During pre-production, the required paperwork--release forms, contracts and schedules--are filled out and filed.
A list of possible locations is drafted and contact is made with those locations. A production schedule, including travel time, location, time for setting up equipment, directions on where specific people will be, allotted time for interviews and lunch, as well as break times, is also drafted.
If the entire production is not scripted, research is conducted to ensure that the interviews will provide all of the important information during the shoot. Research on the topic or person being interviewed is conducted.
A budget is created to estimate the amount of money that will be required to complete the production. Drafting up a budget proposal ahead of time prevents any issues the day of the shoot.
A remote survey is conducted to assess what is at the location and what it still requires. Producers take note of the amount of electrical outlets, lighting fixtures, and other technical, legal and aesthetic features to ensure a smooth production day.