9.2 Broadcast television
12 min read•august 20, 2024
Broadcast television has been a cornerstone of mass media for decades. It uses radio waves to transmit programs to a wide audience, allowing viewers to receive signals for free with an antenna. This method of distribution has shaped the way content is created and consumed.
Understanding broadcast TV is crucial for narrative documentary producers. It provides a foundation for creating content that can reach broad audiences through traditional channels. The network model, affiliate relationships, and production techniques all influence how documentaries are made and distributed on broadcast platforms.
Broadcast television overview
- Broadcast television is a method of transmitting television programs to a wide audience using radio waves, allowing viewers to receive the signal for free with an antenna
- Understanding the fundamentals of broadcast television is essential for narrative documentary producers, as it provides a foundation for creating content that can reach a broad audience through traditional television distribution channels
Broadcast vs cable
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- Broadcast television transmits signals over-the-air using radio waves, while cable television delivers programming through coaxial or fiber-optic cables directly to subscribers' homes
- Broadcast television is free to viewers with an antenna, while cable television requires a paid subscription to access the content
- Broadcast television typically offers a limited number of channels, while cable television provides a wider variety of channels and programming options
Network television model
- The network television model involves a centralized organization (the network) that creates and distributes programming to local affiliate stations across the country
- Networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX) produce or acquire programming and sell advertising time to generate revenue
- Networks provide a consistent schedule of programming and often dictate the content and style of shows to maintain a cohesive brand identity
Affiliate station relationships
- Affiliate stations are local television stations that have contractual agreements with networks to carry their programming
- Affiliates receive a portion of the advertising revenue generated during network programming and are responsible for inserting local content, such as news and commercials
- The relationship between networks and affiliates allows for national programming to be combined with local content, creating a mix of broad appeal and community-specific information
Broadcast television standards
- Broadcast television standards define the technical specifications for transmitting and receiving television signals, ensuring compatibility between broadcasters and consumer devices
- The National Television System Committee (NTSC) standard was used for analog broadcasting in North America, while other regions used standards like PAL and SECAM
- With the transition to digital broadcasting, new standards like Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) and Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) have been adopted to improve picture quality and enable advanced features
Broadcast television production
- Broadcast television production involves creating content specifically tailored for the technical requirements and audience expectations of broadcast networks
- Narrative documentary producers must understand the unique aspects of broadcast television production to create compelling stories that meet the standards and practices of the medium
Studio-based production
- Studio-based production takes place in a controlled environment with pre-built sets, lighting, and sound equipment
- Studios offer a cost-effective way to produce content, as multiple episodes or segments can be filmed in a single location
- Studio-based production is well-suited for interview-driven documentaries, allowing for a consistent look and feel across the project
Field production techniques
- Field production involves capturing footage and outside of a studio, often in real-world locations relevant to the documentary's subject matter
- Producers must be prepared to adapt to changing conditions, such as weather and lighting, while maintaining high-quality audio and video
- Portable equipment, like handheld cameras and wireless microphones, is essential for field production to ensure mobility and flexibility
Live broadcast considerations
- Live broadcasts require careful planning and coordination to ensure a seamless production, as there is no opportunity for post-production editing
- Producers must create a detailed rundown, outlining the timing and sequence of elements in the broadcast, and communicate effectively with the crew to execute the plan
- Redundant systems, like backup cameras and power supplies, are crucial for live broadcasts to minimize the risk of technical failures
Broadcast-friendly editing
- Editing for broadcast television must adhere to the technical specifications and standards of the medium, such as aspect ratio, frame rate, and audio levels
- Producers should be mindful of the broadcast schedule and commercial breaks when structuring the narrative and pacing of the documentary
- Closed captioning and audio description may be required for accessibility, and editors should ensure that these elements are properly synchronized with the video
Broadcast television distribution
