Production research

Content
Could be original or optioned- both require research to be done
An option is a contractual agreement between a potential film producer and a writer or third party that is holding ownership of a screenplay.
The owner of a piece of writing can sell a specific script to a film producer however if they have not created a film or production using this within 2 years the owner of the script has the authority and right to sell this piece of work to another producer.

Copyright- cannot use another individuals or organisations work as your own. You have to have permission to use work that has been copyrighted.
Copyright owners can decide to licence others to use their own work retaining the ownership over the rights themselves.
Short film makers unlikely to not have the correct funds or budget to afford or pay for copyright or use another individuals sound or music in their production.

Viability
It is important to demonstrate that your planned production is viable.
Testing the viability of your short film at a number of different levels is important:

• Is the production financially viable?
• Do you have the skills that are necessary to undertake the process?
• Do you have access to the required equipment and technology that is available?
• Will you require help and support and if need be what is it?
• Do you have enough time to create the production?

Placement media

Financial costs
Is the production financially viable?
Short film producers have to consider significant costs such as:

• Crew
• Locations
• Props/ Costume
• Talent
• Permissions
• Equipment
• Miscellaneous (food and drink)

The overall costs of the production will differ depending on what sort of short film you are looking to create.

Technological resources
Hardware and software options are available to use in the creation of your production. If you choose to work independently your equipment will have to be purchased or hired for the duration of the production process. Looking at this aspect you will have to undertake researching what equipment you will require and how much it will cost. Software will help you to tailor, cut and frame the short film how you want where as the hardware is the equipment that helps you to create the production.

Personnel
Hiring creative individuals to help research and develop your ideas is an important factor within creating a production. It is useful to also look at technical expertise to support you in the production stages. Marketing people can help sell the production and generate a significant income from advertising and merchandising. Marketing and advertising are important factors that need to be looked into in detail in order to determine how much it will cost and how it will be done.

Locations
The filmmaker needs to research potential locations that can be used and accessed to film the production. Using a Recce is useful in identifying suitable venues for the filming of the production, assisting in the planning of specific shots, assess potential problems or health and safety issues that might be faced by the crew.