Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book strives to make aware of the homework needed in almost any multiple-camera television shoot and in some single-camera shoots. The emphasis is on the "director/producer" rather than the other way around, because the material presented is aimed at the director's preparation. The producer is included because the functions of director and producer are often interrelated, and because the producer's decisions often have a direct influence on the director's work. Some inventions, innovations, and trends have affected all stages of production and are significant to all formats. One thing that should be understood early on is that different markets in the United States, as well as production facilities in Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries, have different rules and customs regarding job descriptions and working procedures.