​Pre-Production

1. ​Lock Script

2. Finalize Budget

   • Breakdown script

   • Draft budget based on script needs

3. Hire Department Heads

   • Director (if not already established)

   • Line Producer

   • Unit Production Manager (UPM)

   • Cinematographer

   • Casting Director

   • Location Manager

   • Production Designer

4. Breakdown the Script

   • Create scene breakdowns

   • Establish the number of locations, props, cast members, time of day, etc.

5. Locations

   • Source locations

   • Scout locations

   • Secure locations

6. Storyboard & Shot List

   • Create storyboards

   • Create shot list

7. Equipment

• Reserve equipment with rental house

• Obtain COIs (Certificate of Insurance)

1. Casting

• Create cast breakdowns

• Distribute to talent agencies

• Hold auditions and callbacks

• Make offers and negotiate contracts

• Lock cast

1. Rehearsals

• • Schedule table reads

  • Schedule rehearsals

1. Art Department

   • Source props & art

   • Begin set design & construction (if necessary)

2. Wardrobe

   • Gather cast clothing and shoe sizes

   • Shop for wardrobe

   • Hold fitting with cast

   • Finalize wardrobe options

3. Permits, Insurance & Contracts

   • Purchase production insurance

   • Gather location permits

   • Finalize talent contracts

   • Finalize crew deal memos

   • Finalize release forms

4. Schedule

   • Create stripboard schedule

5. Hire remaining crew

   • Production Management

   • Camera

   • Electrical

   • Grip

   • Assistant Directors

   • Continuity

   • Art

   • Sound

   • Stunts

   • Special Effects

   • Transportation

   • Craft Services

   • Catering

   • Hair & Makeup

   • DIT

   • Post-Production

6. Production Prep

   • Tech scout

   • Camera prep

   • Equipment pickups

   • Create & distribute call sheets