Basic Television Terms - A Video Dictionary (1977)

Hosted by Leonard Nimoy, this video introduces the fundamental terminology and techniques of television production, distinguishing between big-budget and little-budget productions, outlining the roles involved, and describing the production process from pre-production to post-production.

Key Points

Types of Television Production

The video differentiates between two main types of television production: big budget and little budget. Big budget television involves large studios, cameras, and crew, while little budget television is often used in educational or industrial contexts, utilizing smaller equipment and fewer personnel.

Roles in Television Production

Key roles described include the producer, who oversees production; the director, who directs camera operations; and the technical director, who manages technical aspects. Floor directors and engineers support these roles by facilitating communication and operating equipment during production.

Production Stages

The production process follows a series of steps starting with pre-production, where concepts are developed through treatments or scripts. This is followed by the production phase, which can be live or taped, and then moving to post-production, where editing occurs.

Camera Shots and Techniques

Different types of shots are explained, including long shots, medium shots, and close-ups, along with camera movements like panning and tilting. The video emphasizes the importance of properly framing shots and using various techniques to enhance visual storytelling.

Editing Techniques

The editing process is outlined, covering three main techniques: real-time editing during live broadcasts, mechanical editing through physical splicing, and electronic editing using digital technology. The video explains terms associated with editing, like fades, dissolves, and superimpositions.

Video Formats and Recording

Different video tape formats are discussed, highlighting the relationship between budget size and tape width, as well as the recording technology used, including videotape recorders. The video also explains the importance of mastering and generating copies of video content.