September 9, 2025 | by David Summerall
the Three Pillars of Pre-Production 🏛
Pro Creators don’t guess; they build a foundation.
Their process rests on three essential pillars:
Scripting → What you’re going to say
Shot List → What you’re going to film
Setup → How you’re going to film it
Skip any of these, and your content suffers. Master them, and you’ll look polished - even if you’re filming on a phone.
Scripting (Even for “Unscripted” Content) ✍️
You don’t need to write a word-for-word script, but you do need structure. Even the most natural “off the cuff” creators plan their flow. At a minimum, map out:
Opening Hook – the first 3 seconds to capture attention
3–5 Key Points – clear beats to keep your message on track
Transition Phrases – smooth bridges between sections
Strong Ending – a clear takeaway, CTA, or closing thought
Think of it like building a skeleton—you can improvise the details, but the structure keeps everything upright.
Shot Lists: Your Visual Roadmap 🎬
A Shot List prevents guesswork while filming. Instead of fumbling with angles mid-shoot, you know exactly what visuals you need. This saves time, keeps energy high, and ensures your edits flow seamlessly.
Proper Setup Prevents Future Problems 💡
Bad audio, poor lighting, and shaky framing will sink even the best idea. Pros never leave setup to chance. Before recording:
Test your Audio Levels
Adjust Lighting for clarity and mood
Frame your Camera Angle for consistency
Pro Tip: Record 10 seconds of test footage. Watch it back. Fix problems now, not during editing.
Common Mistake Alert 🚨
If you’re saying “I’ll figure out what to say once I hit record,” stop immediately.
That mindset leads to:
Hours of painful editing ⏳
Rambling, unfocused delivery 😬
Content that feels flat, not engaging
Even so-called “spontaneous” creators work from a hidden framework. What looks effortless on camera is almost always carefully structured behind the scenes.
Final Takeaway.
To skip the amateur phase, shift your mindset: the real work happens before you press record. With strong scripting, clear shot lists, and proper setup, you’ll move from winging it to winning with confidence—and your audience will notice the difference instantly.