PRODUCTION PHASES

The internal checks and balances previously mentioned come during the following-three phases of the development of the production: l Reproduction l Production l Postproduction

Preproduction

Preproduction is the gathering of all the supporting elements called for in the script and auditioning specific music and sound effect cuts to make sure they are appropriate. Many times, what the scriptwriter envisioned on paper turns out to be inappropriate in the audio production. The music (tempo, key, melody theme) should convey to the listener a mood that supports and enhances the objective of the production. Your ear is the best judge of whether a piece is aesthetically correct for the production, and it should be obvious if there is a mood mismatch. This is a good time to audition any background music that contains vocals.

There is no absolute rule against using vocal songs as long as it is important to the message and the levels (narration and music) are set correctly. The background music, with or without vocals, is acceptable only if it remains in the background. It is easy for the music to end up overpowering the message. Your using vocals for background music means you will have to make a close check on the level balance during the production and postproduction phases.

Check all supportive elements to make sure they meet technical broadcast standards. The script may call for a sound effect that is only available on an old tape that is distorted when played. In that case, find a similar effect on a newer, cleaner tape or create the effect yourself. If actualities from other sources are used (interviews, news inserts, etc.), they also must be produced cleanly and be understood easily.

Review the script and note any unfamiliar words or names. Look up the pronunciations of any that maybe a problem for you. If another voice is called for, make arrangements for someone else to be in the studio at the appointed production date and time and have copies of the script prepared for him.

Furthermore, before you begin the production phase, know and understand the format requirements for your product. In other words, is the final package to be on reel tape or cartridge? What speed should the production master reel be recorded? On what is the timing requirement? When these technical questions have been answered, you are ready to go into the studio.

Production

Once in the studio, make sure all the required equipment is in good working order. Follow the locally established procedures in setting up and checking the audio console and equipment needed for your production. It is best to bulk erase any production tapes you use. Using tapes that still have audio from other productions can make tape cuing difficult and may lead to the unintentional airing of unwanted audio. It is a good idea that you label all tapes used in the production process so you can find the element you need easily.

Follow the script as it was approved. Unless you are the writer, do not make substantial changes to the content without first checking with the author. There may be a good reason for the script appearing as it does.

Figure 13-7. - Audio console.

Monitor the record and playback levels constantly during the mixing process. When putting several elements together, listen closely in the headphones to the level balance. Remember, do not let supporting sound override primary audio. Check the master tape recording level to make sure its average peaks are between 80 and 100 percent on the recorder VU meter. If you thoroughly completed the preproduction organization, it will be easy for you to follow the script during the production phase.

Postproduction

You should listen to the finished product and make sure the production accomplishes its intended purpose. Listen for quality checks you may have missed in earlier development. Pay particular attention to the audio levels and quality of the final recording. If the spot or feature is not satisfactory, mix it again and correct the problem. Check to be sure the production meets the allotted time requirement.

When the final product passes all the quality control checks, label it according to local procedure and turn it over to your supervisor.