In which stage are materials prepared and equipment tested?

The pre-production stage is crucial in the media production process, as it involves detailed planning and preparation before any actual filming or production begins. During this stage, various tasks are carried out, such as scriptwriting, storyboarding, casting, location scouting, and budgeting.

Importantly, equipment testing is also a vital part of this stage. It ensures that all necessary tools, such as cameras, microphones, and lighting equipment, function properly and are suitable for the production's needs. Preparing materials refers to organizing and finalizing scripts, shot lists, and production schedules, all of which set the foundation for a smooth production process.

Focusing on these preparations helps to identify potential problems before they arise during the production phase, ultimately leading to a more efficient and successful shooting schedule. The other stages mentioned, like execution, production, and post-production, do not specifically emphasize the preparatory work that characterizes pre-production, making this stage essential for any successful media project.