Show Runner: “We really need the special light for this round of shooting.” Line Producer: “Why? I’m not saying no, I just need to understand why before I can allocate $350/day for something that was never discussed or budgeted for.” Show Runner: “Yeah, well, the DP says we need it to create the effect we … Read more
I’m convinced a secret closet exists in every production company from NY to Los Angeles. A closet that not only glows in the dark, but likely pulsates and magically replenishes itself daily. This mystical closet I’m speaking of contains thousands and thousands of only one item. What’s in this closet? A monkey wrench. Yup, that … Read more
In the unscripted world of television, what does a Line Producer do? That’s the man or woman who is responsible for creating the series budget, creating the schedule, handling all insurances, determining the risk assessment for the series, hiring the crew, managing the crew, ensuring shooting locations are secured, all contracts are signed, appropriate music … Read more
Reality TV budgets are created using budgeting software. The two most used are Movie Magic Budgeting and Showbiz. Either one will do the trick. When your budget is printed you’ll have a one-page summary known as a “top sheet” followed by the detailed line-by-line budget. The top sheet delineates what is an above-the-line cost and … Read more
I’m convinced a secret closet exists in every production company from NY to Los Angeles. A closet that not only glows in the dark, but likely pulsates and magically replenishes itself daily. This mystical closet I’m speaking of contains thousands and thousands of only one item. What’s in this closet? A monkey wrench. Yup, that … Read more
You’ve been asked to create a budget for the next series your production company will be producing. If you’re first instinct is to whip out the latest budgeting software like movie magic budgeting – then you would be putting the cart before the horse and find yourself dragging a heavy load up a steep hill, … Read more