Studio Production - Evaluation

My role as Graphics Operator and Creator came with many challenges which I felt like I overcame to the best of my ability however there are many things I feel I need to improve on.  From Scheduliing to file structure.

What Went Well?

- Graphics went smoothly on shoot day

- Graphics were made quickly

- I made changes based on feedback from Producers/Directors

Graphics went smoothly on shoot day
On the day of the shoot the graphics went smoothly, we didnt have a software crash and all the lower thirds and prices went up on the screen without an issue. This was a relief as previously we had been having issues with loading up new graphics would crash the computer.

Graphics were made quickly
I Found that I was able to make the graphics at a quick pace, changes and the creation of graphics went a lot quicker at the end of the project as we had agreed on a style. I also found a tool which allowed me to drastically reduce the time it would take for me to animate the graphics.

I made changes based on feedback from Producers/Directors
I thought I was able to make changes quickly based on the feedback I would recieve from Directors/Producers, The most productive times I had were when I was able to sit down with a Producer and make changes based on their live input rather than sending images back and forth and trying to interpret what they meant through a message.

What Didnt go Well?

- Graphics Couldnt be animated

- Wasnt happy with final graphics

- Lost graphics

- had to go through many changes

- Render times

- Typos

- Style bible wasnt constantly updated

- Time management

Graphics Couldnt be Animated

Something that was a bit dissapointing was the software and hardware we had for the graphics were unable to render the graphics in sufficient quality to be animated during the show, once played they would be stutter and could make the programme crash, because of this the animations I had previoulsy had on the graphics were unable to be used and a still graphics would have to be used instead. This may have been an issue with the format I rendered the graphics in however when I researched the Motion 4 Programme several sources stated to use Apple Pro Res 422.

Wasnt happy with final graphics

I Personally didnt like the final graphics very much, the title felt a bit too simple to me, however this could be down to my personal tastes rather than what suited the show.

Lost graphics

At one point I had to re-render several graphics because I couldnt find them anywhere on my computer, I think this was due to me rapidly creating and rendering the graphics. This want a big issue as I had the original file and the only thing it cost was time to render. However this still was an issue.

Had to go through many changes

Going into the project I underestimated how often I would have to change the final graphics, things I thought were set in stone suddenly needed to be changed. I was able to make changes quickly however on the day of the shoot I suddenly had to completly change the credits, in my rush to render the graphics before Transmission I missed some errors within the credits and thus we had to use an older version.

Render times

Render Times became a problem as I had to render some graphics that needed to be changed on the day of the shoot, I managed to get most of them done in time however I was unable to get the credits rendered in time.

Typos

There were several Typos in the credits, some of the names I was given were incorrect and had to be changed when noticed, I should have gone through every name to confirm it was correct myself, or at least put the credits up to be shown to the whole crew before Transmission that way changes could have been made.

Style bible wasnt constantly updated

I found that updating the style bible became a hassle as the graphics were constantly changing, I didnt keep it as updated as I should have as it was easy to forget about as I was creating almost all the graphics.

Time management

This is something I struggle with for most of my projects, I would try to set myself to do lists with mini deadlines but they would get forgotten or I would spend more of my time on one task compared to another. I didnt miss out on any deadlines in that regard but I did find it an issue a few times.

What could I do to improve?

- Offered different alternatives

- File structure

- Keep a track of changes

- Get desired changes written down

- Confirm before rendering graphics

- Update the document after every change, or at least regualy.

- Schedule a sit down with producers to confirm graphics at least weekly

Offered different alternatives

In regards to not liking the final title graphic I should have offered my opinion in a stronger fashion and provided several alternatives, if the produced wanted to stick with it I would have also seen if there were any improvements I could make and provide examples as such.

File structure

I did initially create a file structure as follows :

-Stings

-Lower Thirds

-Credits

-Social Media

-AE files

-AE Back-ups

-Source Files

-Other

However towards the end of the project the files begun to get messy and filed away in the wrong place, In the future I will try to slow myself down and keep myself structured, maybe creating a buffer folder rather than sending the rendered files where they belong to be cleaned up at the end of each day.

Keep a track of changes

There were many changes made to the graphics over times and I went through dozens of permiations before I got the final product, to help mark my changes and progress I should have kept notes of the changes I made and why, that way I could look back in the future and know not to make the same mistake.

Get desired changes written down

there were times when I would be asked to make several changes but I would forget to write one of them, I did write down the changes a few times but not everytime, in the future I will make sure to keep an accurate record.

