Review possible formats for a TV program at your local library to learn about all of your production options. Scripted program formats include drama, comedy and animation. Screenplays are typically used for dramas while the script for comedies and other TV program genres may be referred to as a teleplay. There are genres within the drama category such as crime, soap opera, medical and fantasy. Sketch comedy is another genre within the scripted comedy format.
Unscripted TV program formats include talk shows, game shows and reality series. News programs are another format that you can choose to cover multiple stories. The magazine news genre is another option that can be scripted or unscripted depending on your preferences. New programs can have a documentary style presentation or be produced entirely in a studio. Choose a program format that best reflects the main concept you want to convey in front of an audience.
Outline the scenes that will be included in your television program on a sheet of paper or word processing document. You can also list and organize segments for the TV program instead of scenes. A TV segment will be more relevant to the new program format. Use the outline to write a full script for your program. Hire a professional screenwriter to produce the script if you experience difficulty in completing one.
List an open call for actors in the classified job section of your local newspaper. An open call is a public audition process that allows anyone to apply for an acting role. It is not unusual for men and women to attend open calls without making an appointment with the producer or casting director. Provide the location, time and date of the open call in your classified job listing. Include headshot and resume requirements for actors.
Review the resume of everyone who attends your open call. Ask each actor to perform a mock scene or segment from your TV program script. Hire the actor who gives the best performance during his or her audition and has a solid resume. Request a camera operator, video editor, sound engineer and any other crew needed to produce your TV program from a local film school or media production studio. Interview prospective crew members to figure out who has the skills to produce your TV program based on their resumes and demo reels. Many film and TV crew members have a video demo reel that displays samples of their previous work.
Secure a location or studio to record the entire TV program with actors and crew on a videotape, film reel or hard drive. Some private photography and film studios are available to rent by the hour or day depending on where you live. Outdoor locations such as parks and beaches may be used free of charge if they are public property. Some locations require you to obtain written permission from the owner or manager before recording video footage on the premises.
Contact a local public access TV station in the city or state where you want to broadcast your program. Make a request for information about TV program submissions to the station. Edit your recorded footage into a 30-minute or one hour program that meets all broadcast television guidelines listed by the station. Submit your program on a videotape or multimedia file along with any required paperwork to the station. Confirm the date and time that your TV program will air on this station.