This video explains why it is necessary to pre-fill the oil filter before installing it. This procedure will protect the bearings.
Those interested enough to watch the video posted above might well enjoy Uncle Tony's on engine oil flow. Oiling System Flow Path Of The Classic American V8 Engine - Bing video
And this one is of oil system educational relevance also. The Ugly Truth About Your Engines Oil Filter - It Will Let You Down When You Really Need It The Most (youtube.com)
I prefill the regular filter and the bypass filter with oil prior to mounting them on the filter pads. Who wants to run an engine dry for a few seconds?