I have set this page up as a resource for the high school students I work with.  The information on this page is meant as a reference and
should be accurate (although I make no guarantees) -- feel free to copy, print and share this information.  It is all public domain.

Basic Studio Production (News Broadcasting)
This meant to be an overview of the basics to setting up and shooting a newscast. 

Camera Numbering and Placement
The anchors (talent) should be seated in a comfortable fashion at a desk / news set facing the studio cameras.
Most news studios use 3 cameras to shoot the anchors at the news desk.  Additional cameras may be used for chroma walls and can be numbered
anything you'd like but the usual is camera 1, camera 2 and camera 3.  Camera 1 should be on the far left when standing behind them and
looking towards the set.  Ideally there should be enough space in the studio to leave a fair amount of space between each camera.  This is
important for 2 reasons.  First, by having the cameras spaced apart it forces the anchors to turn slightly on camera shot changes giving the
appearance of a slight change in background (avoids studio shots looking like jump cuts) - Second, it provides space for the floor director
or stage manager to work (maneuver between the cameras).

Lighting
Standard 3 point lighting is used which includes a "Key" light, a "Fill" light and a "Back" light.  3 point lighting is the best scheme to use for
news or interview sets.  The lighting provides these important functions: 1) the cameras need light to SEE what they are shooting 2) lighting
gives detail to a subject, adds a third dimension (depth to the object being shot) 3) creates a mood or feeling to the scene being shot

Audio - Microphones
Each anchor should have a separate microphone.  A wired or wireless lavaliere (lav mic) is typically used for news.  Placement of the microphone
is critical to the final quality of the production.  Place the microphone on the lapel of the jacket or blazer for each anchor.  Men can place their
microphone on their tie if they so desire.  Make sure the cables are dressed (hidden, tucked behind clothing) correctly.  When placing a lav mic
on a blazer or jacket make sure it's on the inside of the anchors, so they turn into their mic when chatting, not away from the mic.

The Components of Audio and Video
Transducing: converting from one form to another (voice energy to electromagnetic energy)
Channeling: guiding, switching, patching to send the component where you want
Mixing: taking several sources and mixing them together
Amplifying: increase (make louder, brighter, bigger)
Monitoring: listen or watch what is going on
Recording: playback what you have done, keep a record for future use or editing
Shaping: tone quality, equalization, enhancing, blurring, etc

Never Waste Studio Time (time management is critical to any television production)

Always expect the unexpected and be prepared for it.  Have a make-up kit.  Spare clothing.  Be ready to improvise.

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©2013 Alex McBurney Productions