At Dow Studios, we believe that the success of any creative production lies in its preparation. Whether we’re working on a lifestyle photo library, an architectural shoot, or a full commercial campaign, our structured approach ensures that each project is delivered with clarity, precision, and creative excellence.
This blog offers you a behind-the-scenes look into our production workflow. It’s a step-by-step guide designed for our clients, agencies, and collaborators who want to understand how we turn ideas into impactful visuals. Think of this not as a rigid diagram, but as a proven framework tailored to your unique needs.
Why Preparation is Key
No two productions are the same. That’s why a well-prepared workflow isn’t just useful — it’s essential. Good preparation:
- Aligns expectations from the start
- Clarifies the scope and creative vision
- Enables tailored proposals based on realistic needs
- Smooths out the execution process, minimizing surprises
From pre-production to delivery, this is how we approach bigger productions.
1. Understanding the Project
Everything begins with understanding.
We start by reviewing your brief, brand guidelines, or references. Whether it’s a storyboard for a video, moodboards for photography, or simple bullet points, the more information we receive, the more effectively we can plan.
Don’t have a storyboard or script? No problem. Our creative team can assist with brainstorming, scriptwriting, and concept development to help bring your vision to life.
2. Breaking Down the Project
Once we have the big picture, we break it down into manageable parts:
- Creating a detailed storyboard and/or outline
- Location management & permit planning
- Safety requirements (e.g., safety briefings at industrial sites)
- Budget considerations, including travel or special equipment
- Talent sourcing, wardrobe coordination, and prop management
- Assembling the perfect team: director, DOP, assistant crew, makeup artist, wardrobe stylist, etc.
This breakdown allows us to build a customized offer that reflects your project’s scope and creative ambitions.
3. Recce / Scouting
Scouting the location is an essential step. During a recce, we:
- Evaluate the practicality of the site for filming or shooting
- Identify technical challenges (e.g., lighting, space, acoustics)
- Test shots using still cameras to visualize compositions
We often use these images to mock up potential shots using AI tools, which helps guide the production visually and logistically.
4. Creating the Shotlist
A comprehensive shot list is our blueprint for success. It helps:
- Align all parties on the creative direction
- Assign crew roles, identify required props, and clarify talent needs
- Ensure wardrobe, timing, and location flows are accounted for
Shotlists are particularly useful when combined with visuals from the recce. From here, we also generate a call sheet — the daily schedule for the shoot.
5. Essential Meetings
Creative Meetings
At the early stages of pre-production, we often schedule creative meetings—these are essential brainstorming sessions where we align on the overall concept and visual approach. During these meetings, we explore ideas, review references, and start shaping the structure of the storyboard or shot list. Whether it’s a lifestyle shoot, a product showcase, or a narrative-driven video, these creative discussions help ensure that the project’s vision matches your brand goals from the very beginning.
Pre-Production Meetings (PPMs)
Once the creative direction is locked and key decisions have been made, we move on to one final Pre-Production Meeting. These meetings are focused on execution and are scheduled before the actual production. During this meeting we are involve all parties and walk through the entire production process; from confirming logistics to assign talents and crew.
6. Production: The Shoot Day(s)
Lights, camera, action.
Production day is where all the preparation comes together. Our crew arrives fully equipped with industry-standard gear, ready to capture everything as envisioned—whether it’s photography, video, drone, or a combination of formats.
Although we are fully capable of handling the production independently, clients and agencies are always welcome to join us on set. Your presence can be a great asset, allowing for real-time feedback and fast approvals. We view production as a collaborative space and pride ourselves on running efficient, professional sets where creativity and precision meet.
7. Post-Production
The final product comes together in post.
- For video: We handle editing, including supers and motion graphics, color grading and sound mixing.
- For photography: Our image post-production process includes precise exposure, color, and contrast adjustments, complemented by high-end retouching where required. When compositing or performing background replacements, we execute these with meticulous attention to detail to ensure seamless integration and visual realism.
Post-production is more than polishing; it’s where the vision becomes reality.
8. Review & Feedback
Our involvement doesn’t end at delivery. After delivery:
- We review all feedback and refine if needed
- Evaluate the project internally to improve future workflows
- Invite your thoughts, because long-term partnerships matter to us
Your satisfaction is always our end goal.
Final Thoughts
This production workflow reflects the way we treat every major project: with precision, flexibility, and creativity. Whether you’re working on an internal campaign, a national advertisement, or a complete photo library, you can trust Dow Studios to manage every step professionally.
Have a project in mind? Let us bring it to life. Contact us today to schedule a free discovery call and see how our production process can be tailored to your next big idea.