Some filmmakers overlook the post shooting process, otherwise known as post production. On the other hand, some filmmakers are constantly working on their product, tweaking color, adjusting shadows, even dubbing their audio more than one time in order to capture that perfect final piece that encompasses their original vision.
Obviously, to attempt to short cut this process is a massive mistake. Even when shooting documentaries or home video (think Blair Witch Project), the time spent in the studio is where the magic actually happens. Some will even outsource this process, which can be a sign that a filmmaker has given up on the creative process. Think about it, why would you allow anyone else to touch what you’ve created? The job must be managed or completed by the artist, anything else is a possible melting pot of ideas, thoughts, bad habits and conflicts.
There are typically three ways to handle this process:
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Splicing
Perhaps one of the oldest, yet effective ways to get your video to look and feel unique these days. Used to be, this was standard, but now the splicing process is more tedious, and often frowned upon by some expert film heads. However, the final product can be considered very original and specific to what the filmmaker originally had in mind. The downfall to this process is the cost. Whether it be from the time spent of the equipment needed to pull off a great final mix. You’ll want to really weigh out the pros and cons of this process before deciding on it.
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Digital
The emergence of digital equipment some 70 years ago really changed the way a final film could look. From CGI to EDL (edit decision list), the world of digital mixing opens up vast dimensions of options and processes. So if you decide to go digital, you will need to understand all the nuances and variables of what each piece of equipment can do to your mix. With digital, you can also do Foley rooms and ADR rooms, where you can bring in effects and actors to dub audio over your mix. Going digital also comes with a cost, but will definitely save time over splicing or many other processes.
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Outsource
We briefly touched on this in the paragraph above, but there can also be benefits of outsourcing. If you are pumping out bulk video of a freelancer, this may be your best bet to save tons of time and money. Research your resources thoroughly and test their knowledge to make sure their interests are aligned with yours.
Truth be told, we could write and contribute tons of data and information about these processes, but we want to touch on the importance of this process and the main choices you have. If you have any other ideas that could help improve this brief resource, send an email to albert@swahaproductions.com
Happy filming!