pre-production
US /ˌpriː.prəˈdʌk.ʃən/
UK /ˌpriː.prəˈdʌk.ʃən/

1.
the phase of filmmaking or other media production that occurs before principal photography or actual production begins. It involves planning and preparation.
:
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The team spent three months in pre-production, finalizing the script and casting.
•
Effective pre-production is crucial for a smooth filming process.