Extended Budget Template

You can purchase a downloadable Excel budget template for ONLY $1.99!

This template can be changed to fit any budget needs. Great for documentaries, films and television shows.

This is page 1 of 3. Categories include Personnel, Production, Travel and Post Production broken up into many lines each. The total for each category automatically updates in the “Project Totals” box at the top of the budget.

This is for a national high-definition program with a heavy travel component.  The budget is to offer a suggestion about the types of items to consider.  Further research is recommended of documentary actual needs and costs. Allow 24-hour for email delivery.

Look for other templates and samples in Templates Category.

order for only $1.99!

order for only $1.99!

New Reality TV Show Based On Female Car Mechanic

“Car E.R.” Based on Pam Oakes, Fourth-Generation Mechanic & Owner of Pam’s Motor City

Fort Myers, Fla., May 7, 2012 – Oakes Entertainment and Pam’s Motor City are proud to announce “Car E.R.”, a new reality series starring Pam Oakes and the employees of Pam’s Motor City in Fort Myers, Florida.

Sponsored by AC Delco, “Car E.R.” follows Pam, Peter (her long time fiancé) and the rest of the gang at Pam’s Motor City as they deal with tricky automotive repairs, esoteric customers, and serious attitudes within the shop. Of course, not everything’s a problem, and there’s a lot of fun and good times, too.

Unique to this series is that Pam owns and operates the repair shop, day in and day out. Not many women dare to venture into this highly male oriented field of work, but Pam follows in her father’s footsteps, and gives the boys a run for their money. They better pay attention when she talks, because she owns the shop!

The series is slated for first-run distribution via the internet, with future television broadcasts on the horizon. Initial reviews are that “Car E.R.” is sure to be a hit, and the potential for being picked up by a feature network is high.

To see the first few shows click on www.car-ershow.com, and connect with the show on Twitter @CarERShow and Facebook. Pam is also the author of Car Care for the Clueless: Successful Used Car Buying 101.

Interview with SizzlePitch.com President Jijo Reed

Sometimes in independent production, it seems as though getting a project green-lit is harder than actually producing it.  Often times, new producers (and even seasoned ones) need just the right connections to get networks or funders to look at their proposals.  To really impress, a sizzle reel (3-minute trailer) is needed to convince the big bosses that a project is worth their time.

The new website SizzlePitch.com serves as a conduit for all types of producers to get their projects in front of the right eyes.  The SizzlePitch staff, led by President Jijo Reed, have over forty years of combined experience developing and producing for television and film.  The website and staff help you get your ideas in front of the execs by allowing you to upload an already produced sizzle reel (that’s free).  If you need a sizzle reel that really sizzles they can produce one for you starting at $2,500 depending on the scope of your reel. And the good news is, you don’t need to have any connections or an established name in the industry for them to do it.  As the website states “Finally there’s a destination where you don’t need to have “connections” to be connected.”  Jijo and I recently discussed the mission behind SizzlePitch.com.

What gave you the idea to start SizzlePitch?

In 2002, I had the idea of creating a reality show that took place in a rehab in Malibu. I found a rehab that was willing to let me shoot and talk to the residents in this program. After shooting for days on end, I put together a “sizzle” trailer to pitch the concept. VH1 loved it and ordered a pilot based on the sizzle. It’s now the hit show Celebrity Rehab. At the beginning of this year, I took a look at a list of my credits and realized that of the hundreds of projects I have produced, I enjoyed creating sizzles the most. The prospect of giving life to a concept, whether through “borrowed” footage or specifically shot footage, is extremely rewarding and, nowadays, necessary to the pitch process. When a visual representation of an idea is introduced, as opposed to just a verbal pitch, the chances of closing a deal is increased exponentially. My background in producing trailers for finished films has definitely been helpful in creating the right “flow” in the footage.

Or what are some successes you’ve had with SizzlePitch?

Our most recent successes are USS Indianapolis and Headshot.  We created what we call “film sizzles” for both of these “yet to made” projects. With only a script to go from, we created the sizzles by using clips from various movies and other miscellaneous content, wrote trailer copy and created title graphics, then of course, cut it all to music. USS Indianapolis has both an “A’ list director and actor attached; and foreign pre-sales are in the works. The sizzle for Headshot, a horror film, was the major reason the entire budget was financed.  It is in Pre-production now and shooting starts July 7^th.

