ABSTRACT
Because film and video production is based on the notion of time, the process of editing, controlling time and space within the story, is of paramount importance. This process of editing, however, does not begin after the film is shot; it begins when the idea is conceived. Film and video production is both an art and a craft. In every step, from the writing, to the directing, to the design and photography, to the editing and finishing, every stage is a combination of art and craft. Ideas grow from other ideas. There are a number of ways to stimulate ideas. Some people use pictures, perhaps of the era, perhaps of a location, or of people. Others like to use toys, simple puzzle toys or dolls or stuffed animals, something that can be engaged kinesthetically. Whether narrative film or non-narrative film, documentaries, corporate videos, even commercials and music videos, the development of an idea follows remarkably similar lines.
