Create a Video Outline

During pre-production of an advocacy video, you will establish a clear goal and audience, and begin developing the most effective message and messenger for this audience.

At this stage, you should prepare an outline or working script. An outline is the architecture of your proposed film—a sketch of the audio and visual elements that will make up the finished film, arranged in order, illustrating the storyline of your film. From your outline you will work out what shots you need to shoot in any given location, interview or activity. A well-thought-through outline is particularly crucial in the case of human rights and social justice filming, where there may not be the opportunity to reshoot the material.

Preparing an outline will help you to think of what you need to tell your story in a compelling and dramatic way. You do not have to stick to it once you film and edit but it can act as a guide to help you think about creative ways to tell your story.

What’s Next? Choose Audiovisual Content to Best Support Your Message