What has been the industry reaction to SizzlePitch?

The reaction has been amazing mainly because there are no real companies that specialize in sizzles at the level that we do. There are companies that offer this type of service but we are dedicated to packaging prospective film & TV projects.  Also we have an online component to showcase sizzles, so not only are we creating these pieces, but we offer a platform for producers to gain exposure and share their projects. We also offer script budgeting, profit & loss projections, website creation and digital key-art (poster art) for film & TV projects.

What is the most important thing that producers should know when creating a pitch reel?

A pitch reel should be able to “stand alone” without a verbal accompaniment. It should leave no questions as to what type of show it is or what it’s about. Also the production value of the piece should reflect the production value of the intended finished product. There’s never a benefit in under-selling or over-selling a project. Furthermore, it should be fun and interesting to watch and not be longer than 3min 30 seconds.  2 and 1/2 to 3 minutes is an ideal running time for most pitch reels.

What is most fun about working on SizzlePitch?

We love what we do here! Every project is a “passion” project because of the heart behind each project. I applaud anyone who is willing to put their dreams and goals in action. There are so many “producers” out there and even more people with “an idea” but the ones who really take action win my respect immediately. It’s so very rewarding to see a project get picked up and know that we were instrumental in that specific achievement.  Sizzlepitch’s lead editor, Karo Blikian sums it up “When a writer or producer sees their script come to life in our sizzles, we can’t help but to share in their excitement. It definitely doesn’t suck to see the reactions.”

To check out some of the reels produced by SizzlePitch visit:

http://www.sizzlepitch.com/video/145/HEADSHOT

http://www.sizzlepitch.com/video/137/USS-INDIANAPOLIS-SIZZLE

http://www.sizzlepitch.com/video/210/Chasing-Gary

For more information about SizzlePitch visit:

www.sizzlepitch.com

www.vimeo.com/jijoreed

http://www.facebook.com/SizzlePitch

SizzlePitch helps connect your project to producers

I recently stumbled upon sizzlepitch.com, a website designed to help film and video producers find home for their projects.  Be it drama, non-fiction, web or stand-up comedy, you can upload your project-in-progress and even get help on it.  The CEO, Jijo Reed, assured me that they have had success getting both development and production deals.  Here is what he says on sizzlepitch.com:

“Finally there’s a destination where  you don’t need to have “connections” to be connected. With our collective experience of over 40 years in the Entertainment Industry and our strong relationships in the business,  this is the stage where your special project will get the right kind of  exposure to help enable a green-light for your concept-

SizzlePitch.com is the first website  of it’s kind to showcase your media project to the people you “need” to see  your project.  Do you have an idea for a  reality show? Have you written a feature script or treatment?  A web series show idea? Here at SizzlePitch, we  are intensely committed to producing AND showcasing the most effective tool in the pitch  process…. the Sizzle Reel.

Furthermore, we offer pitch packages  that include website creation, key art creation (posters, brochures, lobby cards) script breakdown & budgeting, PR & Publicity services,  Social Media Marketing and SEO (search engine  optimization) services.

With our seasoned team of producers, editors, designers, and copy writers, your reality show just may  become your dream show. Our facilities, located in the prestigious and historic  Wiltern Theater Tower, are equipped with virtually everything needed to produce  and showcase your project: HD edit bays, 5.1mix rooms, full 2D and 3D  motion graphic capabilities, a green screen stage, and a surround sound  screening room.               The website, http://www.sizzlepitch.com, has 7 different categories: TV SIZZLES, FILM SIZZLES, WEB SIZZLES, CORPORATE SIZZLES, MUSIC SHOWCASE, AND  COMEDY  SHOWCASE–

The TV SIZZLE category features sizzles for TV shows seeking funding and/or network deals.

The FILM SIZZLE category features sizzles and trailers for films seeking funding and/or distribution       deals. This channel also features misc trailers solely for viewing entertainment.

