Chapter 2 Working in the Television Production Industry
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language, have multiple defi nitions. Memorize the professional defi nitions
of terms and learn the difference between those with multiple meanings.
Use the terms appropriately during class to help you get in the habit of
using them correctly when working in the television industry.
Program Proposals
The fi rst step in producing a program is to develop a program pro-
posal (discussed in Chapter 8, Scriptwriting). This is a plan that includes the
basic idea of the program, the program’s format, intended audience, bud-
get considerations, location information, and a rough shooting schedule.
The program proposal is reviewed by investors and production companies
for fi nancing considerations and overall project approval.
Scriptwriting
Before a script is written for the program, a script outline is created.
This outline contains comments noting the direction of the program and
varies depending on the program format (drama, panel discussion, inter-
view, or music video). Television scripts are usually written in a two-col-
umn format. The left column contains video/technical information and the
right column contains audio and stage direction.
Producing
The day-to-day activities involved in producing a program ensure that
the production process runs as smoothly as possible. Important decisions
that affect the program’s ultimate success are made throughout the pro-
duction process, including coordinating schedules, acquiring the neces-
sary resources, monitoring the activity and progress of various production
teams, and weighing budgetary considerations.
Directing
Directing involves shaping the creative aspects of a program and inter-
acting with the entire staff and cast to realize the director ’s vision of the
production. In addition to verbally providing direction during production,
many important pre- and post-production directing activities contribute to
a program’s success.
Lighting
When planning the lighting for a production, there should be suffi cient
light to meet the technical requirements of the camera and to produce an
acceptable picture on the screen. Various lighting techniques are also used
to meet the aesthetic requirements of the director. Accurate lighting in a
program is necessary to create the desired mood, appearance, and setting.
Most importantly, proper placement of lighting instruments contributes to
creating three-dimensionality on a fl at television screen.
Scenery, Set Dressing, and Props
Careful planning and consideration when choosing scenery, set dress-
ings, and props helps create a believable environment for the program.