Producing Live Sports
Sports production is an exciting and fast paced segment of live event production. The numerous subjects, quick pace, timeouts, commercial breaks and unexpected developments from injuries to weather create an extremely dynamic and chaotic environment.
Brian Clapp of workinsports.com interviewed Dennis Kirkpatrick, a veteran sports producer to get a picture of a day in the life of sports production. We’ve summarized the article below
Preparation
Even though you can’t account for every detail of a game day production, preparation is key. If you are fully prepared for all known elements, during game time you can focus on any sudden changes. Coordinate with the client to build out the show. Become familiar with the venue, any in game elements and, of course, the teams. Handle as many fine details as possible before the day of the show.
Game Day
Be sure to get there early. Gets you respect from the crew and allows you time to meet with technical managers, directors and any talent you’ll be working with. Be sure to check on your crew, equipment and that all tape elements/graphics are ready to go.
Warm up and Show Time
Review transitions between commercials, promos and other elements. Make sure your crew is in place and begin pre-production. Sync your clock with production truck and check in with the studio. Rehearse the opening and record it if possible.
Once the game starts, following the game script/spotting chart and staying in sync with the play by play announcer will make the production a success!
Shoflo is planning software for live events including corporate meetings, sports, theatre and church production. Learn more about Shoflo.
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