The WEB SIZZLE category features sizzles for web content seeking funding and/or general awareness. This channel also features misc trailers solely for viewing entertainment.

The CORPORATE SIZZLE category features media sales presentations for various business ventures seeking investors, partnerships, and other various objectives.

The MUSIC SHOWCASE category is dedicated to showcasing signed and unsigned bands for the purpose of booking  tours and securing licensing deals and/or recording contracts. Music content, such as live performances, videos, and EPK’s (electronic press kits) are presented on our site, targeting record labels, bookers, agents,  music producers and managers.

The COMEDY SHOWCASE category showcases both established and up & coming comedians with videos of comedy  sketch and stand up routines- Bookers, agents, managers, and casting agents have the opportunity to evaluate these performances for consideration.

With Sizzlepitch, you have the  option to either upload your own previously produced Sizzle to Sizzlepitch.com,  or we will provide the production, post, and creative services for you. And  with your project’s own customizable profile page, viewers will be able to  learn more about you and the assets of your project.

We are all so excited about the 2012  launch of SizzlePitch and are relentless in our mission to help you  realize your dreams)”

 

Why Does Blue Look So Good On TV?

As long as I have worked in television production, it has been a given that blue looks good on TV as a wardrobe and set color.  People just look better in blue.  I never stopped to ask “why?” until recently.  There seems to be no definitive answer.  So far, I have found two schools of thought.

1). The blue portion of the color wheel is directly across from the flesh tones (180-degrees). So the colors are complimentary.  No matter you completion, there is a blue for you!

2). Blue is in the mid-range of the”primary television” colors red, blue and green.  Therefore it doesn’t have to fight against other colors for attention and the camera likes it.

Perhaps blue looks so good on TV for both of these reasons.  What have you heard?

2 TV Associate Producer Jobs in Annapolis, MD

Associate Producer 1

National and international television broadcast looking for experienced associate producer.

Position requires identifying interesting and newsworthy topics for shows that will support a 25-minute discussion and booking guests for that program. Responsibilities include preparing research packets for program host, writing questions and news-style introductory packages and scripts. Experience finding and choosing b-roll a plus.

Successful candidate will demonstrate good news judgment, excellent writing skills and familiarity with the conventions of booking prominent guests for television interviews. Interest in current events and ability to identify interesting story ideas from diverse areas such as economics, global health, education reform and human rights is essential.

This is a full-time freelance
position based in Annapolis, MD.

Send cover letter and resume to: productiontvjobs@gmail.com

Associate Producer 2

National and international television production company looking for an Associate Producer with experience in all aspects of video production, including shot selection, footage gathering, creating paper cuts for programs and ability to guide editors in post production under the oversight of a producer. Successful candidate will possess solid editorial judgment, excellent writing and organizational skills and be interested in public policy and political affairs. Long form and cross-platform experience a plus.

This is a full-time freelance position based in Annapolis, MD.

Send cover letter and resume to: productiontvjobs@gmail.com

Production Industry Novelty T-Shirts Now Available

These Production Industry Novelty T-Shirts come in a wide varity of styles and colors!

 

Fix It In Post

 

Fix It In Post by DocsAndTv
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Tech Eval

Tech Eval by DocsAndTv
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Phillip – the Perfect Survivor Character

Phillip Sheppard, a cast member of Survivor: Redemption Island, was absolutely made for reality television.  Let’s face it, by now, we can all identify the casting slots filled on reality shows: the schemer, the hunk, the bi^&%, the black bi^$%, the mother, the outsider and the wild card.  The wild card is the character that doesn’t fit into any other conceivable category.  Usually they are a little socially awkward, a little brash and a little zany.  Phillip is a whole lot of all of these things and more. At the beginning of the season, Phillip seemed to be so disruptive and uncontrollable that I figured  he’d be kicked off immediately.  My husband and I hoped he’d stay awhile just to keep the show interesting and he has. 

