actual production I know exactly what Foley and music I need throughout my production.