- Broadcast television distribution involves the transmission of programming from networks and local stations to viewers' homes using various technologies
- Understanding the distribution process is crucial for narrative documentary producers, as it impacts the reach and accessibility of their content
Terrestrial transmission basics
- Terrestrial transmission uses ground-based transmitters to broadcast television signals over-the-air to antennas in viewers' homes
- The signal is transmitted on specific frequencies allocated by regulatory agencies, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States
- Terrestrial transmission is subject to limitations like signal strength, terrain, and weather conditions, which can affect reception quality
Satellite distribution methods
- Satellite distribution involves transmitting television signals from ground-based uplink facilities to orbiting satellites, which then relay the signals back to Earth for reception by viewers with satellite dishes
- Satellites can cover large geographic areas, making them ideal for distributing programming to remote or underserved regions
- Satellite distribution requires specialized equipment, like encoders and modulators, to prepare the signal for transmission and ensure compatibility with receivers
Broadcast television spectrum
- The broadcast television spectrum refers to the range of frequencies allocated for television transmission by regulatory agencies
- In the United States, the FCC manages the spectrum and assigns specific frequencies to broadcasters through a licensing process
- The increasing demand for wireless services has led to the reallocation of some broadcast spectrum for mobile broadband, requiring broadcasters to adapt and share resources
Digital broadcasting transition
- The transition from analog to digital broadcasting has been a significant development in the television industry, offering improved picture and sound quality, as well as more efficient use of spectrum
- Digital broadcasting allows for the transmission of multiple channels on a single frequency, enabling broadcasters to offer a wider variety of programming
- The transition has required viewers to upgrade their equipment, either by purchasing a digital television or using a digital converter box to receive the new signals
Broadcast television regulation
- Broadcast television is subject to various regulations and oversight to ensure that programming serves the public interest and adheres to established standards
- Narrative documentary producers must be aware of these regulations to create content that complies with legal requirements and avoids potential penalties or legal challenges
FCC oversight and rules
- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the primary regulatory agency for broadcast television in the United States
- The FCC establishes rules and guidelines for broadcasters, covering areas such as technical standards, content regulations, and ownership limitations
- Broadcasters must comply with FCC rules to maintain their licenses and avoid fines or other penalties
Broadcast license requirements
- Broadcasters must obtain a license from the FCC to operate a television station and use the assigned spectrum
- The licensing process involves demonstrating that the station will serve the public interest, convenience, and necessity, and that the applicant is technically and financially qualified to operate the station
- Licenses are typically granted for a term of eight years, after which the broadcaster must apply for renewal
Broadcast content regulations
- The FCC regulates broadcast content to ensure that programming is not obscene, indecent, or profane, and that it meets certain standards for children's programming
- Broadcasters must also provide equal opportunities for political candidates to purchase advertising time and give reasonable access to candidates for federal office
- The FCC's content regulations have evolved, such as the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine in 1987, which had required broadcasters to present contrasting viewpoints on controversial issues
Political advertising laws
- Broadcast television stations must follow specific laws and regulations related to political advertising, designed to ensure fair and transparent access for candidates
- The lowest unit charge rule requires stations to offer political candidates the lowest advertising rates available to commercial advertisers for the same class and amount of time
- Stations must also maintain a public file documenting political advertising purchases, including the rates charged and the dates and times the ads aired
Broadcast television advertising
- Advertising is the primary source of revenue for broadcast television networks and stations, making it a crucial aspect of the industry
- Narrative documentary producers should understand the basics of broadcast advertising to create content that aligns with commercial breaks and appeals to target audiences
Commercial spot formats
- Broadcast television commercials typically come in standard lengths, such as 15, 30, or 60 seconds
- Advertisers may also purchase longer-form spots, like infomercials or sponsored content, to provide more detailed information about their products or services
- Commercial spots are usually grouped into pods, which are clusters of ads that air during breaks in programming
Broadcast ad pricing models
- Broadcast advertising rates are based on factors like the size of the audience, the demographic composition of viewers, and the popularity of the programming