Phillip claims to be a special agent (which he reminds players constantly) but doesn’t project the wherewithal to seem to be able to do such a job.  He says he is stealth but then blurts out everything he is thinking during tribal council.  Just to hear him give dissertations on whatever comes to mind makes me laugh. For example, he has a tatoo of a lion on one arm to represent the ferocity of his ire if you mess with his family.  The gorilla on the other arm represents the attitude he will take if you mess with his country.  He says, “Hell hath no fury like a lion and a gorilla when he thinks he is being provoked.”  With a bird feathers attached to his head, he shared the message of victory given to him from his ancestors.  He walks around in tidy-pinkies that gross out his fellow players.  Phillis is what we call in my house “special.”  And just when you think he can’t get any crazier, he announces that he is playing the crazy card to further himself in the game.  Perhaps there is some method to his madness.

I’m glad Phillip has lasted as long as he has.  His particular brand of nuttiness is refreshing even for reality television. I do wonder, as he watches the episodes at home, if he is hurt by how he is being portrayed.  Then again, he has given the producers a lot to work with.   Despite his silliness, there is an air of mystery about him.  Was he really a special agent?  The producers have cleverly  added a “?” to his on-camera title.  Is he really a fool or just playing the part?  Maybe the truth will be revealed in time. Maybe not. Either way, I’m enjoying the show.

Survivor host Jeff Probst, didn’t give Phillip much hope in the beginning.  Check out Jeff’s predictions here.

Here from Phillip himself in his pre-taping interview here. 

For more reviews, visit the Documentary and Television Reviews category.

Interview with Hilarey Kirsner – President of Women in Television and Film DC

Hilarey Kirsner is the current board president at the professional organization Women in Film and Video (WIFV).  She is also an award-winning producer whom I’ve had the pleasure to work with on two cable television series.  Hilarey is very smart, very organized and very cool under pressure.  When I joined WIFV several years ago, she was the head of WIFV’s events committee.  I joined that committee because of her.  Because of her hard work planning events and with WIFV overall (the board and committee members are all volunteers), she was voted as board president.

WIFV is a Washington, DC based media organization that supports and celebrates women’s achievement in the television and film industries.  Women, and men, join for the support system, growth opportunities and production contacts. I’ve enjoyed many of their informational panels, being a panelist and asking questions on the email list-serve where I can draw on the collective intelligence of the entire membership.

I recently spoke with Hilarey about her role as WIFV President.

What type of work do you do?

I am a freelance producer and I do a lot of different types of work –  in fact it’s usually different everywhere I go.  Sometimes I’m on set directing the camera and actors, sometimes I’m in an office setting up shoots and writing scripts; and sometimes I’m sitting in an edit suite and working with an editor to create a story.  I started off producing videos for live events. Then I moved to producing more corporate and government programs for the web and marketing purposes.  After that, I got into producing for cable broadcast (read: reality programming) and now I’m doing work for non-profits, which I love.

Why did you join WIFV initially? And, why run for board President?

I joined WIFV back in 2002 when I had just moved back to DC after spending a year working in LA.  I had just started freelancing and thought I had better start networking in DC if I wanted to find a job and everyone said- “join WIFV!”  So I did.  The first thing I participated in was the Image Makers program, which is a community outreach program where WIFV volunteers teach local high school students how to produce a Public Service Announcement (PSA) from start to finish. They produce the PSAs for local non-profits, who give them creative direction.  I not only fell in love with the kids’ creativity, but I made some really great friends and business contacts while working alongside other WIFV volunteers.  I ended up doing Image Makers for the next four years and ran the program for two of those years.  From there I started attending more WIFV programs and became more involved.  So, a few people encouraged me to run for the WIFV board in 2004. 

I spent one year on the board and then ended up moving to Florida for two and a half years.  When I moved back to DC in 2007, I was elected to the board again.  Denise Moak was president and the two of us knew each other from college – so I already knew we worked well together.  I served as her Executive Vice President for one year and then ran Programming for the second year.  By that point, I was heavily involved in the comings and goings of WIFV and was talking to our Executive Director daily.  I guess it just made sense that I move into the role of President when Denise’s term was finished.  Denise gave me a lot of great training and is still there to help me if I need it. There’s also a great support system of past presidents to call and of course our Executive Director, Melissa Houghton, is wonderful and is always there to help.

What do you hope to accomplish as WIFV President?

