Producing in Layers

Stacking a show is easy.

Actually producing a show takes more thought.

Let's talk about layering.

Layering is simply producing out multiple elements in a single story. It's a matter of walking the viewer through a complicated topic in an easy to understand way.

We've gotten so wrapped up as an industry in story count that we've forgotten the real art of producing. If you're a producer, you should consider yourself a storyteller. Challenge yourself. Tell a story in everything you write.

Do you start your newscast like this?

Show Open (:10)

Headlines (:30)

2 shot Hello (:15)

1 shot Pitch to Live Shot (:10)

Live Reporter Intro (:10)

PKG (1:10)

Live Reporter Tag (:10)

etc. etc. etc.

There are some markets, some shows, were speed matters when getting into a story. There are also some STORIES where speed matters, like breaking news. Just get to it.

But then there are moments that you flex your producing muscles. That's where producing in layers comes in. Here are a few things to think about when building out multiple elements in a story.

1) Add Context- Oh boy, we don't do this enough. Context matters. Context is a perfect element to focus on when looking for ways to build out a story. Set the scene. Do the research. (Yes, you have the time)

2) Keep it Visual- This is TV after all. Ask yourself what visuals can you build to help tell the story. What makes it easier to understand? Don't get too cute. I used to do this. I would spend a lot of time thinking of clever titles for a story. And they almost always started with the same letter. Yes, I was that person. It's such a waste of your time and viewers tend to think it's cheesy.

3) Keep it Organized- Tell the viewers where you're going. This will help you keep your layers on task.

4) Keep it Moving- I mean this literally. Use your set. I've heard all the excuses.

"We have robotic cameras."

"We're on an automated system."

" My director pushes back."

"That area isn't lit."

Do you let excuses hold you back? Figure out a way. Go to your director, excited, and ask for ideas. Keep pushing. There is a way. Movement helps keep the pacing of a build out. Move with purpose. Think about how you can use your set to help tell the story.

I have a hell of a producing team at NBCLX. I posted a segment below that they built out on the Russia/Ukraine story. No reporter. Watch the entire thing. You'll see all the points above.

Your newscast should have a little bit of everything. I was having this conversation with a friend the other day and he compared it to a symphony. Music has pacing. Some songs are fast and others build but a great set has both.

Shout out to Eric Valadez for the great analogy.