- Cost per thousand (CPM) is a common pricing model, which represents the cost to reach 1,000 viewers
- Advertisers may also purchase spots based on a fixed rate or through a bidding process, like the upfronts, where networks sell advertising time in advance for the upcoming television season
Nielsen ratings system
- The Nielsen ratings system is the primary method for measuring television in the United States
- Nielsen uses a combination of viewer diaries and electronic meters to track viewing habits and provide audience estimates for programming and commercials
- Ratings data is used by networks and advertisers to determine the success of shows, set advertising rates, and make programming decisions
Audience demographics targeting
- Advertisers use audience demographics to target their messages to specific groups of viewers based on characteristics like age, gender, income, and interests
- Networks and stations provide detailed information about the demographic composition of their audiences to help advertisers make informed decisions about ad placement
- Programmatic advertising has become increasingly popular, using data and algorithms to automatically match ads with target audiences across multiple platforms
Broadcast television programming
- Broadcast television programming involves the strategic selection and scheduling of shows to attract and retain viewers, while also maximizing advertising revenue
- Narrative documentary producers should be familiar with programming strategies to understand how their content fits into the broader landscape of broadcast television
Prime time scheduling strategies
- Prime time is the block of evening programming, typically from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, when television viewership is at its highest
- Networks use various scheduling strategies to maximize viewership and create a cohesive lineup, such as lead-ins (placing a new show after a popular established program) and counterprogramming (offering an alternative to competitors' offerings)
- Successful prime time scheduling can help launch new shows, retain viewers throughout the evening, and attract high-value advertising
Daytime and late night blocks
- Daytime programming, which generally runs from morning to early evening, often includes talk shows, game shows, and soap operas
- Late night programming, airing after the late local news, is known for talk shows, comedy programming, and niche offerings
- Both daytime and late night blocks serve specific audience segments and offer unique advertising opportunities
Seasonal programming cycles
- Broadcast television programming follows seasonal cycles, with the fall season being the most important for launching new shows and establishing the year's lineup
- Midseason replacements are shows that debut in the winter or spring, often filling slots vacated by canceled or completed series
- Summer programming historically consisted of reruns and lower-cost originals but has seen an increase in high-profile limited series and event programming
Syndicated program distribution
- Syndication involves licensing programming to individual stations or station groups, rather than distributing it through a network
- Off-network syndication offers stations the ability to air reruns of popular network shows, providing cost-effective programming and attracting viewers who may have missed the original run
- First-run syndication involves producing original content specifically for the syndication market, such as talk shows, game shows, and court shows
Broadcast television news
- Broadcast television news is a critical component of the medium, providing viewers with timely information about local, national, and international events
- Narrative documentary producers can draw inspiration from broadcast news techniques and storytelling methods to create compelling and informative content
Local news broadcast structure
- Local news broadcasts typically follow a consistent structure, beginning with a headline overview, followed by detailed reports on the day's top stories
- Broadcasts often include segments like weather, sports, and human interest stories to provide a comprehensive mix of information and entertainment
- Local news serves as a vital source of community information and plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and awareness
Network news programming
- Network news programming, such as evening newscasts and morning shows, offers a national perspective on current events and issues
- Network news often features in-depth reporting, expert analysis, and interviews with newsmakers and public figures
- The tone and style of network news programming can vary, with some shows taking a more serious, hard-news approach, while others blend news with lighter, lifestyle-oriented content
Broadcast journalism ethics
- Broadcast journalists are expected to adhere to a code of ethics that emphasizes accuracy, fairness, and independence
- Ethical principles include verifying information, disclosing conflicts of interest, and avoiding sensationalism or bias in reporting
- Broadcast journalists must also navigate the challenges of live reporting, balancing the need for immediacy with the responsibility to provide accurate and contextual information
Breaking news coverage challenges
- Breaking news coverage presents unique challenges for broadcast journalists, as events often unfold in real-time with limited information available
- Journalists must quickly gather and verify facts, while also providing context and analysis to help viewers understand the significance of the event
