Production Positions

Anchors & Talent    Ass't. Director    Ass't. Producer   Audio   Camera    Director   Fonts/Effects   Producer    Tech Director    Station Manager
Floor Director    
Promotion Producer

Anchors and Talent Top of Page

Anchors have a responsibility to act professional on camera, use proper delivery skills, and maintain composure during production.

Job Description:
1.  Come on time to the weekly meeting at 5:00 pm Tuesdays.
2.  Meet with the producing staff before the day of production for latest instructions.
3.  Prepare the script for teleprompter before the deadline.
4.  Each anchor writes his own news for each weekly show, then types it up on the computer for teleprompter usage. The producer will assign story topics from CNN and other sources.
5.  News Anchors Only - News can be acquired from CNN Newsource, then re-written for use on production night.  Once completed, save file copies to the teleprompter computer.
6.  Sports Anchor Only - Sports news is gathered through the Athletic Office of Sports Information early on Monday (mostly stats) and is interpreted into stories for ECTV use.  These are then typed on teleprompter.  CNN Newsource also should be used for national sports news.
7.  Weather Anchor Only -Weather is acquired from the National Weather Service and CNN news. The weather anchor locates maps from CNN feeds and also gives a description of Missouri maps for the font/effects operator to make into freeze frames. The weather anchor uses the Trinity machine to create other pages such as CURRENT CONDITIONS, MISSOURI MAP,  NEXT COUPLE DAYS' FORECAST, and FOUR DAY FORECAST.  These are saved on computer and checked with chroma key camera.
8.  Sits in on scripts assignment meeting.
9.  Dresses himself/herself professionally for production.
10. Allows makeup to be applied by makeup assistant.  (Always a shade darker than normal skin color)
11. Rehearses script until production time.
12. Evaluates and notes rundown sheet for camera addressing.
13. Practices with teleprompter script, checking for any potential problems.
14. During production, maintains composure under all circumstances.
15. Always assumes the camera is on him/her.
16. Doesn't give up or show anger during show.
17. Doesn't bring attention to mistakes.
18. Tries to cover or help a fellow anchor when problems occur.
19. Is always prepared with a fill in story. (not on teleprompter)
20. After show, throws out unneeded scripts, places microphone in proper place for audio operator.
21. Leaves work area and dressing room clean.

Assistant Director

The assistant director has the responsibility of helping the director with his/her duties, filling in for the director, and maintaining video playback and recording.  This person is responsible to the director.

Job description:

1.  Comes to and participates in any pre production meetings.
2.  Checks technical director's progress in camera setup before production starts.
3.  Prepares all video downloads and video computer files for airing by watching each one for possible video errors or audio difficulties noting anything unusual, places them in order of playback on timeline, checks TBC for color and luminance problems noting settings.
4.  Informs audio operator of VTR use for each video played. (Does computer file have audio?)
5.  Informs and notes for audio operator all sound bytes on VO/SOT's.
6.  Gives director all video file cues at end of package.  These cues can be a last sentence, music out, or natural sound fade out.  If no sound on video, give last visual cue to the TD.
7.  Notes on director's script best place for rolling video or taking DVE effect in or out on video playback.
8.  Sits in on rundown meeting, noting talent assignments for each story.
9.  Copies off rundown sheet for director and distributes them to crew.
10. Puts on headsets and checks that all crew members have working sets and are in position for the director.
11. Checks for recording videotape and makes sure it is rewound and ready for taping. Also prepares computer for recording.
12. During taping, plays all video and computer files making sure recording is rolling with good audio levels.
13. Keeps track of script for director reminding him/her of necessary cues.  Keeps script open for director to see.
14. Times the show and counts down commercial breaks.
15. Makes any necessary adjustments to videoclips such as aspect ratio correction and scaling..
16. Assists the director in his/her duties as needed.
17. In case the director is not able to direct the show, the assistant director will take over as director as long as needed unless other arrangements are made by the producer and executive producer.
18. After production, makes sure areas are cleaned up and crew has put equipment away.
19. Attends weekly TV Workshop meetings.

