Field production involves filming outside of a studio setting. There are different types of field production such as electronic news gathering (ENG) where a small crew quickly gathers footage, and big remotes for major live events which use high-quality cameras and involve a remote truck. When filming on location, the production needs to consider factors like weather, lighting, audio, and equipment to have as much control as possible over the uncontrolled environment. Proper preparation, equipment, and problem-solving skills are crucial for successful field production.

1. Intro to Field Production Production Methods Spring 2007

2. What is field production? Any production outside the studio

3. ENG (Electronic News Gathering) Also called “run and gun” Gather footage for news packages Live transmissions -- satellite uplink Often just reporter and cameraperson

4. Big Remotes Major events intended for live broadcast or live-to-tape recording Use high quality field cameras Involves a remote truck

5. Remote Truck Compact studio control room and equipment room Has patch bay where cables run from cameras are attached, brings feed in All directing, switching, and CG come from the remote truck

9. Film Field Production Shooting on location Try to have as much control of the uncontrolled environments as possible Consider all aspects before the actual shoot location scouting, permission, storyboards Time is critical!

10. Considerations Weather Lighting Audio Equipment Demands

11. Weather Prepare for the worst Watch for weather changes -- continuity reasons Again…control sunlight Try to remove the effects of the sun and create your own light In case of rain, bring covers for equipment Sand is the camera’s worst enemy

12. Lighting Check to see how many outlets there are! Consider differences in color temperature—try to be consistent Ideal light--overcast Lighting should be even -- use meters Golden Hour Sun movement -- continuity Reflections (glare)

13. Audio Passing traffic Air conditioners Wind -- use a wind sock

14. Audio Record principal sounds and ambient sounds on different tracks Eliminate as much sound as possible except for what’s crucial, you can mix in post

15. Equipment Battery life Field Monitors Light Meters Tapes/Film Diffusion and Cutters (Flags)