-Organisation; filming to late in the day that it starts to get dark, filming on two different days and the weather changes
-Casting; find someone who is confident and will give you entertainment, make sure you have people locked down so that they do not drop out
-Paperwork; access into certain areas/locations
Researching and Developing Ideas
- Test the viability of your story
- Develop your script and rough schedule/budget
- Essential for you to understand the potential of your idea and what we can see/film prior to pitching
- Begin researching online and relevant journals, publications and newspapers
- Acquaint yourself with the broader picture and background to your story
- Establish key contacts
- NB; Never call to any of these contact until you understand the basis of the story you wish to tell and have an appreciation of the remit/specialism of the individuals you are calling
- You can then prepare some basic questions which you would like to ask your contacts
Relevant Background Info
- Legislation/regulations
- Organisations and experts
- Existing Research - up to date as possible, if unpublished better because of exclusivity
- Case Studies
- Previous coverage on TV/Archive as appropriate
- Factual films require a 'journalist nose', think about what makes your story worth commissioning - what is new, what is your angle
- Find your USP
Ethics and Representations
It is important to realise that there are more than the subject for an essay or discussion. What it means in real terms is the way in which we in the media, handle themselves. In media terms, when we use the term 'representation' we are referring to how people are used, presented and obviously represented in broadcast. Typically it refers to issues such as - Disability, income/class, values, ethnicity, religion sexuality and issues.
Relevant Organisations
OFCOM (Regulatory body for broadcasters)
Press Complaints Commission (Independent self regulatory body deals with complaints about the editorial content of newspapers and magazines)
Broadcasters - have their own guidelines and regulations e.g. BBC has produce guidelines
Who's film is it anyway?
This can be a source of tension. Essentially those with a vested interest in the film are anyone who is on the crew, cast and can be connected to the story/. Thus keeping everyone 'happy' is a tall order. You can drive it creatively and editorially but are mindful of the above.
Consent Forms
Use consent forms to gain permission to film your major contributors. As a courtesy you can create a small sign which explains that you are filming at the location today so that people can decide whether they want to be in the background shots or not.
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