We’re a 501c3 non-profit organization so we have to raise money for everything we do.  Fundraising is always challenging, especially in an economy where everyone is tightening their belts. That’s why I wanted to put development in on the top of our agenda.  WIFV is such a great resource to women and men in DC, but unfortunately we always need more funding to support the large number of programs we put on annually.  I wanted to make sure our sponsors were benefitting from WIFV as much as we are from them, so we’ve been working hard to update our sponsor benefits and increase communication with our sponsors to see how we can work best together.

I also think it’s very important to listen to the members to see what they want out of WIFV.  I rely a lot on their feedback for program ideas and suggestions on how to make things better.  I am also hoping to establish practices in our office that will stay with the organization from board to board (we turn over half the board every year) so that there isn’t a ramp up period for new board members each time.  I’m hoping they will be able to jump in with all the information right from the start.

What are some projects that WIFV has going on right now that you wish more people knew about?

Image Makers is going on right now, which obviously is close to my heart.  I do wish that more people in the community knew about it because it benefits so many groups of people in our community.  We try to choose students who do not have any media classes at their schools so they that are getting the most out of it.  We’re always looking for good volunteers with media and teaching experience as well as non-profits who are in need of video marketing for their organization.  And of course we need sponsors for this program – we give the students a gift at the end for participating and we would love to be able to buy some cameras and editing equipment for WIFV to own for this program so that we’re not relying on our volunteers to bring their own equipment every year.

We are also hosting a screening series every Tuesday in March in honor of Women’s History Month at the Martin Luther King Jr. library.  All the films are about women’s issues and are made by woman – many of them local.  The screenings are free and open to the public.

March 26, 2011 is SWAN (Support Women Artists Now) Day in Georgetown, DC where we’re going to screen our Women in Film and Television International Shorts compilation.  The day is packed with readings, discussions, exhibitions and performances.  For more info on this and other upcoming programs go to: www.wifv.org.   We just revamped our website and are very proud of it!

What does the future look like for WIFV?

We are celebrating our 32nd anniversary this September (2011). It’s really amazing that we started with 15 members and now have about 900 plus two full time employees and an office.  WIFV DC started as a group of women freelancers who wanted to get together and share ideas and honestly, the mission hasn’t changed –  that’s what we still want today.  I think the future is really bright for our organization and we hope to continue educating, supporting and bringing women media makers together for 30 more years.

For more interviews from production experts, visit the Expert Production Interviews category.

Sample Shoot Schedule Template

Here is a shoot template that I typically use. I change it to fit the needs of each shoot.  You can see a budget template in the sample documentary budget blog post.

You can purchase a downloadable template for ONLY $0.99!

This template can be changed to fit any scheduling needs.

                        

BIRTHDAY INTERVIEW SHOOT

January 21, 2011

 

SHOOT SCHEDULE
	Call time	Address	Contact info
LOCATION 1	9:00am	The Great Hall 000 Blank StreetCity, State, Zip Phone number	Joe Name, Hall Manager555-1234JoeName@greathall.com
Notes: Park at back loading dock.  Take elevator to second floor party room.Lunch will be catered at the location.

 

 

Crew/Talent Contacts
Name	Role	Phone Number	Email
	Producer
	AP
	PA
	Camera
	Audio
	Gaffer
	Make up

 

Friday, January 21:

9pm CREW CALL TIME: everyone arrive at the front door for load in.

9-10am Load in

10am-11:30am Set up for interview #1

11:30pm Make-up arrives and sets up

12-1pm Lunch

12:30 Guest #1 arrives and goes into make up

1pm Tape Guest # 1

2 pm Guest #2 arrives and goes into make up

2pm Re-set for Guest #2

2:30-3:30pm Interview Guest #2

3:30-5pm Tape b-roll

• Building exteriors
• People talking at party
• Cake (presentation, blowing candles, cutting, eating)
• Presents (presents stacked up, opening presents, reactions)
• Closing shot (like a hug as people are leaving)

5pm WRAP SHOOT, pack up and leave

You can purchase a downloadable template for ONLY $0.99!

This template can be changed to fit any scheduling needs.