- The pressure to be first with information can sometimes lead to errors or incomplete reporting, underscoring the importance of prioritizing accuracy over speed
Future of broadcast television
- The broadcast television industry is facing significant challenges and opportunities as technology and viewer habits continue to evolve
- Narrative documentary producers must stay informed about the changing landscape to create content that resonates with audiences and adapts to new distribution models
Cord-cutting and viewership trends
- Cord-cutting, the practice of canceling traditional cable or satellite television subscriptions in favor of streaming services, has accelerated in recent years
- This trend has put pressure on broadcast networks to adapt their programming and business models to retain viewers and attract advertisers
- The rise of time-shifted viewing, through DVRs and on-demand platforms, has also changed the way audiences consume television content
Broadcast vs streaming competition
- Broadcast television faces increasing competition from streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, which offer a wide variety of original and licensed content
- Streaming services have the advantage of personalized recommendations, flexible viewing options, and ad-free experiences, which can be appealing to viewers
- To compete, broadcast networks are investing in their own streaming platforms, like CBS All Access and NBCUniversal's Peacock, to provide exclusive content and retain viewer loyalty
ATSC 3.0 next-gen standard
- ATSC 3.0, also known as NextGen TV, is a new broadcast standard that promises to revolutionize the television viewing experience
- The standard offers higher-resolution 4K video, immersive audio, improved reception, and interactive features like personalized advertising and on-demand content
- ATSC 3.0 also enables broadcasters to transmit data to smart TVs and mobile devices, opening up new possibilities for content delivery and viewer engagement
Broadcast television innovation
- To remain competitive in the evolving media landscape, broadcast television must continue to innovate in areas like content creation, distribution, and audience engagement
- Networks are experimenting with new formats, like short-form content and interactive storytelling, to attract younger viewers and adapt to changing consumption habits
- Broadcasters are also exploring partnerships with technology companies and social media platforms to expand their reach and create new revenue streams
- Ultimately, the future of broadcast television will depend on its ability to embrace change, leverage new technologies, and create compelling content that resonates with viewers in an increasingly crowded and fragmented media environment
Key Terms to Review (18)
Broadcast standards: Broadcast standards refer to the technical and regulatory guidelines that govern the quality, format, and content of television and radio broadcasts. These standards ensure that broadcasts meet specific requirements for picture and sound quality, compliance with regulations, and suitability for various audiences. Understanding broadcast standards is crucial for content creators to ensure their productions are compatible with distribution platforms and adhere to legal and ethical obligations.
Character Development: Character development is the process of creating a believable and relatable character who evolves throughout a narrative, reflecting their experiences, emotions, and relationships. This development is crucial in engaging the audience and providing depth to the story, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level and follow their journeys.
Cinematography: Cinematography is the art and technique of capturing visual images for film and video through camera work, lighting, and shot composition. It plays a crucial role in storytelling by influencing how audiences perceive a narrative, mood, and character development. Elements such as camera angles, movement, color grading, and lighting choices significantly impact the overall aesthetic and emotional tone of the film or documentary.
Director: A director is the creative leader in a film, video, or television production who is responsible for overseeing the artistic vision and execution of the project. This role involves making crucial decisions regarding the narrative structure, performance, and visual style, ensuring that all elements work together to tell a cohesive story. The director plays a key role in collaborating with various crew members to bring the project to life, shaping the overall tone and message of the final product.
Editing suite: An editing suite is a dedicated space equipped with various tools and software used for the post-production process of video and audio content. These suites allow editors to cut, arrange, and refine footage, incorporating elements like sound design, visual effects, and color correction to create a polished final product. The technology and software within an editing suite are essential for producing broadcast-quality content.
Emotional resonance: Emotional resonance refers to the ability of a narrative or documentary to evoke strong feelings and connections within the audience. It helps viewers relate personally to the story being told, making the experience more impactful and memorable. This connection can be achieved through various storytelling techniques, enabling themes and messages to resonate deeply with individuals.
