Our Production Process

As the Associate Producer for your video, I am your initial contact, together we clarify precisely what we can and cannot do with PBS-approved videos, assist you in defining your video topic, establish a general theme, determine your video goals, all of which are guided by you, the client.  

My role is to help you be placed on the production calendar and coordinate the processes so that all within your organization who needs to know, is updated.

Upon receiving the production agreement and completing underwriting, we will commence the production process and schedule a scripting conference call with your key team members and our Senior Producer.

In the second meeting with the Senior Producer, clearly express your thoughts and key messages, pinpointing both your primary and extended audiences. We rely on the underwriter for factual content, aiming for the viewer to remember key points about your video and to return for more information.

We craft your narrative and convey your message adhering to the trusted standards of public television, recognizing that you may repurpose your video for updating websites, video channels, and social media platforms, often we start the process there, the final objective and what can we produce that fits into your media strategy and messaging.

At this stage after the 2nd meetign, your job is done, we should have a clear vision of the direction.

 Within two to three weeks, we will present the script to you in a captivating oral format. By detailing visuals, sound effects, and voice-overs, we breathe life into the show, guiding you through an imaginative journey. 

As skilled storytellers, we ensure that you can vividly picture the finished program.

We will send the script via email for your editing, revisions, and final approval.

Understanding that you will utilize the video for various purposes, we aim to ensure it meets your specific needs and objectives for digital marketing, for example, the American Foundry Society needed a general corporate video, but with a focus on workforce development for it;'s membership and wanted a specific flow of music.

 After the script receives client approval, we set the date for filming. 

The interview scripts are refined, and the shooting day is organized. 

Our team is prepared to travel to any location within the continental United States, committing a full day to gather all essential footage, including interviews, background scenes, and more.

Should you possess any B-roll footage, still images, or music recommendations that enhance your video, we can integrate them to expand the range of what is displayed.

Understanding the process is crucial: script approval propels the project forward. 

While client delays or multiple revisions—be it the 2nd or 5th—are acceptable, once the script receives approval, we proceed to the voice-over stage. 

Following the completion of voice-overs, any further changes will incur additional charges for repeated services.

We try to keep it simple, direct and with the PBS audience in mind, what is interesting that you can share>

 After filming, the editing and post-production process commences. 

Once the script receives approval, we incorporate voice-overs, music, and sound effects, assembling all the show's elements. 

Draft versions are sent for your review, allowing for changes in visuals or music upon request. Any alterations to the script or voice-over will necessitate a work change order.

Typically, the final show is finished and uploaded to a test site for viewing within two weeks of filming.

Once all the changes are finalized and you authorize the release, the video program will be included in PBS's next uplink for national distribution. This typically occurs quarterly, or we can synchronize the launch of your video with your other media campaigns. Approximately 45-60 days following the initial quarter broadcast, you will be provided with details regarding the National Station's broadcast schedule.

Start Here: underwriters are provided with compressed HD versions of your program in various internet-ready formats for your specific digital marketing applications.  If your video library is void of educational content, your video content is dated, Spotlight On can change that and dramatically improve viewer trust in your video content.