Confirm before rendering graphics

A few times I would render the graphics only to have to go back and change them, If I will be rendering a large amount of graphics I will first run them by the producer to save the hassle of having to re-render large files.

Update the document after every change, or at least regualy.

In terms of the Style Bible, should update it after every change, even if that change is only in place for a day, I will also go through it once a week to make sure its completly updated.

Schedule a sit down with producers to confirm graphics at least weekly

The most productive times I had were when i could sit down with a producer and get feedback straight away. In the future I will try to arrange frequent sit down sessions where I can go through all the current graphics and see whether it meets with their approval then rather than on the day of the shoot.

Studio Based Entertainment - Take me Out

Take me out is a dating show aired on ITV and hosted by Paddy McGuinness. It was initially made for Channel 4 but ITV picked up the series.

The show's objective is for a single man to get a date with a one of a panel of thirty single women.  Each women stands at a pedestal with a single button which can turn of the light above them thus indicating they would not like a date, if there are more than two women left at the end of the third round the man can press the buttons until there are only two left. Once there are only two he can then ask one question and choose between the two.

• Produced by Thames (Talkback Thames)
• Sponsored by Match.Com
• Filmed at Maidstone Studios after the first series which was filmed at Granada Studios in Manchester 
• Average run time 60 Minutes 90 including ads
• Has been running for 10 Seasons
• 4 Men per filming session however one may be cut if there is a time shortage
• average 3 million viewers per episode
• Initially reviewed negatively by critics however after a few seasons critics began to change their mind.

The show is split into 5 rounds

Part 1

Contestent comes down in the "Love Lift". He introduces himself to the girls. Paddy asks the girls if they do or dont want to turn of their lights. After that the contestant will pick a girl from those who are still lit and write them down on a piece of paper to be revealed at the end of the show.

Part 2

This part features a pre-recorded video presented by the contestant. It typically includes interviews with his friends and family. It describes things like hobbies, work and personality.During the VT any of the girls may turn off their light.

Part 3

This part the contestant will perform a skill for the ladies, such as singing/Playing in instrument/or displaying a proficiency in a skill.If they do not have something suitable they may have a member of their friends or family tell a secret. Again at any point a girl can turn off their light.

Part 4

This part requires the contestant to turn off all except two of the lights.

Part 5

This part requires the contestant to choose between the two girls, to do this they are allowed to ask one question, then they turn off the light of the one they do not want to date.

Paddy then asks the girl if they would like to know who the contestant chose for their "Love at First Sight" After they are brought together they leave the set via Stairs opposite the lift.

If there is only one girl lit after round for the contestant can choose between her or a "Mystery Girl" who has remained unseen.

For Arch Roomies it would be difficult to take aspects of the show as they are very different from each other, however there are aspects of the title sequence which I like such as the silhouetted forms. I feel like this would be good to incorporate into the design of the show, it matches with the theme of hidden identities quite well.

For Steal The Style, The lighting for Take me out is extensive and reminds me of places like vegas or night clubs. however I believe that aspects of it would work well for Steal the Style, such as a spotlight on the models or flashing lights as they walk down the catwalk. I also like the banter between the host and the contestants and think thats something that should be replicated.

There is also the design of the show in terms of graphics which reflects quite well how the show looks on the screen, the darker shades of purples and the digitised look reflects the modern aspects of the show.

Factual Programme Research - QI

• "Comedy quiz show full of quirky facts, in which contestants are rewarded more if their answers are 'quite interesting'."

• QI was created in 2003 by John Lloyd and was hosted by Stephen Fry until 2016 in which Sandy Toksvig took over.

•  The show follows  the motto that "Everything is interesting if looked at in the right way" 
• Average Run Time 30 Minutes for a normal episode 45 Minutes for a XL episode
• Produced by Talkback and Quite Interesting LTD
• Initially broadcast from BBC 4 then then moved upwards to BBC Two then BBC One, now it currently is broadcast from BBC 2 HD
• Mainly Improvisation 
• Filming lasts for 2 hours per episode, then cut down into 30/45 Minute episodes
• 15 questions asked only half of that is actually used in the final show.
• Jimmy Carr, Bill Bailey and Phil Jupitus appeared in every season, 
• Filmed at The London Studios
• Studio set up the morning of the Recording
• Uses 7 cameras to film an episode
• Technical Reheasal begins with full cast and crew at 14:00
• Show begins at either 16:30 or 19:30 and filming is typically finished at 22:00

In regards to Arch Roomies there is not much I would take from this show as the entire premis is different as our idea is a studio drama and QI is a quiz show, however I do like the way that the show actually lasts 2 hours ans is cut down into a shorter episode.

