What are the four main phases of film production?

Film production is generally composed of four distinct phases:1

• Development: The producer selects an original idea or acquires the rights to an existing story, such as a novel or theatrical piece. During this stage, a screenplay is developed, cost estimates are made, and the producer secures necessary financing from various sources.1
• Preproduction: Once funding is secured, the producer selects the creative and technical team, including directors, actors, and crew members. This phase also involves planning shoots, selecting resources, and initiating promotional activities.1
• Filming (or Shooting): This is the process of capturing the footage. It is often the most expensive and unpredictable phase, as it requires the simultaneous work of the entire crew and is subject to external factors like weather or the availability of key talent.1
• Postproduction: Following the completion of filming, the project is readied for public presentation. This phase involves editing the picture and sound tracks, creating visual effects, and adding the soundtrack to produce a final master copy ready for distribution.12