Assistant Producer

The assistant producer has the role of assisting the producer.  The A.P. helps with all areas of pre-production and production.

Job description:

1.  Meets with the producer early in the broadcast to go over production needs.
2.  Once the producer has determined the types of video needed for the program, the AP informs the assistant director as to what video clips must be recorded.  The AP makes sure all pre-production video files are ready and of broadcast quality.  Any discrepancies or problems should be reported to the producer as early as possible.
3.  Checks to make sure scripts are printed and distributed to anchor desk and control room.
4.  Receives from the producer a list of graphics/fonts needed for the broadcast and relates these needs to the graphics operator.  As broadcast time nears, checks with graphics operator as to quality and quantity of graphics ready for use.
5.  Helps prepare talent for broadcast by checking teleprompters, scripts, stage movement, or cues.
6. After each segment taped, the AP may decide if any or all parts of the segment must be re-done in order to insure quality should the producer be on set or unavailable.
7.  Notes the dress and hairstyle of all talent before airing for proper appearance.
8.  Compares the rundown sheet prepared by the director to the original story stack and notes any potential problems.
9.  Keeps track of clock, advising people to prepare for airtime.
10. Times the show and notes any needed post-production for later use.
11. Discusses audio cues with audio operator in accordance with rundown.
12. Works with assistant director in organizing pre-production tapes for proper airplay.
13. Notifies producer of any missing tags, intros, or other scripted items.
14. Advises the producer of any deletions or cancellations of any part of the show.
15. Helps the producer make changes in post-production necessary to eliminate errors or deficiencies to the show before airing of reruns.  The responsibility still remains for the producer to make sure this has been done properly and on time, even if delegated to AP.
16. Suggests shot and transition ideas with the producer and director when needed.
17.  Helps producer with any pre-production editing of intros, teases, or promos before airtime.
18.  Assumes the duties of the producer should the producer be unavailable during production.

Audio Operator  Top of Page

No production can be effective without proper audio.  The audio operator is responsible for setup and operation of mikes, music, and recorded audio on tape.

Job Description:

1.  Comes to Tuesday 5:00 pm meeting on time.
2.  Checks with Producer about number of mikes needed and about music needs.
3.  Prepares music selections on computer cart for later use during bump shots before commercials.
4.  Records roll out music on computer cart.
5.  Runs mike cables to set with appropriate channel numbers assigned by agreement with director.  Makes sure mike cables are not in the way of cameras.
6.  Attaches microphones and places them on the set for easy access by the talent.
7.  Checks rundown sheet for all audio cues.
8.  Discusses with director any cues that are unclear or unusual.
9.  Notes which VTR's that will be used during production and which packages are assigned to them.
10. Using music on computer cart, set levels for recording.  Check with tape operator or Asst. Director for VTR recording levels.
11. Once talent is on set, help with microphone placement, hiding cord as best possible.  Lav mikes should be no more than one foot away from talent's chin.  Keep centered on clothes, such as tie or button hem.
12. Ask each talent to speak normally, testing mike levels in audio control.
13. Once mike levels have been set, music cued, and mike cables neatly placed on studio floor out of camera's path, inform director that audio control is ready for production.
14. During production, watch levels, bring in mikes, turn down mikes, bring in music, fade out music, bring in or take out VTR sound, and check recording level according to rundown sheet and directoral command.
15.  After production, put away microphones in cases, coil up and put away cables, and return audio area to normal status.  Don't forget to turn off power.
16.  Notes when studio audio (Aux) is needed as foldback during packages and VO/SOT's.  Keeps monitor audio up for producer evaluation monitor. (Aux)

Camera Operator  Top of Page

ECTV programs generally use two camera operators during production who are responsible for all shots used.

