Get the necessary equipment and software. Purchase a webcam and a microphone if your computer doesn’t already have the equipment. Get a digital camcorder if you plan on recording live actors to create original programming for your television station. Visit software providers like Adobe and Pinnacle Systems. Purchase editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro CS4, Adobe Audition and Pinnacle Studio 12.
Register your station. Visit Start Your Station’s official website (see Resources below). Set up an account. Input your contact information under “Sign Up” at the bottom of the screen. Create a user name and password. Click “Create My Account.”
Name your station and provide a description of the programming content. Select the category, country and language. Use memorable call letters for your station name, which can include numbers and letters from 3 to 24 characters.
Write program scripts. Create the introduction, commercial breaks and closing text for the programs you will air. Keep in mind that you can also invite friends and other media buffs to email you their videos that you can easily upload onto the Internet. Use visual and emotional words such as “hot,” “blizzard like” and “heart warming” when writing television scripts. Remember that you are creating content for viewers and listeners. Write text in short sentences, no more than 10 to 15 words per sentence. Practice reading the text in advance of taping a show.
Ask your family and friends to act out live commercials to include during programming breaks. Consider posting a message to sites such as MySpace, Tweeter and Craigslist inviting entrepreneurs to submit their own commercials to you for an advertising fee.
Edit and update programs. Upload your videos into an editing tool like Pinnacle 12 or Adobe Premiere Pro CS4. Drag and drop videos, photos and audio to finalize programs. Crop your videos. Add 2D and 3D effects, and shadow and lighting to visual recordings. Work with the high-tech editing tools until your videos look professional and come alive with clear audio clips.
Manage your station. Return to the Start Your Station website. Upload your station promo and thumbnail. Upload your first finished and edited program clip onto your Start Your Station account. Save and review.
Market and promote. Create a separate website. Add clips from your television station to the website. Maintain a database of previous shows that visitors can watch again by simply clicking on a show title or date link. Post your website’s URL on message boards and discussion forums that focus on topics covered on your television programs. Include your website URL on all correspondence and emails that you send.