Ideation
Ideation
Ideation
Ideation is a dynamic and imaginative process that involves generating, refining, and
conveying fresh ideas. An idea is a fundamental component of thought that can be expressed
in various forms, including visual, tangible, or conceptual. The ideation process encompasses
all stages of the thought cycle, from initial innovation to further development. Ideation can
occur on an individual level, within organizations, or through the collective effort of a group.
It is a vital aspect of the design process, relevant in educational and practical contexts.
Through ideation, individuals and groups can explore novel solutions, enhance creativity, and
ultimately bring their ideas to fruition.
Finding an idea -
Coming up with an appropriate idea, even for a brief three-minute story, can be a challenging
task. The most successful program elements, well-suited for magazine-style TV programs or
longer factual shows, are usually based on simple ideas. While there are no completely novel
concepts in television, numerous ideas resurface in different ways.
For instance, consider the example of Kaun Banega Crorepati. Although it is just another quiz
show, it is not too dissimilar to Mastermind, yet it has an extra suspense element that sets it
apart. It is important to be innovative but not imitative. Build on what you already know works,
but avoid duplicating what already exists on television.
PROGRAMME BRIEFS
A program brief is a document that acts as a roadmap for a program's entire lifecycle. It
outlines the program's goals, target audience, activities, timeline, budget, and how success
will be measured. This ensures everyone involved is on the same page, fosters communication
and buy-in, guides decision-making, and allows for performance measurement. While the
length can vary, it serves as a foundational document to keep your program on track.
• Who do you want to see it and how will they see it?
Who will your audience be? What do they know about you already? Explain what your
intentions are in terms of the distribution of your video. Is it for conferences or training? Or
are you planning to have it online? Maybe it is for TV?
SYNOPSIS
A synopsis is a concise summary or overview of the main points, plot, and key elements of a
larger work, such as a movie, television show, book, play, or project. In the context of television
programming, a synopsis serves as a brief description of a TV show's premise, characters,
themes, and overall narrative. It provides potential viewers, producers, and stakeholders with
a snapshot of what to expect from the program.
A well-crafted synopsis should be clear, engaging, and informative, providing enough
information to capture interest and curiosity without giving away too many spoilers. It is often
used in pitches, marketing materials, press releases, and promotional campaigns to generate
interest and attract viewers to the TV show.
Here are the key elements typically included in a TV show synopsis:
1. Title: The title of the TV show, which is often the first thing mentioned in the synopsis.
2. Genre: A brief mention of the genre or category of the show, such as comedy, drama,
thriller, science fiction, reality, etc.
3. Premise: A succinct explanation of the central premise or concept of the show. This
includes the basic setup, setting, and primary situation or conflict that drives the narrative.
4. Main Characters: Introduction of the main characters or protagonists of the show. This
includes their names, roles, personalities, and relationships with each other.
5. Plot Overview: A summary of the main plot points or story arcs that unfold over the course
of the series. This may include major events, twists, and developments in the storyline.
6. Themes: Mention of the central themes, messages, or ideas explored in the show. This
could be social issues, moral dilemmas, personal growth, relationships, etc.
7. Tone: Description of the overall tone or mood of the show, such as light-hearted, serious,
suspenseful, humorous, etc.
8. Audience Appeal: Identification of the target audience and the reasons why they would be
interested in watching the show. This may include demographic information and viewer
preferences.
9. Unique Selling Points: Highlighting any unique or standout elements of the show that set
it apart from others in the same genre or category.
10. Seasons/Episodes: Mention of the number of seasons or episodes planned for the show, if
applicable.
11. Production Details: Basic information about the production team, creators, directors,
writers, and any notable collaborations or partnerships.
12. Conclusion: A concluding statement that summarizes the overall appeal and potential
success of the show, along with any additional notes or considerations.
The Do's of Writing a Movie Synopsis
• Length: Keep your synopsis to one page. Anything longer than that and it defeats the point
of writing a synopsis.
• Tone and Voice: Your movie synopsis should be written in the present tense, third person. Tell
the story in the same tone and voice as the script.
