Five stages of pre-production process

Typical steps in the pre-production process, illustrated by our work on the Prague episode of the National Geographic Abu Dhabi travel show Hidden Secrets of Cities.

Five stages of pre-production process:

Locations

Filming took place mainly in Prague. The host was to explore iconic landmarks and then guide the audience to hidden spots known mostly to locals. We carefully scouted and selected around 20 locations, including must-see places like the surroundings of Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and Prague Castle. After exchanging several emails with location photos and comments, we created a detailed Google Map highlighting all exact positions for the shoot.

Location Permits

Obtaining filming permits in Prague 1 is a rather complex process, typically taking about 20 days. It requires submitting three separate applications to three different institutions, and every location must be entered into the official city plan. The earlier the applications are filed, the better. In our case, we had nearly a month to complete the process, which allowed us to secure all permits in time. Often, however, it comes down to the last minute — or requires paying an extra fee for an accelerated process.

Story Development & Shooting Script

The brief was quite open: discover unfamiliar places and interesting local figures to interview. We researched dozens of personalities who capture the unique spirit of Prague. Among them, the clockmaster of the legendary astronomical clock at Old Town Square and a boatman from Charles Bridge truly stood out. Both offered fascinating stories to tell, filmed in photogenic settings like the interior of the astronomical clock tower, the underground areas of Charles Bridge and directly on the water.

Scheduling & Shooting Plan

Once we secured our local filming crew and arranged camera and sound equipment rentals, as well as accommodation and transport logistics, we finalised the shooting plan. This master plan had to reflect the valid permit dates, coordinate crew briefings, set up interview times, organise catering, and even plan for some evening activities to keep the team engaged.

Filming Production Support

Thanks to precise preparations — from location scouting and permits to story development, local crew and equipment — we ensured a smooth production process. Despite filming in the very heart of Prague, with all its crowded streets and limited vehicle access, our vans reached every location on schedule. We managed to film not only everything planned, but also captured many additional spontaneous moments that enriched the final cut.

Check out the Prague episode of Hidden Secrets of Cities bellow and then click on WORK site to get more information about our recent and past projects.

Fixer Service Prague helps to arrange anything involved in film production in the Czech Republic

Started in the spring of 2005, we make sure that all required permits, casting and personnel, accommodation&transportation, location scouting, crew/gear sourcing and client services are customized to the specific needs of your project.

We are content friendly. We create, edit, and arrange the text, video, audio, images, and other materials that may be included on your website.

We also provide script and shooting schedule services. We have successfuly managed productions from high to low budget and we find the perfect solution for your shooting plans in the Czech Republic providing credible services at all stages of production.

Check out the WORK site to get more information about our recent and past projects.

www.fixerserviceprague.com