In this lesson, we focus on the key elements of production workflow, ensuring a smooth recording process. From stage setup to technical adjustments and grooming, each step contributes to the final result. Let’s explore these essential aspects to optimize your recording experience.

At this point, I believe you are ready for production:

You have your:

• Lighting set ready,
• Background or interior ready,
• Wardrobe ready,
• Scripts ready,
• Camera on the tripod.

We are all set and ready to record… or not?

In this video, you will find what else is necessary for you to prepare to hit the record button, and I am going to share with you my workflow. Some of the topics I will break down further in the next videos.

Even though you already have your stage ready, you still need to know what goes after what. I hope you agree that you cannot just wake up and record.

Here are the steps I usually take:

• If my setup is dynamic, I prepare the setup. It includes getting all lights to their places, laptop or tablet ready with the script on, table, chair, and water.
• I change my clothes.
• I get my hair and makeup done. And makeup is related to men too. It does not mean that men have to do the full makeup, but a face care routine should be in place. So further in this video, I will give some recommendations for ladies and gentlemen.
• I turn on the lights.
• I turn on the camera and adjust the camera settings. Depending on the time of your recording, you will need to adjust some settings to align with the light that sneaks through your curtain.
• Clip your microphone if you use a Lavalier. Turn it on.
• Make a test recording and adjust the frame if needed.
• Have a glance at your script. The highlighted and formatted words in your text must help you to remember what you are going to be saying. You don’t have to remember details because you will be able to read during the recording. However, this glance at your content will help you mobilize.
• Hit the record button.
• Start performing.
• Record 3-5 shorts at a time.
• Stop the recording. This is how you record the series of shorts. After the first recording, you can take a break if necessary, have a glance at your script, and continue recording the next series. We don’t do multiple takes.

If you need to have this checklist printed, please download it under the video.

This was an overview of my workflow that will allow you to see the bigger picture and understand what goes after what. In the next videos, we will cover in detail the following topics: Makeup, Camera settings, Performance.