# Choose Your Production

Part of the Moviemaking Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/moviemaking/guide/index.md)

*2. Planning Your Movie*

> **2d.** Using motion picture shooting techniques, plan ONE of the following programs. Start with a treatment and complete the requirement by presenting this program to a pack or your troop, patrol, or class.

You must choose exactly one option from this requirement. Each path asks you to plan with a treatment, use real camera techniques, and present the finished program to an audience. The difference is the kind of story you will tell.

## Your Options

- **[Req 2d1 — Cover a Court of Honor](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/moviemaking/guide/req2d1/)**: Record a real Scouting event and build an audience-ready piece from moments you cannot easily repeat. This option teaches planning, anticipation, and event coverage.
- **[Req 2d2 — Create a Short Feature](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/moviemaking/guide/req2d2/)**: Invent your own short story and film it on purpose. This option teaches creative control, shot planning, and storytelling choices.
- **[Req 2d3 — Teach a Scout Skill](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/moviemaking/guide/req2d3/)**: Produce a training vignette that helps a new Scout learn something clearly. This option teaches instructional structure, clarity, and useful close-up coverage.

## How to Choose

**Choosing the right production** — Pick the one that matches your time, resources, and interests

- [ ] **Control over the scene**: Req 2d2 gives you the most control because you design the story. Req 2d1 gives you the least because real events happen when they happen.
- [ ] **Planning pressure**: Req 2d1 rewards preparation and coverage. Req 2d3 rewards organization and clear teaching. Req 2d2 rewards story design.
- [ ] **People needed**: Req 2d1 may need only event access. Req 2d2 may need actors. Req 2d3 usually needs one person demonstrating a skill.
- [ ] **What you will gain**: Req 2d1 builds documentary-style awareness, Req 2d2 strengthens creative storytelling, and Req 2d3 develops communication and instructional filming.

> **Tip**
>
> If this is your first complete project, the training vignette in Req 2d3 is often the easiest to keep clear and short. If you enjoy creative writing, Req 2d2 may be the most fun. If you want a real event with natural emotion, Req 2d1 is a strong choice.

> **Be Prepared! Choose the option you can actually finish**
>
> Before deciding, ask three questions.
>
> - **Can I get permission to film this?**
> - **Can I complete it safely with the people and equipment I have?**
> - **Can I show the finished result to an audience soon after filming?**

[BFI homepage](https://www.bfi.org.uk): Film-learning resources and inspiration that can help you think about different types of productions and audiences.

When you have chosen your path, move to the first option page and compare its demands with your own project idea.

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- Previous: [Master Camera Moves](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/moviemaking/guide/req2c/index.md)
- Next: [Cover a Court of Honor](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/moviemaking/guide/req2d1/index.md)