In regards to Steal The Style, the way the comedian s bounce off each other with their improvisation works well, these moments are what makes the show good. I think for the show improvisation should be key, also in terms of graphics and sound effects, in QI there are no scores appearing on the screen, however on the large screens behind them they have the graphics pop up. They also are key in some comedic moments such as superimposing Stephen Fry or Alan Davies onto the picture, they also sometimes do split screens for example in one episode a painting from the victorian age looked strikingly similar to Alan Davies.

Studio Workshops - Graphics

In our workshop today I was introduced to the programme I would be using to overlay the graphics to the live feed.

Motion 4 

My first experience with motion was not a good one, I found when I uploaded the graphics to the computer which was being used the programme would crash frequently, after some trial and error we found that the issue was the the graphics were animated.

When it was just a still image the programme was fine, however when the image would move the programme would stutter heavily or crash. This was dissapointing as I had animated the graphics to slide in and out from the edge of the screen. I made a note of the format that I had rendered the graphics and begun rendering different formats for our next session. I also tried creating the graphics within Motion 4 itself, however I ran into the same issue as before. It would have been an issue in anycase as if I was only able to create graphics on that machine it would drastically reduce the time I had available to create the graphics.

At home I found relatevly little information of the best formats to use for Motion 4, the ones I did find was to use Apple Pro Res 422 as it keeps the quality. I didnt really want to lower the quality of the graphics as that wouldnt look good on a professional project such as this.

I couldnt even download Motion 4 onto my mac to practice as they have a new version out now and there is no legal way to get the older version that I found.

Graphics Op and Style Bible Research

What is a Graphic Operator?

"Graphics Operators will either work in the studio control room, for an in-studio broadcast, or in a mobile truck, for live event production.   They are responsible for producing suitable accurate graphic captions across a variety of live productions and OB events, for example, the captions on the news or live scores for a football match. Graphics Operators can also be responsible for creating full screen graphics like charts and graphs, depicting statistics about a sport, team, or news event.

Graphics operators will often have a degree or HND in broadcasting, television or video production.  Successful graduate applicants will often have relevant work experience either via internships or student broadcasting.  Prior experience working in the MCR environment will also be beneficial."

http://broadcastgraduate.com/what-is-a-graphics-operator/

JOB ADVERTS

SKILLS REQUIRED

• ability to use / understand graphics technology, e.g. VizRT, Aston, Clarity, TOG and Chyron
• accurate and fast typing skills
• visual acuity – Graphic Operators must be able to organize information in an easy to understand format.
• excellent attention to detail,
• strong communication skills
• able handle pressure well as their work is often in live conditions
• the ability to think ahead, spot trends and predict what they will need to add next

• Continuing education to keep up with rapidly changing technology

Graphics Operator, live sport broadcasting, Wimbledon - £20-£22,000

We are looking for an enthusiastic, tech-savvy individual with a passion for sport and technology to work as a Graphics Operator on major sporting events for well known clients such as; Premier League Productions and ATP Media.

This position will suit someone who has recently completed a degree in a relevant subject area (technology, broadcast media or sport) and is keen to immerse themselves in the world of live TV sport broadcasting. Full training will be given.

This role requires regular weekend work and out of office hours.

You will bring:

• The ability to acquire technical skills and understand bespoke applications quickly
• Computer literate and thoroughly confident with Windows operating systems
• A good knowledge of all sport, especially Premier League football
• Candidates should be intelligent, enthusiastic and inquisitive and be comfortable working in a high-pressure live broadcast environment

