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Television Production & Broadcast Journalism
cue: A signal that
directs something
specifi c to happen.
The fl oor manager is responsible for making sure the set is ready for
production, for initiating the program countdown, and for giving various
cues to the talent. A cue is a signal that implies something specific is to hap-
pen. One familiar cue is the “cut” signal. The fl oor manager makes a cutting
motion with his hand across his neck. There are many other hand signals
and cues that are standard within the industry. The signals can be any
action that the production team agrees upon and understands, Figure 2-4.
Figure 2-4. The fl oor manager gives silent signals, or cues, to the talent.
“You’re on!”
“Wrap it up.”
“Stretch what you’re saying—
you’re going too fast.”
“Look at the camera I’m
pointing to.”
“Cut!”
“Speak louder.”
“Speak softer.”
“Speed up your speaking—
time is running out.”