ALWAYS do these 3 THINGS in Pre-Production!

Introduction to Directing and Creative Prep00:00:02

Directing is about maintaining a cohesive vision by answering constant creative questions. To ensure these answers serve the story, filmmakers should focus on three pillars of creative prep: theme, character, and tone.

Setting the Foundation with Script Notes00:00:57

Before diving into the creative pillars, the director should perform an initial pass of the script to make gut-reaction notes. Using organizational tools like Millinote helps structure these initial thoughts and keep creative assets in one place.

Defining Theme, Character, and Tone00:02:46

The core process involves three steps: identifying the 'why' of the story (theme), building detailed profiles and backstories for characters to influence their actions (character), and establishing an emotional atmosphere using music and visual lookbooks (tone).

Building Visual References00:05:41

For visual tone, the speaker recommends using platforms like Shot Deck to curate high-quality film stills that represent the desired look of the project, which helps in pitching and maintaining a consistent visual roadmap.

Applying Intentionality to Production00:07:45

A strong creative foundation ensures that every decision on set—from wardrobe choices to props—is motivated by the film's core themes. This intentionality prevents arbitrary choices and provides a clear guide for the entire crew.