Job Description:

1.  Comes on time to the 5:00 pm meeting each Tuesday.
2.  Checks camera and pedestal for proper hookups.  Turns tripod so pedestal controls are in back facing camera operator.
3.  Places camera in general area of use and lays cable out of the way on floor.  Adjusts cables attached to camera so they do not interfere with panning or tilting.
4.  Checks headset with technical director making sure it works properly.
5.  Loosens locks on camera and makes necessary adjustments for best camera work later.  Locks camera down completely before leaving or taking hands off it.
6.  Once color bar matching is finished, a close-up of white card is needed for white balance - adjusted on camera control unit by TD.
7.  After white balancing, check with director as to shot list or rundown sheet.
8.  Notes where monitors are on floor and moves them for anchors to see when cameras are in position.
9.  Once receiving the rundown/shot sheet, checks or marks all camera shots required of assigned camera and rehearses each one noting the blocking of camera in relation to the set.
10. Brings to the attention of the director any problem shots after rehearsing them.  Make sure to mention if some shot takes longer than usual to get.
11. Just before production, sets up camera shot, headsets on, and makes sure focus is set.
12. During production, follows rundown sheet and director commands as completely as possible.  Quietly whisper to director over headsets any problems occurring during taping.
13. Should rundown sheet and director conflict, follow director's command.
14. Once clear, your camera is not live, move to the next shot listed automatically.  Do not wait for director to tell you your next shot.
15. Frames anchors with proper background and proper headroom.
16. When moving camera, check with other camera operator to see if your camera is moving into his/her shot.
17. After production, move cameras back to their stations, coiling cable carefully with it.  Make sure rundown sheet is thrown away.  Remind TD to put camera in bars.  Check with director before leaving for any re-shoots.  Puts headsets away in cabinet.  Make sure cameras are capped and locked down tight.

DIRECTOR  Top of Page

The director is responsible for most of the production aspects of the show and commanding the production crew during broadcast.  The director is responsible to the producer and executive producer (faculty adviser).

Job description:

1.  Meets with producer and planning crew previous to the broadcast day to plan out each day's schedule and to check on possible production changes.
2.  Comes prepared to the Tuesday meeting with any announcements or crew assignments.
3.  Checks all production areas for equipment failure or operational changes.
4.  Checks graphics/font operator on his progress towards having all items typed in and ready before airtime.
5.  Checks with producer and executive producer about any scheduling change or deviation from the normal program procedure.
6.  Assists in program planning, adding possible technical directions if needed.
7.  Once all program elements are stacked by the Producer, the director makes out a Rundown Sheet for all crew working on the production.  The Rundown Sheet is created using computer software and should be filled out completely.
8.  Shows rundown sheet to producer and executive producer for final verification before copying it off for crew members.
9.  Should there be any changes in the Rundown Sheet after copying, it is the director's responsibility to collect all sheets and make necessary changes.  If too many changes are needed, a new Rundown Sheet may need to be made to avoid errors.
10. Makes sure all crew members are ready for airtime performance.
11. Briefs talent of camera angles and positions for each story or section.
12. Briefs stage manager of all camera positions and talent blocking.
13. Checks teleprompter script to verify camera shots and talent assignments.
14. Checks with technical director to verify that all equipment is ready and program can begin on time.
15. Checks with audio operator for all music and videotape cues.
16. Gives script to assistant director and goes over all videotape cues with him/her.
17. On headsets, checks to make sure all crew members can hear him/her.
18. Asks producer which digital effects will be used during the show and verifies these choices with the fonts/effects operator.
19. Cues, directs, and commands all production aspects during the show.  The director does not stop taping without producer approval.
20. Checks time with assistant director and producer during taping.
21. After production, director makes sure that all program errors are re-shot for post-production. An evaluation of the show's strengths and weaknesses is discussed with the producer.  This is done in order to avoid repeating mistakes in the future.
22. Makes sure video recording is properly labeled and filed for producer before leaving.
23. Reminds crew members to clean up areas and return equipment.
24. Attends weekly ECTV staff meetings as scheduled.

Fonts/Effects (CG) OperatorTop of Page

ECTV shows are very dependent on graphics and text for much of its visual communication. 

