Live cueing

Definition

Live cueing is a process used in broadcasting where the presenter or anchor receives real-time prompts or signals to assist them during a live broadcast. This technique ensures that the presenter stays on track with the flow of the program, knows when to transition between segments, and maintains proper timing throughout the show. Live cueing is essential for effective communication and seamless production in a fast-paced broadcasting environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Live cueing helps presenters manage their pacing and delivery, ensuring they don't rush through important information or linger too long on less critical segments.
2. Effective live cueing requires clear communication between the production team and the on-air talent, which often involves hand signals, visual cues, or audio prompts.
3. This technique is particularly important during breaking news segments, where quick adjustments and timely information delivery can impact audience engagement.
4. Producers often rehearse live cueing strategies ahead of time to ensure everyone involved is familiar with the cues and timing necessary for a smooth broadcast.
5. In addition to keeping the show on track, live cueing can also enhance the audience's experience by providing a more polished and professional presentation.

Review Questions

• How does live cueing impact the overall flow and timing of a live broadcast?
  • Live cueing significantly impacts the flow and timing of a live broadcast by providing real-time prompts that help presenters transition smoothly between segments. This ensures that they stay engaged with the audience while also adhering to strict airtime schedules. Without effective live cueing, broadcasts can feel disjointed, leading to confusion among viewers and potential misinformation during critical moments.
• What are some key techniques used in live cueing to ensure effective communication between on-air talent and production teams?
  • Key techniques in live cueing include the use of hand signals, visual displays like teleprompters, and verbal prompts from producers. These methods facilitate instant communication that allows presenters to receive cues without disrupting the flow of their delivery. Additionally, pre-broadcast rehearsals help familiarize both talent and production teams with these cues, fostering a smooth collaboration during live broadcasts.
• Evaluate the role of live cueing in maintaining audience engagement during live broadcasts, especially in fast-paced news reporting.
  • Live cueing plays a crucial role in maintaining audience engagement during fast-paced news reporting by ensuring that presenters deliver timely information in an organized manner. Effective use of cues helps avoid awkward pauses or unplanned interruptions, which can detract from viewer interest. In high-stakes scenarios like breaking news, where information must be conveyed quickly and accurately, live cueing enables presenters to focus on delivering compelling narratives while seamlessly integrating updates from production teams, thus enhancing overall viewer experience.

Related terms

Teleprompter: A device that displays a script or cues for the presenter, allowing them to read while maintaining eye contact with the audience.

Director's Call: Instructions given by a director during a live broadcast to coordinate actions, timings, and transitions between segments.

On-air Timing: The management of time during a live broadcast to ensure that all segments fit within the scheduled airtime.