Graphics Operator Motion Graphics
ESPN  426 reviews - Bristol, CT 06010

Working at ESPN is unlike anything else. That’s because we’re always finding new ways to interact with fans – however and wherever they connect with sports. When you have the latest technology, game-changing ideas and world-class talent on your team, every day is extraordinary. http://vimeo.com/87306754 The ESPN Creative Services Graphic Operator is one of five functionally unique groups whose complementary responsibilities and skill sets combine to create ESPN's on-air visual identity. Minimum of one year of on-air graphics systems controller experience in a major market or at the network level is desired. Experience using VizRt, Chyron, ROSS, Trio, Photoshop, ENPS is preferred Able to catalog logos/headshots and custom graphics and Sales elements Understanding of live production control room (PCR) etiquette and overall professionalism 06010 883 Middle StreetResponsibilities : Maintains quality of ESPN’s on-air product for daily/nightly Studio and Event productions. The Controller, or “Graphics Operator”, executes graphics on a basic level using ESPN developed playout applications for remote and studio productions. Ensures the accuracy and timely preparation of graphics assigned to productions Required to work flexible hours and days as production assignments dictate including weekends, nights and holidays Able to effectively communicate across the organization to report technical problems. Must also be able to clearly articulate source of problems in defective equipment reports. Maintain administrative records including shift assignment reports and other required documentation. Basic Qualifications : Strong understanding of Windows-based applications for live productions Candidates must be highly motivated, willing to work all shifts, weekends, some holidays and must demonstrate the ability to work under pressure to meet ever-changing deadlines Must be accurate spellers and possess strong communication skills Must have familiarity with Sports. This includes College and Professional teams – names, logos and franchise players Required Education : High School Diploma or Equivalent Preferred Education : Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Multi-Media, Digital Design, Graphic Design or Animation desired. Graphics & Playout Operator QVC  829 reviews - London Keeping millions of global customers engaged through entertainment 24 hours a day, seven days a week takes the insight, intelligence and ingenuity of a global team of switched-on media professionals. We are QVC. The world’s biggest broadcaster-retailer and the 2nd largest online retailer. Always on - and on a mission to change the way the world shops. Right now we have an opportunity for a for a Graphics & Playout Operator, working within our Live Broadcasting team at our state of the art Media & Commerce Centre based at Chiswick Park, West London. Think you’re up to the challenge? In this role, your time will be split between live and non-live studio operations and show preparation. You will be responsible for operating QVC’s specialised on screen Graphics system and video server that provides editorial content for our live shows. You will ensure that the graphics are accurate and aired at the correct time, whilst logging any discrepancies or irregularities. Office & Preparation… To organise, check and correctly prepare all product iGraphics and video assets ready for live broadcast transmission, rehearsals and recordings To ensure your Production Directors have all the relevant show, product and recording information for the shift Gallery Operations… To be accountable for live playout of product iGraphics and other supporting graphics at the correct time using QVC’s on-screen graphics system To be accountable for playing out supporting video assets at the correct time using QVC’s content playout system To ensure the graphics are accurate, up-to-date and the graphic output is maintained in the correct style, in accordance with company guidelines To be successful in the role… Preferably, you will have a recognised qualification in media, television or demonstrable experience operating graphics within a live gallery environment. Due to the large amount of graphics that we put to air on an hourly basis, the successful candidate will also display a high level of literacy and computer proficiency as you will need to get to grips with the company’s graphics system very quickly! Attention to detail, ability to keep a cool head in a hectic environment and a real passion for working within a team are also huge requirements. You’ll need to have a knowledge of and keen interest in live television operations and be interested in new developments. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is looking to start their career in a Live Broadcasting environment. At QVC we see it like this, you spend a third of your life in work, so work happy* Live better

"A brand bible establishes the voice and personality of a company, as well as who the public will see, and it governs every aspect of communication from the company. The brand bible is the basis for all interactions on behalf of a company – personal communications, social media, advertising and design. While a brand bible focuses on many things, it primarily focuses on design.'"
https://mayvendev.com/blog/how-to-build-a-brand-bible-visual-style-guide

My take on the Role

My role appears to be the creation and maintaining of the graphical and design elements of the show, I expect to be creating the graphics for the show such as Logo's, Lower Thirds, Stings, Social Media and website assets. My job role will also include the act of playing out the graphics on screen, for example this would be things like scores or lower thirds which come up during the show.



I would need to be able to quickly change or create graphics on the day of the shoot to reflect things like scores, or even to adapt to the ever-changing story of the show.

The style bible would require me to create and maintain a document which serves as a set of guidelines for what the style and tone of the show will be, this allows for a third party to come in and create graphics or assets for the show which follows the style and tone of everything beforehand. This would include things like fonts, sizes and colour schemes using colour codes rather than names so the creator can get the exact same colour that I did.

I expect to role to be difficult in the fact that I will need to create many graphics for the show, I have never done something which so much graphical work however I believe it would be within my abilities to create the graphics and the Style bible is a good way to keep things consistant within the production.