Job Description:

1.  Checks early for all font and graphics turned in for weather segment and packages.
2.  Using the information given by the weather producer, makes Missouri maps using the Trinty Titlewave program and stores them on the hard drive for later use.
3.  Loads up images on CG and checks them with the producer that they are correct and correctly spelled.
4.  Assists the weather anchor in making the graphics for chroma key, if needed.
5.  Types in all names, if not already stored, that will be used during production on the character generator and saves them for production time.
6.  Comes to Tuesday 5:00 pm meeting and notes all crew assignments for the creation or updating of the credits list that rolls at end of program.
7.  Checks rundown sheet and notes all cues for font supers this includes inserting of names, bumpers, topic boxes, and credits.
8.  Displays all fonts to Director for final verification and spelling.
9.  Checks with Asst. Director for cues concerning videos played needing titles.
10. Checks with TD that fonts are being keyed correctly on switcher - mid key and downstream keyer..
11. Checks with Producer about any last minute additions to the font file.
12. Informs Technical Director that font/effects are ready for production.
13. During production, loads and displays all font and freeze frames according to the rundown sheet and directoral commands.
14. Calls up each slide according to director's commands.
15. After production, makes sure mouse and keyboard are returned to proper place, disks are stored,  and area is clean.

PRODUCER  Top of Page

The producer has the role of chief organizer and manager of the production.  Producer is the highest production position a student can achieve in a show.  The producer is responsible for all areas of production and is responsible to the station manager and executive producer (faculty adviser).

Job description:

1.  Comes prepared to the meeting with a plan for each evening's broadcast and explains these plans to the talent and crew during the meeting.
2.  Checks to make sure all pre-production tapes are ready and are of broadcast quality.  The producer will advise the exec. producer of any tapes that are missing or are unsatisfactory in quality.
3.  Checks over all scripts and decides the organization of the stories in the rundown.
4.  Evaluates lighting and set for proper standards and advises those responsible to make any necessary changes.
5.  Consuls with the director about any changes or unusual procedures that may occur during the broadcast.  These also should be mentioned to the exec. producer before airing.
6.  Helps prepare talent for broadcast by checking teleprompters, scripts, stage movement, or cues.
7.  Evaluates the dress and hair style of all talent before airing.
8.  Checks the rundown sheet prepared by the director for any potential problems.
9.  Keeps track of clock, advising people to prepare for airtime.
10. Times the show and notes any needed post-production for later use.
11. Selects music to be used during show.
12. Works with director to keep show opener updated.  All pre-production tapes are the responsibility of the producer.
13. Checks and updates assignment board.
14. Directs and organizes any pre-production meetings.
15. Notifies exec. producer of any missing tags, intros, or other scripted items.
16. Advises the exec. producer of any deletions or cancelations of shows or parts of shows.
17. Decides on show's format, set design, and promotion under the advisement of the exec. producer.
18. Makes all changes in post-production necessary to eliminate errors or deficiencies to the show before airing.  This duty can occasionally be assigned to another person who is qualified with the permission of the exec. producer.  The responsibility still remains for the producer to make sure this has been done properly and on time, even if delegated to another.
19. Suggests shot and transition ideas with director when needed.
20. During taping/airing, producer should be evaluating performance of all individuals and make suggestions to crew and talent about improvement for the next show.
21. After each segment taped, the producer may decide if any or all parts of the segment must be re-done in order to insure quality.
22. Produces a promotional spot 30 seconds in length each semester for cable as instructed by the station manager.
23. Will follow instructions and procedures given by station manager for the logging and labeling of shows.  Is responsible for proper placement of show for cable use.
24. Attends the weekly ECTV staff meeting as scheduled.

Technical Director Top of Page

The technical director, often called the "switcher," assists the director by coordinating the technical aspects of the production.  He/she also operates the special effects generator or switcher during the production.