Expository Documentary: An expository documentary is a genre of filmmaking that aims to inform and educate the audience by presenting a clear argument or narrative through voice-over commentary, interviews, and visual evidence. This type of documentary often takes an objective stance, using various research methods to provide factual information while addressing social, political, or historical issues.
Framing: Framing is the technique of composing a shot to highlight specific elements within a scene, shaping the audience's perception and guiding their focus. It influences how viewers interpret visuals by controlling what is included or excluded from the frame, which can evoke emotions and convey meaning. The choice of framing plays a vital role in storytelling, especially in dynamic environments or structured formats, where visual context can greatly affect engagement and understanding.
Informed consent: Informed consent is the process of obtaining voluntary agreement from individuals before participating in research or media production, ensuring they fully understand what participation involves, including potential risks and benefits. This concept is crucial in maintaining ethical standards, safeguarding individuals' rights, and fostering trust between filmmakers and subjects.
Interviews: Interviews are structured conversations where one person asks questions to gather information or insights from another person. In narrative documentary production, interviews play a crucial role in shaping the story by providing personal perspectives, emotional depth, and key information relevant to the subject being explored.
Linear narrative: A linear narrative is a storytelling method that presents events in chronological order, moving from beginning to end without significant shifts in time or perspective. This straightforward approach allows audiences to follow the plot easily and understand character development as the story unfolds sequentially. It connects to various elements such as research, structure, proposal writing, broadcast formats, and specific documentary styles.
Non-linear narrative: A non-linear narrative is a storytelling approach where events are presented out of chronological order or in a way that does not follow a straightforward sequence. This technique can create a more complex and engaging experience, allowing the audience to piece together the story in unique ways, enhancing themes and emotional depth. This style often encourages viewers to reflect on the connections between different narrative threads, which can lead to deeper understanding and engagement.
Observational documentary: Observational documentary is a filmmaking style that aims to capture reality as it unfolds without intervention or manipulation by the filmmaker. This approach emphasizes a fly-on-the-wall perspective, allowing audiences to witness events and interactions naturally, which often leads to a deeper connection with the subject matter. This style connects strongly with themes of research methods, objectivity versus subjectivity, natural dialogue, broadcasting techniques, and the narrative depth found in specific films.
Producer: A producer is an individual or entity responsible for overseeing and managing the production of a film, television show, or other media projects from inception to completion. Producers play a crucial role in securing funding, managing budgets, coordinating talent, and guiding the creative vision throughout the entire production process. Their influence is felt across various aspects, from financial planning to content distribution, making them pivotal in bringing narratives to life.
Representation: Representation refers to the way in which individuals, groups, and ideas are depicted or portrayed in media and narratives. It plays a crucial role in shaping public perception, influencing identity, and can both reflect and construct societal norms and values. The manner in which subjects are represented can impact stereotypes, audience understanding, and the overall message conveyed.
Story arc: A story arc is the chronological construction of plot in a narrative, illustrating the progression and transformation of characters and events throughout the story. It typically includes the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, creating a structured framework that guides the audience through the narrative experience. Understanding story arcs is crucial for developing engaging plots that resonate with viewers in various media, including broadcast television.
Viewership: Viewership refers to the number of people who watch a specific program or broadcast, often measured in terms of ratings. This metric is crucial for understanding audience engagement, content popularity, and the financial success of advertising associated with the broadcast. Factors like demographics, time slots, and competing programming can significantly influence viewership numbers.
Voice-over narration: Voice-over narration is a storytelling technique where a voice that is not part of the on-screen action provides commentary, context, or information to the audience. This technique can enhance narrative structure by guiding viewers through the story, offering insights into characters' thoughts, or providing background information that enriches the viewing experience. In broadcast television, voice-over narration often serves to create a connection between the audience and the content, making complex ideas more relatable and engaging.