• Characters: Make sure you introduce each character with something unique about them,
whether it's a physical feature or another idiosyncrasy. The reader should know exactly who
each character is, what they want, and why they want it.
RECCE
“Recce" is short for reconnaissance, which refers to the process of scouting and visiting
locations before filming begins. This step is crucial in pre-production to assess the suitability
of locations for shooting, plan logistics, and make necessary arrangements for the filming
process. Recce helps production teams make informed decisions about where to shoot scenes
based on factors such as aesthetics, accessibility, safety, and logistical considerations. Here are
the key aspects of recce in television production:
Location Scouting: Recce involves identifying potential filming locations based on the script,
director's vision, and production requirements. Locations may include indoor sets, outdoor
environments, public spaces, private properties, studios, or specific landmarks.
Assessment of Aesthetics: During recce, the production team evaluates the visual appeal of
each location in relation to the story, setting, and mood of the scenes. Factors such as lighting
conditions, background elements, architecture, and natural surroundings are considered.
Logistical Considerations: Recce helps assess logistical aspects such as accessibility, parking
availability, power supply, noise levels, crowd control, and permits required for filming. The
feasibility of setting up equipment, trailers, and production facilities is also evaluated.
Safety and Permissions: The recce process includes checking safety measures at each location
to ensure the well-being of cast, crew, and the public during filming. It also involves obtaining
necessary permissions, licenses, agreements, and clearances from property owners,
authorities, and relevant stakeholders.
Technical Assessment: Recce allows technical teams to assess the technical requirements for
filming at each location. This includes considerations for camera angles, lighting setups, sound
recording, special effects, and any technical challenges that need to be addressed.
Budget and Schedule Planning: Based on the findings from recce, the production team can
estimate costs associated with each location, including rental fees, permits, transportation,
and accommodations. This information helps in budget planning and scheduling filming days
efficiently.
Collaboration and Communication: Recce involves collaboration between location managers,
production designers, directors, cinematographers, and other key personnel. Effective
communication and coordination ensure that everyone is aligned with the vision for the
locations and filming requirements.
Documentation and Reporting: After completing recce, the production team creates detailed
reports, photographs, videos, maps, and notes documenting each location's suitability,
details, and potential challenges. This information is shared with relevant stakeholders for
decision-making.
Overall, recce plays a vital role in television production by providing insights, information, and
assessments of potential filming locations, allowing production teams to plan effectively and
ensure a seamless filming experience.
TREATMENT
In television production, a treatment is a concise document that outlines the core concept of
a television show or episode. It's essentially a sales pitch, designed to grab the attention of
producers, network executives, or other decision-makers.
Key functions of a treatment:
1. Introduce the Story Idea: It provides a clear and engaging overview of the show's
premise, including the main characters, central conflict, and overall tone.
2. Spark Interest: A well-written treatment is captivating and leaves the reader wanting
more. It highlights the show's unique selling points and potential for success.
3. Convey the Show's Potential: The treatment demonstrates the writer's vision for the
show, including its narrative arc, potential themes, and target audience.
A treatment typically covers these elements:
1. Logline: A one-sentence summary that captures the essence of the show.
2. Synopsis: A concise description of the show's plot, characters, and setting, often
focusing on the pilot episode.
3. Character Descriptions: Brief introductions to the show's main characters, highlighting
their personalities and motivations.
4. Tone and Style: Describes the overall feel of the show, whether it's comedic, dramatic,
suspenseful, etc.
5. Themes: Touches on the underlying messages or ideas the show explores.
The length of a treatment can range from a few pages to a ten-page document, depending on
the complexity of the show and the intended purpose. Here are two main purposes for
treatments:
1. Selling an idea: Writers often use treatments to pitch their show concepts to
production companies or networks.
2. Series Development: Within a writer's room, treatments can be used to map out the
overall direction of a series and brainstorm potential episode ideas.
An effective treatment can be the key to getting your television show idea off the ground. By
clearly communicating your vision and piquing the reader's interest, you can open doors for
further development and production.