pre-production

US /ˌpriː.prəˈdʌk.ʃən/
UK /ˌpriː.prəˈdʌk.ʃən/
"pre-production" picture
1.

the phase of filmmaking or other media production that occurs before principal photography or actual production begins. It involves planning and preparation.

:
The team spent three months in pre-production, finalizing the script and casting.
Effective pre-production is crucial for a smooth filming process.