Job Description

1.  Attends the crew meeting before production.
2.  Sets up the SEG (switcher) for program use.
3.  Checks camera settings including subcarrier (color bars), iris and setup, and syncronization (genlock).  Questions arising from these procedures should be directed toward the Engineer or Adviser.
4.  Checks headsets for proper operation.
5.  Checks teleprompters for proper operation.
6.  Sets up lights (with assistance from studio crew) and checks dimmer board settings. (If a lighting director is available, this duty is completed by him/her.)
7.  Goes over technical cues from rundown sheet noting transition types and special effect usage.
8.  Assists the fonts/effects operator with final preparation of graphics.
9.  Adjusts chroma key settings, if used.
10.  Checks with audio for any technical problems or questions concerning cues.
11.  Goes over camera operation with camera operators.
12.  During rehearsals or technical checks, the TD often calls pre-arranged shots over headsets.
13.  During normal production, TD operates SEG according to cues given by director.
14.  After production, electronically caps cameras, turns off equipment, and puts SEG in black.  Also helps cleanup control room.

ECTV Station ManagerTop of Page

The following list describes those duties and responsibilities assigned to the ECTV Station Manager.  The Station Manager is responsible to the ECTV Adviser and is the representative on the Communication Committee for ECTV.

Job Description

1.  Prepares all on-air logs for ECTV Channel 12 and any other cable broadcasts made by ECTV.
2.  Attends ECTV staff meetings weekly as scheduled.
3.  Is responsible for maintaining and developing a system of video numbering and storage for morgue tapes/discs related to cable broadcasts.
4.  Attends and coordinates TV Workshop meetings in cooperation with ECTV Adviser.
5.  Coordinates playing of programs on cable or any other type of distribution.
6.  Makes contact with program and public service suppliers for new programs and spots as needed.
7.  Helps maintain and update assignment board as needed.
8.  Coordinates producers' promotional materials such as promo spots and evening "coming up" promos on cable.
9.  Attends Communication Committee meetings as scheduled.
10. Makes recommendations concerning new hires for ECTV staff positions.
11. Posts program schedule at least every two weeks on bulletin boards for off-campus students, faculty, and staff interest.
12. Posts program schedule in dormitories for students for cable on campus.
13. Schedules all programs and spots for ECTV cable airtime.
14. Acts as Associate Producer for all programs offering suggestions and helpful advice as needed.  Should observe taping of each program at least once per semester.
15. Responsible for mail pickup from Communication Office.
16. Acts as student leader for Evangel TV in respect to other departments, student government, and administration.
17. Attends the BEA/NAB convention as a student representative for Evangel University.
18. Organizes and files all completed logs as stated by FCC regulations.
19. Has responsibility for publicity and promotion of ECTV to viewing audience or potential viewers.
20. Develops programs for ECTV such as chapel services, sports, and special events.  This must be coordinated with the Studio Manager as to taping and production of shows.
21. Creates general promos and spots to highlight ECTV events and programs.  This includes a sign-off and station ID's.
22. Helps maintain master control area in conjunction with Studio Manager.
23.  Organizes and prepares all videotapes and materials related to ECTV programs being entered in contests and evaluations.

Floor Director [Top of page]

1. Works in the studio area with talent and cameras.
2. Gives all hand cues during production to the talent. It is the FD's responsibility to make sure the cues are seen by the talent.
3. Relays all instructions from the director to the studio crew and talent.
4. Makes sure talent have all props, scripts, and teleprompter needs taken care of.
5. Helps keep camera and mic cables from being a problem in the studio.
6. Meets with director and producer to verify cues throughout the program or script.
7. Helps audio operator to check microphones.
8. Makes sure the headsets work properly in the studio.
9. Checks video monitors in the studio for proper viewing of program material.
10. Helps crew and talent with studio cleanup after the production.

Promotion Producer

1. Meets regularly with the Station Manager concerning promotional goals for the week or month.
2. Assigns workshop students promotional topics.
3. Reviews and grades workshop promos and suggests ways to improve them. If promo is completed, it can be used in program rotation.
4. Checks with Station Manager about promos scheduled during broadcasts. Makes sure current promos are being used, not old ones.
5. Creates a 30 second promo each month for ECTV. The subject matter of the promos is to be discussed with the Station Manager.
6. Creates materials that promote ECTV events, such as advertisements, posters, and newsletters.
7. Works with the Crusadermedia.com producers to embellish the ECTV section.

 

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Copyright 2010
Cameron A. Pace