So you have made it to Step 3 – Creating an Outline.
An outline is like a map. It helps you envision your finished program and helps you plan how to get there. An outline sets out your programs main ideas and tells how you will show them visually. An outline can include a statement of your objectives, as well as include the names of people and places to be shown in the finished tape. Your outline should answer these questions:
- What is the single idea at the center of your program?
- What are the three or four main points you will make?
- What form will you use? Documentary? Drama or comedy? Animation? A studio program with an on-camera host? A public service announcement? Something completely different?
- What kinds of visuals will you use? Still photographs? Artwork, tables, or graphs? Will you need clips from movies or old TV shows?
- Will you use music or sound effects?
- Will you need copyright permission?
Plan the next few weeks to work on your outline. There’s a lot that goes into it, so remember that famous saying, “Plan your Shoot and Shoot your Plan!” This will help you think and shoot efficiently when it comes time to production.
We’re going to fast-track our next few steps and give you the breakdown for Steps 4, 5, and 6. Stay tuned!
